Miyako Island is a small island located in the southern part of Japan, in the Okinawa Prefecture. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and scenic natural landscapes. The island is a popular destination for tourists who want to enjoy a relaxing and laid-back vacation away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
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Getting to Miyako Island from Tokyo
Getting to Miyako Island from Tokyo requires a flight to Naha, the capital city of Okinawa Prefecture, followed by another flight to Miyako Island. The flight from Tokyo to Naha takes around 2.5 hours, and the flight from Naha to Miyako Island takes around 50 minutes. Alternatively, travelers can take a ferry from Naha to Miyako Island, which takes around 5 hours.
The best time to visit Miyako Island
The best time to visit Miyako Island is from April to October, when the weather is warm and sunny. During these months, visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The island is also known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring and colorful foliage in the fall.
Must-see places on Miyako Island
Yonaha Maehama Beach
Known for its white sand and turquoise waters, this beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Irabu Bridge
This 3.5-kilometer-long bridge connects Miyako Island to neighboring Irabu Island and offers stunning views of the ocean.
Miyako-jima City Tropical Plant Garden
This botanical garden features a wide variety of tropical plants and trees, as well as a butterfly house.
Painagama Beach
This secluded beach is a great spot for snorkeling and swimming.
Sunayama Beach
This beach is known for its picturesque arch rock formation and crystal-clear waters.
Kurima Bridge
This bridge connects Miyako Island to neighboring Kurima Island and offers panoramic views of the ocean.
Cape Higashi Hennazaki
This scenic spot at the easternmost point of the island offers breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding cliffs.
Maehama Pier
This pier offers stunning views of the ocean and is a popular spot for watching the sunset.
Miyako Shrine
This Shinto shrine is dedicated to the island’s deities and features a beautiful red torii gate.
Miyako Island Night Market
This open-air market features local food, drinks, and crafts and is a great place to experience the island’s culture and cuisine.
Recommended Restaurants in Miyako Island
Miyako Soba Matsuri
This small soba restaurant is known for its delicious homemade soba noodles and other Okinawan dishes. It’s located in Hirara, the main town of Miyako Island.
Shimaichi Shokudo
This cozy restaurant serves a variety of seafood and local Miyako Island dishes, such as Ishigaki beef and goat meat. It’s located in the Ueno area of Miyako Island.
Teppanyaki Miyako
This teppanyaki restaurant is famous for its quality beef and seafood, which is grilled to perfection right in front of you. It’s located in the Hirara area.
Aiyaru
Aiyaru is a restaurant that specializes in Okinawan-style yakiniku (grilled meat), which is cooked on a tabletop grill. It’s located in the Nishizato area of Miyako Island.
Yukishio
This upscale restaurant serves Japanese and Western-style cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. It’s located in the Shimojishima area, which is just a short ferry ride from Miyako Island.
Recommended Accommodations in Miyako Island
Shigira Bayside Suite Allamanda
This luxury hotel is located on the beachfront and offers stunning ocean views. The spacious suites feature modern amenities, including a kitchenette, balcony, and private hot tub.
Miyako Grand Terrace
This resort offers a variety of luxurious accommodations, including private villas and suites with ocean views. The resort also features a spa, outdoor pool, and several restaurants.
The Terrace Club at Busena
This adults-only resort is located on a private beach and offers spacious guest rooms with ocean views. The resort features a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
Hotel Breeze Bay Marina
This beachfront hotel offers modern rooms with ocean views and private balconies. The hotel also features a large outdoor pool, multiple restaurants, and a spa.
Miyako Island Resort
This luxury resort is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes. The resort features a variety of accommodations, including private villas and suites with outdoor hot tubs.
Painagama Beach Resort
This beachfront resort features private villas with ocean views and outdoor hot tubs. The resort also features a large outdoor pool, multiple restaurants, and a spa.
Irabu Island Resort
This luxury resort is located on Irabu Island and offers spacious villas with ocean views. The resort features a large outdoor pool, multiple restaurants, and a spa.
Hotel Locus
This modern hotel is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites with private balconies and a large outdoor pool.
Hotel Atollemerald Miyakojima
This beachfront hotel offers modern guest rooms with ocean views and private balconies. The hotel also features a large outdoor pool, multiple restaurants, and a spa.
Hotel Shigira Mirage
This luxury hotel is located on the beachfront and offers spacious suites with ocean views and private balconies. The hotel also features a large outdoor pool, multiple restaurants, and a spa.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Miyako Island is a hidden gem in Japan that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and relaxation. With its pristine beaches, scenic landscapes, and warm hospitality, it is a destination that should not be missed.
ピンバック: Okinawa – You have a friend in Japan