Shiraho Beach lies on the southern coast of Ishigaki Island and is renowned for its extraordinary coral reefs. Located close to New Ishigaki Airport, the beach is one of the island’s most remarkable places to appreciate the rich marine life of the Yaeyama Islands.
Shiraho is particularly famous for its vast colonies of blue coral, one of the world’s rarest coral formations. The reef has attracted attention for the exceptional scale of its blue coral colonies, which are considered among the largest in the Northern Hemisphere.
The Shiraho Coral Reef is home to an extraordinary diversity of coral. More than 120 species have been recorded, including blue coral, branching corals such as Acropora digitifera, and various species of Montipora.
These different corals create a richly varied underwater landscape, providing an important habitat for marine organisms. The colorful and complex reef environment is one of the reasons Shiraho is regarded as a precious natural treasure of Ishigaki Island.
The most distinctive feature of Shiraho is its enormous colony of blue coral. The striking coral forms an unusual underwater landscape and is particularly valuable because large-scale colonies of this type are rarely found elsewhere.
The reef is not simply a beautiful sightseeing attraction. It is a living ecosystem that supports a wide variety of marine life and represents an important part of the natural heritage of Ishigaki Island.
For generations, the people of Shiraho have depended on the sea for food and other resources. The surrounding ocean has therefore been much more than a scenic landscape—it has been an essential part of everyday life.
Local people have traditionally referred to the sea as a “Sea of Treasure” and a “Sea that Sustains Life.” These expressions reflect the deep connection between the community and the marine environment, as well as the importance placed on protecting its resources for future generations.
Shiraho Beach offers visitors the opportunity to discover a different side of Ishigaki Island—one where natural beauty and local culture are closely connected. The spectacular coral reef, exceptional biodiversity, and long history of the community’s relationship with the sea make Shiraho a particularly meaningful destination.
Located only about 10 minutes by car from New Ishigaki Airport and approximately 25 minutes from central Ishigaki City, Shiraho Beach is also convenient to include in an island sightseeing itinerary. A visit here provides a chance to appreciate the extraordinary marine environment that has supported the people of Shiraho for generations.
25 minutes drive from the center of Ishigaki City
10 minutes drive from Ishigaki Airport