30 recommended sightseeing spots in Miyako Island! Popular and spectacular views and recommended model courses carefully selected by local staff.
30 Handpicked Must-See Attractions on Miyako Island!
Miyako Island, a remote island in Okinawa Prefecture, is popular as a resort area surrounded by beautiful sea and nature, and bustling with tourists throughout the year.
In this article, we will discuss the Miyako Island sightseeing20 carefully selected recommended spots that you must not miss!I will do so.
In addition, popular ocean activities and a model sightseeing course that can be fully enjoyed on a day trip are also described!
Interested in a spectacular view spot for social networking?
◆Activities and tourist attractions information seekers
◆Those who want to enjoy a short trip efficiently by referring to a model course
Special SALE is now being held!
Click here to see the popularity ranking of Yaebise tours.
What is Miyako Island like?
Basic information you need to know before sightseeing
Miyako Island is located on the main island of Okinawa.Approximately 300 km to the southwestLocated in a remote location, this tropical resort island offers beautiful beaches, coral reefs, abundant nature, and a mild climate.
Miyakojima City includes the main island of Miyako as well as the main island of Miyako,Irabu Island, Ikema Island, Kurima Island, Shimoji Islandand other islands are connected by bridges, making the entire island one large tourist area.
It is warm throughout the year, especiallyThe season from April to October is the peak season for marine activities.You can enjoy a variety of activities such as snorkeling and diving in the beautiful ocean, SUP, driving sightseeing, local gourmet food, and visiting places with spectacular views.
In terms of access, there are direct flights via Naha or from major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka, making it surprisingly easy to reach.
You will be met with a spectacular view!
10 recommended sightseeing spots in Miyako Island
Miyako Island is home to many breathtakingly beautiful scenic spots. Many of them are scattered along the sea or on small islands and are accessible by car or rental car.
There is also a wide variety of scenery woven by nature, photo spots that are sure to be Instagram-worthy, and secluded spots that offer tranquil healing!
These 10 choices are not only popular as tourist destinations, but are also beloved by the locals. You can enjoy an extraordinary trip while experiencing the nature and culture unique to Miyako Island.
Tourist attractions are efficiently visited!
⬇︎Recommended bus tours are here: ⬇︎
![[Miyako Island & Irabu Island] One-Day Bus Tour of the 5 Miyako Islands & Scenic Spots (No. 928)](https://miyako-tour.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/sightseeing_his-3-825x510.jpg)
1. yonaha maehama beach
Yonaha Maehama Beach isDescribed as "the most beautiful in the Orient.It is Miyako Island's representative tourist spot, with its pure white sandy beaches and emerald green sea.
The 7-km long beach is perfect for taking a leisurely stroll or enjoying a swim. The spectacle of the sun setting over the ocean is also breathtaking and popular with couples and families.
Access: 15 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
⬇︎Recommended plans for Yonaha Maehama Beach: ⬇︎
2. east Heiannazaki
Located at the eastern tip of Miyako Island, Higashi-Henza-zaki is a scenic spot where sheer cliffs and the blue sea come together in perfect harmony!
Walking along the 2-km-long cape, you can see the lighthouse, the blue sky, and the Pacific Ocean and the East China Sea.Famous as a sunrise spotI also recommend an early morning stroll at ◎.
Access: 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
3. the Irabu Bridge
The 3,540-meter-long Irabu Bridge is a spectacular driving spot connecting Miyako and Irabu islands.
From the bridge, visitors can enjoy the beauty of the crystal clear ocean and coral reefs through the car windows. Driving by rental car is common,Photo taking at the parking space on the way is also a standard practice.It is!
Access: 15 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
⬇︎Recommended plans for Irabu Island: ⬇︎
![[Miyako Island/Irabu Island/Half-Day] Guided ☆ Island Sightseeing Photo Tour Visiting Scenic Spots! Recommended for first-time visitors to Miyako Island and girls' trips 《Transportation arrangements available upon request & free photo files》](https://miyako-tour.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/S__222830598-825x510.jpg)
Ikema Island & Ikema Ohashi Bridge
Ikema Island, which stretches across the Ikema Ohashi Bridge, is a remote island with a charm of simple nature and tranquility!
The view from the bridge is spectacular and perfect for driving or cycling. The island is dotted with eateries offering exquisite seafood dishes and souvenir stores with a handmade feel!
