Is there a World Heritage Site on Miyako Island? Why there is no World Heritage Site and the best places to visit
Table of Contents
- 1 Is there a World Heritage Site on Miyako Island? Basic Knowledge You Need to Know
- 2 Is Miyako Island registered as a World Heritage Site?
- 3 Why is there no World Heritage Site on Miyako Island? Consideration from Natural and Cultural Values
- 4 No World Heritage Sites = Is it true that tourism value is low?
- 5 You don't need a World Heritage Site to be impressed! Recommended Spots with Spectacular Views on Miyako Island
- 6 What World Heritage Sites are located around Miyako Island?
Three remote islands where you can enjoy the great nature
- 6.1 Iriomote Island (Okinawa Prefecture) Unexplored region with one of the largest mangrove forests in Japan
- 6.2 Yakushima Island (Kagoshima Prefecture) Thousands of years old Yakusugi cedar trees and mysterious moss forests
- 6.3 Amami Oshima Island (Kagoshima Prefecture) Coexistence of "Amami Blue" sea and ancient forests
- 7 What is Pāntu? Strange Festivals and Cultural Value in Miyako Island
- 8 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Miyako Island World Heritage
- 9 summary
Is there a World Heritage Site on Miyako Island?
Basic Knowledge You Need to Know

In Okinawa Prefecture, there is a natural heritage site named "Amami Oshima, Tokunoshima, Northern Okinawa Island and Iriomote Island" which will be registered in 2021, but at this moment, Miyakojima Island hasThere is no World Heritage Site.The following is a list of the most common problems with the
First of all, Miyako Island hasNo World Heritage SitesAfter holding the fact that Miyako Island is a popular tourist destination, we will explain why it is searched in such a way and why Miyako Island remains a popular tourist destination even without a World Heritage site.
◆Those who are looking for Miyako Island sightseeing attractions and spectacular spots.
Those who are interested in traditional culture of Miyako Island such as ◆Pantu
Click here for a recommended ranking of Miyako Island.
Is Miyako Island registered as a World Heritage Site?

In conclusion, Miyako Island is not registered as either a UNESCO World Heritage Site (cultural or natural)!
There are a number of heritage sites related to the Ryukyu Kingdom in Okinawa Prefecture (such as the ruins of Shurijo Castle), but these are located around the main island of Okinawa.
So why are there so many searches for "Miyako Island World Heritage"? The reasons behind this are related to confusion of place names and tourist images.
Difference between Miyakojima and Miyajima
Which are the most famous world heritage sites?

Many search users often confuse it with Miyajima (officially named Itsukushima) in Hiroshima Prefecture!
Itsukushima Shrine, located in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, was designated by UNESCO in 1996.World Cultural Heritage (UNESCO)It is registered in the Pictures of the Otorii floating on the sea are very famous both in Japan and abroad.

On the other hand, Miyakojima is a remote island belonging to Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture,crystal-clear seaand white sand beaches.
Although geographically and culturally they are very different places, they are sometimes mixed up as search terms because of the similarity of their names.
Why is there no World Heritage Site on Miyako Island?
Consideration from natural and cultural values

Miyako Island is not on the World Heritage List, but that is not because it is of low value!
To be registered as a World Heritage Site,Outstanding universal value(Outstanding Universal Value) must be recognized.

Miyako Island is a raised coral reef island surrounded by coral reefs,Miyako blueThe greatest attraction is the crystal clear sea, which is called "the
Intangible cultural values, such as traditional events and religious culture, are still carefully passed down to the next generation.
In other words, while it is true that the site is not on the World Heritage List, this does not imply a lack of value.
No World Heritage Sites
= Is it true that tourism value is low?

In conclusion, the notion that "no World Heritage sites = boring" is a misconception.
In fact, Miyako Island is one of the mostPopular Resortsand is visited by many tourists every year.
More than the presence or absence of World Heritage sites, the true attraction of Miyako Island is the beauty of nature itself and the value of the experience.
Tourism satisfaction is very high, and its value is evident in the large number of repeat visitors.
You don't need a world heritage site to be impressed!
Recommended Spots with Spectacular Views on Miyako Island

Although there are no World Heritage sites on Miyako Island, the island offers spectacular scenery that will make you wonder if you are really in Japan.
Here are some of the most popular attractions.
Blue Cave (Sapphire Cave)

