Explore the Enchanting Beauty of Miyako Island, the Japan's Most Exquisite Beaches!

Miyako Island (Japanese: 宮古島／みやこじま) is the largest island in the Miyako Archipelago, part of the Ryukyu Islands in Japan. Comprising eight islands, including Ogamijima and Kurimajima, it is situated approximately 300 kilometers from Okinawa Island. Covering a total area of 158.87 square kilometers, with a circumference of 117.5 kilometers, Miyako Island ranks as the fourth largest island in the Okinawa Archipelago. Renowned for its picturesque landscapes, Miyako Island offers the unique allure of Eastern Asia's foremost Naha Maehama Beach, featuring azure waters, dazzling white sand, a white lighthouse, and the Irabu Bridge. Immerse yourself in the exclusive romantic ambiance of this island, far removed from urban life.

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I Yearn to Embrace it! Miyako Island's Exquisite 5 Beaches

Naha Maehama Beach

When visiting Miyako Island, Naha Maehama Beach (与那覇前浜ビーチ) is an essential destination to capture the essence of this picturesque locale. Noteworthy for its vivid blue waters and pearl-like shimmering white sand, Naha Maehama Beach stands out for its distinctive contrast. The unique combination of sky and sea creates a breathtaking view, with the beautiful blue gradient extending to the horizon, making it one of Miyako Island's iconic beaches.

The beach boasts fine pink sand, tempting you to stroll barefoot along its shores, and the dazzling white color adds a special touch. Recognized as Miyako Island's premier sunset spot, the sun casting its rays on the pristine beach creates a spectacular natural spectacle, transitioning from orange to deep blue hues in the sky. Additionally, don't miss the opportunity to gaze at the star-studded sky, reminiscent of scattered grains of sand.

Every year on the first Sunday of April, Naha Maehama Beach hosts a maritime event with the theme "～サンゴの楽園未来まで集まれ遊ぼう～宮古島の海びらき" ("Gather and Play in the Future of the Coral Paradise - Miyako Island's Sea Opening"). The beach provides shower facilities, changing rooms, toilets, and shops where you can use items for a nominal fee. Nearby water sports shops offer a variety of equipment for rent, including parasol sets, snorkeling gear, and jet skis, along with activities such as banana boat rides, sea kayaking, water skiing, and jet skiing.

Access: 10 minutes by car from Miyako Airport, making it easily accessible.
Facilities: Shower ✓, Toilet ✓, Shop ✓

Sunayama Beach

Sunayama Beach (砂山ビーチ) features a brilliant blue sea, pristine white sand, and lush green vegetation surrounding natural arch-shaped rocks, creating a picturesque landscape that will leave a lasting impression. Another advantage of Sunayama Beach is its easy accessibility from the city, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. From Sunayama Beach, you can enjoy a distant view of Miyako Island's beautiful scenery! The combination of crystal-clear seawater, pure white sand, and the curved rock wall collectively forms a play of light and shadow, a natural masterpiece.

Access: 20 minutes by car from Miyako Airport.
Facilities: Shower ✓, Toilet ✓, Shop ✓ (Summer only)

Yoshino Beach

If you're looking to snorkel, Yoshino Beach is the place to be! Located on the eastern side of Miyako Island, the high transparency of the seawater and numerous coral reefs make it a haven for charming tropical fish. With tidal currents, be cautious not to be carried away by the fish. It is also a renowned turtle nesting site, where you can observe adorable turtles laying their eggs and witness the birth of baby turtles!

Access: 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport.
Facilities: Shower ✓, Toilet ✓, Shop ✓

Aragusuku Coast

Aragusuku Coast (あらぐすくかいがん), approximately a 10-minute drive from Yoshino Seaside Beach, stands out as the perfect beach for snorkeling. Many colorful tropical fish gather around the coral, resembling a vibrant mosaic on the ocean floor. The beach is surrounded by dense trees, offering a blend of the blue and green hues of the sea.

Acces: 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport.
Facilities: Shower ✓, Toilet ✓, Shop ✓ (Summer only)

Yabiji

Yabiji (やびじ) is one of Japan's largest coral reefs, consisting of over 100 large and small coral reefs. Taking a boat to Yabiji allows you to witness the vast expanse of coral reefs. Snorkeling is excellent, but diving is also recommended, providing the joy of strolling underwater. The total area of the coral reefs is equivalent to that of Miyako Island and was designated as a natural monument in 2013. The tide drops from spring to summer, with the highest ebb occurring on March 3rd of the lunar calendar.

In comparison to 15 years ago, the quantity and variety of Yabiji's coral have decreased. Reasons include damage caused by typhoons, rising sea temperatures, and bleaching caused by crown-of-thorns starfish feeding. It takes at least 5 to 10 years for dead coral reefs to recover, while ecosystems, including coral reefs, require even more extended periods for restoration.

