#Japan #Ishigaki Island #Ishigaki #Tarumi Kengo #Miyara Makiko

Special Event Report: Ishigaki Island Photo Exhibition

On July 26, 2026, a special collaboration event took place at the 'Kura Moto Sake & Gallery' in the 'Ishigaki Island Hotel Cucule,' operated by Time Arrow Yaeyama Co., Ltd. This event featured a live performance and talk session with photographer Kengo Tarumi and vocalist Makiko Miyara. The event highlighted the ongoing photo exhibition, 'Shima Shima no Jikan - Tapestry Photo Exhibition,' which was held from July 18 to August 2, 2026. The event was a resounding success, boasting a full house of around 50 attendees.

Event Overview

• - Date & Time: July 26, 2026, at 7 PM
• - Venue: Kura Moto Sake & Gallery
• - Performers: Kengo Tarumi (Photographer), Makiko Miyara (Vocalist)
• - Audience Attendance: Approximately 50 people

The collaboration between two of Okinawa's most popular figures—celebrated photographer Kengo Tarumi and talented singer Makiko Miyara, hailing from Ishigaki Island—generated significant buzz prior to the event. As the attendees began to arrive, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and anticipation, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening.

Engaging Talk Sessions

During the event, Kengo Tarumi and Makiko Miyara delighted the audience with their lively exchanges during the talk segment interspersed between musical performances. Their long-standing friendship allowed them to share anecdotes about their first meeting and amusing personal stories, which kept the audience laughing and applauding throughout.

Captivating Live Performances

The live performance segment showcased Miyara's powerful and dynamic voice, with songs ranging from traditional Yaeyama folk music to her original compositions. Furthermore, pieces were chosen specifically to complement Tarumi's displayed photographs, creating a harmonious blend of visual and auditory experiences that transported attendees to the scenic landscapes and vibrant atmosphere of the islands.

This event was a unique opportunity to experience the beauty captured through Tarumi's lens and the spirited sounds of Miyara's voice, culminating in a limited-time collaboration that left a lasting impression on the audience. Participants expressed their exhilaration for the deeper immersion offered by this event into the world of the 'Shima Shima no Jikan' exhibition.

Featured Artists

Kengo Tarumi

An established photographer in Okinawa, Kengo Tarumi has devoted over 50 years to documenting the natural beauty, culture, and lives of the people in the region. He has collaborated with numerous writers and cultural figures, producing various co-authored works.

• - Facebook: Kengo Tarumi

Makiko Miyara

A singer-songwriter from Ishigaki Island, Makiko Miyara fuses traditional Yaeyama classical music with contemporary pop influences. Recognized for her vibrant vocal expression while preserving the essence of folk tradition, she has earned several accolades, including newcomer and excellence awards in Yaeyama traditional music.

• - Official Website: Makiko Miyara

Call for Performers

The Kura Moto Sake & Gallery invites artists interested in showcasing their talents in music, dance, and various forms of visual art to apply for performance opportunities. The venue aims to support artistic endeavors by providing a stage free of charge for artists seeking to express themselves through their unique skills. Interested parties can find more details and application forms on their website: Artist Application Form

About Ishigaki Island Hotel Cucule

Located in the heart of Ishigaki Island's Misaki Town, the Hotel Cucule is a transformed existing hotel that has undergone renovations. The name 'Cucule' means 'heart' in the Okinawan dialect, symbolizing the warm exchanges and connections between guests and staff. The hotel features natural furniture designs and blends art with the rich natural landscapes of Ishigaki Island. Within the venue is the 'Kura Moto Sake & Gallery' on the first floor and a corporate-sponsored daycare center, 'Hibari no Hoikuen Ishigaki no Ie,' on the fourth floor, aiming to be a facility open to local residents.

Hotel Overview

• - Phone Number: 0980-82-3380
• - Location: 8-1 Misaki-cho, Ishigaki City, Okinawa 907-0012
• - Access: 1 minute walk from the bus terminal, 4 minutes from Ishigaki Port
• - Managing Company: Time Arrow Yaeyama Co., Ltd.
• - Room Count: 45 rooms
• - Official Website: Hotel Cucule
• - Official Instagram: Hotel Cucule Instagram

About Shimada Group

Founded in 1952 as a rice milling shop in Setagaya, Shimada Group has evolved into a multifaceted enterprise. Today, they engage in various industries, including food and beverage, real estate, construction, nursing care, hotel management, childcare, travel, and sake production, striving to enrich customers' lives and provide valuable experiences.

Company Overview

• - Company Name: Shimada Group Co., Ltd.
• - CEO: Tokiyoshi Shimada
• - Headquarters: 14F Shinjuku Bunka Quint Building, 3-22-7 Yoyogi, Shibuya, Tokyo
• - URL: Shimada House