Where is Miyako Island? A detailed explanation of where Miyako Island is and how to get there, using a map!
Table of Contents
What is Miyako Island?
Miyakojima Island is located in the center of the Miyako Archipelago, which belongs to Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture.
The island has an area of 158.93 square kilometers, about one-fourth the size of the main island of Okinawa.
The island has a subtropical maritime climate that is warm year-round and is famous as a place where typhoons often pass through during the summer and fall.
The average annual temperature is about 23 degrees Celsius and humidity is about 80%, but the average minimum temperature in winter drops to about 15 degrees Celsius, so a cardigan or hoodie over a short-sleeved jacket would be useful.
Even in winter, it is warmer than in Honshu, so many people visit Miyako Island in the cold winter.
Miyako Island is visited by tourists in all seasons, but if you want to enjoy marine activities to the fullest, we recommend visiting in summer.
The best season is between June and September, when the sea water temperature is higher.
As long as you can avoid the rainy season and typhoons, this is a popular tourist destination where you can enjoy tropical resorts to the fullest.
The main tourist attractions include historical sites and movie location tours, where visitors can learn about the history of Miyako Island and the scars of war.
We are committed to passing on our culture, with a wide variety of food culture experiences and workshops on the secrets of longevity.
Also, many people associate Okinawa with hubs, but Miyako Island is the only island in the Ryukyu Islands with a large area that is not inhabited by hubs.
There are various theories as to why there are no hubs on Miyako Island, but you can go out at night without worrying about nocturnal hubs.
Where is Miyako Island?
Miyako Island is a remote island located approximately 300 km southwest of the main island of Okinawa.
The Miyako Islands consist of eight islands of various sizes (Miyako Island, Ikema Island, Kushima Island, Irabu Island, Shimoji Island, Ojin Island, Tarama Island, and Mizuna Island), with Miyako Island at the center.
All of these islands were formed by coral uplift.
It is also the only one of the large islands around Okinawa that has no river.
Miyako Island is an island of flat, low land without large mountains, and bridges have been built between Ikema, Kurima, and Irabu Islands and Miyako Island, making it possible to travel by land.
The bridge over Irabu Island is approximately 3,540 meters long, making it the longest bridge in Japan open to free passage.
Explain the location with a map
Distance from each city is as follows
Approximately 1,800 km from Tokyo
Approximately 1,500 km from Osaka
Approximately 2,500 km from Hokkaido
Ishigaki Island around Miyako Island is about 130 km away, and Taiwan is about 320 km away.
How to get to Miyako Island
Now that you know the location of Miyako Island, we will show you how to get to Miyako Island from Honshu and how to travel from the main island of Okinawa.
We will also explain the availability of direct flights and the time required, etc. Please refer to the following information.
The only way to get to Miyako Island is by plane.
The only way to get to Miyako Island is by air.
Until 2008, there were passenger ferries from the main island of Okinawa and Honshu.
However, the route has been discontinued due to the bankruptcy of the operating company. Cargo ferries depart from the main island of Okinawa, so if you wish to use your car or motorcycle on Miyakojima, you can use a car ferry agency for transportation.
For a car: about 40,000 yen
For motorcycles: 20,000 - 30,000 yen
The ferry takes about 9 hours one way from Naha.
Miyako Island has two airports.
There are two airports available on Miyako Island.
The airport you use will depend on the purpose of your trip and the airline you wish to use, so please check with us.
Miyako Airport
Miyako Airport is the third busiest airport in Okinawa Prefecture after Naha Airport and Shin-Ishigaki Airport.
The following companies offer domestic flights.
Japan Airlines (JAL)
Japan Transocean Air (JTA)
Ryukyu Air Commuter (RAC)
All Nippon Airways (ANA)
The terminal building of Miyako Airport is a three-story building with a distinctive red-tiled roof inspired by the image of a sasiba (an endangered bird of prey).
Cabs, buses, and bus tours are available from the airport to various locations.
The traveling bus, which will be in operation for a limited time in 2021, is called the "Miyakojima Loop Bus" and will stop at places where visitors can enjoy sightseeing in Miyakojima.
It is the perfect means of transportation to Miyako Airport, Hirara City, resort hotels, beaches, etc., starting in front of the Matida Civic Theater.
There are about six services each for the inner and outer routes, and a one-day ticket is 1,000 yen.
It will be reopened for a limited time in the future, so take advantage of it if the timing is right for your travel schedule.
Shimojishima Airport
Shimojishima Airport is a regional airport located on Shimojishima Island, Okinawa Prefecture.
It was established as a training airfield for pilot training in Japan, but is now privatized.
A new terminal, the Miyako Shimojishima Airport Terminal, opened in 2019 and regular flights began.
The following companies offer domestic flights.
Skymark (SKY)
Jetstar Japan (JJP)
Off the north side of Shimojishima Airport, a beautiful 20-km-long atoll surrounds the beach of Sawada.
The runway extending toward these waters is known as "Runway 17 END" and is famous for its spectacular views.
Cabs and regular buses are available to get from the airport to various locations.
The Irabu Bridge connects Shimoji Island with the neighboring Irabu Island, making it a perfect place for land-based island travel from Miyako Island.
