Off the coast of Kabira Ishizaki lies Ishigaki's most legendary dive spot, where you're almost guaranteed to see manta rays in season — sometimes four at once, their wings spanning metres as they glide through the crystalline water like living kites. Yes, you'll share the spot with other dive boats, but when a manta passes overhead, blocking out the sunlight, none of that matters. The experience is transcendent even for experienced divers. English-speaking operators like Umicoza run reliable trips from Kabira.