Discover the traditions of these islands,
and experience a journey
that goes beyond sightseeing.
For Individuals and Groups Alike, Immerse Yourself in Island Culture
The Yaeyama Islands, including Ishigaki Island, are known not only for their emerald-green waters and subtropical nature, but also for their rich cultural traditions that remain deeply woven into everyday life.
Historic townscapes, seasonal festivals, traditional performing arts, and Awamori—Okinawa’s iconic distilled spirit—are all part of the cultural heritage that shapes life here.
Go beyond ordinary tourism and discover authentic cultural experiences that connect you with the spirit of the islands.
Ritokara Research creates meaningful cultural experiences for solo travelers, families, groups, and organizations alike.
Ritokara
Cultural Experience Tours
1 . Customized Cultural Tours
Tailor-Made Experiences Designed Around Your Interests
Every tour is designed around your preferences, including locations, schedule, and activities.
Choose a single activity or combine multiple experiences. Duration and itinerary can be customized.
We welcome individual travelers, travel agencies, hotels, resorts, and guesthouses seeking cultural programs for their guests.
A.
Sanshin Music Workshop
From ¥13,200 / 2 guests +¥2,200 per additional guest (max. 7 guests) Approx. 40 min.
A hands-on workshop where beginners can learn the basics of the Sanshin, Okinawa’s traditional three-stringed instrument.
Learn fundamental techniques and how to read traditional notation, giving you the skills to continue practicing after your trip.
B. Yaeyama Traditional Dance Experience
¥13,200 per group (1–7 participants) Approx. 40 min.
An enjoyable introduction to traditional Yaeyama dance suitable for all experience levels. Movements can be adapted for beginners, making the experience accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
C. Traditional Sanshin Performance
From ¥26,400 Approx. 30 min.
Enjoy an intimate live performance by local musicians dedicated to preserving Yaeyama’s musical traditions. Song requests may be accommodated in advance.
D. Yaeyama Dance Performance
¥39,600 per performance (Includes one Sanshin musician and one dancer) Approx. 30 min.
Experience a live performance by local dancers who continue the traditions of Yaeyama dance today. Performances include introductions and cultural insights to help you better understand the traditions being presented.
E. Historic Walking Tour
¥13,200 / 2 guests Approx. 60 min.
Explore Ishigaki with a knowledgeable local guide while discovering the history, culture, and hidden gems of the Yaeyama Islands. Meet local residents, hear their stories, and gain a deeper understanding of island life beyond what most visitors experience.
Sample Customized Itineraries
A. Sanshin Music Workshop
B. Yaeyama Traditional Dance Experience
D.
Yaeyama Dance Performance
E.
Historic Walking Tour
Group of 7 university students from Tokyo
Total Price: ￥93,000
Approx. 135 min.
【Guest Requests】
• Preferred an afternoon start
• Wanted to experience a variety of cultural activities
• Wanted a live cultural performance as the highlight of the tour
A. Sanshin Music Workshop
C. Traditional Sanshin Performance
E.
Historic Walking Tour
Group of 10 guests from Taiwan (+ 1 interpreter)
Total Price: ￥86,000
Approx. 120 min.
【Guest Requests】
• Requested a bilingual interpreter
• Wanted to fully experience traditional Sanshin music
• Wanted to enjoy an Awamori tasting at a local distillery
C. Traditional Sanshin Performance
D.
Yaeyama Dance Performance
Group of 6 guests from Hong Kong (+ 1 interpreter)
Private Cultural Performance at Their Accommodation
Total Price: ￥82,000
Approx. 80 min.
【Guest Requests】
• Wanted a private performance at their accommodation
• Requested two traditional dancers
• Requested an authentic performance accompanied by cultural insights
Q&A
I don't speak Japanese. Can an interpreter be arranged?
Yes. Interpreter services can be arranged upon request. We work with professional interpreters based in the Yaeyama Islands and can provide support in English, French, Russian, Chinese, and Korean. If an interpreter is not available, we can communicate using translation devices and translation apps.
Are the musicians and dancers professional performers?
Very few people in Yaeyama earn their living solely through traditional music or dance. Most musicians and dancers balance their artistic practice with other professions while dedicating significant time and effort to preserving these cultural traditions. One of the goals of our programs is to provide meaningful opportunities that help support those who are committed to passing on Yaeyama’s traditional performing arts to future generations.
Can I request a quotation before deciding whether to book?
Absolutely. We are happy to provide a customized quotation based on your interests and requirements. Please note that, except for the Historic Walking Tour, most programs require us to arrange musicians, dancers, or instructors in advance. We recommend contacting us as early as possible once your travel dates have been decided.
I represent a hotel and would like to organize a Sanshin performance event on the beach. Do you provide performers for such events?
Yes. In addition to private and group tours, we regularly provide musicians, dancers, and cultural performers for events. Whether you are planning a one-time event or a recurring program—such as weekly performances throughout the summer—we can tailor arrangements to suit your needs.
Does the price of a private tour depend on the number of participants?
In most cases, pricing is determined by the number of musicians, dancers, or instructors required for the program rather than the number of guests participating. Therefore, the price is generally the same whether you are traveling alone or with family members.
Additional costs may apply for programs that include food and beverages or for larger groups. Please feel free to contact us for a customized quotation.
2. Scheduled Cultural Tours
Yaeyama Cultural Experience Tours on Selected Fridays
Created to share the rich culture of Yaeyama with more visitors, these small-group cultural experiences offer an authentic introduction to island traditions and local life. Ideal for travelers who prefer a ready-made tour and would like to enjoy a cultural experience in a relaxed and accessible way. Spaces are limited, so we recommend booking early.
¥5,500 per person / Approx. 2 hours
¥5,500 per person / Approx. 2 hours
Guest Experiences
Our Mission:
Preserving Traditional Performing Arts
The Yaeyama Islands, including Ishigaki Island, are home to a rich and deeply rooted tradition of performing arts that reflects the warmth, wisdom, and spirit of the local people.
Today, however, this precious cultural heritage faces a serious challenge. The number of successors is steadily declining. While there are many reasons for this, we believe that one contributing factor is the increasing financial burden placed on those who dedicate themselves to mastering and preserving these traditional art forms.
Within the world of traditional performing arts, many practitioners feel uncomfortable placing a monetary value on their cultural heritage. Yet without proper recognition and support, these traditions become increasingly difficult to sustain.
At Ritokara Institute, we believe that traditional culture deserves fair appreciation and support. By connecting tourism with cultural heritage through carefully curated tours and events, we strive to create opportunities that benefit both visitors and local artists.
Our goal is simple:
To ensure that these cultural treasures continue to thrive for the next hundred years and beyond.
Contact Us
Questions, booking requests, or customized tour inquiries?
Feel free to contact us.