A thorough explanation of 50 recommended sightseeing spots & popular activities on Miyako Island!

 

Recommended by locals☆ Not only the sea!
50 Charming Spots on Miyako Island

Miyakojima Island is "the island ofMiyako blueAlthough the island is famous for its beautiful sea, called "the sea of the world," there are many sightseeing spots that should not be missed, from its rich nature to its unique culture!

Miyako Island is full of attractive sightseeing spots,Northern Area, Southern Area, Eastern Area, Miyako Island Central Town, Irabu Island and Shimoji Island AreaWe will introduce you to plenty of information in each of the four areas of the city.

 

Northern Area

First, let us introduce the northern area where Ikema Island is located!

 

Yabiji (Yaebiji)

It extends about 15 km off the northern coast of Miyako Island,One of the largest groups of tabletop coral reefs in Japanand the Yabiji area, which is home to thousands of colorful tropical fish, isSnorkeling and divingIt is famous as a spot for

Be sure to join the tour and enjoy one of the best underwater worlds in Japan!

⬇︎ recommend tours to be held in Yaebise.

 

Ikema Bridge

A bridge connecting Miyako Island and Ikema Island, famous as a photo spot.driving courseIt is very popular as a

You can see coral reefs even from the bridge because of its high transparency.

From the rooftop of the store across Ikema Island, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the bridge and the surrounding islands.

Click here for ⬇︎ recommended tours including Ikema Ohashi Bridge.

 

Funax Beach (Ikema Block)

Funax Beach is located on Ikema Island.Snorkeling spotsThis natural beach is also famous as a

The shallows are covered with a colony of Japanese coral and are home to many colorful tropical fish, such as the lurid sparrowhawk and butterfly fish.

The shallow waters are generally safe, but there are no lifeguards on duty, so when you visit, please be careful to be safe and enjoy yourself in a well mannered manner.

 

whale rock

Whale Rock is a whale-shaped rock near Funakusu Beach on Ikema Island, introduced above.

In the Miyako Archipelago, there are many rocks with unusual shapes such as mushrooms, hearts, and whales, which are called kiseki or strange rocks, and whale rock is one of them.

Popular for women's travelers.being popular on social networksIt is known as a spot

 

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!

soft serve ice cream with snow saltis a must-try.

 

Miyakojima Underwater Park

Built underground,Natural tropical fish can be easily seen.Spot!

The museum also has a wheelchair lift, which can be enjoyed by the whole family, from young children to the elderly.

There is also a café, so it is recommended to go there in time for lunch.

 

Sunayama Beach

Sunayama Beach is seen in many places, including on tourist posters.

The road to this site is elevated, over a sand mountain, and downhill.

ArchedHuge strange rockis impressive. The color of the white sand and the sea of the powdery sand is exceptional.

 

Nishiheirenaizaki

The cape is located at the northern tip of Miyako Island, and the large wind turbine nearby is also very powerful.

From the observatory, Ikema Island, Irabu Island, Ogami Island andPanoramic view of three remote islandsCan be done.

There is also a pasture on Miyako Island in the vicinity, which offers a peaceful landscape.

 

Nishi no Hama Beach

Nishi no Hama Beach is located near Nishi Heiannazaki, the northernmost cape on Miyako Island.

It is more of an activity because of the shallow waters,Suitable for enjoying swimming in the sea.The following is a list of the most common problems with the

The nearby Nishiheiannazaki offers one of the most spectacular views on Miyako Island.

 

Shimajiri mangrove forest

Shimajiri Mangrove Forest is the largest mangrove grove on Miyako Island, and is a spot where all mangrove species native to Miyako Island can be seen.

You can also admire them up close while cruising along the river in a canoe or other vehicle!

 

Ogami Island

A quiet island surrounded by nature. The "aGod's Beloved IslandIt is said to be one of the most powerful spots in the Miyako Islands.

The ferry makes four round trips a day, so check the ferry schedule in advance.

However, it is a sacred island, so a playful atmosphere is not recommended.

 

Southern Area

Famous resort hotels line the streets, and the southern area is also recommended if you want to enjoy the clear Miyako blue.

