Which do you recommend, Ishigaki Island or Miyako Island? Introducing the differences and attractions that we found out by actually visiting the two islands.
Which do you recommend, Ishigaki Island or Miyako Island?
Here are some of the differences and attractions that we found out by actually going there.
Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island are both beautiful islands representing Okinawa, but each has its own distinct charm.
Recently, more and more people seem to be confused between the itinerary of Okinawa main island and Ishigaki Island or Miyako Island. So, we will answer the question we often receive, "Which do you recommend, Ishigaki Island or Miyako Island?" We will answer the question, "Which do you recommend?
Comparing the characteristics and enjoyment of each island.Please choose the destination that is right for you.
Those who want to enjoy Okinawa as a family or as a couple.
◆If you are wondering whether to go to Miyako Island or Ishigaki Island
If you are wondering which island to go to, which island to go to, which island to go to, which island to go to, which island to go to, which island to go to.
◆If you want to know what activities you can enjoy in Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Miyako Island.
Geographical differences between Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island
First, we will look at basic information summarizing population, area, and distance from the main island of Okinawa.
Miyako Island (Okinawa)Ishigaki IslandPopulation: 54,155; 50,191 Area: 204 km²; 228 km² Distance: 50 minutes by plane from Naha; 1 hour by plane from Naha Airports: Miyako Airport, Shimoji Airport, Ishigaki Airport Direct flights: Tokyo (2 airports); Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka; Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka Average Temperature 23.3°C 24.3°C Annual Precipitation 2,019.3 mm 2,106 mm
Miyako Island is closer to the main island of Okinawa, while Ishigaki Island is located closer to Taiwan.
Miyako Island has a larger population, and the island as a whole seems more developed than Ishigaki Island. If anythingIshigaki Island has a more natural image.It is.
In addition, direct flights are available from major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka, making it easy to plan a trip!
Miyako Island is smaller and more compact than Ishigaki Island
→ If you go efficiently.Tour in 2 nights
Each of the outlying islands is easily accessible from Miyako Island as they are connected by bridges!
◆Ishigaki Island
Two nights is not enough for Ishigaki Island.
Need to take a ferry to the surrounding islands.
→To visit all of them3 nights or moremay be!
↓Click here for recommended tours on Miyako Island↓
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Miyako Island.
Differences in access and transportation
Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island, bothRental car is a must.It is.
Especially in Miyako Island, there are not many bus routes, and tourist spots are located far from each other. When planning your itinerary, it is recommended that you calculate the travel time and the time required for each destination.
Rental Cars at Miyako Island ToursIn that case, you can start using a car right away the moment you arrive at Miyako Airport or Shimoji Airport!
↓Click here for popular car rentals on Miyako Island↓
Includes airport pick up and drop off! See the list of car rentals in Miyako Island
Speaking of things to include in your itinerary for Ishigaki Island, you may want to check out thetour of isolated islandsThis is a "What's the best way to get to Ishigaki Island? You can take a ferry from Ishigakijima Remote Islands Terminal (Ishigaki Port). Taketomi Island is the nearest island and is famous, and can be easily reached in about 15 minutes.
You can also fly between Miyako Island⇆Ishigaki Island. It takes about 30 minutes to arrive at the island, and the plane is ready for landing as soon as it takes off!
From Hokkaido: No direct flights (must go via)
From Tokyo: Approx. 2 hours and 45 minutes from Haneda Airport
From Nagoya: Approx. 2 hours 25 minutes from Centrair
From Osaka: Approx. 2 hours 15 minutes from Kansai International Airport
From Fukuoka: Approx. 2 hours from Fukuoka Airport
From Naha: Approx. 50 minutes by plane from Naha Airport
◆Ishigaki Island
Hokkaido: No direct flights (must fly via)
From Tokyo: Approx. 3 hours from Haneda Airport
From Nagoya: Approx. 2 hours and 30 minutes from Centrair
From Osaka: Approx. 2 hours and 20 minutes from Kansai International Airport
From Fukuoka: Approx. 2 hours from Fukuoka Airport
From Naha: Approximately 60 minutes by plane from Naha Airport
Great for getting around!
↓Click here for our motorcycle rental plans
Difference in cost of travel between Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island
As of 2024, airfare is cheaper on Miyako Island than on Ishigaki Island in many cases, though,Bottom line, it's not that different.It is.
