Which do you recommend, Ishigaki Island or Miyako Island? Introducing the differences and attractions that we found out by actually visiting the two islands.
Table of Contents
- 1 Which do you recommend, Ishigaki Island or Miyako Island? Introducing the differences and attractions that we found out by actually visiting the two islands.
- 2 Geographical differences between Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island
- 3 Differences in access and transportation
- 4 Difference in cost of travel between Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island
- 5 Differences in Activities between Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island
- 6 Are Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island recommended for travel with children?
- 7 Food/gourmet differences between Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island
- 8 Difference between souvenirs from Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island
- 9 The Difference between Miyako Island and Ishigaki Island Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 10 Summary of Differences between Miyako and Ishigaki 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 Island | |
| population | 54,155 persons | 50,191 persons |
| area | 204㎢ | 228㎢ |
| distance | 50 minutes by plane from Naha | 1 hour by plane from Naha |
| airport | Miyako Airport / Shimoji Airport | Ishigaki Airport |
| direct (nonstop) flight | Tokyo (2 airports), Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka | Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka |
| average temperature | 23.3°C | 24.3°C |
| Annual precipitation | 2019.3mm | 2106mm |
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!
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 ToursYou can use your car from the moment you arrive at Miyako Airport/Shimoji Airport if you are
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.
Click here for more information about remote islands that can be reached from Ishigaki Island.
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
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 to read the article.
What is winter like in Miyako Island? Recommended activity tours and spots!Miyako Island has a strong summer image, but a winter trip to Miyako Island is perfect for relaxing sightseeing with a reduced price! Here we introduce the weather, clothing, and recommended activities.
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

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 request babysitting during activities! Please consider... ♪
Babysitting details for Miyako Island.
Babysitting details on Ishigaki Island.
↓Click here to read the article on Miyako Island.
Family Travel to Miyako Island with Children! Introducing precautions, recommended activities, and sightseeing spots!For those who are planning a trip to Okinawa during summer or spring vacation, this is a must-see! Here are some recommended spots and activities for children to enjoy in Miyako Island!
Here's where to enjoy a family vacation! 8 child-friendly hotels in Miyako IslandTable of Contents 1 Selected by our local staff! Recommended Hotels in Miyako Island for Family Travel2 How to get to Miyako Island3 8 Popular Hotels with Children in Miyako Island3.1 Sigira Bayside Suite Alamanda3.2 Miyakojima Tokyu Hotel & [...
Food/gourmet differences between Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island

Local gourmet food is an indispensable part of travel! Each one has different tastes and characteristics, so it is recommended to compare them♪.
Famous for Miyako soba noodles, Miyako beef and mangoes
→Miyako IslandIsland Station MiyakoYou can also have island specialties delivered if you go to â
◆Ishigaki Island
Famous for Yaeyama soba noodles, Ishigaki beef, fresh seafood, and pineapples
→Ishigaki Islandlyric market place where one can find a variety of productsYou can also have island specialties delivered if you go to â
↓Click here for recommended dinner plans in Miyako Island.
Miyakojima Island】Reservations OK for rainy days and the same day! (No.905)開始時間From 4/25 to 10/31, 7:00 p.m.From 11/1-4/24] 6:00 p.m.所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours6,500 yen↓Click here to read the article on Miyako Island.
10 Popular Izakayas on Miyako Island! From must-reservation stores to popular restaurants where you can enjoy folk music!Contents1 Enjoy Izakaya in Miyako Island1.1 Enjoy Local Cuisine1.2 Enjoy Folk Song Live Performance2 10 Popular Izakaya in Miyako Island2.1 Shimauta Live Izakaya Waon2.2 Island Japanese Cuisine Goya ~Hare~ 2.3 Traditional Uchinaya Umami [...].
Thorough description of Hirara Town, the downtown area of Miyako Island! Introducing hotels near downtown and recommended restaurants!Contents1 Let's enjoy downtown Miyakojima! What is "Hirara Town"? 2 What is the charm of "Hirara Town", the downtown of Miyako Island2.1 Conveniently located with many shops2.2 Enjoy Miyako Island's gourmet food2.3 Within walking distance from the beach3 Let's enjoy Miyako Island's gourmet food! Hirara [...].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 MallSouvenir shops are gathered in a shopping street called "Ishigaki Island Souvenir Shop". Here, you can find all kinds of souvenirs unique to Ishigaki Island.
↓Click here to read the article on Miyako Island.
Top 10 Popular Souvenirs from Miyako Island!Table of Contents1 Satisfied with your choice of souvenirs from Miyako Island! Recommended stores and items you must not miss2 Where to buy? 5 recommended souvenir shops2.1 Miyako Airport2.2 Don Quijote Miyakojima 2.3 Ryukyu-no-Kaze Island Market2.4 Island Station Miyako [...]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!

Please visit to experience the charm of Ishigaki and Miyako Island♪
Thank you for reading to the end.
↓Click here to read the article.
Introduction of means of transportation for sightseeing in Miyako Island! Is it OK without a rental car? Is a rental car necessary?Table of Contents1 Can I go sightseeing in Miyakojima without a car? 2 How to get around Miyako Island2.1 How to get around Miyako Island 1) Walking2.2 How to get around Miyako Island 2) Renting a car2.3 How to get around Miyako Island 3) [...
30 recommended activity experiences on Miyako Island! Introducing marine activities that can be booked on the same day!Table of Contents1 30 Miyako Island Activity Experiences! 2 Miyako Island 30 recommended activities2.1 ①Snorkeling2.2 ②Diving2.3 ③Yabiji Tour2.4 ④Ao no Doukutsu (Blue Cave) Tour [...].
5 recommended activity tours to enjoy Miyako Island for group tours (school trips, large group tours)Miyako Island offers an abundance of activities to enjoy nature, such as ocean and river tours, and is popular for school excursions and company trips. We introduce tours recommended for group tourists that are safe and secure and can be enjoyed by all participants!











