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12 Best Stargazing Spots on Miyako Island! Including When and What Time to See the Milky Way and the Southern Cross
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Miyako Island isn't just known for its ocean—under the right conditions, it's also an island of starlit skies where you can even see the Milky Way and the Southern Cross with the naked eye.
In this article, we’ll cover everything from the best times to see the starry sky to 12 recommended spots on Miyako Island, Irabu Island, Shimoji Island, Kurima Island, and Ikema Island, as well as what to wear and tips for taking photos.
・Visible Stars: On clear nights, you can see the Milky Way, the Southern Cross, and shooting stars with the naked eye.
・Season: The Milky Way is visible from June to November; the Southern Cross is visible from around April to June; in winter, the air is clear and the stars are sharp and distinct.
・Time of day: The best time is during the approximately one-week period around the new moon, specifically during the dark hours when the moon is not visible.
・Location: Choose a spot away from the city center, such as along the coast or on high ground where the sky opens up wide.
Table of Contents
The night sky over Miyako Island is a special one where you can see both the Milky Way and the Southern Cross.
Miyako Island is located near 24 degrees north latitude and is difficult to see from Honshu.It rises in the southern sky all the way to the Southern CrossThis is the stargazing area.
Since there are no industrial areas and very few city lights, you can see a star-filled sky just by venturing a short distance away from the city center.
The Best Times of Year and Times of Day to See the Starry Sky on Miyako Island
The Milky Way is visible from June through November, and the Southern Cross is visible from around April through June,If you want to see the stars clearly, choose winter when the air is crisp.is recommended.
| Stars I Want to See | Best Time to Visit | Estimated Time Frames | Direction of view |
| Milky Way | June–November (Summer is the peak season) | After sunset, once the sky has grown dark | From the low southern sky to directly overhead |
| Southern Cross (asterism formed with the brightest four stars of the constellation Crux) | Around April through June | Around April 22–24 / Around May 21–22 / Around June 20–21 | Near the southern horizon |
| Winter Constellations | Around December through May | In winter, right after sunset... | Winter Evenings: The Eastern to Southern Sky |
| Meteor Shower | January, August, and December | Late at night through dawn around the time of the peak | The entire sky |
When and Where to See the Milky Way
The Milky Way is at its densest in the summer, and its bright central regionFrom the low southern sky to directly overheadI'll get up.
The key is to choose a spot with no city lights to the south that opens out onto the ocean or grasslands.
When and at What Time the Southern Cross Is Visible
The Southern Cross appears just above the southern horizon from around April through June; as a general guide, look for it around 22:00–24:00 in April, around 21:00–22:00 in May, and around 20:00–21:00 in June.
Because the altitude is very low,Coastlines and hilltops offering views all the way to the southern horizonSo, let's use a constellation app to find them.
Best Times to View Winter Constellations and Meteor Showers
In winter, the air is clear, and bright winter constellations, such as Orion, shine vividly.
Some of the most famous meteor showers are the Quadrantid in January, the Perseid in August, and the Geminid in December. Be sure to check the peak dates with the National Astronomical Observatory or a similar source before you travel.
Seasonal Weather and the Best Time to Visit
The rainy season on Miyako Island is around May and June, and from summer through fall, the island is prone to typhoons; there are days when the stars are not visible due to clouds or rain.
If you want to capture both the Milky Way and a clear sky,July and August, right after the rainy season ends, and fall, when typhoon season subsidesis recommended.
Conditions for Seeing a Beautiful Starry Sky and How to Check Them on the Day of the Event
How well you can see the starry sky depends almost entirely on three factors: “moonlight,” “clouds,” and “ambient light.”
Since the weather on Miyako Island can change quickly, it’s a good idea to check the forecast not only before your trip but also in the evening of the day you’re traveling.
Check the dates around the new moon and the times of moonrise and moonset
The best time to see the stars is,About one week around the new moon, when there is little moonlightIt is.
