Time to plan for the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays! Just take 3 days off and enjoy a 9-day break! Don’t want to take that many days off? Taking just 2 days gives you a 5-day holiday too! Join Orange Cat and head to Ishigaki Island! More than just a small island off Okinawa, it’s a dream destination for diving enthusiasts, a paradise for food lovers, and a hidden gem cherished by many. From Chinese-speaking diving instructors and premium Ishigaki beef dishes to snorkeling with manta rays and relaxing city strolls, this article has everything you need — leave tips, transportation info, itinerary guide, accommodations, food recommendations, and secret diving spots. One article, all the info you need. Just pack and go!
Click to view｜2 Days 1 Night Ishigaki Diving Getaway: A Short Trip to Fully Enjoy Island Vibes
Table of Contents
How to Make the Most of the Mid-Autumn & National Day Holidays?｜2025 Guide to Take 3 Days Off for 9 Days of Vacation, or 2 for 5
A Paradise for Divers! Why Choose Ishigaki Island?｜A Hidden Gem Even More Pristine Than Okinawa Main Island
How to Get There from Taiwan?｜Latest Flight and Ferry Information
How to Plan Your Ishigaki Island Itinerary?｜4-Day & 8-Day Travel Guides That Hit All the Right Spots
Must-See Diving Highlights!｜Cave Diving, Sea Turtles, and Magical Manta Rays All in One Trip
[Orange Cat Diving] Chinese-Speaking Instructors + Customized Itineraries｜Beginner-Friendly and Worry-Free
Where to Stay? Recommended Accommodations in Ishigaki｜From Downtown to Ocean Views to Full Resorts
Ishigaki Island Must-Eat Food Map｜Ishigaki Beef, Yaeyama Noodles, and Popular Local Desserts
1. How to Make the Most of the Mid-Autumn & National Day Holidays?
2025 Guide: Take 3 Days Off for 9 Days of Vacation, or 2 for 5
In 2025, the Mid-Autumn Festival falls on Monday, October 6, and the National Day holiday is on Friday, October 10. With some smart leave planning, you can enjoy up to 9 consecutive days off!
Option 1: Take 3 Days Off → Enjoy 9 Days Off
Leave Dates: October 7 (Tue), October 8 (Wed), October 9 (Thu)
Total Break: October 4 (Sat) to October 12 (Sun) — 9 days in a row!
Option 2: Take 2 Days Off → Enjoy 5 Days Off
Leave Dates: October 7 (Tue), October 8 (Wed)
Total Break: October 4 (Sat) to October 8 (Wed) — 5 days total!
Don’t let this golden holiday period go to waste!
Just a 1-hour direct flight away, Ishigaki Island is one of the hottest island getaways right now. And besides flying, there’s now a brand-new option — a night ferry from Keelung to Ishigaki, letting you wake up in Japan the next morning!
This guide will help you plan the perfect Ishigaki Island trip — from top diving spots and must-eat food to recommended accommodations, Orange Cat has it all covered.
Start planning your holiday escape now and get ready for the ultimate dive × food × sightseeing adventure!
2. A Paradise for Divers! Why Choose Ishigaki Island?
A Pristine Island Gem Even More Beautiful Than Okinawa Main Island
If you’re a diving enthusiast, Ishigaki Island is a must-visit. Known as one of the best diving spots in the Okinawa archipelago, it offers stable sea conditions year-round, crystal-clear waters, and well-preserved coral reef ecosystems. With visibility even better than Okinawa’s main island, Ishigaki is home to vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, colorful tropical fish, and — the highlight — the magical manta rays.
By joining a boat diving tour in Ishigaki, you might spot these majestic creatures gliding by up close. The famous dive site Manta Scramble is a diver’s pilgrimage spot, especially in the summer and autumn months, when sightings of manta rays are most frequent and breathtaking.
But Ishigaki isn’t just for pros — it’s also ideal for beginners and independent travelers. With Chinese-speaking instructors, quality gear, and well-structured lessons, even first-time divers can dive in with confidence. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing island getaway or an ocean-focused adventure, Ishigaki’s underwater world promises stunning beauty and soul-soothing experiences beyond expectations.
