Miyakojima Mangrove Complete Guide! Thorough explanation of the differences and highlights between Shimajiri and Kawamitsu
Where can I see mangroves on Miyako Island?
Currently, you can tourShimajiri mangroveThis is Miyako Island’s largest mangrove forest, where visitors can easily enjoy a free stroll along the walking trails and bridges. The Kawamitsu Mangrove Forest has been closed due to damage to the walking trails,No Entry at This TimeSo, if you want to enjoy the scenery up close from the water, we recommend a kayaking or SUP tour.
Mangroves can also be found on Miyako Island!
When you think of mangroves, you may think of Iriomote Island or Ishigaki Island,In fact, there is a beautiful mangrove colony on Miyako Island!The following is a list of the most common problems with the
In this article, we will introduce in detail the hidden spots "Shimajiri Mangrove" and "Kawamitsu Mangrove" in Miyako Island.
◆Those who want to know about mangroves in Miyako Island
◆Those who are looking for sightseeing spots in Miyako Island
◆Those looking for activities to enjoy in the mangroves of Miyako Island.
Click here for popular mangrove tours in Miyako Island
What is Miyakojima's Shimajiri Mangrove?
Shimajiri mangroves are,The largest mangrove colony on Miyako IslandIt is a valuable place where all mangrove species native to Miyako Island (Yaeyama hirugi, Ohirugi, Mehirugi, and hirugimodoki) can be observed.
Wooden and stone bridges span the area,To enjoy the extraordinary feeling of being in a place that does not feel like Japan.can be done.
![[Irabu Island / Approx. 2 hours] Experience the Rich Ecosystem☆ Exceptionally Stable! Jungle SUP Cruise Through Miyako Island’s Ocean and Mangroves★ Free Photos & Transportation Arrangements Available Upon Request](https://miyako-tour.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/a78b40030afe1115a9477945d17d6805-825x510.jpg)
![[Irabu Island / Approx. 2 hours] Ages 3 and up welcome! Experience the rich ecosystem☆ Enjoy a kayaking tour through the waters and mangroves of Miyako Island★ Free photos & transportation arrangements available upon request](https://miyako-tour.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/S__190791771_0-1-825x510.jpg)
◆◆◆
◆ ◆ ◆
grey mangrove (Avicennia marina)
Vast mudflats spread out around Shimajiri mangroves, with futa-haosa crabs, giant blue king crabs, Kumadorian bullhead crabs, damsel crabs, and southern red king crabs, among others.A wide variety of crabsis inhabited by
It's so cute to watch the crabs scurrying around on the mudflats!
On the mudflats, you can see the adorable flying gobies. In addition, wild birds that target crabs and gobies that live in brackish water also gather here, allowing visitors to feel the subtropical ecosystem up close...!
Nature observation andGreat spot for bird watchingIt is.
Access: 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
Usage fee: Free of charge
Parking: Available
Toilet: Yes
How to get to Shimajiri Mangrove in Miyako Island
This section describes how to access Shimajiri Mangrove from both the downtown area of Miyako Island and Miyako Airport!
Access from city center
(1) To reach Shimajiri Mangrove, take Prefectural Route 230 from the city center toward Ikema Island.
(2) Entering the cove at Shimajiri Village, you will find mangroves.
(iii) The promenade is well maintained and can be explored in 10 to 15 minutes.
Access from Miyako Airport
(1) It takes about 20 minutes by car from Miyako Airport.
(2) Exit Miyako Airport and head north toward Ikema Island, passing Prefectural Route 83 and continuing on Route 230.
(3) Follow the road along the sea where Shimajiri village is located, and you will see a sign for Shimajiri Mangrove, so turn right there to reach it.
For more information about Miyako Airport, click here↓.
Click here to see the ranking of popular rental cars in Miyako Island.
How to play in Shimajiri Mangrove in Miyako Island
The most significant feature of Shimajiri Mangrove is that all types of mangroves native to Miyako Island can be seen.
There are many ways to enjoy the mangroves! You can leisurely observe subtropical plants or enjoy the flora and fauna while canoeing.