Even on days close to a full moon, stars are easier to see before the moon rises or after it sets, so be sure to check the times of moonrise and moonset.
Check the Starry Sky Index and cloud movement
For daily forecasts, the Japan Weather Association operatestenki.jp's "Starry Sky Index"is convenient.
Also, if you check the movement of the clouds on the rain cloud radar,A spot in the direction with fewer cloudsIt makes it easier to choose.
12 Recommended Star-Gazing Spots on Miyako Island
If you want to see the starry sky, head away from the city center (Taira),Coastal areas and hilltops with wide-open views of the skyThe basic rule is to choose one.
Here, we’ll introduce 12 locations from Miyako Island, Irabu Island, Shimoji Island, Kurima Island, and Ikema Island, organized by island.
First, take a look at the list to compare travel times from the airport and whether parking and restrooms are available.
| spot | Area | From the Airport | parking lot | toilet | Easy-to-See Stars |
| Yonaha Maehama Beach | Miyako Island (Okinawa) | About a 15-minute drive | ant | ant | The Milky Way and the Southern Cross |
| Azuma Heinanazaki | Miyako Island (Okinawa) | About 35 minutes by car | ant | ant | The Milky Way and the Southern Cross |
| Im Gyor Marine Garden | Miyako Island (Okinawa) | About 25 minutes by car | ant | ant | The Milky Way and the Southern Cross |
| Higa Road Park | Miyako Island (Okinawa) | About 25 minutes by car | ant | ant | The Milky Way and Shooting Stars |
| Nishiheirenaizaki | Miyako Island (Okinawa) | About 30 minutes by car | ant | ant | The Milky Way and Winter Constellations |
| Makiyama Observatory | Irabu Island (port island) | About 45 minutes by car | ant | ant | The Milky Way and Shooting Stars |
| swan song | Irabu Island (port island) | About 30 to 45 minutes by car | ant | ant | The Milky Way and Winter Constellations |
| Watakuchi Beach | Irabu Island (port island) | About 45 minutes by car | ant | ant | The Milky Way and the Southern Cross |
| 17END | Shimochijima Island | About 30 minutes by car | ant | nashi (Pyrus pyrifolia, esp. var. culta) | The Milky Way and Shooting Stars |
| long stretch of beach | Kurima Island | About 25 minutes by car | nashi (Pyrus pyrifolia, esp. var. culta) | nashi (Pyrus pyrifolia, esp. var. culta) | Milky Way |
| Musunun Beach | Kurima Island | About 25 minutes by car | ant | nashi (Pyrus pyrifolia, esp. var. culta) | Milky Way |
| Funakusu Beach | Ikema Island | Approximately 21 km | ant | ant | The Milky Way and Shooting Stars |
*Information regarding travel time from the airport, parking, and restrooms is based on data from the Miyako Island Tourism Association and other sources (as of October 2026).
Since restrooms and snack bars are often closed at night, and many areas aren’t lit, be sure to use the restroom before you set out.
Best Spots for Stargazing on Miyako Island
One of the attractions of Miyako Island is that many of its sights are easily accessible by car from the airport and hotels.
Especially on the southeastern side of the island, there are few city lights, andA Star-Gazing Spot with an Unobstructed View of the Southern Sky...are gathering here.
Yonaha Maehama Beach
Yonaha Maehama Beach is Miyako Island’s most iconic beach, featuring a 7-kilometer stretch of white sand; at night, it becomes a spot under the starry sky where only the sound of the waves can be heard.
It's only about a 15-minute drive from the airport, andOpen 24 hours a daySince it's located there, it's a convenient place to stop by on the first night of your trip.
| address (e.g. of house) | 1199 Shimoji Yonaha, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture |
| parking lot | ant |
| Access | Approximately 15 minutes by car from Miyako Airport |
| Notes | Restrooms and showers available / Open 24 hours a day |
Azuma Heinanazaki
Higashi-Hezanazaki is a cape located at the eastern tip of Miyako Island, andA panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean and the East China SeaCan be done.
