Yaima Village Ishigaki
Step back in time at Yaima Village, a traditional Okinawan settlement with playful monkeys and lush mangroves.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid midday heat & crowds
Yaima Village Ishigaki
Best Time
Avoid midday heat & crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Yaima Village, a traditional Okinawan settlement with playful monkeys and lush mangroves.
"A charming, underrated gem offering history, nature, and playful monkeys."
🎒 Pack Light for Monkeys
Only bring essentials like wallet & phone to the monkey enclosure. They love to grab things!
🚌 Plan Bus Travel
Buses are infrequent. Check schedules carefully or arrange a taxi in advance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Squirrel Monkey Forest
Yaima Village
Adorable squirrel monkeys roam freely in a spacious enclosure, often interacting with visitors.
Traditional Ryukyu Houses
Yaima Village
Step back in time exploring well-preserved traditional houses from the Ryukyu Kingdom era.

Mangrove Forest
Yaima Village
Wander through lush mangrove forests, offering a glimpse of unique coastal ecosystems.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Monkey Business & What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Pack Light for Monkeys
Only bring essentials like wallet & phone to the monkey enclosure. They love to grab things!
🚌 Plan Bus Travel
Buses are infrequent. Check schedules carefully or arrange a taxi in advance.
☀️ Bring Sun Protection
It gets very hot! Carry an umbrella, hat, and sunscreen, especially in summer.
💰 Cash is King
Many places on Ishigaki, including some attractions, prefer cash. Have enough yen on hand.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack Light for Monkeys
Only bring essentials like wallet & phone to the monkey enclosure. They love to grab things!
🚌 Plan Bus Travel
Buses are infrequent. Check schedules carefully or arrange a taxi in advance.
☀️ Bring Sun Protection
It gets very hot! Carry an umbrella, hat, and sunscreen, especially in summer.
💰 Cash is King
Many places on Ishigaki, including some attractions, prefer cash. Have enough yen on hand.
🎨 Shisa Painting Fun
Try painting your own Shisa statue for a fun, interactive souvenir.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Yaima Village to be a charming and underrated spot, particularly for its well-preserved traditional Okinawan houses and the entertaining squirrel monkeys. While some note the heat and infrequent bus service, the unique cultural experience and natural beauty make it a worthwhile visit for families and those seeking a glimpse into local history.
"An excursion activity of our MSC cruise. The key attraction is squirrel monkeys. They were kept in a huge cage with a lot of space for them to play around & fighting for foods? Surprised to see two mother monkeys have their baby monkey holding their back all the time. It, indeed, looks like & about the side if squirrels."
J.David Hwang
"I've been to several recreation villages and always like seeing the old architecture and the reconstructions of the past. This village was a great example of what it would have been like a hundred years ago and it wasn't over crowded with people which was nice. Great place to explore and take the family too."
David Bush
"It costs 1,200yen per adult. The weather was so hot when we went and it was hard to explore without drenching in sweat. So make sure to bring an umbrella if you go on a hot summer day! We got to see the created serpent eagle, and a water buffalo which smelled horrid. The most enjoyable part was seeing the squirrel monkeys, they were so adorable! You need to leave your things before entering as they might grab them. They recommend to only bring in your wallet and phones. We only stayed for a little over an hour. It was not crowded at all."
Quincy Quinn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Yaima Village by bus from Ishigaki Port. However, buses run infrequently, so it's advisable to plan your travel time carefully. Some visitors recommend checking bus schedules in advance or considering a taxi if you miss the bus.
Yes, Yaima Village is accessible by car. Driving offers more flexibility with transportation on Ishigaki Island, allowing you to visit at your own pace and avoid the limited bus schedules.
While Yaima Village is on Ishigaki Island, you can take a ferry from Ishigaki Port to Iriomote Island and then access attractions like the Yubujima Island Water Buffalo Cart. Yaima Village itself is directly accessible from Ishigaki Port.
Renting a car is often recommended for exploring Ishigaki Island at your own pace, offering the most convenience. Public buses are available but have limited routes and schedules. Taxis are also an option, though can be more expensive.
Yes, Yaima Village is a popular shore excursion for cruise ship passengers visiting Ishigaki Island, offering a convenient way to experience the attraction.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to Yaima Village typically costs around ¥1,000 for adults and ¥500 for children. It's always a good idea to check the latest prices before your visit.
Yaima Village generally operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but hours can vary by season and tide. It's recommended to confirm the exact opening and closing times before your visit.
For general entry to Yaima Village, advance booking is usually not required. However, if you are part of a group tour or cruise excursion, arrangements might be made in advance.