Access: 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
⬇︎Recommended plans for Ikema Island: ⬇︎
Kushima Island & Kushima Ohashi Bridge
Kurema Ohashi is a 1.7-km-long bridge connecting Miyakojima and Kurema Island, and is a popular driving spot for tourists!
Kushima Island is dotted with fashionable cafes and general merchandise stores, where you can aim for a good Instagram picture. This is a great place to spend a relaxing time on the island.
Access: 20 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
⬇︎Recommended plans for Kushima: ⬇︎
![[Miyako Island/Irabu Island/Kurima Island/1 Day] With a Local Guide☆ Island Sightseeing Photo Tour Visiting Scenic Spots on 2 Islands! Highly Recommended for Girls' Trips 《Free Transportation & Photo Files Included》 (No. 891)](https://miyako-tour.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/S__223707140-825x510.jpg)
6. sand hill beach
Sunayama Beach, which emerges over a hill of white sand, features a dune-like entrance, as the name suggests!
The coastline features a natural rock arch created by nature, and it's famous as a photo spot!
Swimming is prohibited on days when waves are high.
Access: 15 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
7. yabiji (Yaebiji)
Yaeyama is one of Japan's largest coral reef systems, known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life!
If you join a snorkeling tour, you can swim with colorful fish. Another highlight is the fantastic sandbar that appears when the tide ebbs and flows!
Access: Tour participation is mandatory.
⬇︎Recommended plans for the Yaebise event are here: ⬇︎
8. Blue Cave on Miyako Island
Miyako Shrine is the oldest shrine on Miyako Island and is well known to many locals and tourists as the island's guardian deity.
Praying for travel safety in a serene atmosphere is also an exciting experience. Some of the surrounding areas still retain traditional townscapes!
Access: 13 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
9. Makiyama Observatory
Makiyama Observatory is the highest observatory on Irabu Island.
Miyako Island, Shimoji Island and other surrounding islands, and even the distant horizon,It offers a spectacular view of the city!
Access: 25 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
10.17END (One Seventeen End)
17END" is located at the end of the runway of Shimojishima Airport,A spectacular spot with pristine nature and crystal clear watersIt is!
Access: 35 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
Wrapped in Miyako blue!
5 popular & hole-in-the-wall beaches
The first thing you can't miss when touring Miyako Island is to enjoy the crystal clear sea.Beach SpotOh my god!!!
The contrast between the white sandy beach and the vivid Miyako blue instantly captivates visitors. From the standard snorkeling spots to the holes where you can feel the beauty of nature's formations, we recommend this place for ocean lovers.5 spotsto the following!
1. Shinshiro Coast
On the way to Shinshiro Beach,Monpa trees cover the area like a tunnel.There are also interesting paths, and the scenery makes you want to take pictures.
The beach is shallow, with colorful tropical fish and coral reefs in the crystal clear waters,snorkelingYou can enjoy the
Access: 25 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
⬇︎Recommended snorkeling tours are here: ⬇︎
Miyako Island Snorkeling Tour
Click here to see the popularity ranking
2. Imga Marine Garden
Utilizing a natural cove as it isThe seaside park that I did.
If you walk up the trail, you'll find an observation deck with a great view where you can take in the full expanse of the "Miyako Blue"!
Access: 20 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
⬇︎For more information about Imgarma Marine Garden: ⬇︎
3. Shigira Beach
Shigira Beach is a famous snorkeling spot,High probability of encountering sea turtlesThe reefs, coral reefs, and colorful fish can also be seen.
Because of the gentle waves, it is also recommended for those who want to play in the water with small children!
Parking is also available, so you can go directly to Shigira Beach from Miyako Airport with a rental car.
⬇︎Here is a plan with many Shigira Beach events: ⬇︎
⬇︎Learn more about Shigira Beach: ⬇︎
4. Bora Spring Beach
Natural beach near a spring called Bora Spring (Boraga). It is famous for its kayaking.
pumpkin holeIt is famous as a power spot with a limestone cave called
The Pumpkin Hole can only be reached at low tide, but the pristine limestone caves are well worth a visit.
Access: 25 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
⬇︎ for tours held at Pumpkin Hall.
5. Nagama Beach
Nagama Beach is an ideal spot for those who want to relax in a quiet environment. It is surrounded by nature,Relax and take it easy!The following is a list of the most common problems with the
Picnicking and snorkeling can also be enjoyed here, especially in the summer when the area is crowded with people.