This is a popular spot for photography where you can capture both the Heianna Cape Lighthouse standing at the tip of the cape and the starry sky in the same frame.
Since there are cliffs on both sides, be careful not to stray from the walking trail at night.
| address (e.g. of house) | 1221-14 Jobe Yora, Miyakojima City, Okinawa, Japan |
| parking lot | Yes (approx. 50 cars) |
| Access | Approximately 35 minutes by car from Miyako Airport |
| Notes | Restrooms available / Open 24 hours a day |
Im Gyor Marine Garden
Imgya Marine Garden is a seaside park that makes use of a natural cove and features walking trails and observation decks.
Located on the southern side of the island,You can see all the way to the southern horizonSo, it's also a great place to look for the Southern Cross.
Since there are limestone rocks and uneven surfaces on the ground, be sure to bring a flashlight and wear sneakers instead of sandals.
| address (e.g. of house) | 605-2 Shirobe Tomori, Miyakojima City, Okinawa, Japan |
| parking lot | ant |
| Access | Approximately 25 minutes by car from Miyako Airport |
| Notes | Restrooms and showers available / Open 24 hours a day |
・For PiPi's Starry Sky & Subtropical Jungle Night Tour, please meet at the Imgya parking lot.
・We also recommend combining activities, such as taking a night tour after stargazing.
Higa Road Park
Higa Road Park is a rest area located at the highest point along the coastal road, offering views of the East China Sea and Ogami Island.
Even on tourism information websites"At night, stars twinkle across the entire sky"—Star-gazing SpotsIt is introduced as...
The parking lot is close to the observation area, making it convenient when you want to stop by by car and take your time waiting for a shooting star.
| address (e.g. of house) | 1521 Shirobe Higa, Miyakojima City, Okinawa, Japan |
| parking lot | Yes (free of charge) |
| Access | Approximately 25 minutes by car from Miyako Airport |
| Notes | Restrooms and gazebos available |
Nishiheirenaizaki
Nishi-Hezanazaki is a cape located in the northwest of Miyako Island, offering views of Irabu Island, Ikema Island, and the Ikema Bridge.
There are few houses in the vicinity, andThe sky stretches wide from the north to the west.is a feature of this product.
Since it's a wide cape lined with windmills, be sure to bring a jacket when you go out on windy days.
| address (e.g. of house) | Hirara Karimata, Miyakojima City, Okinawa, Japan |
| parking lot | ant |
| Access | Approximately 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport |
| Notes | Toilet available |
Best Spots for Stargazing on Irabu Island and Shimoji Island
Irabu Island and Shimoji Island are islands located beyond the Irabu Bridge, which connects them to Miyako Island.
Since it's located away from the downtown area of Miyako Island,There is little light around, so it's easy to see the stars.We have a full lineup of spots.
It is dangerous to stop your car on the Irabu Bridge to stargaze, so be sure to use a spot with a parking lot.
Makiyama Observatory
The Makiyama Observation Deck is the highest observation deck on Irabu Island.
You can see all the way to Miyako Island, Ikema Island, and Kurima Island,The wide-open sky you can only see from high groundis attractive.
Since it gets completely dark at night, be sure to bring a flashlight and watch your step as you walk.
| address (e.g. of house) | Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa |
| parking lot | ant |
| Access | Approximately 45 minutes by car from Miyako Airport |
| Notes | Toilet available |
swan song
Shiratorizaki is a cape on the northern side of Irabu Island, located within West Coast Park.
In the park, there isFree parking and restrooms...making it a great spot for stargazing at night.
Since the area beyond the cape consists of cliffs and rocky outcrops, please stay on the walking trail after dark.
| address (e.g. of house) | 908-2 Irabu Sawada, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture |
| parking lot | Yes (free of charge) |
| Access | About a 30- to 45-minute drive from Miyako Airport |
| Notes | There are restrooms inside West Coast Park |
Watakuchi Beach
Watariguchi Beach is a white-sand beach located in the southwestern part of Irabu Island.
