Verified [Verified] denotes information that has been published with confirmation of its owing parties.
The island’s historic kitchen - a one-stop spot for all things Ishigaki.
Located in the heart of Ishigaki Island’s bustling Euglena Mall, the Ishigaki City Public Market is a three-story hub that serves both locals and visitors as the island’s go-to spot for fresh goods and souvenirs. For locals, it’s a daily marketplace akin to their kitchen; for tourists, it’s the perfect place to find authentic local products.
The market traces its roots back to 1899, when it began as a small fish market near the former Yaeyama Post Office. It moved to its current location in 1904 and was established as a village-run public market, supporting island life for over a century. In May 2021, the market underwent a major renovation, adding a new eat-in area to enhance the visitor experience.
Today, the market houses 23 shops offering a wide variety of products, including fresh meat, seafood, and souvenirs. On the first floor, you’ll find fresh foods such as meat, fish, and island-style kamaboko (fish cakes), along with a space for on-site dining. The second floor features the Ishigaki Specialty Products Center, T-shirt shops, and even a place to try playing the traditional Okinawan sanshin instrument. On the third floor, you can enjoy authentic Okinawan cuisine at spots like Ichiba Shokudo.
A massive three-story market combining local specialty shops and dining options
Fresh seafood lined up in abundance
Everything from meat to fish and more under one roof
Supporting local life since its founding in 1899
Enjoy freshly made sata andagi (Okinawan doughnuts) right in the eat-in space
Some reviews are AI-translated.
When visiting Ishigaki Island, of course you should explore this historic "island kitchen." The market has all kinds of Ishigaki Island specialties, souvenirs, and local ingredients. It's a good place to walk around if you want to experience the atmosphere of local life.
I came on a weekday morning, and the entire market was fairly quiet. Most shops didn't start opening until around 11, with only a few preparing to open. The market is especially peaceful in the morning, so you can browse at your own pace without the crowds.
If you want to buy some Ishigaki Island specialties or experience the atmosphere of a local market, it's worth stopping by. However, I recommend coming closer to noon, when more shops will be open!