The entrance fee typically covers access to the village, the traditional houses, and the mangrove areas. Specific activities like feeding the squirrel monkeys or participating in cultural performances may have separate fees or be included in package deals.
Yes, you can experience the main attractions of Yaima Village in about an hour, especially if you focus on the squirrel monkeys and traditional houses. However, to fully enjoy activities like Shisa painting or cultural shows, allocate 3-4 hours.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The most popular attraction at Yaima Village is undoubtedly the squirrel monkey enclosure, where visitors can observe and interact with these playful creatures.
Yes, you can feed the squirrel monkeys, but it's important to follow the guidelines provided by the park staff. They recommend bringing only essentials like your wallet and phone into the monkey area.
Yaima Village features well-preserved traditional houses from the Ryukyu Kingdom era, offering a glimpse into the historical architecture and lifestyle of Okinawa.
Yes, Yaima Village often hosts Okinawan performers showcasing traditional dances and music, adding a cultural dimension to your visit.
Ishigaki Island, and Yaima Village, can be very hot and humid, especially during the summer months. Visitors are advised to bring sun protection and stay hydrated.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yaima Village offers local Okinawan specialties, including various types of soba and shaved ice. It's a great place to sample regional flavors after exploring the village.
While Yaima Village has its own dining options, there are also restaurants located in the vicinity of Ishigaki City, offering a wider range of culinary choices.
It's generally recommended to consume food and drinks purchased at the village's facilities. Check their specific policies regarding outside food and beverages.
When in Okinawa, try local dishes like Okinawan soba, Goya Champuru (bitter melon stir-fry), and Taco Rice. Yaima Village offers a taste of local soba.
Prices for food at Yaima Village are generally in line with typical tourist attraction pricing. You can expect to pay a moderate amount for local dishes and snacks.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the charm of the traditional Ryukyu houses, the playful antics of the squirrel monkeys, and the lush mangrove scenery. The cultural performances also offer great photo moments.
Photography is generally allowed in the squirrel monkey enclosure, but be quick and mindful of the monkeys' movements. Remember to keep your belongings secure.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for photography. The golden hour before closing can also provide beautiful, atmospheric shots of the village.
While generally permitted, be respectful of performers and other visitors. Avoid using flash photography directly at animals if it seems to disturb them.
Drone usage is typically restricted at tourist attractions to ensure the safety and privacy of visitors. It's best to check with the park management for their specific drone policy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The traditional houses provide an educational element, sparking curiosity about history and different ways of life. The Shisa painting activity is also a great way for kids to get creative and bring home a unique souvenir. Consider the heat and bring plenty of water and sun protection.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Observing the squirrel monkeys can be a fun and engaging solo or shared experience. The opportunity to paint a Shisa statue offers a creative outlet, and the cultural performances provide an authentic taste of Okinawan traditions. It's a charming escape from the more bustling tourist spots.
🚢 Cruise Ship Passengers
Excursions often include transport and guided access, making it easy to see the highlights like the squirrel monkeys and traditional houses. Be prepared for the tropical climate and follow any specific instructions provided by your cruise line for the excursion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Yaima Village
Visitors can wander through the preserved traditional houses, gaining insight into the architectural styles and daily life of the past. The atmosphere is often described as stepping back in time, with a slower pace of life. This historical aspect is a significant draw for those interested in Japanese culture and heritage.
Beyond the historical architecture, Yaima Village is also known for its natural beauty and unique inhabitants. The mangrove surroundings offer a glimpse into the island's delicate ecosystem, while the playful squirrel monkeys provide an entertaining and memorable experience for all ages.
Interacting with Squirrel Monkeys
When visiting the monkey enclosure, it's crucial to follow the park's guidelines to ensure both your safety and the well-being of the animals. Visitors are strongly advised to bring only essential items like wallets and phones, as the monkeys are known to playfully snatch belongings. Leaving larger bags or cameras unattended is not recommended.
Feeding the monkeys is often permitted under supervision, offering a unique interactive experience. Observing their social dynamics, including mothers carrying their young, adds to the fascination. This close encounter with wildlife is a memorable part of the Yaima Village visit for many families and individuals.
Cultural Experiences and Local Flavors
The village also features opportunities for hands-on cultural activities, such as painting your own Shisa statue. Shisa are traditional Okinawan guardian lions, and painting one is a fun and creative way to create a personalized souvenir while learning about their significance.
For those looking to sample local flavors, Yaima Village offers Okinawan soba and shaved ice. These are classic Okinawan treats that provide a refreshing break after exploring the village. It's a chance to savor the distinct culinary heritage of the region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit