Departing from Ishigaki Island | Landing on the Phantom Island & Snorkeling + Sightseeing on Taketomi Island (Includes Southern Hotel Pickup & Free Photo Data)

The Phantom Island, or Maboroshi no Shima, is a temporary sandbar located in the Sekisei Lagoon, nestled between Ishigaki Island and Iriomote Island in Okinawa, Japan. Its exact shape and size are constantly influenced by the tides, making it a dynamic and uniquely shifting natural wonder that is accessed by boat from Ishigaki Island.

The Phantom Island is distinctive for its pristine white sandy shores, composed entirely of crushed coral. This ephemeral island creates a striking visual contrast with the surrounding crystal-clear, emerald-green waters of the Sekisei Lagoon, forming an exceptionally picturesque and almost otherworldly landscape that changes with the ebb and flow of the ocean.

The Phantom Island earns its name from its elusive nature; it is a sandbar that emerges and submerges with the ocean's tides, appearing and disappearing as if by magic. This natural phenomenon, where its size and form are never precisely the same, contributes significantly to its mystique and appeal as a transient, captivating natural wonder.

On Taketomi Island, visitors can immerse themselves in sightseeing within its beautifully preserved traditional Okinawan village. Popular activities include exploring charming houses with distinctive red tiled roofs and stone walls, experiencing the island's serene pace of life, and appreciating the stunning emerald green sea that surrounds the island. Participants can also choose their preferred return ferry time.

Visitors embark on a boat journey from Ishigaki Island to reach both the Phantom Island and Taketomi Island. For added convenience, the tour often includes a pickup service from Southern Hotel on Ishigaki Island, transporting participants directly to the departure point for their scenic boat trip to these remote and captivating islands.

At Phantom Island, the snorkeling experience is highlighted by exceptionally transparent waters teeming with diverse marine life. Participants can anticipate swimming among a variety of fish in a clear, vibrant underwater environment. A professional guide also captures these memorable moments with a waterproof camera, providing the photo data to guests for free.

Taketomi Island offers untouched, scenic beauty, showcasing a captivating traditional village. Visitors will admire unique houses with characteristic red tiled roofs and traditional stone walls. The island's peaceful ambiance is beautifully complemented by the surrounding emerald green sea, providing an authentic glimpse into Okinawan island heritage.

Both Phantom Island and Taketomi Island are considered integral to Yaeyama tourism due to their distinct appeal. Phantom Island offers a unique opportunity to visit a temporary natural wonder and enjoy excellent snorkeling, while Taketomi Island provides an immersive experience into traditional Okinawan culture and pristine, preserved landscapes, making them popular attractions for visitors.