Ishigaki Island (Sakishima, Japan)

Ishigaki Island (aka Ishigachi, and Ishigakijima) is located west of Okinawa Honto, Japan. This is the 2nd-largest of the Yaeyama Island group and has population around 50,000. Ishigaki City is the archipelago's transport and business center. The island is served by Yaeyamas' largest airport - New Ishigaki Airport.

Much of Ishigaki Island and surrounding waters (including Kabira Bay and Mt Omoto) are a protected area (part of Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park). Like the rest of Okinawa, the island is culturally influenced by both Taiwan and Japan due to its location - approx 300 km (185 ml) off Taiwan Island's northeastern coast.

Port Ishigaki has planned expansion to allow 5 large coast guard patrol boats to be stationed here. Japan Self-Defense Forces will also deploy short range anti-ship missiles on the island.

The reinforcements are in relation to the uninhabited Senkaku Islands - located approx 170 km (105 ml) to the north. China and Taiwan have challenged Japan's sovereignty over Senkaku Islands since 1972, and with even more intensity since 2012.

Ishigaki Island cruise terminal