The Blue Cave is famous in mainland Okinawa, but there is also a Blue Cave here on Irabu Island!
Snorkeling in the Blue Cave on Miyako Island is much less crowded than in mainland Okinawa, so it feels much more private.
In addition to snorkeling to the entrance of the Blue Cave, you can alsoHow to go by glass boat or kayakThere is also a "Blue Cave" for those who do not want to swim but still want to enjoy the Blue Cave.
Access: Depends on the tour
⬇︎ recommends tours to the Blue Cave.
Special Spring SALE 【Irabu Island/2 hours】Adventure in the new famous "Sapphire Cave"☆Shimmering Blue Cave Snorkeling & Cave Exploration Tour★Free Photo & Pickup & Drop-off Service Available (No.832)開始時間9:30-11:30 / 13:30-15:30所要時間Approx. 2 hours7,900 yen →6,900yen
Miyakojima/Irabujima/1 Day] Rare Experience☆Sapphire Cave "Blue Cave" Snorkeling & Pumpkin Cave Exploration & Sea Kayak Tour★Free Photo & Transportation Included (No.837)開始時間9:30-15:30所要時間Approx. 6 hours17,700 yen →15,000yen
Miyakojima/Irabujima/3 hours】Only available from March to October! Many repeaters... Bijas & Blue Cave Snorkeling Tour (No.863)開始時間8:20-12:00 / 12:45-16:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours10,000 yen⬇︎ for more information on tours to the Blue Cave.
Blue Cave (Sapphire Cave) Tour Enjoy the "Blue Cave", the best activity spot in Miyako Island area! Experience the beautiful blue ocean that you can only experience here♪ (14 in total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
eight-holed arrow whistle

Since it is not possible to go there alone, participation in a tour is always a prerequisite. Even beginners can go with a guide.Safe and enjoyableThe following is a list of the most common problems with the
⬇︎ for more information on Yaebise tours.
National Scenic Area] Yaebise (Yabiji) Tour This tour takes place in one of Japan's largest coral reef areas, Yaebiji, with its pristine colorful corals and tropical fish living in the surrounding area. (14 in total) アクティビティの詳細を見る Access: about 15 minutes from Ikema Island
⬇︎ recommend tours to be held in Yaebise.
Special Spring SALE [Miyako Island/3 hours] Yaebise Snorkeling Tour☆Swim in one of the largest coral reefs in Japan! (No.968) 《Complete with free underwater camera and photo data》 《Tour of 2 to 3 points, English-speaking service OK》 《Comes with free underwater camera and photo data》 (No.968)開始時間8:00-11:00 / 11:30-14:30 / 15:00-18:00 (only from March to October) / 13:00-16:00 (only from December to January)所要時間Approx. 3 hours10,000 yen
Special Spring SALE 【Yaebise/午後】Half-day snorkeling course☆Spectacular view! Includes free drone video and underwater photo (No.880)開始時間1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.所要時間Approx. 4 hours16,000 yen →13,000yen
Miyako Island/3 hours] Up to 65 years old can participate! Experienced guide will lead you to one of the largest coral reefs in Japan, "Yabiji" Boat Snorkeling Tour (No.856)開始時間8:50-12:00 / 12:50-16:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours12,000 yen
Nakanoshima Beach

It is popular because of the abundance of fish, but beginners should be careful because of the currents that can appear.
If you are not familiar withTour use is recommended.It is.
Access: Near Miyako Shimojishima Airport
Nakanoshima Beach of Shimojishima Island's tourist attractions (Kayaffa) Nakanoshima Beach is located near Shimojijima Airport and is as famous as "Yoshino Beach" in Miyakojima. It is a shallow natural beach that can be enjoyed all year round, and because it is a bay, the waves are calm and many divers [...]... ⬇︎ for snorkeling at Nakanoshima Beach.
Miyakojima Island/Shimojijima Island/2.5 hours】Half-day Experience Slow Diving & Snorkeling Course One-on-one, so you feel safe and secure (No.864)開始時間8:50-11:30 / 13:20-16:00Held from 9:50 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. from November to March.所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours16,500 yen
Miyakojima/Shimojijima/2.5 hours]Experience diving and snorkeling at a real natural aquarium☆Half-day Beach Diving & Snorkeling Course (No.865)開始時間8:50-11:30 / 13:20-16:00Held from 9:50 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. from November to March.所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours16,500 yen
Nakanoshima Beach

Nakanoshima Beach is a crystal clear beach where you can see butterfly fish, clownfish, and schools of barracuda as soon as you enter the water!
Around the large rock in the center of the beach, there are many coral formations and a wide variety of fish swimming around in the sea.
Please note that this is a natural beach with no restrooms or other facilities, so please be careful when visiting!
Access: Near Miyako Shimojishima Airport
Nakanoshima Beach of Shimojishima Island's tourist attractions (Kayaffa) Nakanoshima Beach is located near Shimojijima Airport and is as famous as "Yoshino Beach" in Miyakojima. It is a shallow natural beach that can be enjoyed all year round, and because it is a bay, the waves are calm and many divers [...]... ⬇︎ for snorkeling at Nakanoshima Beach.
Miyakojima Island/Shimojijima Island/2.5 hours】Half-day Experience Slow Diving & Snorkeling Course One-on-one, so you feel safe and secure (No.864)開始時間8:50-11:30 / 13:20-16:00Held from 9:50 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. from November to March.所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours16,500 yen
Miyakojima/Shimojijima/2.5 hours]Experience diving and snorkeling at a real natural aquarium☆Half-day Beach Diving & Snorkeling Course (No.865)開始時間8:50-11:30 / 13:20-16:00Held from 9:50 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. from November to March.所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours16,500 yen
What World Heritage Sites are located around Miyako Island?
3 remote islands where you can enjoy the great outdoors

