Weaving a Journey by *Sabani* — A Special Experience of Tradition, Vistas, Sea and Wind
Join a hands-on workshop taught by Ishigaki’s only *sabani* boatbuilder to craft Okinawa’s traditional wooden boat, then set sail over Japan’s largest coral reef area, steering by wind and sail in an authentic maritime culture experience. With sweeping views of the Hirakubo Peninsula within the Iriomote–Ishigaki National Park marine area, deepen your understanding of Yaeyama’s seafaring culture and feel the sea’s gentle sway, the sound of the wind and the island’s unhurried flow of time. Lunch features a traditional multi-tiered *ojū* made with island ingredients — a gourmet treat even Michelin has yet to discover. Book / Book Now / Select number of participants
Days of Week
Sun,Mon,Tue,Wed,Thu,Fri,Sat
Duration
4.8 hours
Adult (ages 12+)
JPY 58,500
Child (ages 6-11)
JPY 46,800
Highlights
Highlight #1
Preserving and experiencing living tradition
Highlight #2
A sense of oneness with nature at sea
Highlight #3
Fusion with local food culture
Highlight #4
Immerse in Yaeyama’s seafaring heritage
Outline
Schedule
Pickup / Checkin
Dropoff / Checkout
9:40
Learn *sabani* history
at the boatyard: film & talk
10:15
Ride & helm the *sabani"
blessing & departure; sailing over the reef; in season: snorkelling / deck viewing via glass scope / fishing
11:15
Break & showers
11:30
Build a *sabani* — Part 1
make an ornament using the ‘honhagi’ joinery
12:30
Island-terroir lunch
island vegetables, free-range chicken, etc.
13:15
Build a *sabani* — Part 2
finish while enjoying herbal tea
14:30
Tour Ends
Checkin Times / Locations
9:30
234-243 Hirakubo, Ishigaki, Okinawa
Checkout Times / Locations
14:30
234-243 Hirakubo, Ishigaki, Okinawa
Plan Information
What's Included
- Life jackets
- waterproof bag
- "KUBA" Hat (traditional hat)
- Marine Shoes
- lunch
- Anniversary Photo
- shower
- ※酔い止めは無料貸出
Restrictions
- Eligibility: ages 6+ (minimum participants)
What to Bring
- Required: change of clothes
- Recommended: sandals, hat, sun protection, drinking water, towel, waterproof phone case
- Wear active clothing that can get wet
Additional Info
- Programme content/schedule may change or be cancelled due to weather
- full refund if cancelled
- if cancelled for weather, you will be notified by 17:00 the day before
- Operator: Yoshida Sabani Zōsen
Minimum Participants
- 1
Cancellation Policies
0%
3 days before to 17:00
30%
2 days before to 17:00
50%
1 day before to 17:00
After 17:00, 1 day before
100%
Participation Date








