Miyakojima, also known as Miyako Island, is a picturesque destination in the Okinawa Prefecture of Japan.
Located 300 kilometres south of Okinawa Main Island, Miyakojima offers a serene escape with its pristine beaches and year-round mild weather.
If you’re flying in, you’ll arrive at Miyako Airport, which serves domestic flights from key Japanese cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Naha.
Airlines such as ANA and JAL operate regular flights there.
We are based in Nagoya, but there are no direct flights to Miyakojima.
So we changed planes in Naha.
Upon landing, you can rent a car or catch a taxi, though renting a car is the best way to get around as it allows you to go whenever you want.
The various rental car companies greet everyone and offer free shuttle buses to their offices to get your car.
Bring your driving licence if you plan to rent a car; this will ensure a seamless travel experience during your stay.
From there, it’s off to your hotel or villa.
What to do in Miyakojima?
For tourists eager to explore Japan’s beachside beauty, Miyakojima doesn’t disappoint.
The island’s natural beauty makes it a good choice for anyone wanting to relax, get some sun on one of the many white sandy beaches or enjoy marine activities.
It’s an excellent place for couples and families with plenty of things to do that cater to all.
The island is famous for various foods, such as brown sugar, purple sweet potatoes, and tropical fruits like Mangoes.
It also has Japan’s longest toll-free bridge across an emerald-green sea.
Enjoy the Beautiful Beaches
A quick look on Google Maps revealed several beaches that we wanted to visit, and each one was amazing.
Here are the best white sand beaches that we found.
Yonaha Maehama Beach
Recognised as one of Japan’s most beautiful beaches, Yonaha Maehama Beach offers seven kilometres of exquisite white sand contrasted with emerald waters.
It looks out over the East China Sea and is ideal for swimming or sunbathing.
Even in March, when we visited, it was lovely and warm, and the shallow water made it very safe.
I’d go so far as to say that this is one of the top 5 beaches I have ever been to.
Aragusuku beach
This is a beautiful and popular beach on the west coast of Miyakojima, looking out over the Pacific Ocean.
You’ll need a car to get there, and they have a free parking lot very close to the beach
From there, it’s a 30-second walk to the beach.
The sand is beautiful, but there are a few pebbles and rocks, so walking is not as smooth as on Yoneha Beach.
Musunun Beach
This is a little off the beaten track on Kurima Island.
There is space for about 5 or 6 cars at the beach’s edge, but we were fine parking there.
At first, you’ll encounter a rugged coastline that you can walk along.
Be careful, though, as there is a drop in the water, so do not stray too close to the edge.
A short walk reveals several secluded beaches.
This place is 100% natural, so no facilities or toilets exist.
Explore The Islands and Bridges
You can take a scenic drive and visit some smaller islands by car.
This is a great way to spend a day and explore some of the island’s natural wonders.
There are 12 islands in total, but these are the best ones to check out.
Irabu Island
Connecting to Irabu Island, the Irabu Bridge stands as an architectural marvel and is one of the longest toll-free bridges in Japan.
The drive over Irabu Ohashi offers spectacular oceanic views.
If you are the driver, just be careful to keep your eyes on the road!
We had some Miyako soba on the island for a light meal, and it was delicious.
Kurima Island
The peaceful small island of Kurima is home to various crops, including sugarcane and tobacco.
The beautiful environment, laid-back island atmosphere, and unique handicrafts make this a must-visit destination.
It is easy to get to Kurima Island by car from Miyako Island.
However, this island can only be reached indirectly by plane or ferry.
We enjoyed Miyako Beef curry in Yakka Yakka cafe, a chic, relaxed place with a cool vibe.
We then had a fantastic smoothie at Aosora Parlor—a chilled smoothie cafe with hammocks outside.
It is easy to get to Kurima Island by car from Miyako Island and remember that everyone drives slowly.
Sightseeing and Landmarks
Miyakojima offers an array of picturesque landmarks and must-see sights that capture its unique beauty.
From the renowned Cape Nishi Hennazaki with its iconic lighthouse to the stunning views atop Ikema Ohashi Bridge and the lush expanse of Hirara Tropical Botanical Garden, these attractions will captivate any traveller.
Cape Nishi Hennazaki
This cape is a beacon for nature lovers and photographers alike, thanks to its breathtaking arch and a well-maintained lighthouse that offers panoramic views.
Ikema Ohashi Bridge
Connecting Miyakojima to the smaller Ikema Island, the Ikema Ohashi Bridge is a feat of engineering that provides an observatory-like experience.
As you drive across, the azure waters create a picture-perfect moment, especially at sunset.
Miyakojima City Botanical Garden
This is a great place to spend a relaxing hour near the airport.
It’s free to enter, and you can wander around at your own pace and enjoy all the tropical flowers and trees.
It was destroyed during the war but reopened in 1978.
They offer pottery, shell crafting, and even Okinawan Kimono and Yukata dressing experiences if you have time.
Other Islands
If you have time, try a short drive to either Shimoji or Ikema Island.
Tooriike is a walkway on Shimoji Island that encircles two spectacular marine ponds linked by an underwater cavern system to the sea and one another.
Ikema Island is a tiny island with wetlands and unique rock formations.
It is connected to Miyako Island at its northern point by Ikema Bridge.
Water Adventure
Miyakojima, like much of Okinawa, is an exceptional destination for anyone who loves water sports.
The crystal clear turquoise waters teeming with marine life make it a paradise for anyone keen on diving or snorkelling.
Snorkelling With Sea Turtles
We wanted to do this the most, and it did not disappoint.
We were lucky to see many marine life, from the famous sea turtles to tropical fish and coral reefs.
Our guide, Kazu, was super friendly and took a bunch of videos and photos for us.
Check out his tour here.
Parasailing
The next day, we all went parasailing.
While there are a few places you can choose from, we did it not far from Yamaha Maehama beach.
It’s right next to the new Miyako Hilton Hotel.
A 30-minute boat ride and then 10 minutes parasailing each.
If you are a family, you can do tandem or triple rides, but naturally, kids must be accompanied by an adult.
Where to stay?
We spent 4 days at the Breeze Bay Marina, part of the Shigira Seven Miles resort.
The rooms here all have ocean views.
And the breakfast buffet with brown sugar French toast and fresh fruit was amazing.
Opposite the hotel is a great Okinawan food market, a fantastic place to enjoy dinner and a few beers.
What Souvenirs to buy?
There are souvenir shops all over the island.
Most sell the same stuff, so shop around if the price is too high.
There are many fun gifts, from local snacks and food items to Shisa pottery and glass to clothing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Exploring Miyakojima is always an adventure, no matter the time of year.
Here are some of the questions you often ask when planning your visit.
What are the top activities to experience in Miyakojima?
Miyakojima has become popular for travellers seeking this tropical paradise’s sun-drenched beauty and rich culture in recent years.
It has amazing barrier reefs and some of the best beaches in the region.
At the same time, the island’s tropical climate makes it a diving mecca, teeming with all kinds of tropical fish.
How can I make the most of a single-day visit to Miyakojima?
If you have just one day, start with a sunrise at Maehama Beach, followed by a visit to the nearby coral reefs for snorkelling.
You can end your day with a sunset at the East Henna Cape.
Is it easy to get to?
With direct flights from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport and Osaka’s Kansai Airport, reaching this distant gem has never been easier.
Can you suggest some well-rated accommodations in Miyakojima?
Several accommodations are available, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Shigira Seven Miles Resort offers luxury, while guesthouses like Painagama Beach House provide a cosy stay.
