Jump to: About Honesty Store | Location and How to Get There | The Concept of Honesty Store | What to Expect | Why You Should Visit | Travel Tips
About the Honesty Store
The Honesty Store is one of Batanes’ most iconic and unique attractions. Located in the quiet town of Ivana, it is an unmanned shop where visitors pick out items and leave payment on their own — completely based on trust. It perfectly reflects the core Ivatan values of honesty, discipline, and community respect. The photo above was taken at San Jose Obrero, a few steps from the honesty store.
Location and How to Get There
- 📍 Located in Ivana, Batan Island, Batanes
- 🛵 About 20–30 minutes south of Basco by tricycle, van, or motorbike
- 🗺️ Near Ivana Port and San Jose de Ivana Church
- 🚴 Often included in South Batan tour packages
The Concept of the Honesty Store
- 🛒 The store operates without a cashier — no staff are present
- 💵 Customers list down what they bought and leave payment in a drop box
- 📜 A notebook is available to write messages or share travel stories
- 🙌 A true reflection of the Ivatan people's integrity and culture
What to Expect
- 🧃 Assorted snacks, drinks, and local souvenirs
- 🧢 Honesty Store-branded items like shirts and mugs
- 📖 Travel notes and messages from tourists around the world
- 📸 A perfect Instagram spot with a meaningful story
- 🌿 Calm surroundings with a local village vibe
Why You Should Visit
- ✨ Experience something truly unique — a store run entirely on trust
- 💖 Support local community values and small businesses
- 🎓 A cultural lesson on the Ivatan way of life
- 📷 A meaningful and memorable photo opportunity
Travel Tips
- 💵 Bring small bills or coins for exact payment
- 🕒 Visit during the day — the store may be closed during extreme weather
- 🙏 Respect the system — no haggling, no hoarding, just honesty
- 📷 Take time to read guestbook notes — they're heartwarming and inspiring
- ✈️ Planning a longer stay in Batanes? Don’t miss my full travel experience and itinerary in this 6 Days and 5 Nights Batanes Backpacking Guide for tips, expenses, and must-see spots.
Final Thoughts
The Honesty Store in Batanes is more than just a shop — it's a cultural experience that leaves a lasting impression. In a world where trust is rare, this humble store shows that in Batanes, honesty isn’t just a value — it’s a way of life. Want to explore more places like this? Here’s my full travel guide after visiting all 82 provinces in the Philippines.
