Shiraho

Quiet coastal village on Ishigaki's southeast corner, famous for the largest blue coral colony in the Northern Hemisphere, a sprawling reef that has been growing for centuries just offshore. Guided snorkeling and kayak tours take you out to see the blue coral up close, along with sea turtles and reef fish. The village itself retains a traditional Okinawan character with coral-stone walls and red-tile rooftops. It is a mellower alternative to the busier west coast beaches and well worth a half-day visit.