Distance from Airport: 20 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
Enjoyable even on rainy days!
Five recommended sightseeing spots in Miyako Island
There are ways to fully enjoy the charms of Miyako Island even on rainy days! Even when the weather outside is bad, there are plenty of tourist spots where you can have a memorable experience!
A place where you can relax indoors and enjoy the rain because it is raining.A spot with beautiful sceneryWe will introduce you to the following. Let's enjoy Miyako Island to the fullest even in the rain!
1. Miyakojima City Tropical Botanical Garden
The Tropical Botanical Garden is a 10-minute drive from Miyako Airport,A healing spot where visitors can enjoy plants and flowers unique to the tropics!
The expansive grounds include a boardwalk and observation deck, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Recommended for families and nature lovers◎
Access: 8 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
2. Miyakojima City Museum
Miyakojima City Museum is located in Miyakojima City.The largest museum on Miyako Islandand experience the culture and history of the area.
The exhibits are divided into two main sections: the primary exhibition room for archaeology, history, folklore, and traditional events, and the secondary exhibition room for natural science, arts and crafts. A wealth of materials and exhibits allow visitors to learn more about Miyako Island.
Access: 10 minutes by car from Koheira Port
3. ueno German Cultural Village
German Village is a theme facility built to commemorate the friendship between Miyako Island and Germany!
The medieval European-style buildings and museum are popular as photo spots with their exotic atmosphere☆.
It is a great place to visit for families with children.
Access: 13 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
4. Miyakojima Underwater Park
This facility allows visitors to view the underwater world through a glass window and observe tropical fish and corals without diving.
The attraction is that it can be enjoyed by both children and adults, regardless of the weather.
This is a unique hands-on spot on Miyako Island where you can feel the natural ecology of the sea up close and personal.
Access: 25 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
5. Snow Salt Museum
At the Snow Salt Museum, visitors can learn how snow salt is made and how to use it in a fun and free way!
proud ofsoft serve ice cream with snow saltindicates object of desire, like, hate, etc.Please taste it!
Access: 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
Enjoy nature and adventure!
5 hands-on spots
Sightseeing spots are not the only attractions of Miyako Island. It is still a little-knownOff-the-beaten-track spotis filled with quiet, beautiful nature and hidden charms where you can enjoy meeting the local people.
Here are five hidden gems with few tourists—special places you’ll want to keep to yourself!
1. Pumpkin Hole (Blue Cave)
Pumpkin Cave is a popular adventure spot where visitors can see large stalactites shaped like pumpkins. It is usually visited by guided tours at low tide, allowing visitors to enjoy the ocean and cave exploration at the same time. Avoid entering the caves on your own and be sure to take a tour.
Access: 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
⬇︎Recommended Blue Cave Plan: ⬇︎
![[Irabu Island / 1 Day] Enjoy the Seas of Miyako Island☆ “Sapphire Cave” Exploration & Snorkeling & Mangrove SUP/Canoe Tour at a Scenic Beach](https://miyako-tour.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/S__190890021-825x510.jpg)
2. Mangroves of Shimajiri
Shimajiri's mangrove forest is the largest mangrove forest in the Miyako Islands. The boardwalk is a great place for a nature walk, where you can observe subtropical green scenery and tidal flat creatures. It is a short stopover, so it is also a good place to visit on a road trip.
Access: 20 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
⬇︎Recommended mangrove tours are here: ⬇︎
![[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)
Ranking in Popularity of Miyakojima Mangrove Tour
click here
3. Shigira Kogane Onsen
Shigira Kogane Onsen is a hot spring facility located in the resort area of southern Miyakojima,Easy to use, even for tourists.It is a popular spot.
There are spacious outdoor baths, Jacuzzis, and saunas where you can relax while enjoying the tropical scenery. The baths are illuminated at night,Resort atmosphereis also attractive.
One of the unique features of Shigira Kogane Onsen is that there is a swimsuit area. For couples and families to enter together,Great for making memories!It is.
Access: 15 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
4. Miyakojima City Experience Craft Village
The Miyakojima City Hands-on Craft Village is located in the Tropical Botanical Garden, where visitors can enjoy making things unique to Miyakojima, Okinawa.
