When comparing Ishigaki Island vs Onomichi, the Slant community recommends Onomichi for most people. In the question“What are the best cities to visit in Japan besides Tokyo and Kyoto?” Onomichi is ranked 1st while Ishigaki Island is ranked 9th. The most important reason people chose Onomichi is:
There are several walking paths that take you through the hills, past many interesting sites and nice views of the city.
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Pros
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.
Pro Nice walking paths
There are several walking paths that take you through the hills, past many interesting sites and nice views of the city.
Pro Friendly street cats
Pro Easily accessible by train
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.
Con Is a tourist town, but for locals and not foreigners
Onomichi has lots of locals living in it, but it's definitely a popular place for Japanese locals to visit. From that perspective, it's still interesting for a foreigner, but has some of the same drawbacks as the standard touristy cities.
Con Very little English communication
Most signs are Japanese-only, and very few locals speak any English at all.
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