Miyako Island
Japan's Most Beautiful Beaches and Crystal Clear Waters
Miyako Island, located about 300km southwest of Okinawa's main island, has been inhabited since prehistoric times and was an important part of the Ryukyu Kingdom's maritime trading network. The island's culture developed distinctively from mainland Okinawa, with unique traditions, dialect, and customs.
Unlike many other islands, Miyako has no rivers, resulting in exceptionally clear ocean waters as there is no sediment runoff. The island's coral reefs are among the healthiest in Japan, supporting rich marine biodiversity. Miyako Blue, the distinctive color of the surrounding waters, has become famous worldwide.
In recent years, the 3,540-meter Irabu Bridge opened in 2015, connecting Miyako Island to neighboring Irabu Island and becoming Japan's longest toll-free bridge. This infrastructure, combined with direct flights from major cities, has made the island increasingly accessible while maintaining its pristine natural beauty.
Key Highlights
- Consistently ranked as Japan's #1 beach destination
- Yonaha Maehama Beach: 7km of pure white sand
- Crystal-clear 'Miyako Blue' waters with 50m+ visibility
- No rivers means exceptionally pure ocean water
- Japan's longest toll-free bridge to Irabu Island
- World-class snorkeling and diving in healthy coral reefs
Access Information
Location
Miyako Island, Miyakojima, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Miyako Airport (served by multiple airlines)
- • Hirara Port (ferry from Okinawa main island)
Opening Hours
Island accessible 24 hours; beaches and facilities have varying hours
Admission Fee
Free admission to beaches; car rental recommended for island exploration
How to Get There
From Tokyo (Haneda)
Direct flight to Miyako Airport
3 hours
From Osaka (Kansai)
Direct flight to Miyako Airport
2.5 hours
From Naha Airport
Direct flight (multiple daily flights)
50 minutes
From Naha
Ferry (less frequent, mainly cargo)
8-13 hours
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Rent a Car Essential
Public transportation is very limited on Miyako Island. Renting a car is essential to explore the beaches and attractions. Book in advance, especially during peak seasons (July-August and Golden Week).
Best Season: April-June & October
Visit in late spring or autumn for perfect weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. July-August is very hot and crowded. Typhoon season runs from late summer through October, though early October is usually safe.
Must-Visit Beaches
Don't miss Yonaha Maehama Beach (7km white sand), Sunayama Beach (scenic rock arch), Yoshino Beach (excellent snorkeling), and Aragusuku Beach (secluded paradise). Each has unique characteristics.
Outstanding Snorkeling and Diving
Miyako offers world-class underwater experiences with 50m+ visibility. Popular spots include Imgya Marine Garden, Yabiji Reef (Japan's largest coral reef), and Irabu Island caves. Rent or bring snorkel gear.
Sun Protection Absolutely Critical
UV rays are intense year-round. Bring reef-safe sunscreen (chemical sunscreen damages coral), sun hat, rash guard, and sunglasses. Reapply sunscreen frequently, especially after swimming.
Cross the Irabu Bridge
Drive across the stunning 3.5km Irabu Bridge for spectacular ocean views and access to Irabu and Shimoji Islands. The viewpoints on the islands offer incredible photo opportunities of the bridge.
Try Local Miyako Cuisine
Enjoy fresh seafood, Miyako soba (distinct from Okinawa soba), and tropical fruits like mango and dragon fruit. Visit the public market in Hirara for local food and souvenirs.
Respect Marine Environment
Use only reef-safe sunscreen, don't touch or step on coral, and take all trash with you. The pristine condition of Miyako's waters depends on visitor responsibility.
FAQ
How long should I spend on Miyako Island?
Most visitors spend 3-4 days to fully explore the island's beaches and attractions. You could cover the main highlights in 2 days with a car, but 4-5 days allows for relaxing beach time, snorkeling trips, and island-hopping to Irabu and Shimoji. A week is ideal for diving enthusiasts.
