[Ishigaki Island] Hidden Gem Not on the Map? "Yabiku Falls" Access and Adventure Report | Matchmaking Falls
The area including Ishigaki Island, Iriomote Island, and even Yonaguni Island is called the "Yaeyama Islands". When it comes to waterfalls, Iriomote Island is famous.
Pinaisara Falls, Mariyudu Falls, Mayagusuku Falls, etc., are the best in both number and quality. You will definitely be moved, so please go there.
...However, what I am introducing today is not Iriomote Island, but a waterfall that exists in Ishigaki Island, Okinawa, Japan.
There are mainly two waterfalls in Ishigaki Island that are easily accessible.
One is the famous "Arakawa Falls". You can play in the water at the waterfall basin, and I often play catching shrimp upstream.
And the second one is [Yabiku Falls] introduced this time.
It is also known as "Matchmaking Falls" (the reason is unknown... lol).
Arakawa Falls has many tourists and the parking lot overflows during the season, but the entrance to Yabiku Falls is difficult to understand even on Google Maps, and it is hardly listed in guidebooks. It is truly a hidden spot known only to those in the know.
1. Go Without Getting Lost! Access to Yabiku Falls
About 35-40 minutes by car from the city center area. It is quite far north. Buses run, but the number is extremely small, so a rental car is essential.
📍 Exact Location and Coordinates
Even if you search on Google Maps, the entrance may not appear pinpoint. It is certain to set the following coordinates and head there.
Coordinates: 24.48139, 124.23669 (Open in Google Maps)
🚗 Landmarks on the Way
First, go north towards Nosoko settlement, and turn right after passing Senkaku Shrine.
Follow the road and cross a small bridge over the "Fukido River". This is the starting point.
Just looking from the bridge, you can't tell there is a waterfall in the back.
🅿️ About Parking Space
There is a space where you can park your car on the immediate left after crossing the bridge (if coming from the city center).
Since it is not a regular parking lot, be sure to park with enough space (road width) for other cars and agricultural vehicles to pass by.
▼ Rental Car is Essential for Moving to the North ▼
Buses are infrequent and unsuitable for going to hidden spots. If you want to adventure without worrying about time, get a rental car.
Compare & Book Rental Cars on Klook2. Let's Enter the Mountain! Report on the Way to the Waterfall
There is a narrow path down to the river next to the guardrail and utility pole in front. The adventure starts here.
Pushing through the grass and entering...
Pass by a magnificent tree and go down to the river.
Go under the bridge and walk steadily up the river aiming upstream. At first, it looks flat and easy, but...
⚠️ Watch Your Step! Rocky Area
As you proceed, the rocks become rugged.
On these rocks, it is incredibly slippery. Places where moss is growing are especially dangerous.
Proceed while checking your footing firmly. In anxious places, it is safe to proceed with three-point support using your hands so as not to get injured even if you slip.
If you go from the "left side" of the large rock visible in front, you can cross it relatively easily.
3. Arrival! Mysterious "Yabiku Falls"
After crossing the rocky area, you finally arrive!
The waterfall that suddenly appears in the jungle is mysterious.
Even in the scorching heat of Ishigaki Island, only the air here is cool and quiet, and you can feel negative ions with your whole body.
You can take such photogenic pictures, but getting down from this tree was extremely difficult (lol). Please be prepared to climb.
▼ Participate in activities to reach secret locations ▼
Find activities on Ishigaki Island4. Precautions and Equipment to Know Before Going
- Anti-slip measures are essential: Sandals (especially Crocs and island slippers) are very slippery and dangerous. If possible, felt shoes, marine shoes, or non-slip sneakers are recommended.
- Observe manners: There are no information boards or managers. Be sure to take your trash home and be considerate so as not to bother the people in the settlement or traffic.
- Don't overdo it: Never approach when the water is rising or the weather is bad.
| Time Required | About 15 minutes one way from parking |
|---|---|
| Clothing | Clothes that can get wet, Swimsuit |
| Good to Have | Felt shoes (Recommended), Gloves, Insect repellent spray |
5. Stopover Gourmet: Exquisite Goat Sashimi "Kitchen Misaki"
If you get hungry after playing at the waterfall, go to the nearby [Kitchen Misaki].
The "Goat Sashimi" here is exquisite!
Even my wife, who is not good at game meat, praised it saying "This one doesn't smell and is delicious!". The yellow building is the landmark. Please stop by for energy replenishment after waterfall exploration.
Summary
Yabiku Falls is a precious spot where untouched nature remains while being within easy reach.
There are slippery and somewhat dangerous places, so please prioritize safety and enjoy the deep nature of Ishigaki Island without overdoing it!
*Information is as of 2025. Natural environments are subject to change, so please be careful about accidents and injuries on site.
