Ishigaki Island, known for its marine and forest landscapes, is referred to as the 'Maldives of Japan.' According to a recent announcement by a Japanese shipping company, a regular ferry service will start from Keelung to Ishigaki Island in September, with a travel time of about 7 hours and a round trip fare estimated to start at 4000 NTD.

This news has sparked excitement among netizens, who noted that the travel cost is similar to going from Taipei to Kenting, humorously stating that 'Kenting is really done.' Ishigaki Island is located south of the Yaeyama Islands in the Ryukyu Islands of Japan, and features beautiful natural scenery along with local delicacies like 'Ishigaki beef.'

The Japanese shipping company 'Shosen Yaimai' announced that the YAIMAMARU ferry will operate the route, accommodating around 545 passengers per trip and taking approximately 7 hours. Reports indicate that the Keelung-Ishigaki route will provide three round trips per week, departing Ishigaki at night and arriving in Taiwan by morning. Ticket prices vary by class, with the cheapest fare being around 10,000 yen, approximately 2,000 NTD, making the round trip about 4,000 NTD.

A Japanese writer living in Taiwan, known as 'Japanese Uncle,' commented on the news, saying, 'Oh wow, that's great!' He jokingly mentioned that the McDonald's on Ishigaki Island is closed and suggested that locals can come to Taiwan to eat, adding that 'this really makes things more convenient for them.'