Ishigaki Fail

2023 Spring Asia Cruises I - Holland America Westerdam Singapore to Yokohama

March 8, 2023 (Wednesday) - Ishigaki, Japan

You may find that the report for this day is very short. Well, because our day was wasted on the ship waiting for the required Japanese Immigration process to enter the country. We have never been to Ishigaki before so we were quite looking forward to have a fun day here. Unfortunately, things did not go the way we planned.

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the main dining room, we went back to our cabin and waited as instructed by the ship. Our deck was the last to be called, supposedly at 10:-11:00, but we waited and waited until close to 12:00 when we were finally called.

Great breakfast in the MDR.

We were in shock when we walked inside the theater where we were suppose to be seen by the Japanese Immigration officers. There were like 20 of them at different positions but the process was slow and hectic. They checked everything, did finger printing, took photos of each individual, etc. etc. By the time we were done it was close to 2:00. Our day was wasted on this unnecessary process. 

Passengers filled the theater waiting to be screened.

We hurried out to the complimentary shuttles outside the port gate and got on the bus to go into town. We were dropped off here at the ferry terminal near downtown.

Near the ferry terminal.

There was not enough time for us to do any sightseeing, but we were hoping at least we can find a restaurant for a meal of Ishigaki beef. The one we wanted was already closed for lunch. Fortunately, we bumped into one that was still opened and we were able to enjoy a good meal.

We had to hurry a little but it worked out fine and food was delicious!

The owner was very gracious and treated us some extra food.

Great seafood soup.

Exterior of the restaurant.

After our quick lunch, we walked back to the ferry terminal to take the last shuttle back to the ship port.

The line was long, but everybody got on. 

Long line for the last shuttle back to port.

We did not get to see much of Ishigaki, so we just had to make do with what we saw on the bus.

Back to the cruise port.

Dinner was good as usual but we ended the day a little disappointed for not having the opportunity to see more of Ishigaki. I guess we have to come back one of these days.

For video of our day, please click here.

"Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever."   -- II Samuel 7:16