Here, you will find Miyako textiles, island elephants, ceramics, chigaya, shellwork, art, and more,8 ExperiencesYou can choose from simple pieces that can be done in one hour to large pieces that take two hours, and you can also enjoy the experience of wearing traditional Okinawan costumes.
Access: 10 minutes from Miyako Airport
Parking: Available
5. Yoshino Coast
Yoshino Beach is located on the east coast of Miyako Island,The white sand beach stretches for approximately 500 meters in length.
It is popular among tourists throughout the year, especially during the swimming season from April to October.
In addition to beautiful coral reefs and tropical fish, the high encounter rate with sea turtles is another attraction.One of the
⬇︎Learn more about the Yoshino Coast: ⬇︎
⬇︎Recommended snorkeling tours: ⬇︎
5 photogenic & hidden spots
Miyako Island has more than just the standard beaches to take pictures of.scenic spotare scattered throughout the area.
A lookout overlooking the ocean, uniquely shaped rocks, and a park popular with the locals make the trip more memorable with just a short visit.
Here,Touring social networking sites and hole-in-the-wallsHere are 5 spots we recommend!
1. Heart Rock
It appears only at low tide.Heart Rock, a heart-shaped rock created by nature, is the talk of the town!
The hole in the middle of the rock is heart-shaped.Because of its appearance, it’s also a popular power spot for finding love and fostering relationships!
Access: 15 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
2. Miyako Shrine
Miyako Shrine stands on top of a small hill, which at a quick glance looks like a private house.The southernmost shrine in Japan!
During the year-end and New Year's holidays, the area is crowded with tourists and locals,location thought to be flowing with mystical energyIt is also known as
I will make love to you because it is located on a small hill and has a beautiful view of the Irabu Bridge on the left and Hirara Harbor on the right.
Access: 10 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
3. Street Pond
A mysterious pond created by nature on Shimoji Island.
Two huge ponds created by the erosion of limestone by rainwater can be seen.
Both ponds are connected to the open sea at the bottom,Mysterious place with mermaid legendsIt is also a popular spot among divers as a
Access: 10 minutes by car from Miyako Shimojishima Airport
Cape Nishiheyana
The cape is located at the westernmost tip of Miyako Island and does not attract many tourists.Recommended for those who want to enjoy a quiet place.It is.
The blue of the sea and sky seen from here is stunningly beautiful!
Access: 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
Sea Activities in Miyako Island
The biggest attraction of Miyako Island is the marine activities that allow visitors to enjoy the emerald green sea to the fullest!
The crystal clear waters and gentle waves offer a variety of activities for beginners and experts alike, making it a very popular destination for families, couples, and female travelers.
Many tour companies have good safety measures,Beginners can also participate with ease.
We encourage you to try multiple experiences during your stay and enjoy the charm of the sea of Miyako Island to the fullest!
Special SALE is now being held!
Click here to see the popularity ranking of Yaebise tours.
January: 826 cases; February: 820 cases; March: 1,702 cases; April: 1,664 cases; May: 1,508 cases; June: 1,966 cases; July: 3,216 cases; August: 3,818 cases (annual peak); 3,296 cases in September, 3,250 cases in October, 1,788 cases in November, and 1,088 cases in December
snorkeling
The waters around Miyako Island are incredibly clear, making them perfect for snorkeling, where you can enjoy encounters with coral reefs and tropical fish!
Popular spots include Yaebise, Yoshino Beach, and Aragusuku Beach. A wide variety of tours for beginners are available!
Click here for ⬇︎ recommended snorkeling plans.
diving
Some world-famous spots for diving include the "Street Pond" and the "Palace of the Demon King!
Miyako Island, where you can enjoy topographic diving, offers something for everyone from advanced divers to beginners. You can also get certified there, and more and more people are taking the plunge during their stay!
Click here for ⬇︎ recommended diving plans
SUP
Stand Up Paddle (SUP) is,This activity is perfect for Miyako Island with its calm sea surface!
There are many spots around Irabu Island and Kuruma Island where beginners can safely try their hand, and sunset SUP is also popular.
Click here for ⬇︎ recommended SUP plans
Pumpkin Hole Cave Exploration
Pumpkin Hole, a mysterious limestone cave on Miyako Island formed by nature, is accessible depending on the tide!
Only guided tours are allowed in, allowing visitors to explore in safety!