3. How to Get to Ishigaki Island from Taiwan?
Latest Flights & Ferry Options for 2025
Traveling from Taiwan to Ishigaki Island is easier than ever — with a 1-hour direct flight or the newly launched night ferry from Keelung, you can effortlessly kick off your island holiday. In 2025, you’ve got multiple transport options to choose from!
China Airlines will resume regular direct flights from Taipei (Taoyuan) to Ishigaki from May 28 to October 25, 2025, with two flights a week on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Tigerair Taiwan is also set to launch a new direct route from Taipei to Ishigaki starting July 17, 2025, giving travelers even more flexibility.
A highly anticipated night ferry service from Keelung to Ishigaki has been introduced, allowing travelers to sleep through the journey and wake up in Japan — perfect for those who enjoy a slow travel experience.
With these flexible options, planning your Ishigaki getaway in 2025 has never been more convenient!
(圖片來源：YaimaLine)
4. How to Plan Your Ishigaki Island Trip?
4 Days 3 Nights & 8 Days 7 Nights Itineraries — Stress-Free Travel Plans for the Long Holiday
With the 2025 Mid-Autumn and National Day holidays offering the perfect chance to take 5 or even 9 days off, it's the best time to plan a hassle-free overseas trip! Whether you're going for a short break or a full-blown island retreat, Ishigaki Island is the perfect destination. Here are two itinerary suggestions to help you make the most of your holiday:
Highlights:
Scuba diving experience, island sightseeing, and local food adventures
Day 1｜Arrive via flight or ferry → Visit Yaeyama Folk Village to feed squirrel monkeys and explore Okinawan traditions → Dinner featuring famous Ishigaki beef
Day 2｜Explore Ishigaki’s natural beauty:
Cape Uganzaki for ocean views
Mt. Yarabudake for an easy hike
Forest waterfalls for scenic photo ops
→ Try the unique underground beach SUP paddleboarding
Day 3｜Join a scuba diving tour focused on manta ray hotspots like Manta Scramble, and see vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and sea turtles → Relax at a cute local dessert café in town
Day 4｜Enjoy a slow brunch → Shop for local souvenirs → Return home via flight or ferry
Stay near Ishigaki City for easier access and a more flexible schedule.
First-time divers? Opt for a customized tour with a Chinese-speaking instructor — full gear, detailed guidance, and a stress-free intro to the ocean. Orange Cat Hotel Booking Services:
Art Hotel Ishigakijima
~TWD 1,500 per person per night
Centrally located with excellent value!
Fusaki Beach Resort
A luxury beachfront resort with pools and a variety of room types — perfect for a relaxing holiday!
(圖片來源：MYSTAYS)
Highlights:
Perfect for intermediate to advanced divers, plus in-depth cultural and nature exploration on and around Ishigaki Island
Day 1｜Arrive in Ishigaki → Stroll around the city → Dinner at a local izakaya and feast on Ishigaki beef
Day 2｜Full-day scuba diving tour with three dives, focusing on Manta Scramble for manta ray sightings
Day 3｜Second boat diving day with two more dive sites
Day 4｜Rest day → Visit Yaeyama Folk Village to interact with squirrel monkeys or unwind at a cozy local café
Day 5｜Island hopping: Explore the waterfalls and jungle ecosystems of Iriomote Island
Day 6｜Continue island adventures: Yubu Island water buffalo cart ride + snorkeling at Phantom Island
Day 7｜Leisurely shopping in town → Nighttime stargazing tour
Day 8｜Relaxed checkout → Return to Taiwan via flight or ferry
This extended trip is ideal for diving lovers and curious travelers who enjoy hidden island getaways and cultural experiences. With plenty of time to dive, island hop, and explore, you’ll fully immerse yourself in Ishigaki’s natural wonders and local charm.
Click to Book｜2 Days 1 Night Ishigaki Diving Tour: Easy Add-On for Independent Travelers
(圖片來源：MYSTAYS)
Cave Diving, Sea Turtles, and Magical Manta Rays — All in One Trip
No trip to Ishigaki Island is complete without diving. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, this island offers ideal conditions: high water clarity, stable currents, and a well-preserved coral reef ecosystem that makes every dive unforgettable.