Approximate distances and fees from major airports to each airport
Here are the estimated times and fees from major airports to each airport.
Access to Miyako Airport from major cities
Japan Airlines (JAL)
Approximately 3 hours from Haneda Airport, around 20,000 yen to 60,000 yen one way
Japan Transocean Air (JTA)
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes from Central Japan International Airport Centrair (seasonal service), around 20,000 yen to 50,000 yen one way
Kansai International Airport (seasonal service) approx. 4 hours, 20,000-50,000 yen one way
Approximately 30 minutes from Naha Airport
Ryukyu Air Commuter (RAC)
Approximately 50 minutes from Naha Airport, around 8,000 yen to 20,000 yen one way
Approximately 30 minutes from Ishigaki Airport, around 15,000 yen to 60,000 yen one way
All Nippon Airways (ANA)
Approximately 4 hours from Kansai International Airport, 20,000-50,000 yen one way
Approximately 30 minutes from Naha Airport, about 7,000 yen to 10,000 yen one way
Access to Shimojishima Airport from major cities
Skymark (SKY)
Approximately 3.5 hours from Haneda Airport, one-way trip costs around 8,500 yen to 50,000 yen.
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes from Kobe Airport, around 10,000 yen to 40,000 yen one way
About 3 hours from Central Japan International Airport Centrair, around 4,300 yen to 30,000 yen one way
Approximately 50 minutes from Naha, one-way, around 5,000 yen to 10,000 yen each way.
Jetstar Japan (JJP)
Approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes from Narita International Airport, around 8,000 yen to 40,000 yen one way
When traveling to Miyako Island from various cities, airfare is relatively inexpensive if you use Skymark or LCC Jetstar.
Each airline offers special packages and early-bird rates, so please check them out when planning your trip.
You may also want to target the off-season, when fares are lower.
Why Miyako Island is so popular
One of the reasons for Miyako Island's popularity is that it is an island with many attractions.
Here are some of the attractions of Miyako Island.
If you like remote islands and want to spend an unusual and extraordinary time, please check it out.
Anyway, the sea is beautiful.
When it comes to the charm of Miyako Island, the first thing that comes to mind is the beauty of the sea.
The picturesque blue waters are said to be the best in the East.
The reason for the beauty of the sea on Miyako Island is that there are no high mountains and no big rivers.
Without rivers, there would be no domestic water flowing into the area or mud flowing in when it rains.
And when corals are healthy, they photosynthesize in the ocean, absorbing carbon dioxide from the seawater and expelling oxygen and minerals, thereby purifying the ocean.
For this reason, the sea of Miyakojima is famous for its clean appearance and water quality.
Yonaha Maehama Beach on Shimoji Island in Miyako Island is a popular beach with its 7-km-long white sand beach and endless blue gradient ocean.
The beach is shallow and relatively calm, so those who want to enjoy the sea of Miyakojima should visit.
In addition to this beach, you can also enjoy the beautiful ocean at Sunayama Beach, Yoshino Beach, Painagama Beach, and Imugyah Marine Garden.
Impressed by the starry sky
Miyako Island, rich in nature, also has a beautiful starry sky.
The Southern Cross, rarely seen in the northern hemisphere, can be observed from April to June.
The time when the Southern Cross can be seen changes depending on the month, so check the time before going out to observe.
Enjoy the starry sky of Miyako Island by lying on the beach and looking at the stars or joining a stargazing tour.
Although there are no hubs on Miyako Island, bring a flashlight when you go to the beach or other places to enjoy stargazing, being careful where you step.
Relatively inexpensive travel costs
Miyako Island tourism is a remote island where you can enjoy travel at a reasonable price compared to overseas travel to enjoy tropical resorts.
LCCs and other airline packages with special deals will reduce the cost of round-trip airfare.
There are also many stylish budget hotels and condominiums, and pet-friendly rooms and rooms with ocean views are popular.
There are also cosy restaurants where you can taste local cuisine, so you can save even more money if you do your homework in advance.
If you want to enjoy a tropical resort at a relatively low cost, a trip to Miyako Island is recommended.
Popular Activity Experiences
Miyako Island, with its beautiful ocean and pristine nature, offers a wide variety of activities.
Tours that allow you to experience a sense of oneness with nature and activities in the beautiful ocean are well-received as unforgettable and special memories.
There are also activities that allow you to enjoy sightseeing, so be sure to include them in your travel schedule.
How to enjoy Miyako Island to the fullest
Participation in activity experiences is recommended.
Many of the activities on Miyako Island are designed to provide an extraordinary and healing experience.
Many of them are performed in the beautiful ocean that is the charm of Miyako Island, and are recommended for a special experience.
It is good to spend a relaxing time doing nothing, but let's experience activities and enjoy Miyako Island to the fullest.
10 Popular Activities on Miyako Island
Here are some of the popular activities on Miyako Island.
There is a wide variety, from healing benefits to exciting experiences.
snorkeling
Snorkeling is an activity to observe colorful tropical fish and corals using a life jacket, underwater glasses, and fins.