Access: 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport to Ikema Port, then about 20 minutes from Ikema Port.
Facilities: Shower ✕, Toilet ✕, Shop ✕

Bridges and Lighthouses! Five Scenic Spots for a Distant View of "Miyako Blue"

There is a type of blue called "Miyako Blue," unique to Miyako Island. The surrounding seas of Miyako Island are bathed in abundant sunlight, refracting through the coral reefs on the seabed, creating a vibrant and colorful ocean. This distinctive color is referred to as "Miyako Blue." How do you envision Miyako Blue? The accurate Miyako Blue color code is as follows:

#5fced8
RGB R:95 G:206 B:216
CMYK C:59% M:0% Y:23%

Here are five fantastic locations where you can enjoy the beautiful Miyako Blue!

Higashihennazaki

Approximately a 40-minute drive from Miyako Airport. At the easternmost tip of the triangular Miyako Island, you can witness the magnificent scenery of Higashihennazaki. Higashihennazaki is a narrow, 2-kilometer-long cape, often caressed by a gentle breeze. Immersed in an incredibly refreshing sensation without the hustle and bustle of the city, you can feel the wind on your skin, accompanied only by the roaring sound of the ocean and the rustling of the wind. You can ascend the beautiful white lighthouse and enjoy the expansive view of the Pacific Ocean in its azure splendor. Additionally, as the easternmost point of Miyako Island, Higashihennazaki is popular for its breathtaking sunrise, attracting many early-morning visitors.

Access: 35 minutes by car from Miyako Airport.

Irabu Ohashi Bridge

Irabu Ohashi Bridge, with a total length of 3,540 meters, opened in 2015, maintaining the record as Japan's longest toll-free bridge. This bridge allows easy car access to Irabu Island, previously only accessible by boat, connecting Miyako Island to Irabu Island and Shimojishima.

Shimojishima features the Miyako Shimojishima Airport terminal, inaugurated in 2019, renowned as a prominent aircraft flight training ground. The takeoffs and landings are remarkably realistic, making it a popular sightseeing spot for aviation enthusiasts and families with children. You can experience the close-up landing and takeoff of planes, ensuring an engaging experience beyond mere observation.

Access: Irabu Ohashi Bridge is approximately 7.3 kilometers from Miyako Airport, a 10-15 minute drive. You can also rent a bicycle from Miyako Island to reach there. If taking a bus, it takes about 30 minutes, with the nearest bus stop being "Family Mart Miyako Kubeshima Store" from the Ryukyu Bus.

Ikema Ohashi Bridge

The 1425-meter-long Ikema Ohashi Bridge, inaugurated in February 1992, connects Ikema Island and Miyako Island. On the north side of Ikema Island lies Japan's largest plate-like coral reef group, "Yabiji," surrounding Ikema Island, known as "Ikema Blue." This area is characterized by its high transparency and beautiful deep blue gradient, resembling a paradise for driving enthusiasts. Renowned for its spectacular ocean sunsets, it is a popular spot.

Access: 35 minutes by car from Miyako Airport.

Kurima Ohashi Bridge

Opened in March 1995, Kurima Ohashi Bridge is Japan's longest agricultural road bridge. Despite being an agricultural bridge, Kurima Ohashi Bridge boasts a beautiful white structure, extending linearly over the emerald coral reef sea. A popular destination for road trips, it offers views of the lush green scenery of Kurima Island and the white sandy beaches of Nahabira in Miyako Island. From any angle, you can capture picturesque landscapes like postcards. Parking and stopping on Kurima Ohashi Bridge are prohibited, encouraging visitors to leisurely stroll and appreciate the beautiful beach of Nahabira.

Acces: 15 minutes by car from Miyako Airport.

Nishihennazaki

Nishihennazaki (にしへんなざき) is the westernmost and northernmost cape of Miyako Island, adorned with wind turbines along its sides. Relax on the observation deck, unwind, and enjoy the beautiful sunset while gazing at the Ikema Ohashi Bridge over the azure sea. Forget about the passage of time in this tranquil setting.

Access: 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport.

Must-Buy Popular Souvenirs when Visiting Miyako Island!

Monte Dor Banana Cake

Monte Dor's mini banana cake, also chosen as a snack in Japan Airlines' domestic first class, has been beloved in Miyako Island for over 40 years. Improved for even more deliciousness and safety, each cake is handcrafted, offering a simple and mild taste. Despite its small size (42g per slice), it exudes a rich banana aroma. Made without preservatives and artificial colors, it is a safe treat even for children.

【Price】

Banana Cake: 680 JPY (tax included)
Mini Banana Cake (6 pieces): 1,166 JPY (tax included)

Available at: Monte Dor Main Store, MaxValu Miyako Minami Store, and others.