The area can only be reached by car, but there are scattered points with spectacular views of the sea that are worth the time to visit.

 

Shimoji Shrine

Shimoji Shrine is,Tsunuzi UtakiThe shrine is also called "Torii," and has two torii gates, a stone lantern, a hall of worship, and a main shrine.

Among the twelve deities borne by the Thedas, the deity Oshu Toyomichika, who is considered the god of learning, navigation, and good harvests, is enshrined here.

In 1978, a magnificent shrine building was constructed and many worshippers began to visit the shrine.

 

Naha's beach (where one can swim with the ocean currents)

The most beautiful in the OrientThis is a beach with a spectacular view that has been described as "the best beach in the world.

Also known as "Maipama Beach," the contrast between the brilliant blue and emerald green gradations of the ocean and the pure white powdery sands is striking.

Marine activities can also be enjoyed!

⬇︎ Click here for tours held at Yonaha Maehama Beach.

 

Raima Bridge

The 1,690-meter bridge connects Miyako Island and Kushima Island. It is a great time to enjoy a pleasant ride in the middle of the sea with Yonaha Maehama Beach by your side.

Aim for high tideand enjoy the best view. Please take a drive!

 

Dragon's Palace Observatory

The observatory is modeled after the Dragon's Palace on Kushima Island, and from the third floor you can see Kushima Island, the beautiful ocean of Maehama, and the Kushima Bridge!

 

octopus park

Taco Park, as the name implies.Monument of Octopusis the symbol of the park, which has a rocky beach nearby.

There are no restrooms, stores, or showers, so it is recommended that you head there prepared.

From the parking space, it is about an 8-minute walk along a jungle-like boardwalk, where an octopus awaits!

*They are currently being repainted bright red.

 

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.

⬇︎ for more information on the Pumpkin Hole Exploration Tour.

⬇︎ for tours held at Pumpkin Hall.

 

Shigira Beach

Speaking of Shigira Beach,sea turtleThis is a popular beach where you can see

It is a famous snorkeling point. It is a rocky area, so do not forget to wear marine shoes.

⬇︎ for tours that include Sigira Beach.

 

Im Gyor Marine Garden

A seaside park built using the natural topography of the area. The large cove looks like aPool surrounded by rocksIt seems that the

There is also a boardwalk and an observation deck.

⬇︎ for tours that include Imgay Marine Gardens.

 

Wai Wai Beach

Waiwai Beach is an artificial beach located near Ueno German Cultural Village on the south coast of Miyako Island.

Sandy seabed with sea turtle nests nearby,Very high encounter rate with sea turtlesIt is.

There is a pavilion for resting, a plaza, and playground facilities for children to enjoy.

 

Miyakojima Sea Treasure Museum

Kaihokan is a museum that mainly exhibits exhibits about sea creatures in Miyako Island,The number and variety of shells on display is the best in AsiaIt is said.

In addition to exhibits, there is also accessory making using seashells, a souvenir corner, and a restaurant with a large view.

You can enjoy fresh seafood from the nearby sea while viewing the beautiful Miyako blue at the restaurant with a large view.

 

Nakahara Cave

Nakahara Cave is a tourist limestone cave located in a sugarcane field on private land.
b
Because there is little maintenance,Natural limestone cavesYou can see the

This limestone cave is also known as a power spot because of its mariaves and stalagmites, which are said to be blessed with children, as well as its marriage-building properties.

 

Shigira Kogane Onsen

Shigira Kogane Onsen is located in the Shigira area, one of the best resort areas on Miyako Island.Resort Natural Hot SpringIt is.

There are open-air baths and a hot spring with a view, as well as a jungle pool that can be entered in swimsuits, making it enjoyable for couples and families.

There are also spas and esthetic clinics to help you heal your body after your activities.

 

Eastern Area

The eastern area has a number of less-crowded spots.

The lighthouse at the southernmost tip of the island, Higashi Heiannazaki, is dotted with beaches with a sense of seclusion.

 

Higa Road Park

This is a rest spot that you will pass by when heading to Higashi Heiannazaki from Ikema Island. Higa Road Park, located on a hill, offers a spectacular view!

