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Guide to Miyakojima

Beyond the well-traveled paths of mainland Japan and the busy shores of Okinawa’s main island lies Miyakojima, a small tropical paradise where sugar cane fields stretch to meet some of Asia’s most stunning beaches. Here, crystal-clear waters harbor vibrant coral reefs, and bridges span impossibly blue seas to connect a constellation of islands. While the island draws visitors with its world-class snorkeling and diving spots, the laid-back island lifestyle and friendly local atmosphere make Miyakojima more than just another tropical getaway.

 

How to get to Miyakojima

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Miyako Airport connects the island with major Japanese cities through direct flights from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport (3.5 hours), Osaka’s Kansai Airport (2.5 hours), and Naha Airport in Okinawa (55 minutes). Most visitors arrive via Naha, where frequent daily flights make Miyakojima easily accessible as part of a larger Okinawan adventure.

Getting around Miyakojima

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Unlike Okinawa’s main island, public transportation on Miyakojima is limited. Renting a car at the airport is highly recommended and offers the freedom to explore the island's hidden beaches and remote attractions. The island’s well-maintained roads, including the scenic bridges connecting to small islands, make driving a pleasure. For those who prefer not to drive, renting a bicycle works well for exploring the compact central area.

Tourist attractions

Yohana Maehama Beach

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Yohana Maehama Beach stands as the island's crown jewel, with four miles (seven kilometers) of white sand and turquoise water consistently ranking among Japan’s finest beaches. The shallow waters make it perfect for families, while the steady breezes attract windsurfers from across the globe.

Irabu Bridge

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The Irabu Bridge, Japan’s longest toll-free bridge, offers a stunning two-mile (three-kilometer) drive across crystal-clear waters to Irabu Island. Along the way, visitors can take in views that seem to stretch endlessly across the Pacific, and if they’re lucky, you’ll spot sea turtles swimming in the water below.

Yoshino Beach

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For snorkelers and divers, Miyakojima’s coral reefs provide endless exploration. The Yoshino Reef, accessible right from Yoshino Beach, offers some of the island's best snorkeling, while diving shops around the island lead expeditions to spots where sea turtles and manta rays are regular visitors.

Local foods

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Miyakojima’s cuisine tells the story of its unique position between Japan and the tropics. Fresh seafood dominates local menus, particularly tuna prepared as sashimi or in traditional Okinawan dishes. The island’s signature catch, mozuku seaweed, appears in soups and salads and is prized locally for both its flavor and health benefits.

Seasonal attractions

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Miyakojima’s subtropical climate shapes visitor experiences throughout the year. July typically offers the most favorable conditions, falling into a sweet spot between the early summer rainy season (May to June) and the late summer typhoon season. During this time, the island comes alive with festivals, including the “East-West Great Tug-of-War” and Miyakojima Summer Festival.

From November through April, the island sees milder temperatures with occasional cool days. This period brings fewer crowds and better accommodation rates, making it ideal for visitors seeking a quieter island experience.

Nearby destinations

Sawadanohama Beach

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Small islands connected by bridges each offer distinct experiences. Irabu Island charms visitors with its caves and grottos and the Sawadanohama Beach, where beached coral formations stretch out as far as the eye can see.

Ikema Island

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Ikema Island, accessible by bridge, provides excellent snorkeling spots with around 100 coral reef formations! Designated as a wildlife sanctuary, Ikema Island offers a fascinating glimpse into these undisturbed habitats.

Kurima Island

If you’re seeking a more intimate retreat, Kurima Island is the perfect spot. It is also accessible from Miyakojima by a scenic bridge. Kurima Island offers quiet beaches, a variety of new boutiques, and chic cafes. 

 

Where to stay

1. Hotel Santa Barbara Miyakojima Resort

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Just five minutes from Miyako Airport, with convenient pickup services available, Hotel Santa Barbara Miyakojima Resort offers an apartment-style experience for island explorers. With plenty of onsite parking and a 15-minute drive to the famous Maehama Beach, this hotel is perfect for those who choose to rent a car or take a taxi during their trip.

Each room is a fully furnished apartment with a kitchenette and a comfortable living space where guests can truly feel at home. While there’s no on-site restaurant, the full kitchen facilities in every room let visitors enjoy the freedom of self-catering, perfect for families or those with stricter dietary requirements.

2. Rakuten Stay Villa Miyakojima Beach

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Perfect for families and longer stays, Rakuten Stay Villa Miyakojima Beach offers self-contained villas that sit a short 20-minute stroll from Maehama Beach’s powdery white sands. Each villa provides the comforts of home with fully equipped kitchens and spacious living areas that open into private gardens and barbeques.

Each villa can house up to five people and is large enough to give families rooms to spread out, while the outdoor barbeque area lets guests make the most of Miyakojima’s balmy evenings. While there’s no on-site restaurant, the villa’s central location is within easy walking distance of local stores and eateries.

3. Miyakojima Tokyu Hotel & Resort

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Perched on a quiet stretch of coast 15 minutes from the airport, Miyakojima Tokyu Hotel & Resort is an elegant resort that combines traditional Okinawan hospitality with modern luxury. The property spans an impressive beachfront area, giving guests direct access to one of the world’s most beautiful beaches for marine activity.

Rooms range between ocean and garden views and come complete with private balconies and all the basic amenities. The resort’s extensive facilities include outdoor swimming pools and a variety of restaurants to cater to every taste, from casual poolside dining to sophisticated Japanese cuisine. The spa offers traditional Okinawan treatments, while the front desk can help arrange everything from snorkeling excursions to sunset cruises.

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