Ishigaki Island
Okinawa Prefecture consists of a chain of tropical islands with its own unique culture and flavors distinct from the rest of Japan.
Among these islands is Ishigaki Island, known for its breathtakingly beautiful beaches and world class water sports.
Although Ishigaki is located quite a distance from mainland Japan, it has developed its own cities and culture due to the increasing numbers of visitors not only from mainland Japan, but from other countries such as Taiwan.
In addition to the regular tourists, generations of Taiwanese call Ishigaki home and have had a large influence on the island's culture and cuisine.
Delicious and unique cuisine
There is so much to enjoy on Ishigaki Island.
You can laze around one of the many stunning beaches or experience world class snorkeling, diving and surfing. There are also a variety of tropical islands located just a short boat or plane ride away and make for great day trips.
And of course, there's the delicious, fresh food. Ishigaki is home to a variety of restaurants serving local specialties using ingredients sourced from the island, including tropical fruits, seafood, pork and spices.
One of the most beloved spots to eat (by both locals and tourists alike) is a picturesque cafe called PUFFPUFF that overlooks the emerald green seas of Ishigaki.
PUFFPUFF Cafe
PUFFPUFF gets its unique name from the relaxing sound of a passing cloud, "pukapuka" or プカプカ in Japanese, and embraces the island's atmosphere of tranquility and harmony with nature.
In this quaint cafe by the sea, you'll discover a truly unique product that blends local island ingredients with international flavor: PUFFPUFF's gourmet olive oil.
PUFFPUFF's Gourmet Virgin Olive Oil Salt Koji
Made in small batches, this seasoned olive oil is created using local bacon, salt, pepper, and herbs from Ishigaki Island, traditional Okinawa brown sugar (known as kokuto or 沖縄黒糖), Japanese salt koji for additional umami flavor and Italian-made virgin olive oil.
These island seasonings and herbs are truly unique to Ishigaki Island and can't even be found in mainland Japan.
PUFFPUFF's gourmet virgin oil is typically only available in its cafe and was provided exclusively for Kokoro Care Packages to bring you closer to the peaceful, beauty of this tropical island.
Given it's distinct and savory taste, you can drizzle it on bread, pizza or pasta, use it as a salad dressing or dip for fresh cut vegetables, or as a topping for tofu or fish carpaccio.
Enjoy this taste of island life!
PUFFPUFF website: http://puff2.com
Explore more about Ishigaki Island and plan for your next trip at https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e7201.html
Aki Sugiyama
February 07, 2019
That is very coincidence but it’s same to my mum too! I would love to take my future husband to this island someday.