Kabira Bay, located on the northwest coast of Ishigaki Island in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, stands as one of the most photographed natural landmarks in the Yaeyama Islands. The bay earned protected status as part of Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park and received recognition in 2007 when it was selected as one of Japan's 100 Scenic Views. Its exceptional water quality and marine ecosystem led to its designation as a protected area where swimming is prohibited to preserve the delicate environment.
The bay's cultural significance extends beyond its natural beauty. Local communities have maintained pearl cultivation operations in these waters since 1890, making Kabira Bay one of Japan's pioneering sites for black pearl farming. The protected status reflects both the ecological importance of the coral reefs and seagrass beds that support diverse marine life, and the area's role in sustaining traditional maritime practices that have shaped Ishigaki's heritage.
Visitors experience Kabira Bay primarily through glass-bottom boat tours, which operate regularly throughout the day and provide views of the coral formations and tropical fish without disturbing the marine environment. These boats typically accommodate 15 to 20 passengers and complete circuits of the bay in approximately 30 minutes. The observation deck and beach areas offer panoramic views of the emerald and turquoise waters against a backdrop of forested islets, with conditions varying dramatically based on tidal patterns and sunlight angles.
Kabira Bay is accessible by car, taxi, or bus from Ishigaki city center, approximately 30 to 40 minutes north by road. Regular bus services connect the bay to the main port area, though schedules are limited. No admission fee applies for accessing the beach and observation areas, though glass-bottom boat tours require separate tickets purchased on-site, typically ranging from 1,000 to 1,500 yen per person. Limited parking facilities are available near the beach access points, with small shops and rest facilities serving visitors during daylight hours.