The Shimajiri mangroves are dotted with wooden and stone bridges, and strolling along these bridges offers an otherworldly view.
◆Observation of tidal flat organisms
A wide variety of crabs inhabit the mudflats, and you can observe up-close the activities of such crabs as the futa hausa crab and the damselfish. Don't miss the sight of crabs roaming the mudflats and flying gobies jumping around.
◆Bird watching
The Shimajiri mangroves are also ideal for bird watching, as wild birds gather here to feed on crabs and gobies that live in the brackish water. Bring binoculars and enjoy observing a wide variety of birds.
⬇︎The sightseeing bus tour to Shimajiri Mangrove is also very popular☆.
⬇︎Click here for Miyakojima mangrove tour specials☆.
What is Kawamitsu Mangrove in Miyako Island?
Kawamitsu Mangrove Forest is a mangrove forest located along Yonaha Bay. A wooden boardwalk approximately 400 meters long had been built there, butAccess is currently prohibited due to damage to the walking trail.The first two are the following.
This used to be a spot where visitors could observe mangroves—such as the black mangrove, the Yaeyama mangrove, and the red mangrove—up close from the walking trail.
◆◆◆
◆ ◆ ◆
Just like the Shimajiri Mangroves, the tidal flats are home to a variety of crabs and mudskippers, andCompletely different landscapes can be seen depending on the difference in tidal levels.It is known as a place.
Access: 5 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
Current Status: Access Prohibited Due to Damage to the Walking Trail
Parking: Available
Restaurant: None
Toilet: None
History of Kawamitsu Mangrove
The Kawamitsu mangrove has a spring called "Upukar, the water of life." As a precious source of water that does not dry up even in drought, it supported the life of the Kawamitsu community until around 1955.
As a mystical spring, it is now known as a power spot. The river, with its clear spring water, is home to freshwater-loving creatures, nurturing a unique ecosystem that continues into the salt marshes at the mouth of the river.
Although the mangrove forest is smaller than the one on Shimajiri, it is a charming place with a distinct atmosphere.
How to get to Kawamitsu Mangrove in Miyako Island
Here are directions to Kawamitsu Mangrove from Miyako Airport.
*Please note that access is currently prohibited due to damage to the wooden boardwalk.
Access from Miyako Airport
(1) Departing from Miyako Airport, it takes about 5 minutes by car.
(2) Follow Route 390 and head toward the Shimoji area on the Shimoji Line.
(iii) You will arrive at Kawamitsu Mangrove, which is adjacent to a residential area along the road.
There are no signs, so please follow the flashing traffic lights. Turn right immediately after the light to access the mangroves.
Kawamitsu Mangrove is located adjacent to a residential area and is somewhat hard to find. Since visitors are currently not allowed on the walking trail, if you plan to visit,Please be careful not to disturb the residents in the nearby residential area.Let's do it.
Highlights and Current Status of the Kawamitsu Mangrove Forest on Miyako Island
The Kawamitsu Mangroves appear at low tide.Roots shaped like octopus legsIt was a spot known for its subtropical scenery.
This place is full of the natural charm typical of Miyako Island, with an abundance of mangrove plants and mangrove-dwelling creatures that emerge at low tide.
However, at present,No Entry Due to Damage to the Walking TrailFor this reason, guided tours are not available. If you’d like to see mangroves up close on Miyako Island, we recommend taking a stroll through the Shimajiri Mangrove Forest or joining a mangrove kayaking or SUP tour, where you can observe them from the water.
Shimajiri Mangrove and Kawamitsu Mangrove
Differences between the two mangroves
Shimajiri mangroveis the only one in Miyako Island,Where all mangrove species can be seenIt is known as the
Shimajiri Bridge, a famous photo spot, offers a panoramic view of the vast mangrove forest.
The landscape, called a sea forest, is majestic and beautiful, inviting visitors to the healing power of nature.
On the other hand,Kawamitsu mangroveIt has a history tied to the “Upuka” spring, andlocation thought to be flowing with mystical energyIt is also known as . Since access is currently restricted, of the two locations, the only one that can actually be visited is the Shimajiri Mangrove Forest.
