Hamajima, Ishigaki's "Phantom Island": Landing & Snorkeling Half-Day Tour with Photo Data

Hamajima: A Sand Island Rising from the Middle of the Sea

About 30 minutes by boat from Ishigaki Island, Hamajima, known as the "Phantom Island," is an uninhabited island of white sand that changes shape with the rising and falling tides. It is surrounded by Sekisei Lagoon, a vast coral reef area, so you can enjoy both the island scenery and the underwater world.

Morning and afternoon sessions are available, so you can fit the tour into your travel plans. Below, we walk you through how the experience unfolds. Depending on weather and sea conditions, the order of activities and meeting times may change.

Safety at PiPi, a "Maru-Yu" Certified Shop

The tour is run by "Ishigaki Island ADVENTURE PiPi," operated by NASH Co., Ltd.

PiPi is a certified shop under the "Excellent Safety Measures Marine Leisure Provider" program (known as "Maru-Yu"), which is granted only to operators that meet the safety standards set by the Okinawa Prefectural Public Safety Commission. Only about 3% of operators in Okinawa Prefecture hold Maru-Yu certification (as of August 2025).

The shop has met strict standards for guide safety training and operations, including mandatory life jackets, carrying an AED, and regular safety training for staff. That is why first-timers and families with children can join with peace of mind.

First, Meet Your Guide and Get Ready for the Sea

We meet in front of the main entrance of the Ishigaki Port Ferry Terminal (Ritou Terminal). Free pickup is also available from eligible accommodations in southern Ishigaki. If you would like a hotel pickup, check the eligible facilities and availability when you book.

On the day, arrive wearing your swimsuit and bring a towel and something to drink. Snorkeling gear, life jackets and special water shoes are available for free rental, and wetsuits are also provided in winter.

Before entering the water, your guide will give a briefing on how to use the equipment and what to watch out for. Once you have your life jacket on and everything is ready, it's time to head for Hamajima.

Next, Step Onto Hamajima, Surrounded by Sea in All Directions

After about 30 minutes by boat, the white sandy beach of Hamajima comes into view. Standing on the island, you'll see ocean in every direction, as if you were floating on the sea itself.

Because the island's shape changes with the tides, the scenery differs depending on when you visit. Take in the color of the water at the water's edge and the horizon stretching far into the distance.

Pose with your family, or gaze out at the sea together as a couple. Follow your guide's lead and enjoy the view that only this place can offer.

Capture the Moment with Photos on Hamajima

During the tour, your guide takes photos of the group and gives you the photo data for free. It's great to get a shot with the whole family or couple together, something that's hard to manage on your own.

Beyond posed shots, candid photos of you gazing at the sea or showing natural expressions make wonderful travel memories. Enjoy the photo time according to the sea conditions on the day and your guide's directions.

Then, Snorkel in the Waters of Sekisei Lagoon

After enjoying the scenery of Hamajima, it's on to the snorkeling spot. With your life jacket on and your guide supporting you, peer into the sea from the surface.

The surrounding Sekisei Lagoon is home to coral and tropical fish. Look for branching corals and the small fish swimming around them, and notice the differences in their shapes and movements.

What you see depends on the day. Sea turtles are sometimes spotted, but wildlife encounters are not guaranteed. Take your time and enjoy the underwater scenery spread out before you.

Finally, Freshen Up with a Hot Shower

After the tour, you can use the hot showers near the Ishigaki Port Ferry Terminal for free. Rinse off the salt and sand and get ready, so it's easy to move on to your next plans.

The photo data taken by your guide lets you look back on your time at sea. The scenery of Hamajima and the expressions of those who joined you will remain as memories of your Ishigaki trip.

PiPi also offsets the CO2 emissions generated by travel during the tour, and donates part of its revenue to help run local children's cafeterias (kodomo shokudo, community meal programs for children).

FAQ

■ What is the minimum age to participate? The landing and snorkeling are open to ages 3 to 59. Guests aged 60 to 65 can join the Hamajima landing only. If you would like to take part in the landing only, please consult the operator about how to participate before booking.

■ Can I join if I can't swim? Yes. You wear a life jacket and take part with a briefing beforehand and support from your guide. If you are not confident in the water, let your guide know in advance.

■ How long does the tour take? Morning and afternoon sessions are available, and the tour takes about 3 hours including transfers and travel. Meeting times and schedules may shift depending on weather and sea conditions.

■ Where do we meet, and what about pickup? We meet in front of the main entrance of the Ishigaki Port Ferry Terminal, or we can pick you up at eligible accommodations in southern Ishigaki. Please confirm in advance whether pickup is available, as well as the meeting place and time on the day.

■ What should I bring and wear? Arrive wearing your swimsuit and bring a towel and something to drink. Snorkeling gear, life jackets and special water shoes can be borrowed for free. Wetsuits are also provided in winter.

■ Does the tour run in the rain? The tour runs in the rain, but will be cancelled if safety cannot be ensured due to sea conditions or other factors. Even if the trip to Hamajima isn't possible, you may be guided to another snorkeling spot.

Before You Book

• Participants' ages, and the scope of landing and snorkeling they can join
• Morning or afternoon session, meeting place, and pickup availability
• Wearing your swimsuit beforehand, and preparing a towel and drinks
• What happens if the tour is changed or cancelled due to sea conditions, and the cancellation policy

Schedules and meeting times may shift depending on weather and sea conditions. Please check the latest information on prices and operating hours before booking.

Summary

Step onto white sand and gaze at the sea as far as the eye can see. Then peer through your mask into the world of coral and fish. On the Hamajima half-day tour, you get to enjoy Ishigaki's sea from two different perspectives.

Leave the gear rental and photography to your guide, and make the most of your time at sea with your family or someone special. Spend a half day on Hamajima that you'll want to look back on through your photos long after the trip is over.

For details and availability, see Ishigaki "Phantom Island" Hamajima Landing & Boat Snorkeling (Half-Day Tour).