With a view of Miyako Island and Kurima Island directly ahead,The southern sky is clear.Therefore, it's ideal for spotting the Milky Way and the Southern Cross.
Since there are restrooms and showers, we recommend spending your time watching the sunset and then waiting for the stars to come out.
| address (e.g. of house) | Irabu, Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture |
| parking lot | Parking space available |
| Access | Approximately 45 minutes by car from Miyako Airport |
| Notes | Toilet and shower available |
17END
17END is a stretch of coastline that extends along the northern end of the runway at Shimojishima Airport.
There are no buildings around, and,At night, you can enjoy the starry night skyIt is known as a popular spot.
Since general vehicles are prohibited from using the airport's service roads, please walk from the parking lot.
There are uneven surfaces and areas where sand makes the walkway slippery, and since you have to climb down the tetrapods to reach the beach, you need to be especially careful after dark.
| address (e.g. of house) | Sawada, Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa, Japan |
| parking lot | Yes (about a 10-minute walk to the beach) |
| Access | Approximately 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport |
| Notes | No restrooms / No general vehicle traffic allowed on the access road |
Star-Gazing Spots on Kurima Island
Kurima Island is a small island located southwest of Miyako Island and connected to it by the Kurima Bridge.
The beaches on the west side of the island areIt faces away from the city centerThat's why one of its appeals is that it's less affected by city lights.
long stretch of beach
Nagama Beach is located on the western side of Kurima Island and is known as a famous spot for watching sunsets.
Since it's quiet and not very crowded,For those who want to gaze at the starry sky while listening to the sound of the wavesRecommended for
Since there are no designated parking areas or restrooms, please park in a way that doesn't inconvenience others, and be sure to bring a flashlight with you.
| address (e.g. of house) | Shimoji Raima, Miyakojima City, Okinawa, Japan |
| parking lot | No designated parking (please do not park in a way that disturbs the neighbors) |
| Access | Approximately 25 minutes by car from Miyako Airport |
| Notes | No toilet or shower |
Musunun Beach
Musunun Beach is located on the west side of Kurima Island, offering an unobstructed view all the way to the horizon.
After sunset or the magic hour,I can just wait for the stars to come outSpot.
Since this is also a sacred place for the local community, please refrain from shouting and enjoy yourself while observing proper etiquette.
| address (e.g. of house) | Shimoji Raima, Miyakojima City, Okinawa, Japan |
| parking lot | ant |
| Access | Approximately 25 minutes by car from Miyako Airport |
| Notes | No toilet or shower |
Star-Gazing Spots on Ikemajima Island
Ikemajima is an island connected to the north of Miyako Island by the Ikemajima Bridge.
The northern part of the island, located away from the downtown area of Miyako Island, is,There is little light around, and the northern sky is wide open.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Parking and stopping are prohibited on the Ikema Bridge, so please refrain from stopping your car on the bridge to look at the stars.
Funakusu Beach
Funaksu Beach is located on the north side of Ikemajima Island and is also known locally as “Ikemajima Block.”
There is free parking and restrooms, andA convenient spot to stop by when you want to gaze at the starry sky on IkemajimaSpot.
Since there is no lighting at night and it is difficult to see your feet, be sure to bring a flashlight and avoid getting too close to the rocky areas of the coral reef.
| address (e.g. of house) | Hirara-Ikema, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture |
| parking lot | Available (approx. 10 spaces; free) |
| Access | Approximately 21 km from Miyako Airport |
| Notes | Restrooms available; showers (for a fee) |
What to Wear and What to Bring for Stargazing, and Safety Tips for Nighttime
When stargazing,Long-sleeved jacket, flashlight, insect repellent sprayIt’s a good idea to make sure you have at least these three items on hand.
Since it’s darker and windier along the coast at night than during the day, be sure to dress appropriately and take the necessary safety precautions before heading out.