Yuki Shio (Snow Salt)

Yuki Shio, a powdered salt, originates from the beautiful waters around Miyako Island. It is produced from underground seawater, aiming to retain as many sea minerals as possible. Flowing through Ryukyu limestone, this underground seawater is characterized by its high mineral content.

Price:

Snow Salt (Powder Bag: 120g): 648 JPY (tax included)

Available at:

Yuki Shio Art Museum, Miyako Airport Store, and others.

Snow Salt Chin-Suko

Chin-Suko is a famous local delicacy in Okinawa, and Snow Salt Chin-Suko (雪盐ちんすこう) is a variety crafted with underground seawater from Miyako Island, known as Snow Salt. It has received the Monde Selection Gold Award and the International Best Quality Award for three consecutive years. Its distinctive features include a moderate sweetness with a hint of saltiness, enhancing the original sweetness of Chin-Suko. The key to its popularity lies in its refreshing taste and ease of consumption. Packaged individually, it is also recommended as a delightful gift item.

Price:
- Snow Salt Chin-Suko (12 pieces): 310 JPY (tax included)
Available at:
- Specialized shops across Okinawa, including Miyako Island, hotels, airports, etc.

Snow Salt Ring Cake

The Snow Salt Tree-ring Cake is a unique delicacy exclusive to Miyako Island. The dough is crafted using eggs produced on Miyako Island and is baked with the addition of Snow Salt. There are two distinct varieties: one is a soft and moist type baked at a lower temperature, and the other is a hard type baked at a higher temperature, resulting in a crispy texture. It is recommended to try both varieties, allowing you to savor and compare the delightful flavors as you indulge.

Price:
- Snow Salt Ring Cake (Hard Type): 1,350 JPY
Available at:
- Snow Salt Museum, Miyako Island Airport, etc.

Miyako Island Apple Cider with Snow Salt

Miyako Island Cider is an apple cider crafted using Snow Salt made from Miyako Island seawater. The subtle saltiness of the Snow Salt complements the sweetness and carbonation of the apple cider, creating a harmonious blend. As the description suggests, it captures the essence of the Miyako Island sea, making it a beverage that allows you to experience the flavors of the island. It is recommended to be enjoyed chilled. Additionally, with the purchase of six bottles, you will receive a charming box adorned with a cute Shisa design, making it an ideal gift.

Price: Miyako Island Apple Cider (Snow Salt Flavor): 250 Japanese Yen (Including Tax)

Available at:

Snow Salt Museum
Miyako Island Airport Shop

Koja Soba

Koja Soba（古謝宮古そば）, a buckwheat noodle cherished by locals, is often hailed with the sentiment, "When one envisions Miyako soba, it is inevitably the artisanal craft of Furuze Soba that comes to mind." This distinctive Miyako soba, characterized by its slender and elongated strands, stands out in the realm of Okinawan buckwheat noodles crafted with wheat flour. The noodles boast a resilient texture, offering a delightful chewiness. Rooted in tradition and preserved since 1932 (Showa 7), this Miyako soba maintains its authentic flavor, seamlessly embracing the contemporary palate.

Prices: Miyako Soba Set (for 2 people): 2,190 Japanese Yen (within the prefecture), 2,650 Japanese Yen (outside the prefecture)

Available at: Kojasoba-ya Address: 1517-1 Shimosato, Hirara, Miyakojima City, Okinawa

Website: kojasoba.com

Soramoyo Grocery

Soramoyo (そらもよう) is an emporium overseen by a couple who transplanted themselves to Miyako Island. Renowned for its vibrant array of bags and accessories, each adorned with motifs such as fish, scales, and the vast expanse of the sea, every piece is meticulously crafted in the atelier behind the store. Hence, a noteworthy emphasis is placed on customizable combinations of leather hues and embroidery. Additionally, the establishment curates a selection of wares, including linen dresses and casual wear, aligning seamlessly with the lifestyle prevalent in Miyako Island.

Price:

Fish Scale Bag: Starting from 17,900 Japanese Yen
Smartphone Case: Starting from 7,500 Japanese Yen
Key Case: Starting from 3,500 Japanese Yen
Key Cover: Starting from 950 Japanese Yen

Available at: Soramoyo Address: 572-3 1F Nishi, Shimosato, Hirara, Miyakojima City, Okinawa

Website: soramoyo.ocnk.net

Nangoku Grocery Tida

Southland Sundries Tida is an emporium specializing in handcrafted adornments, trinkets, and vestments. They purvey an array of singular wares, including Tida's original canvas tote, embellished with magnetic fastenings, evoking an inclination to accompany you to the seashore. Moreover, there are accessories themed around the Ryukyuan fairy, Kijimuna. Adjacent to the emporium lies the café, "Shima Café Tounkaraya," where one can savor delectable fare while admiring the panoramic vista of the ocean from the elevated vantage point. Additionally, the café offers a facility for indulging in the art of painting.