What is the impact of the pumice stone on Miyako Island? Can I enjoy my trip without problems?
After seeing news reports that large amounts of pumice have washed ashore in the Okinawa area following the eruption of the undersea volcano “Fukutoku-Okanoba” in the Ogasawara Islands, many of you may be feeling anxious about traveling to Miyako Island.
In this article, we’ll cover the current situation regarding pumice on Miyako Island and its future implications, as well as recommended activities you can enjoy without worrying about pumice, and the results of a survey of local guides. If you’re planning a trip, be sure to check it out!
What is pumice in the first place?
Pumice is a rock with countless tiny holes formed when gas trapped inside lava erupted from an undersea volcano escapes as the lava cools rapidly. It is extremely light and floats on water.
The pumice in question was produced by an eruption of the undersea volcano “Fukutoku-Okanoba,” located near Iwo Jima in the Ogasawara Islands—approximately 1,400 km east of the main island of Okinawa—in mid-August.
The Impact of Pumice on Miyako Island (Current Situation)
On November 19–20, 2021, a small amount of pumice washed ashore at Urasoko Fishing Port and Hora Fishing Port on the eastern side of the island, butThere has been no significant impact on ship operations or tourism.The following is a list of the most common problems with the
In addition, Miyakojima City is taking prompt action by installing protective nets at locations such as Shimajiri Fishing Port.
As in previous years, the “east-side beach” of the island—where debris tends to accumulate during the winter—is expected to be particularly affected by pumice.However, it is expected that few items will wash ashore on the western and southern coasts (such as Maehama Beach, Sunayama Beach, Ingya Marine Garden, 17end, and Watari-guchi Beach).
What are the possible future impacts?
The distribution of pumice on the shore changes daily depending on wind direction and tidal currents. We have summarized the potential impacts in the unlikely event that a large amount were to wash ashore.
1. Risk of cancellations of scheduled ferry services and other regular vessel services
If large amounts of pumice accumulate in the harbor, ferry service may be suspended to prevent engine trouble. If you plan to travel to a remote island, please check the latest information from each ferry company.
| port of departure | isolated island | Ship Name |
| Miyako (Taira Port) | Tarama (Futenma Port) | ferry |
| Miyako (Shimajiri Port) | Ōgami (Ōgami Fishing Port) | Sumanus reticulatus (species of basidiomycete used in Chinese medicine)(Ojin Shipping Co., Ltd.) |
2. Risk of boat tour cancellations or changes in itinerary
For the same reasons as with ferries, snorkeling and diving tours that use boats to head out to sea may be canceled, or their departure points or dive sites may be changed.
Less Susceptible to Pumice! Recommended Activities
There’s no need to worry that “I might not be able to enjoy myself even though I went all the way to Miyako Island…”! Here are some year-round activities that aren’t easily affected by pumice, so you can enjoy them with peace of mind.
Pumpkin Cave Tour
"Pumpkin Hall" is one of Miyako Island’s premier power spots, said to be home to the gods of the Dragon Palace. This wildly popular tour, which takes you on an adventure to explore an underwater limestone cave whose entrance appears only at low tide, is sure to tickle your sense of adventure.
Sea kayak (canoe) tours
Kayaks are not easily affected by pumice, allowing you to leisurely enjoy the spectacular views from the water. With the guide’s attentive support, this activity is perfect for beginners and families with children.
Beach Entry Tour
This tour takes you into the ocean from a shallow beach without using a boat. Miyako Island has plenty of hidden gems where you can encounter coral and tropical fish right from the beach! Our experienced guides will assess the conditions on the day of the tour and take you to the beach with the best conditions.
Stargazing Tour
With few streetlights and the Milky Way visible to the naked eye, Miyako Island is the perfect spot for stargazing! Since this is a land-based activity, you won’t be affected by pumice at all. You can also take beautiful souvenir photos while listening to the guide’s explanations of the constellations.
Indoor Activities
We also recommend indoor craft workshops that aren’t affected by the weather or sea conditions. Why not try your hand at making a Shisa or creating accessories from seashells—and take home a souvenir that captures the essence of Okinawa?
Voices from Okinawa! Results of a Survey of Tour Guides
We conducted a survey on the impact of pumice among tour operators currently conducting tours in Okinawa. (Conducted on November 2, 2021)
[SURVEY SUBJECT]
Businesses on Okinawa Island, Yaeyama (Ishigaki/Iriomote/Kohama Islands), and Miyako Island (approx. 60 businesses)
[Research Methodology].
Email (survey via Google Forms)
According to the survey results,No impact so far (85.71 TP3T), ,Already affected (14.31 TP3T)That's how it turned out.
Even among the businesses that reported being affected, the impact was primarily related to “departures by boat.” Additionally,"The impact isn't zero, but it's not enough to cancel tours such as snorkeling and kayaking."That's the answer most people give.
As a general rule, the tour is "running"!
Even in the unlikely event that pumice washes ashore, our guides will carefully assess the ocean conditions on the day of the tour and select the best spot that won’t be affected. Therefore, it’s unlikely that the activity will be completely canceled due to pumice, andAs a general rule, the tour will proceed as usual.The company has been
summary
- At this point, the impact has not been significant enough to cancel the tour.
- As a general rule, activities are being held as usual.
- Not all beaches are covered with pumice.(A professional guide will take you to the best spots!)
Reading media reports might make you feel anxious, but it doesn’t mean you’ll suddenly be unable to enjoy the ocean at all. It would be such a shame to cancel your trip, so please feel free to visit Miyako Island with peace of mind!
*Since the drift patterns of pumice change daily, for the latest information, please check11th Regional Coast Guard Headquarters HPPlease check the following page for more information.
