Miyako Island is located approximately 1,800 km south of Japan’s capital, Tokyo. By air, a direct flight from Tokyo to Miyakojima takes about 3 hours.
This southern island is known for its beautiful sea, rich nature, and ancient culture. It is the perfect destination for those who want to get away from the daily routine and refresh themselves, and for the adventurous who are looking for new experiences. Here is a ranking of the things to do and activities you must experience on Miyako Island.
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#1: Relaxing on a Beautiful Beach
Miyako Island is known for its white sand beaches and emerald green ocean. The beaches of this island are the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and refresh yourself. They are visited by many travelers from Japan and abroad. Relaxing in the sunshine will give you a true sense of relaxation.
#2: Snorkeling with Fish
The sea area around Miyako Island is covered with coral reefs. Snorkeling is the most popular activity. The snorkeling season is from May to October. Even in winter, you can get into the sea by wearing a wetsuit (rental available). Even beginners can easily enjoy this activity and feel the charm of the sea.
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#3: Diving in the Best Sea in Japan
The sea of Miyako Island is often admired by diving lovers as the best in Japan. Various diving spots are dotted with caves, arches, and spectacular drop-offs.
Each spot is given a unique name, such as “The Palace of the Demon King,” “Antonio Gaudi,” and “The Queen’s Room.
#4: Listen to Island Songs at Minyo Izakaya
On Miyako Island, there are folk izakayas where you can enjoy traditional music and dance. Izakaya are Japanese-style drinking establishments. There, traditional songs called “shima-uta,” which have been sung on the island for centuries, are performed live. Along with delicious local food and drinks, you will be able to deeply experience the culture of Miyako Island.
Enjoy Island Gourmet Dishes
Fresh seafood and unique local cuisine are the best delights of a trip to Miyako Island. Miyako beef, Miyako soba noodles, and tropical fruits are gourmet delicacies that cannot be found anywhere else in Japan. Restaurants and cafes offer original menus that make the most of local ingredients.
#5: Leisurely Hotel Life
Miyako Island is dotted with a variety of accommodations, from resort hotels overlooking the ocean to homelike guesthouses. Spending time relaxing by the hotel pool or on the open terrace will make you forget everything noisy in the city. I also recommend you use the hotel’s spa or esthetic salon to enjoy a relaxing time for your body and mind.
#6: Island Hopping
Three bridges connect Miyako Island to the surrounding outlying islands. You can cross the bridges by car or by bicycle. Each island is full of unique charm and nature, and an adventure awaits you to visit several islands in one day.
#7: Exploring Mangroves by Kayak
Miyako Island is home to beautiful and powerful mangrove forests. You can take a walk around the area or explore deep into the forest by kayak. Discover the hidden treasures of Miyako Island while enjoying the unique ecosystem and the chirping of birds.
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Walking on the water with SUP
SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) is a water sport in which you stand on the sea and paddle forward. Gliding along the calm waters of Miyako Island on a SUP is like taking a walk on the ocean.
#8: SHISA Making Experience
The Shisa is Okinawan guardian lion. Many workshops for making shisas are held on Miyako Island for tourists. You can make a handmade shisa from clay and take the finished product home as a wonderful memory of your trip. The process takes about 2 to 3 hours.
#9: Tour of Scenic Spots
There are many scenic spots on the island, including Higashi Heiannazaki, Nishi Heiannazaki, and Ryugu Observatory. You can enjoy the beauty of nature’s formations such as the clear blue sea, white sandy beaches, precipitous cliffs, and caves. By visiting these scenic spots, you will be able to experience the natural charm of Miyako Island to the fullest.
#10: See the forest and stars at night on a night tour
There are tours that take visitors on a walk through the forest at night, where they can enjoy nocturnal creatures and the sounds of nature. Because Miyako Island has not many lights, the starry sky is very beautiful. You can even see the Milky Way with the naked eye. The best time to see the stars is during the new moon.
#11: Shopping for Souvenirs
Miyako Island has an abundance of stores selling local crafts and specialties. You can find a wide variety of souvenirs, including the island’s local spirits, traditional textiles, and fresh local produce. Handmade accessories and sundries are also popular and make great souvenirs for yourself or gifts for family and friends.
#12: Feel the history through a tour of historical sites
Miyako Island has many historic sites, each telling a story of the island’s story and culture. For example, ancient stone wells and Shinto shrines, etc., give visitors a sense of the history of various periods of time.
#13: Feel the island’s traditions by going to festivals
Various traditional festivals and events are held throughout the year on Miyako Island. By participating in these festivals, you can get a deep sense of the life, culture, and traditions of the local people.