You can feel the magnificent nature such as the gradation of green cliffs and the sea.

 

Shinshiro Coast

The natural beach facing the Pacific Ocean in the southeast of the island has developed coral reefs in the shallow water,Great for snorkelingIt is.

It is recommended for beginners as they can see many tropical fish in the shallows.

It is also recommended for families as it has a rental store and store for marine leisure and other activities.

⬇︎ Click here for tours that include Aragusuku Beach.

 

Yoshino Coast

Yoshino beach running down the mountain to the beach.

The beach is shallow and there are many tropical fish swimming right there.snorkelingRecommended for.

A little further on, colorful corals spread out, and there are enough waves for surfing.

 

Azuma Heinanazaki

Higashi Heiannazaki is marked by a pure white lighthouse. The panoramic view is beautiful even in its wildness.

The lighthouse can be climbed,Panoramic view of the East China Sea and the Pacific OceanCan be done.

The view of the azure sea and the cliffs is a powerful sight.

 

Maisa Beach

There is almost no information about Maja Beach on the Internet or in guidebooks.secluded spotIt is.

There are beaches on both sides of the Maea Fishing Port, with coral and tropical fish in abundance on the right side with the ocean in front of you.

However, keep in mind that the tides are faster at high tide!

 

Miyako Island Central Town

Hirara Town, Miyako Island's largest downtown area, located northwest of Miyako Airport, is a bustling area with inns and restaurants.

Strolling around the town, you will find places of interest that convey the culture of Miyako. The airport and port are also nearby,Convenient to use as a travel base.It is.

 

Taira Town

There is a large collection of island gourmet foods & souvenirs.There are a variety of restaurants offering local cuisine and island foods.You can enjoy gourmet food from lunch to dinner.

Miyako soba noodles, sweets made from fruits, and island vegetables are also recommended.

Learn more about ⬇︎ flat town.

 

Pina Nagama Beach

Painagama Beach is located on Miyako Island.Walking distance from city centerBeach!

It is well maintained and designed to be barrier-free.

Located on the west coast, it is beautiful in the eveningsunsetThe view of the sky at night is full of stars.

 

Miyako Sunset Beach

Miyako Sunset Beach is an artificial beach located near the Irabu Bridge.

As the name implies,Beautiful golden sunsetcan be seen.

Because it is an artificial beach, it is well managed, with a permanent lifeguard and nets to prevent the invasion of habu jellyfish.Shower and toilet facilitiesThe beach is a great place to enjoy swimming in the sea.

 

Kenko Fureai Land Park

Kenko Fureai Land Park is a multi-purpose park with playground equipment, pavilions, showers, and other facilities.

Even if your child sweats from exercising or playing on the playground equipment,Free access to showersThe park also has a seaside creature petting zoo and a flowerbed maze. The park also has a seaside creature interaction corner and a flowerbed maze that can be enjoyed not only by children but also by adults.

 

Pina Gama Sea Sky Sukoyaka Park

The park is located near Panaygama Beach.

whatbasketballThere are coats ofdog runThe park is well known to everyone on the island, including the

There are also cruise ships docked nearby that offer dinner cruises.cruising tourI also recommend that you participate in the

⬇︎ for more information on cruising tours.

 

Miyakojima City Tropical Botanical Garden

A spot where visitors can enjoy subtropical plants unique to Miyako Island.

More than 1,600 species of trees unique to the subtropicsIt grows and is famous as a spot for observing rare wild birds and small animals.

 

Miyakojima City Experience Craft Village

Located within the Miyakojima City Tropical Botanical Garden, this theme park features nine workshops where visitors can experience Miyako Island culture by making local dishes and crafts.

It is a symbol of Okinawa.Shisa making, Miyako textiles, potteryYou can also enjoy

How about your own unique souvenir, the only one in the world?

 

Eupatorium makinoi (species of boneset)

Soedo Sagaribana is located in TairaSagaribana colonyIt is. Sagaribana is a fleeting flower that blooms and falls for only one day during the summer season, and is also called phantom flower or one-night flower.

The blooming season is from June to August, and the white, pink, and red flowers with their sweet vanilla-like fragrance are enchanting.