This is the only spot on Miyako Island where you can see all species of mangroves. You can explore the area for free along the walking trails and bridges.
◆Kawamitsu Mangrove Forest
Until around Showa 30, this was a lifeline that supported the daily lives of the residents of the Kawamitsu settlement; today, it is also known as a “power spot.” Due to damage to the walking trail, access is currently prohibited.
What Is Mangrove Kayaking on Miyako Island?
Mangrove Kayaking is,You can get a close-up view of the mangrove forest from a low vantage point at water levelThis is an activity. As you glide along the quiet waterway, with only the sound of your paddle breaking the silence, you’ll encounter views you can’t see from the walking trail.
◆In the quiet waterways, you can encounter crabs, mudskippers, and wild birds
◆Experience the changing scenery as the tides rise and fall
◆ Enjoy learning about the ecosystem with commentary from a guide
◆Even beginners and children can give it a try with ease
Click here to see the ranking of popular kayaking (canoeing) plans
The Appeal of Mangrove Kayaking
Mangroves viewed from the water's surface are truly impressive.That's right. The experience of gliding through the branches overhanging overhead and the roots extending into the water is something you can only get from kayaking.
Also, by moving quietly, you'll be more likely to encounter crabs and mudskippers on the mudflats, as well as wild birds gathering along the water's edge.
Enjoy the Activities That Change With the Tides
Mangrove Kayaking is,The route you can take and the scenery change significantly depending on the tide.. Therefore, the tour schedule depends on the tide conditions.
To ensure you enjoy the experience at the best possible time, we recommend joining a tour led by a professional guide.
Clothing and personal belongings
◆Water shoes (or sandals)
◆Towels and a change of clothes
◆Sunscreen and Hats
◆Drinks
Since clothing and what to bring vary by tour company, be sure to check with them when making your reservation.
Recommended Mangrove Tour in Miyako Island
On the mangrove tour in Miyako Island, as you paddle along the calm waterways in a kayak or on a SUP,Rich ecosystems unique to the subtropical zoneYou can feel the "up-close and personal" experience.
According to this site's reservation data (October 2024–June 2026), the number of bookings for mangrove toursKayak tours where about 60 percent allow children as young as 3...It is a popular choice among families with young children.
Click here for Mangrove SUP Tour in Miyako Island
Click here for mangrove canoe tours in Miyako Island.
Click here for popular mangrove tours in Miyako Island
Miyako Island Mangrove FAQ
Kawamitsu Mangrove Forest is currently closed to the public due to damage to the wooden boardwalk. Shimajiri Mangrove Forest has well-maintained boardwalks and bridges, and visitors can explore it for free.
Yes, you’ll have a great time! The Shimajiri Mangrove Forest features well-maintained walking trails and bridges, so even families with young children can observe the mangroves up close. Searching for creatures like crabs and gobies in the mudflats is especially popular with kids! Please note that access to the Kawamitsu Mangrove Forest is currently prohibited.
Advance reservations are recommended for activities in the mangroves. In particular, the mangroves on Miyako Island are subject to the tides, so you can enjoy canoeing and SUP at the most appropriate time if you plan to go with a professional guide.
Yes, you'll enjoy it! According to our website's booking data, mangrove tours account for about 20 percent of all tour bookings even during the winter months of December through February, making them a popular activity year-round.
Many mangrove areas are valuable ecological reserves, and fishing around walking trails is not common. If you wish to enjoy fishing, it is best to join a specialized fishing tour and enjoy it in a permitted area led by a guide.
summary
We introduced "Shimajiri Mangrove" and "Kawamitsu Mangrove". How was it?
Shimajiri Mangrove, the largest mangrove forest on Miyako Island, where you can easily take a stroll along the walking trail, and Kawamitsu Mangrove, which is also known as a "power spot." Since Kawamitsu Mangrove is currently off-limits,If you're looking for a place to visit, check out Shimajiri MangroveWhy not stop by?
If you'd like to enjoy a close-up view of the mangroves from the water, we recommend joining a kayaking or SUP tour!
Click here↓ to read the article.
