Monkeys and Caves on a Rainy Day in Ishigaki

Sailing into Ishigaki cruise port (石垣島 – Pronounced [ee-shee-gah-kee]) in December brought moody skies, a soft drizzle, and a full day of discovery. Located in the Yaeyama Islands of Okinawa Prefecture, Ishigaki blends subtropical beauty with a unique cultural heritage.

This southern Japanese island has long served as a gateway between Taiwan and mainland Japan. Its climate stays warm even in winter, and the island’s rain-soaked scenery actually worked in our favor. Our itinerary included local culture, wildlife encounters, and an underground adventure.

With a shore excursion booked through the ship, we hit several highlights without the stress of navigation or timing. It was a scenic and easygoing day, ideal for anyone looking to cover a lot in a short visit.

Our first destination was Ishigaki Yaima Village, a recreated open-air museum that transports you back to the Ryukyu Kingdom. Traditional homes with red-tiled roofs sit among gardens and jungle foliage. But let’s be honest, the real draw here was the squirrel monkeys. Dozens of them darted along ropes and tree limbs, hopping onto guests for closer inspection. One nestled right into my arm and stayed put while I grinned under my raincoat.

The cultural demonstration that followed took place inside one of the old homes. We listened to a folk song performed live with a sanshin while a dancer balanced a metal tin on her head and moved with effortless rhythm. It felt sincere and a little quirky, which made it all the more memorable.

Next, we headed to the Ishigaki Stalactite Cave. The entrance was marked by a small white gatehouse with red accents and a tiled roof. Inside, the cave opened up into dramatic limestone chambers filled with stalactites and eerie lighting. We followed a walkway through tunnels and over rock bridges, surrounded by formations that took centuries to grow. The cave was cool and damp, and the rain outside only added to the mystique.