 

Kamamaling Park

Kamamamine Park is located in the center of Miyako Island,Big red seersucker slideis the symbol of the park.

From the observatory, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Miyakojima City and the Irabu Bridge, and it is fun just to stroll around. It is a popular spot for locals to visit with their families.

 

Miyako Shrine

Miyako Shrine stands on top of a small hill, which at a quick glance looks like a private house.Japan's southernmost shrineIt is.

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 a "place of beauty". Because it is located on top of a small hill, the view is very beautiful, with the Irabu Bridge on the left and Hirara Harbor on the right.

 

Nakagawatori Ranch.

Miyako horses, called "Myakunuma" or "Sumanuma" on the island, are one of the eight native Japanese horse breeds that have been bred on Miyako Island.Natural Monument of Okinawa PrefectureThe name is designated in the

This is a ranch where you can interact with these precious Miyako horses!

 

Irabu Island and Shimoji Island Area

With the opening of the Irabu Island Bridge,30 minutes drive from Miyako AirportThe island of Irabu is now conveniently located.

It is also located on Shimojishima Island.Miyako Shimojishima Airportis designed with a resort-like atmosphere, and with LCCs starting service in April 2019, it is a spot that will attract more and more attention in the future!

 

Irabu Bridge

If you want to enjoy a dynamic drive, this is the place to go!

As a bridge for free passageThe longest in Japan at 3,540 mThe road is a long, winding road with a lot of room for people to walk and bike. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views from various points, including gentle curves and arches, and there are parking spaces at various locations.

Sunset viewing from here is also recommended.

⬇︎ Click here for tours including Irabu Bridge

 

Watakuchi Beach

It is located on Irabu Island,Boasts the best transparency in the Miyako IslandsWatakuchi beach.

The gently arched sandy beach stretches for 800 meters, with showers and toilets, and beach equipment is available for rent!

 

Sawada Beach

Sunsets are beautiful.A unique beach. It is a shallow beach with countless rock formations, and at low tide you can walk out to sea.

You can also pick up rare shells.

 

swan song

Complex topography createsEnjoy the magnificent sceneryThe cape is located in the northern part of Irabu Island.

The boardwalk along the ocean offers views of sheer cliffs, rugged rock formations, and gentle coastline.

 

Blue Cave

The blue cave changes with the clarity of the sea and the way the sun shines.

This way please.Glass boats, snorkel boats and kayaksYou can head out on your own at

Because the sea around the cave is very clear,Snorkeling and diving spotsIt is also popular as a The boardwalk along the ocean offers views of sheer cliffs, rugged rock formations, and gentle coastline.

⬇︎ for more information on tours to the Blue Cave.

⬇︎ recommends tours to the Blue Cave.

 

Makiyama Observatory

The prefecture's natural monuments.gray-faced buzzardThe observatory is in the shape of an "IRABU" (a Japanese character for "the island of Irabu"). The view from the highest point on Irabu Island is breathtaking!

You can also overlook the Irabu Bridge.

 

Phantom island "Yuni no hama" (beach of Yuni)

Yuni no Hama, a phantom island visible from the Irabu Bridge.

On an island made of white sand,Uninhabited island surrounded by 360-degree oceanThe first is the "Kayak". You can go there by kayak or other means.

⬇︎ recommend tours to be held on the beach at Uni.

 

Miyako Shimojishima Airport

Miyako Shimojishima Airport is located on Shimojishima Island and has a resort-like atmosphere.

The stylish interior is sure to excite,lunchCafes, ShopsIt is fun just to stop by the

With international flights now in service, this is a spot to keep an eye on in the future.

 

pond in a garden

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

⬇︎ for recommended tours to be held at Street Pond.

 

Nakanoshima Beach

A natural beach on the west side of Shimoji Island.

This beach is also known as Kayaffa Beach and is a natural beach with pristine nature.

The coral reefs are close by and many tropical fish can be observed.Recommended for snorkelingIt is.

It is also less susceptible to wind, making it possible to enjoy the sea all year round.

⬇︎Click here for tours that include Nakanoshima Beach.

