The Kabira Bay is a popular sightseeing bay on Ishigaki Island, as part of the Yaeyama Island chain in Okinawa Prefecture. The bay is one of the top sightseeing destinations on Ishigaki, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, which have striking blue-green tones caused by the white sand beaches, shallow waters, and coral reef. Unfortunately, due to the number of boats that use Kabira Bay, swimming and snorkelling are not allowed.
Instead of swimming, visitors to the bay can embark on a 30-minute glass-bottom boat tour. While touristy, the glass-botttom boat tours are a great way to enjoy some of the island’s rich and diverse underwater life.
Aside from the stunning views, Kabira Bay is also known for cultivating high-quality black pearls, referred to as Ryukyu pearls. The bay is just one of two places in Japan which cultivate black pearls.
Visitors to the bay can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore, stopping at various observation areas, including a small shrine with a view out towards the bay.
Explore Okinawa
Top Attractions
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
One of the world's best aquariums
Shuri Castle
Restored Ryukyu palace showcasing Okinawa’s royal cultural heritage
Kouri Beach
Famous beach with iconic views and clear blue water
Mihama American Village
Shopping Centre with American Influence
Heart Rock
Popular Scenic Spot featuring a rock shaped like a heart.
Hours and Admission (Glass Bottom Boat Tours)
- Hours: Typically from 9:00am to 5:00pm)
- Approximately 1000 yen
- Average Time Spent: 30 Minutes
Accessing Kabira Bay
Kabira Bay is located on Ishigaki islands northwestern side. It is a 30-minute drive from Ishigaki Airport, or about a 45-minute bus ride. Buses will cost 720 yen one way, and the timetable can be found on the Kotsu Okinawa Website.
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Where to Stay
Ishigaki Seaside Hotel
Found on the islands north western side, this hotel has stunning ocean views, and a pristine white sand beach directly outside the hotel.
Fusaki Beach Resort Hotel & Villas
Best family friendly resort
Luxury hotel, featuring rooms with unforgettable ocean views, world class dining, and immaculate facilities.
seven x seven
5 Star resort located on the outskirts of Ishigaki City, with views of the sea, and immacualte world-class rooms.
Explore more in Okinawa Prefecture
Cape Hirakubozaki
Ishigaki's Northernmost Cape, with stunning views of the tropical ocean
Heart Rock
Popular Scenic Spot featuring a rock shaped like a heart.
Ishigaki Island
Japan's Tropical Paradise
Ishigaki Stalactite Cave
200,000 year old stalactite cave on Ishigaki Island.
Kabira Bay
Stunning bay with crystal clear waters
Kokusai Dori
Bustling Street lined with shops and a nearby market.