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Ishigaki Island Hotel Cucule Embraces Tradition with a Fresh Take

In April 2026, Ishigaki Island Hotel Cucule, managed by Time Arrow Yaeyama Co., Ltd. under the leadership of Kazuki Nakagawa, officially launched a comprehensive redesign of its website. Since its opening in 2009, the hotel has evolved while respecting the local culture and listening to guest feedback. The new website aims to communicate the concept of a hotel that embraces life with the island, focusing on four core stories: nature, alcohol, art, and roots.

The Motivation Behind the Redesign: "Changing to Stay the Same"

Cucule has always aspired to be a place of growth alongside its guests and the local community. To adapt to changing times and environmental conditions on the island, the hotel has initiated various activities, such as the coral preservation project "3935 (Thank You Coral)" and the establishment of a nursery to address local challenges. Through the reimagined brand story on their website, they aim to deepen the impact of Cucule’s values, encapsulated in the phrase: "Changing to Stay the Same. Welcome home to Ishigaki Island."

Key Features of the Redesign

The hotel aspires to be a place that evolves with its visitors, ensuring new discoveries with each stay while maintaining a sense of belonging. Last year, both guest rooms and lobby spaces were renovated. The bunkrooms equipped with double-deck beds now feature art and decor that reflect the island’s natural beauty. A newly created lobby space filled with artworks and books associated with the Yaeyama region enhances the inviting atmosphere of the property.


The transformed lobby integrates art from local culture.

Original Designs Inspired by Traditional Crafts

Hotel Cucule has also launched an original design inspired by the traditional Minzair pattern, native to the Okinawa and Yaeyama Islands. This intricate pattern comprises grids symbolizing eternal love and connection, interpreted through a fresh design structure known as "996 (Cucule)." This design creatively incorporates manta rays, a symbol of Ishigaki Island.

Designed by Yasutake Ikeshiro from the art and design brand "Ichigusku Mode," the new patterns not only pay homage to tradition but also aim to foster lasting connections with guests. Additionally, a playful feature on the website's 'Story' page allows visitors to uncover hidden characters through interactive elements in the pattern.


Clicking on the pattern reveals a hidden character.

New Staff Uniforms Featuring the Minzair Design

The hotel has also introduced new staff uniforms that incorporate the Minzair pattern, reinforcing the connection between tradition and modern hospitality.

Comments from Kazuki Nakagawa, General Manager

"Our motto at Cucule is 'Welcome back to your home on Ishigaki Island.' We don’t just offer a place to rest; we focus on preserving the island's natural beauty, supporting local artists, and creating an environment where families can work and travel safely. Through our new website, I hope our love for Ishigaki Island resonates with everyone, allowing them to experience the island more profoundly from our base here at Cucule."

About Ishigaki Island Hotel Cucule

Located in the heart of Misaki-cho, Ishigaki Island Hotel Cucule is a renovated facility that blends modern comfort with traditional Okinawan aesthetics. The name "Cucule" means "heart" in the local dialect, symbolizing the warmth and connections between guests and staff. The decor features natural materials harmonizing with the island’s rich environment. The facility houses several amenities, including the "Kuramoto sake and gallery" on the first floor and a nursery on the fourth floor designed to serve local families.


Experience locally brewed sake in an artistic setting.

In conclusion, Ishigaki Island Hotel Cucule is not just a destination; it is a living entity that strives to grow and develop with its guests and community. Its commitment to tradition, nature, and cultural exchange beautifully demonstrates the essence of Ishigaki Island.

Hotel Information

Phone Number: 0980-82-3380
Address: 8-1 Misaki-cho, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture, 907-0012
Access: 1-minute walk from the bus terminal and 4-minute walk from Ishigaki Port
Number of Rooms: 45
Official Website: cucule.jp
Follow Us on Instagram: @hotel_cucule
YouTube Channel: cuculechannel9200

Cucule Group also includes budget-friendly guesthouses like Chura Cucule Ishigaki and long-stay condominiums such as Sky Cucule Ishigaki, catering to various traveler preferences.