# Ishigaki Island

> island in Okinawa, Japan

**Wikidata**: [Q714339](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q714339)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ishigaki_Island)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ishigaki-island

## Summary
Ishigaki Island is an island in Okinawa, Japan, located in the Yaeyama Islands group. It is part of the Ryukyu archipelago and is known for its natural beauty, including beaches, coral reefs, and marine biodiversity. The island has a population of approximately 47,666 people and serves as a key administrative and economic hub for the region.

## Key Facts
- **Type**: Island
- **Location**: Okinawa, Japan
- **Part of**: Yaeyama Islands
- **Population**: 47,666
- **Coordinates**: 24.403333°N, 124.193611°E
- **Aliases**: Ishigakijima, Ishigaki-jima
- **Sitelink Count**: 42
- **Wikipedia Title**: Ishigaki Island
- **Wikidata Description**: Island in Okinawa, Japan
- **Related Entities**:
  - Ishigaki Airport (inception: 2013)
  - Planaeschna ishigakiana (species of insect)
  - Bayadera ishigakiana (species of insect)
  - Asteroid 10179 Ishigaki
  - Japanese escort ship Ishigaki (1940)

## FAQs
**What is the population of Ishigaki Island?**
Ishigaki Island has a population of approximately 47,666 people, making it a significant but relatively small island in Okinawa.

**What are the main attractions on Ishigaki Island?**
Ishigaki Island is known for its natural attractions, including beaches, coral reefs, and marine biodiversity, which make it a popular destination for tourism.

**What is the administrative status of Ishigaki Island?**
Ishigaki Island is part of the Yaeyama Islands group and serves as a key administrative and economic hub for the region within Okinawa Prefecture.

**What notable species are found on Ishigaki Island?**
Ishigaki Island is home to the species Planaeschna ishigakiana and Bayadera ishigakiana, which are endemic to the region.

**What is the significance of the asteroid 10179 Ishigaki?**
The asteroid 10179 Ishigaki is named after the island, reflecting its scientific and astronomical recognition.

## Why It Matters
Ishigaki Island holds cultural, ecological, and economic significance within Japan. As part of the Ryukyu archipelago, it preserves unique biodiversity and traditional Ryukyuan culture. The island’s beaches and marine life attract tourists, contributing to local economies. Additionally, its historical and scientific connections, such as the asteroid naming, highlight its broader relevance in astronomy and geography.

## Notable For
- **Biodiversity**: Home to endemic species like Planaeschna ishigakiana and Bayadera ishigakiana.
- **Tourism**: Known for its pristine beaches and coral reefs, attracting visitors from around the world.
- **Administrative Hub**: Serves as a key center for the Yaeyama Islands and Okinawa Prefecture.
- **Scientific Recognition**: The asteroid 10179 Ishigaki is named in its honor.
- **Historical Ships**: The Japanese escort ship Ishigaki (1940) is associated with the island’s maritime history.

## Body
### Geography and Location
Ishigaki Island is situated in the Yaeyama Islands group, part of Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. It is located at coordinates 24.403333°N, 124.193611°E. The island is known for its natural beauty, including beaches, coral reefs, and marine biodiversity, which contribute to its popularity as a tourist destination.

### Population and Administration
With a population of approximately 47,666, Ishigaki Island serves as an administrative and economic hub for the Yaeyama Islands. It is governed as part of Okinawa Prefecture and is home to the city of Ishigaki, which was established in 1914 and officially recognized in 1947.

### Natural and Scientific Significance
Ishigaki Island is notable for its biodiversity, hosting species such as Planaeschna ishigakiana and Bayadera ishigakiana. The asteroid 10179 Ishigaki is named in recognition of the island’s scientific and astronomical importance.

### Historical and Cultural Connections
The island has historical ties to the Japanese escort ship Ishigaki (1940), which reflects its maritime heritage. Additionally, Ishigaki Airport, established in 2013, supports the island’s transportation and tourism infrastructure.

### Tourism and Economy
As a key tourist destination, Ishigaki Island attracts visitors with its natural attractions, including beaches and marine life. The island’s economy benefits from tourism, contributing to the local economy and preserving its cultural heritage.

## References

1. [Source](https://github.com/JohnMarkOckerbloom/ftl/blob/master/data/wikimap)
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
3. GeoNames
4. Virtual International Authority File
5. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File