Okinawa Ishigaki Island | Pottery experience with sea-colored Ishigaki ware | Shipped to your home after firing

Currently, taxis are the primary on-demand transportation option on Ishigaki Island. International ride-sharing platforms like Uber are not widely available locally. If you need to arrange a ride, it's recommended to ask your accommodation to help you book one or go directly to a taxi stand. Some local car rental companies also offer short-term rentals, but these usually require advance booking.

The bus system on Ishigaki Island is operated by 'Tōun Bus' and covers the city area, the airport, and some major tourist spots. You can board buses at the Ishigaki Bus Terminal or the airport. It's advisable to check the bus routes and schedules in advance to plan your itinerary. Fares can be paid with cash; take a numbered ticket when boarding and pay the corresponding fare based on your ticket when disembarking.

For travelers who choose not to rent a car, Ishigaki Island offers several transportation options. In addition to taxis and the bus system, you can consider joining local tour agencies' day trips, which often include transportation to major attractions. Furthermore, bicycle and scooter rental services are available in the city and some tourist areas, suitable for short-distance travel or exploring specific spots.

The most convenient way to reach the 'Kaisai Pottery - Ishigaki Ware Pottery Experience' studio on Ishigaki Island is by taxi. You can take a taxi directly from the Ishigaki city area or the airport. If you opt for the bus, you can take a Tōun Bus route to the nearest stop to the studio, after which you might need to walk a short distance or take a short taxi ride.

There are two main public transportation options from New Ishigaki Airport to the Ishigaki city center. You can take the airport bus operated by 'Tōun Bus,' which goes directly to the Ishigaki Bus Terminal and takes about 40-50 minutes. Taxis are also available outside the airport, offering a more direct and faster option, especially suitable for groups or travelers with a lot of luggage.

Yes, you can rent scooters or bicycles for getting around Ishigaki Island during your trip. There are several rental shops, mainly concentrated near the port or in the city center. You will need a valid international driving permit to rent a scooter. Bicycles are suitable for leisurely short rides, exploring the city or nearby coastlines, allowing you more flexibility in planning your itinerary.

Taxis on Ishigaki Island are usually metered by distance. There's a base fare that includes a basic mileage, and the meter increases with distance. From the airport to the city or specific resort areas, there might be estimated fares or fixed route prices. It's advisable to confirm your destination and inquire about the approximate cost before getting in. If there are language barriers, it's helpful to write down the destination address in Japanese to show the driver to avoid communication issues.

Ishigaki Island offers sightseeing bus services. These buses typically follow pre-planned routes, stopping at major tourist attractions like Kabira Bay and Cape Tamatorizaki, allowing travelers to easily visit multiple places in a day. Some hotels or resorts may also provide shuttle services to and from major attractions or the airport. It's recommended to check with the local tourism information center or your accommodation for details.