The sea water temperature on Miyako Island is high all year round, maintaining around 20 degrees Celsius even in winter.
Miyako Island is unique in that even if the outside temperature is low, a wetsuit is enough to have fun.
Snorkeling tours are available, and they can rent the necessary equipment for snorkeling and take you to areas with abundant coral and tropical fish.
In recent years, the number of water accidents involving tourists has been increasing, so it is recommended to snorkel safely on a tour.
If you want to enjoy the crystal clear waters of Miyako Island, choose snorkeling.
SUP
SUP is a marine activity that originated in Hawaii.
Standing on a large surfboard, the participants use oars to paddle swiftly over the ocean.
This activity is popular for its exhilarating feeling as you glide along the beautiful ocean while enjoying the pleasant breeze of Miyako Island.
Even beginners can quickly learn to do this with a lecture from an instructor.
This activity is recommended for those who are interested in health, as it is a sport that strengthens the body's core.
SUP yoga on a surfboard is also popular, so those interested in yoga are also encouraged to participate.
Canoe/Kayak
This is an activity in which you and an instructor take a canoe/kayak around the ocean.
Both are available for two people, so friends or couples can use them together.
Some companies offer clear kayaks, which are transparent kayaks for rent, so if you want to observe the ocean as well, choose a clear kayak.
The view of the ocean changes with time. Tours that include a canoe/kayak experience while watching the sunset and snorkeling are also popular.
Stargazing and night tours
Stargazing and night tours are activities to enjoy the night scenery of Miyako Island.
You can enjoy a beautiful starry sky full of stars that you would not normally be able to experience.
Popular stargazing tours include stargazing through telescopes and tours with commemorative photos against a jewel box-like starry sky.
If you want to share your wonderful memories on social networking sites, choose a tour that includes starry sky location photography.
The Night Tour is a tour to experience the jungle of Miyako Island at night.
This will be an exciting tour with subtropical creatures and a star-filled sky.
If you are lucky, you may see rare creatures such as coconut crabs, so parents and children are sure to be delighted when they join the tour.
If you want to enjoy the great outdoors outside of the ocean, be sure to include stargazing and night tours in your schedule.
diving
Diving is a marine activity in which divers wear a wet suit, hydroscope, and fins, and carry an underwater cylinder on their backs for underwater observation.
Even beginners can try diving after a lecture by an instructor.
Miyako Island has many popular underwater spots, such as coral-rich areas and underwater caves, which are coveted by divers.
As with snorkeling, the water temperature is relatively warm in all seasons, so diving can be enjoyed all year round.
Miyako Island is also famous as a spot where sea turtles can be seen, so you may encounter them during your underwater exploration.
For a leisurely underwater stroll, diving is recommended.
marine sports
Marine sports is a general term for sports played on the beach.
Typical examples include banana boats, fly boats, and water skiing.
Marine sports are a great way to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Miyako Island.
Many activities are available for all friends and family members to participate together, so you can choose marine sports if you want to enjoy activities with a large group of people.
This is a great activity to experience and make memories of your graduation trip or family vacation.
parasailing
Parasailing is an activity in which participants float from a boat equipped with a parachute and enjoy the ocean from the sky.
The thrill of lifting your body off the boat and the feeling of floating in the air will be a wonderful experience unlike anything you have ever experienced.
The beautiful sea of Miyako Island seen from the sky is a popular activity that provides an unforgettable view.
The ride down is slow and safe, but there is also an option to be deliberately lowered to the surface of the sea, so those who want to enjoy the thrill of the ride can choose that option.
Pumpkin Cave Exploration
The Pumpkin Cave, a famous power spot on Miyako Island, is a limestone cave that can only be accessed from the sea.
There are tours that aim to visit at low tide, walking along the wave's edge, or by canoe.
In this activity, you can go caving in a powerful limestone cave and observe cave-dwelling creatures.
As the name Pumpkin suggests, this activity allows visitors to see a powerful limestone cave that looks like a large pumpkin.
For thrills and fantastic views, explore the Pumpkin Cave.
Since visiting on your own can be dangerous, be sure to enjoy the tour with a guide.
fishing
In recent years, the fishing population has been increasing, and many people would like to enjoy fishing when they visit Miyakojima.
While it is a good idea to bring your own fishing gear, there are also tours that allow you to experience fishing without any equipment.
They can take you by boat to points where fish are abundant and introduce you to restaurants that will cook the fish you catch, making it easy to participate.
This is an activity that can be enjoyed by men and women of all ages, so we encourage you to participate with your family.
glass boat
A glass boat is a boat with a glass bottom.
The bottom of the boat is made of glass, so you can observe colorful tropical fish and corals through the glass.
It is a popular activity on Miyako Island because it is covered and can be enjoyed even in the rain.
If it rains on your trip to Miyako Island, enjoy observing the underwater world on a glass boat.
If you are lucky, you may even see sea turtles.
summary
In this issue, we have introduced in detail the location of Miyako Island and how to get there.
We hope you now have a better understanding of Miyakojima, a large island in the Miyako archipelago, and the means of access from various cities.
Make your own travel plans based on the information on Miyako Island's attractions and activities described in this article.
