Panoramic Summit: Emerald Sea and Views to Taketomi Island
About this spot
Perched atop Banna Mountain (バンナ岳) north of Ishigaki's city center, within Banna Park, this observatory lives up to its name: below spreads a grand panorama of Ishigaki's cityscape and turquoise coral reef waters glowing in emerald hues. On clear days, the view extends across the sea to Taketomi Island (竹富島) and the neighboring Yaeyama islands—the perfect finale to your day's island exploration. The observatory is accessible by car with ample parking, and just a short walk from the lot. As afternoon light softens and sea and sky shift through changing tones, the view becomes increasingly mesmerizing.
Tips
The overlook can be windy—secure your hat. Banna Park is expansive with multiple entrances; set your GPS to "Emerald Sea Viewing Observatory" for accuracy. Avoid descending in darkness as visibility diminishes; plan to leave while it's still light.
Best time to visit
Allow approximately 1 hour. Afternoon light, as the sun begins to lower, brings out the emerald brilliance of the sea.
Access & map
〒907-0023 Okinawa Prefecture, Ishigaki City, Ishigaki
Model course featuring this spot
Ishigaki Island: Kabira Bay and Limestone Caves - Emerald Sea and Island Time
Okinawa
Explore features & model courses
Like this spot? Sign up free to save it to your own booklet as a plan or a want-to-go.