Learn more about exploring the Pumpkin Cave
Click here for ⬇︎ recommended pumpkin cave exploration plans.
Yaebiji (Yaebiji) Tour
To visit the Yaebise, you must join a boat tour!
Snorkeling tours that visit multiple points and tours with drone photography are also popular.
The sandbar that appears when the tide is low is a spectacular sight not to be missed☆.
Learn more about Yaebise tours
Click here for ⬇︎ recommended Yaebise plan
No worries even if it's your first time!
Introducing a model course for sightseeing in Miyako Island
It's my first time on Miyako Island, how should I get around? Here is a model course for those who are wondering, "Where should I go for my first visit to Miyako Island?
We have planned this tour so that even travelers with limited time can enjoy a good balance of spectacular scenery, gourmet food, and activities.
By using these suggested itineraries as a guide, you can enjoy all that Miyako Island has to offer efficiently and without wasting time, so first-time visitors should definitely give them a try!
No worries even if it's your first time!
⬇︎Recommended bus tours in Miyako Island are here: ⬇︎
One Day Plan] A condensed version of the "One Day Plan" that includes a spectacular view and gourmet food!
One-day Miyako Island Model Course
Even if you only have one day, you can enjoy the charms of Miyako Island by focusing on specific points.
Morning: Walk with the sunrise at Yonaha Maehama Beach
→ Spectacular drive in Higashiheirayana-zaki
In the morning, I woke up early and went to "Yonaha Maehama Beach. During the time when there are few people,Enjoy the white sand beach, reputed to be the most beautiful in the EastLet's do it!
Then head to "Higashi Heiannazaki" to enjoy the spectacular view from the cape and lighthouse.
Lunch: Lunch of island foods at a cafe on Kurema Island
Cross the Kurema Ohashi Bridge to "Kurema Island.
At Shima Chaya Yakka Yakka on Kurima Island, you can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and the island pace of life!
The "Spicy Taco Rice with Vegetables" and "Miyako Beef Curry" are also recommended!
Enjoy a relaxing moment while gazing at the sea☆.
Access: 13 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
Afternoon: Irabu Bridge - Drive around Irabu Island
→ Sunset view at Sunayama Beach
In the afternoon, cross the Irabu Bridge to Irabu Island. On the way, you will be impressed by the spectacular view from the bridge!
On the way back, enjoy the sunset at "Sunayama Beach" to end the day.
Notes on visiting tourist attractions
Miyako Island is an island rich in nature, but there are a few things to keep in mind when sightseeing.
First, sunscreen and hats are essential to protect against strong sunlight and UV rays!
Also, from a nature conservation perspective, please follow proper etiquette—such as refraining from stepping on coral reefs and taking your trash with you!
For driving sightseeing, be very careful when driving a rental car, even if traffic is light.
About Miyako Island Sightseeing
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Although there are some who say that Miyako Island is boring, it is in fact a popular island with many repeaters who visit again and again. There are many ways to enjoy the island, such as driving around the island, visiting island cafes, and of course, enjoying the ocean. To get the most out of your visit, we recommend that you decide on a route and book a tour in advance.
Miyako soba noodles, island vegetable dishes, agu pork, seafood, and snow salt sweets are popular. There are also many cafes where visitors can enjoy lunch and sweets.
Winter (December to February) is also a great time to visit Miyakojima. There are many days when you can swim in the ocean if you wear a wetsuit, and snorkeling is popular in winter because of the high transparency of the ocean. If you make a plan that focuses on driving, viewing points, and gourmet food, you will have a more comfortable time.
Yes, there are places on Miyakojima where you can have fun even on rainy days. For example, the Miyakojima City Museum, Miyakojima Underwater Park, and hot spring facilities are just a few of the many indoor tourist attractions that can be enjoyed.
You can also enjoy the area with your children. There are many family-friendly spots such as well-maintained beaches, underwater parks, and museums to choose from on rainy days.
summary
Miyako Island offers spectacular beaches, coral reefs, driving, and gourmet food,A tourist destination that combines various attractionsIt is.
There are many sightseeing spots that can be enjoyed in harmony with nature, and no matter how many times you visit, you will always find something new to discover!
If you are a first-time visitor, please start with the classic spots introduced in this article and enjoy a memorable trip☆.
⬇︎Read the article in conjunction with ⬇︎