Miyako Island itself does not have any World Heritage sites, but if you go a little further afield, you can see the unspoiled wilderness of the island that is highly valued.world natural heritage siteThe islands of the
Here we introduce the charms of the three remote islands registered as World Heritage Sites around Miyakojima (Okinawa and Kagoshima area), Iriomote Island, Yakushima Island, and Amami Oshima Island, as well as information on each specialized site. Please refer to these sites when touring the remote islands or looking for your next travel destination.
Iriomote Island (Okinawa Prefecture)
Unexplored region with one of the largest mangrove forests in Japan

The island was registered as a World Natural Heritage site in 2021 as "Amami Oshima, Tokunoshima, Northern Okinawa Island and Iriomote Island. Approximately 90% of the island is covered with subtropical virgin forest, and is home to rare plants and animals such as the Iriomote wildcat, a special natural treasure.
Jungle cruise, SUP/canoeing, trekking, etc,Activities that allow you to become one with natureis the biggest attraction♪
Click here for details and reservations for Iriomote Island tours.
Yakushima Island (Kagoshima Prefecture)
Thousands-year-old Yakusugi cedar trees and mysterious moss forest

Yakushima Island was registered as Japan's first World Natural Heritage site in 1993. The island is home to "Jomon Cedars" said to be 7,200 years old and "Shiratani Unsui Gorge," which is said to have served as a model for a movie set,Mysterious forests with spectacular viewswill spread.
From full-scale trekking to casual forest walks, an overwhelming experience of life force awaits you.
Click here for details and reservations for Yakushima Island tours.
Amami Oshima (Kagoshima Prefecture)
Coexistence of the "Amami Blue" sea and ancient forests

Like Iriomote Island, it was registered as a World Natural Heritage site in 2021. The island is home to ancient forests inhabited by endemic species such as the Amami rabbit, which is designated as a special natural treasure by the Japanese government, as well as the Amami rabbit, which is designated as a special natural treasure by the Japanese government,amami bluecoexist with the breathtakingly beautiful sea called the
Mangrove canoeing and snorkeling with sea turtles are popular♪.
Click here for details and reservations for Amami Oshima Island tours.
What is parnto?
Strange Festivals and Cultural Values of Miyako Island

One thing that cannot be left out when discussing the culture of Miyako Island is the "Pāntu (dynasty of India, approx. 317 BCE-321 CE)Pāntu is a traditional event in the Shimajiri district of Miyakojima City. Pāntu is a traditional event in the Shimajiri district of Miyakojima City, where messengers of the gods, with mud painted all over their bodies, go from house to house,ceremonial cleansing from evilThe following is a list of the most common types of products that can be used.
It is held around the ninth month of the lunar calendar, and the dates vary from year to year.
Since this is not a sightseeing event but a sacred local ritual, manners are required to participate and observe.
In the past, problems with tourists have been a topic of discussion, but today the tradition is being carried on in a way that allows the community and visitors to coexist.
Such intangible culture is an important asset that should be protected separately from World Heritage sites.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Miyako Island World Heritage
It is not a concrete candidate for registration at this time. World Heritage registration requires outstanding universal value and strict criteria, and requires an evaluation axis different from that of existing World Natural Heritage sites in Okinawa Prefecture.
This is mainly due to bad weather and lack of advance research. Since Miyako Island is a sightseeing area that focuses on beaches and ocean activities, enjoyment may be limited in the event of rain. Satisfaction can be greatly enhanced by making a sightseeing plan in advance.
As it is a sacred tradition in the community, it is possible to observe but it is important to observe good manners. The date of the festival varies each year and is based on the lunar calendar. For the latest information, we recommend checking the official information of Miyakojima City.
summary

There are no World Heritage sites on Miyako Island. However, that does not mean that tourism value is low.
Miyako blue seaThe area offers some of the most spectacular scenery in Japan, including Yonaha Maehama Beach, Irabu Ohashi Bridge, and Higashi Heiannazaki.
Traditional events such as Pāntu are also passed down, making the area rich in cultural attractions.
Don't judge it only by whether or not it is a World Heritage site, but actually visit it and experience its beauty and charm.
It will surely be a special trip that will remain in your heart.
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