When comparing Aomori vs Ishigaki Island, the Slant community recommends Ishigaki Island for most people. In the question“What are the best cities to visit in Japan besides Tokyo and Kyoto?” Ishigaki Island is ranked 9th while Aomori is ranked 13th. The most important reason people chose Ishigaki Island is:
Since Okinawa was originally a separate country from Japan, Ishigaki is one of the best ways to explore Okinawan culture. There are unique food, phrases, and styles of dress visible all over the island.
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Pros
Pro Nebuta festival
Pro Friendly, affordable restaurants
Since Aomori is a small coastal city, the restaurants carry an air of local pubs, where everyone knows everyone else, and they're very friendly and welcoming to foreigners.
Pro Aomori apples
Aomori ships the majority of the apples that get consumed around Japan, including the expensive $10+ per apple gifts that get presented in special occasions. Thus, Aomori is the prime location to try these apples at a more affordable price.
Pro Unique culture and history
Since Okinawa was originally a separate country from Japan, Ishigaki is one of the best ways to explore Okinawan culture. There are unique food, phrases, and styles of dress visible all over the island.
Pro 'Hawaii' of Japan
The second-largest island in Okinawa, there are long strips of beaches all around the island.
Cons
Con Need a car to get around
While there is a bus and some taxis, the more efficient way to get around is by car. Renting a car will mean added costs, but it offers the most freedom to fully explore the island.