Sakuraguchi in southern Ishigaki is just 5 minutes by boat from port and sheltered from north winds, making it ideal year-round for all levels. With depths of 5–15m, its shallows host coral colonies and colorful fish like bigeye sunfish and anemonefish.

This spot is located on the north side of Taketomi Island, about 15 minutes by boat from Ishigaki Island. There are several holes where bubbles gush out of the mortar-shaped sand at a depth of 20 meters. This is a unique spot where hot springs spring water gushes.

Taketomi Minami Potato Root on Taketomi Island is a calm sandy site about 13m deep, named for its colony of common shikoro corals. Schools of snappers, devilfish, and many gobies thrive here. In winter, common snapper spawning can be seen. Beginners can enjoy its tropical scenery and rich marine life.

Nagura Coral Garden in Nagura Bay, Ishigaki Island, boasts Japan’s richest coral diversity and density. With stunning coral and table coral scenery, calm currents, and clear water, it’s ideal for all levels. The best season is May to October for peak visibility and beauty.

Osaki Akakuri no Nebu on Ishigaki Island offers 10–20m depths and high chances of spotting large schools of red clownfish around its root. Giant trevally, dogtooth tuna, and green turtles are common, with roots bustling with small fish and appealing topography to explore.

Osaki Minocasago Palace in western Ishigaki features roots rising from sand at 5–30m, home to schools of scorpionfish and leaf scorpionfish. Shallows host snapper schools, while garden eels and gobies inhabit the sandy bottom, making it a rich and diverse dive site.

Mitsuishi in Yaeyama, Okinawa, near Ishigaki Island, features three large rocks surrounded by vibrant corals, with Debasumeri and scorpionfish adding color. The reef and sandy bottom host rich macro life like nudibranchs and frogfish, while occasional manta rays make this a serene yet exciting dive site.

Osaki Hanagoi Reef in Ishigaki offers depths from 5–35m with diverse terrain. Shallows feature vibrant yellow corals and schools of red snappers, with spawning scenes in early spring. A signature Ishigaki site, it’s enjoyed by both beginners and advanced divers year-round.

Crystal Beach (Yamahara Beach) in Kabira, Ishigaki, is a secluded site with natural crystal deposits from Mt. Omotodake’s river. Its unspoiled waters host coral reefs, tropical fish, and sea turtles. Access is via a steep slope with limited facilities, so preparation and caution are essential.

Sakieda Big Arch in Kabira, western Ishigaki, features a massive 3-meter-high arch that can fit a boat. Sunlight beams through ceiling cracks, creating a magical “shower of light” effect. With gentle currents and depths of 12–20m, it’s perfect for both beginner and experienced divers.