Is renting a car absolutely necessary on Miyako Island?
Yes, a car is essential. Public buses are extremely limited with infrequent schedules, and taxis are expensive for island touring. The beaches are spread across the island, and driving is the only practical way to explore. Book your rental car well in advance, especially during peak season, as availability is limited.
Which beach should I visit first on Miyako Island?
Start with Yonaha Maehama Beach - it's the most famous with 7km of pristine white sand and easy facilities. Then visit Sunayama Beach for its iconic rock arch (15 minutes). Save Yoshino Beach for snorkeling and Aragusuku Beach for a secluded experience. Each beach has unique appeal worth exploring.
Is Miyako Island good for snorkeling?
Absolutely! Miyako is one of Japan's best snorkeling destinations with 50m+ water visibility. Top spots include Yoshino Beach and Imgya Marine Garden for easy shore snorkeling, and Yabiji Reef (boat tour required) for seeing Japan's largest coral reef. Bring or rent reef-safe snorkel gear.
When is typhoon season and should I avoid it?
Typhoon season runs from July through October, peaking in August-September. However, early October usually has stable weather with fewer crowds. Late spring (April-June) offers the best combination of sunny weather and calm seas. Check weather forecasts closely if visiting during typhoon season, and consider travel insurance.
Are the beaches on Miyako Island crowded?
Yonaha Maehama and Sunayama can get busy during peak season (July-August) and Japanese holidays, but they're never as crowded as mainland beaches. Visit early morning (before 10am) for the best experience. Lesser-known beaches like Aragusuku and Boraga remain peaceful even during busy periods.
Do I need diving certification to enjoy Miyako's underwater world?
No certification is needed for excellent snorkeling experiences accessible from shore. However, certified divers can explore famous cave systems and deeper reefs around Irabu Island. Many shops offer beginner diving courses if you want to learn. Snorkeling alone offers spectacular coral and tropical fish viewing.
Is Miyako Island suitable for families with young children?
Yes! Yonaha Maehama Beach has shallow, calm waters perfect for children, plus facilities like showers and beach equipment rentals. Imgya Marine Garden has a protected lagoon ideal for kids. However, rent a car with child seats, bring plenty of sun protection, and note that some remote beaches lack facilities.
What should I do on rainy days in Miyako Island?
Visit the Miyakojima City Museum, explore the underground German Culture Village, or browse the Hirara public market for local products. Many visitors take indoor cooking classes or spa treatments at resort hotels. Rain usually doesn't last all day in Okinawa, so beach visits may still be possible.
Are there luggage storage facilities on Miyako Island?
Miyako Airport has coin lockers for short-term storage, but space is limited. Most hotels offer luggage storage for guests on checkout day. If arriving early or departing late, ask your hotel or rental car company - many provide temporary storage. Carrying luggage to beaches is impractical with limited parking.
Can I island-hop from Miyako to other islands?
Yes! You can drive across Irabu Bridge (free) to explore Irabu and Shimoji Islands with spectacular viewpoints. Ferry services connect to Tarama Island and Minna Island for day trips. More distant islands like Ishigaki require flights. Most visitors focus on Miyako-Irabu-Shimoji which are easily accessible by car.
What's the water temperature like for swimming?
Water temperature ranges from 21-23°C (70-73°F) in winter to 28-30°C (82-86°F) in summer. Swimming without a wetsuit is comfortable from May through October. Winter swimming (November-March) is possible but chilly - locals use wetsuits. Peak swimming season is June through September with bathwater-warm conditions.
Are there any supermarkets or convenience stores on the island?
Yes, Hirara town has several supermarkets (MaxValu, San-A) and convenience stores (Family Mart, Lawson). Stock up on snacks, drinks, and beach supplies here. Remote areas have limited shops, so buy essentials before heading to distant beaches. Convenience stores are scarce outside Hirara, so plan accordingly.
What marine life can I expect to see while snorkeling?