The most famous site is Manta Scramble, where large numbers of manta rays can often be seen between summer and autumn. This is one of the top reasons divers flock to Ishigaki.
Other highlights include:
Cave diving, where you swim through natural underwater rock formations illuminated by sunlight
Swimming with sea turtles, commonly found around the island
Colorful reefs and tropical fish, creating a vibrant underwater scene like a living aquarium
Whether you fly or take the ferry from Taiwan, it’s easy to start your diving journey. Orange Cat provides full support including equipment, Chinese-speaking instructors, and custom routes — making your Ishigaki diving trip smooth and exciting.
Chinese-Speaking Instructors + Customized Itinerary
Beginner-Friendly and Worry-Free
Looking for a safe and professional diving experience in Ishigaki? Orange Cat offers a 2-day, 1-night diving tour led by Chinese-speaking instructors. From hotel pick-up and dive site arrangements to equipment setup, everything is covered. Whether you're new to diving or already certified, you'll be well taken care of.
Small-group tour (minimum 2 participants) for a more personal experience
Optional accommodation add-on available
Tour Price: NT$15,000 per person
Hotel Add-On: From NT$1,500 per person
Day 1
08:00 — Hotel pick-up and transfer to port
08:30–15:00 — Three boat dives (includes lunch on board)
Day 2
08:00 — Hotel pick-up and transfer to port
08:30–12:00 — Two boat dives
12:00 — Return to port or hotel
Top Accommodation Picks: City Hotels, Ocean Views, and Full Resorts
Whether you prefer urban convenience or resort-style relaxation, Ishigaki Island offers a variety of accommodations to suit your travel style. Here are two highly rated options perfect for different types of travelers:
Location:
Centrally located in downtown Ishigaki, just a 5-minute walk to the port and shopping area. Ideal for easy access to transportation and local attractions.
Rooms & Facilities:
245 rooms equipped with Wi-Fi, minibar, bathtub, safe, and more. The hotel also features a rooftop Sky Bar, buffet BBQ, Japanese restaurant, public bath, sauna, garden pool, and spa.
Best For:
Travelers who value flexibility, easy access to city amenities, or those traveling with family and friends.
Location:
Located along a beautiful one-kilometer white sand beach, offering a full resort experience.
Rooms & Facilities:
A wide selection of ocean-view rooms and villas, Ishigaki’s largest pool complex (including a kids' pool and water park), indoor pool, spa, restaurants, bars, shops, and free shuttle service to downtown Ishigaki.
Best For:
Travelers looking for a relaxing vacation with beach access, water activities, or a family-friendly resort atmosphere.
Prefer to stay near the city, with easy access to shops, diving tours, and transport? Go with Art Hotel Ishigakijima.
Want to prioritize leisure, ocean views, and a true beach holiday vibe? Choose Fusaki Beach Resort Hotel & Villas.
Orange Cat can assist with hotel bookings for both options to help create your perfect Ishigaki trip. If you’d like more detailed information (e.g. breakfast menus, nearby attractions, or room comparisons), just fill out an inquiry form to contact Orange Cat’s Japan-based customer service team.
(圖片來源：MYSTAYS)
Ishigaki Beef, Yaeyama Noodles, and Popular Desserts All in One Guide
Food is undoubtedly a highlight of any trip to Ishigaki Island. Beyond its pristine seascapes, Ishigaki is a haven for food lovers, offering everything from premium wagyu to local noodles and seasonal sweets.
A must-try delicacy, known for its perfect marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture. It's the ultimate indulgence when visiting the island. Recommended restaurants include:
Ishigakiya
Yakiniku Kinjou
Yaima Aburiya
These spots are known for their high-quality cuts and expert grilling.
A local favorite, similar to Okinawa soba but with finer noodles and a lighter broth. It’s a satisfying and quick meal, beloved by both locals and travelers. Popular choices include:
Rai Sai Sei Shokudo
Shiraho Shokudo
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