Both islands are served by LCCs such as Jetstar, Peach, and Solaseed Air, and recently ANA and JAL have been holding frequent sales.
Check the SALE on the airline's website from time to time!
Which do you recommend for winter, Ishigaki Island or Miyako Island?
Both Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island have their own unique winter attractions, except during the peak season such as GW, summer season, and year-end and New Year holidays,Winter is comparatively inexpensive to travel.The number of visitors is kept to a minimum and there are fewer people, allowing visitors to enjoy sightseeing at a leisurely pace.
Also,The lower the water temperature, the higher the clarity of the sea.The sea is a great place to enjoy activities in the ocean. Don't worry, you can also enjoy ocean activities without any problems by wearing a wetsuit☆.
↓Click here for activities on Miyako Island you can enjoy even in winter↓
Differences in Activities between Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island
Both Ishigaki and Miyako islands impress visitors with the clarity of their waters, but each has its own unique characteristics.
Miyako Island has no mountains or rivers, so sediment does not flow into the sea,Always clear and beautiful seaThe company maintains a
↓Click here for popular tours in Miyako Island↓
On the other hand, Ishigaki Island is characterized by its pristine nature, with Okinawa's highest mountains, mangroves, and subtropical jungles.
In Ishigaki IslandEnjoy abundant nature and the sea at one timeThe following is an example of a product that can be used in this way.
The clarity of the sea is among the highest in the remote islands.
→Miyako Island is not muddy because there are no mountains or rivers!
◆Ishigaki Island
Of course, the sea of Ishigaki Island is also very clear.
It can be enjoyed in a wide range of fields, including mountains and mangrove rivers!
Are Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island recommended for travel with children?
Both Ishigaki and Miyako islands are family-friendly islands for families with children.
Even though it is an isolated island, you can go to Don Quijote, Shimamura, and the 24-hour MaxValu to buy things you need in a hurry, since there are no difficulties in daily life.
Many resort hotels also provide cribs, children's amenities, step stools, and picture books.Excellent accommodations for families with childrenPlease be assured that we have done so.
Many people ask us to arrange a babysitter while they're out enjoying activities! Please consider this option!
↓Click here for the Miyako Island Babysitting Plan↓
Babysitting details for Miyako Island.
Babysitting details on Ishigaki Island.
Food/gourmet differences between Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island
Local cuisine is a must-try on any trip! Since each dish has its own unique flavors and characteristics, we recommend trying them all to compare!
Famous for Miyako soba noodles, Miyako beef and mangoes
→Miyako IslandIsland Station MiyakoIf you go there, I highly recommend it—they can even ship the island’s local specialties to you!
◆Ishigaki Island
Famous for Yaeyama soba noodles, Ishigaki beef, fresh seafood, and pineapples
→Ishigaki Islandlyric market place where one can find a variety of productsIf you go there, I highly recommend it—they can even ship the island’s local specialties to you!
↓Click here for recommended dinner plans in Miyako Island.
Here are some dinners you can enjoy on Ishigaki Island
Difference between souvenirs from Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island
Miyako Island has an image of not having many souvenir shops on the island, but there are several stores at the airport, and souvenirs can also be purchased at Don Quijote.
On the other hand, on Ishigaki Island, you can walk from the city center toEuglena MallThere are many souvenir shops clustered in the shopping district called "". If you go there, you'll find a full selection of souvenirs unique to Ishigaki Island!
↓Click here to read the article on Miyako Island.
Click here for information on souvenirs only available in Ishigaki Island.
The difference between Miyako Island and Ishigaki Island
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary of Differences between Miyako and Ishigaki Islands
Miyako and Ishigaki islands are both popular as remote islands in Okinawa, but each has its own unique characteristics.
The biggest difference is the type of nature. Miyako Island is mainly attractive for its ocean, whereas Ishigaki Island is characterized by a variety of nature, including mountains and rivers as well as the ocean.
I want to play mainly in the ocean.
I want to swim with sea turtles.
Driving enthusiasts who want to tour the islands by car.
◆Ishigaki Island is recommended for
I want to play in the ocean, rivers and mountains.
I want to do a digital detox.
I would like to visit the surrounding islands such as Iriomotejima and Taketomijima, which are World Natural Heritage sites.
Whichever island you visit, you are sure to create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime!
Be sure to visit and experience the charms of Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island for yourself!
Thank you for reading to the end.
↓Click here to read the article.