You'll commonly see colorful tropical fish like parrotfish, butterflyfish, and clownfish (Nemo) in healthy coral gardens. Sea turtles frequent Yoshino Beach and Imgya Marine Garden. Lucky snorkelers spot manta rays and reef sharks. The coral diversity is exceptional, with vibrant colors and formations throughout Miyako's clear waters.
Is English widely spoken on Miyako Island?
English is limited outside major hotels and rental car agencies. Most locals speak Japanese or Miyako dialect. Download translation apps, and bring hotel/destination addresses in Japanese. Rental car GPS systems often have English, but learn to recognize key location names in Japanese. Basic Japanese phrases are very helpful.
What are the best photography spots on Miyako Island?
Must-visit photo locations include Sunayama Beach's iconic rock arch (best at sunset), Irabu Bridge from Makiyama Observatory, the viewpoint at 17END on Shimoji Island (where runway meets ocean), and Cape Higashi-Hennazaki lighthouse. Yonaha Maehama offers stunning sunrise shots. The Miyako Blue water color is spectacular in midday sun.
Are there dangerous marine creatures I should worry about?
Habu jellyfish (box jellyfish) appear May-October and can be dangerous - many beaches have protective nets and warning signs. Avoid touching any marine life. Stonefish and sea urchins hide in shallow waters - wear water shoes. Most beaches have first aid stations. Check for warning flags and follow local safety guidance.
What accommodation options are available on Miyako Island?
Options range from luxury beach resorts (Miyakojima Tokyu Hotel, Shigira Resort) to budget business hotels in Hirara and guesthouses near beaches. Booking early is crucial, especially for summer and holidays. Many visitors prefer staying near Yonaha Maehama Beach or in central Hirara for convenience to restaurants and shops.
Can I find ATMs that accept international cards?
7-Eleven, Family Mart, and Lawson ATMs generally accept international cards (Visa, Mastercard, Plus). Post Office ATMs also work but have limited hours. Major hotels may have ATMs but confirm compatibility. Bring sufficient cash as many small restaurants, beach shops, and tour operators are cash-only.
What local Miyako specialties should I try?
Don't miss Miyako soba (unique thin noodles different from Okinawa soba), fresh sashimi and seafood at local restaurants, tropical fruits including Miyako mangoes and dragon fruit in season, and awamori (Okinawan spirits) from local distilleries. Try taco rice and blue seal ice cream - local favorites throughout Okinawa.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Cape Manzamo
Dramatic limestone cliff formation resembling an elephant's trunk, offering spectacular ocean views and one of Okinawa's most iconic natural landmarks.
Cape Zanpa
A dramatic coastal promontory on Okinawa's western shore featuring towering limestone cliffs, a historic white lighthouse, crystal-clear waters, and spectacular sunset views over the East China Sea
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
One of the world's largest aquariums, featuring the massive Kuroshio Sea tank with whale sharks, manta rays, and thousands of marine species from Okinawa's waters.
Iriomote Island
Japan's last frontier - a jungle-covered island where 90% remains pristine wilderness, home to endangered Iriomote wildcats, mangrove rivers, and UNESCO World Heritage nature.
Ishigaki Island
Tropical paradise and gateway to the Yaeyama Islands, offering pristine beaches, coral reefs, jungle mountains, and Japan's best stargazing under protected dark skies.
Kokusai Dori Street
Naha's vibrant main street stretching 1.6 kilometers, lined with shops selling Okinawan souvenirs, local foods, island crafts, and entertainment venues, embodying the energy and culture of modern Okinawa
Kouri Island
Small romantic island connected by a spectacular 2km bridge offering emerald waters, pristine beaches, and Okinawan legend as the birthplace of humanity.
Naminoue Shrine
Okinawa's most important Shinto shrine dramatically perched on a cliff above the ocean, blending Ryukyuan and mainland Japanese religious traditions with spectacular coastal views in the heart of Naha