 

17END

17END is located right next to Shimoji Airport and boasts some of the clearest waters in Okinawa Prefecture.

The contrast between the crystal clear water and the color of the white sand is exquisite.

Shimojishima Airportrent-a-cycleIt is recommended to use the service and head there by bicycle!

Click here for tours held at ⬇︎17END

 

You can't miss it in Miyako Island sightseeing!
Five popular activities you must experience

Now, here are some popular activities that you should not miss in order to enjoy Miyako Island to the fullest!

 

SUP Tour

If you want to enjoy the sea of Miyako Island, SUP tour is recommended!

SUP is a paddling technique where you stand on a board and use a paddle to paddle.Stable.You can also sit on it as shown in the photo.

Tours are conducted with life jackets for your peace of mind.

⬇︎ for details of Miyakojima SUP tour!

 

Canoe/Kayak Tours

Canoeing/kayaking is more than SUP.Outstanding stabilityand anyone can enjoy it at a leisurely pace.

They usually seat two people, and couples can enjoy riding together or with their children.

⬇︎ for more information about Miyakojima Canoe/Kayak Tour

 

Snorkeling Tour

I want to enjoy the sea of Miyako Island easily.If so, we recommend the standard snorkeling tour!

Many of the beaches are shallow, so you can quickly observe beautiful tropical fish and coral.

sea turtleSnorkeling is always very popular, and there is a high probability of swimming with sea turtles.

⬇︎ for more information about Miyako Island snorkeling tours.

 

Diving Tours

For those who want to enjoy the deeper waters of Miyako Island.Diving tours are recommended for

Diving is a game of diving into deeper waters with an oxygen cylinder on your back, and there are tours that require a license and those that do not.

Although more challenging than snorkeling tours, the guides in charge of the tour will provide careful support, so please feel free to participate.

⬇︎ for more information about Miyako Island diving tours.

 

caving tour

I introduced it earlier.pumpkin holeThe tour of a pumpkin-shaped limestone cave called the "pumpkin cave" is very popular!

The limestone caves entered from the sea are rare in the world, and this tour is a must-do experience.

There are endless ways to enjoy the tour, such as jumping in and trying mud masks! This is a tour where you can enjoy the unexplored region to the fullest.

⬇︎ for more information on Pumpkin Cave Caving

 

Sightseeing Bus Tour

We introduce tours that can be enjoyed by guests who do not wish to drive, as well as sightseeing tours by bus to various remote islands in the Miyako archipelago!

We know Miyako Island inside and out.Explanation of the bus guideTraveling easily in a cool car while listening to the

⬇︎ for details of Miyako Island Sightseeing Bus Tour

 

Fishing Tour

Fishing tours on Miyako Island allow you to enjoy fishing on a boat!

Even first-timers caught a lot of fish, some of themOkinawa's three finest quality fish (Acanthurus okinawae, species found in Okinawa)can also be caught.

You can also ask a restaurant to cook and eat the fish you catch. The fish you catch yourself are exquisite!

⬇︎ for more information about Miyako Island Fishing Tour

 

marine sports

Marine sports are recommended for active enjoyment of the sea of Miyakojima.

Banana boating and tubingYou can enjoy the ocean to the fullest in such places as

This tour is safe and enjoyable for first-timers as they wear safety equipment.

⬇︎ for more information about Miyakojima Marine Sports

 

cruising tour

Cruising tours on Miyako Island allow you to enjoy meals and scenery on the sea, which is praised as Miyako blue.

View from the shipsunsetschool (e.g. of ikebana)It is truly an extraordinary experience itself.

⬇︎ for more information about Miyako Island Cruising Tour

 

Night Tour

A night tour is recommended if you want to enjoy Miyako Island until nighttime.

Tropical creatures such as coconut crabs, which are not usually seen on Miyako Island, inhabit the island.

In addition, this tour also allows you to enjoy the most fascinating part of the night, the starry sky.

Click here for details of Miyako Island Night Tour↓.

 

summary

Did you find any sights you would like to visit?

We have tried to cover all kinds of places from the standard to the hidden places. We wish you a wonderful trip to Miyako Island!

⬇︎ Read the article at ⬇︎