What to wear and bring
For footwear, sneakers are essential since they make it easy to walk on rocky terrain and sandy slopes; a picnic blanket and a folding chair will help prevent neck strain.
If you just want to enjoy stargazing, you don't need a telescope—you can use a constellation app on your smartphone to find the Southern Cross.
・It’s helpful to have a flashlight with a red light, as it helps your eyes adjust to the darkness more easily.
・Even in the summer, it gets chilly at night on the cape due to the wind, so be sure to bring a light long-sleeved shirt.
Things to Keep in Mind at the Cape and Beach at Night
At capes and observation decks, do not go outside the railing, andIt is dangerous to park your car on bridges, such as the Irabu Bridge, to stargaze.So, be sure to use the parking lot.
At the beach, please refrain from shining bright lights on the sand to protect sea turtles during nesting season, and be sure to take all trash with you when you leave.
Do not enter the ocean at night when no one is around, and in case of an emergency, call the Japan Coast Guard at 118, the police at 110, or the fire department at 119.
Tips for Taking Beautiful Photos of the Night Sky on Miyako Island
The key to taking beautiful photos of the starry sky is,Securely mount the camera to capture light for a long timeThis is to say.
Whether you're using a DSLR or a smartphone, just mastering these basics will make a big difference in your photos.
Basic Settings for Taking Photos with a Camera
Get a tripod and a wide-angle lens ready, and first...ISO sensitivity around 1600, shutter speed around 30 seconds, and an aperture close to wide openLet's start with that.
Set the focus manually on a bright star, and use the self-timer to prevent blur.
Tips for Taking Photos with Your Smartphone
When taking photos with your smartphone, use the night mode and place it on a stable surface, such as a tripod or a railing.
Until the exposure is completeDon't move your phoneThat's the trick to taking a clear photo.
Travel on Your Own? Join a Tour? Guidelines for Choosing
If you want to enjoy yourself freely, go on your own,If you're worried about choosing places to visit or driving at night, join a tour.is recommended.
| Comparison Criteria | Traveling on my own | Take a tour |
| Means of transportation | You'll need a rental car, etc. | Free shuttle service is available throughout Miyako Island and on Kurima Island |
| Choosing a Location | Look at the weather and the moon and decide for yourself | Enjoy the tour with a guide |
| Photo | Taken by myself | Free photo data |
| Who This Is For | People who are experienced drivers and feel confident driving at night | For those visiting Miyako Island for the first time and feeling anxious about going out at night |
Miyako Island ADVENTURE PiPi's Stargazing Activities
At Miyako Island ADVENTURE PiPi, we offer tours that are perfect for those who want to gaze at the starry sky at their leisure, as well as for those who want to enjoy the ocean at sunset.
bothPhoto data is freeWe hand them out there.
Starry sky & subtropical jungle night tour
This night tour takes you on an exploration of the subtropical jungle with a guide, where you can see nocturnal creatures and, if conditions are right, enjoy the starry sky unique to Miyako Island.
The tour takes about 2 hours; we plan to meet around 8:00 p.m. and finish around 9:30 p.m. (times may vary depending on the season and field conditions).
・Price: 4,900 yen per person (tax included; as of October 2026)
・Duration: About 2 hours
・Age range: 3–65 years old
・Transportation: Free shuttle service throughout Miyako Island and to Kurima Island (for Irabu Island, Shimoji Island, and Ikema Island, please meet us at the designated location)
・Photo files: Free
Sunset Canoe Tour
This is a tour where you can leisurely enjoy the sea around Miyako Island as it glows in the sunset while paddling a canoe.
By the time the tour ends, the sky will start to get dark, so,Head straight to the stargazing spotis also recommended.
・Price: 7,900 yen per person (tax included; as of October 2026)
・Duration: About 1.5 hours
・Age range: 3–65 years old
・Event Time: Meet around 6:00 p.m. in the summer and around 4:45 p.m. in the winter
・Transportation: Free shuttle service throughout Miyako Island and to Kurima Island (subject to availability; confirmed the day before)
・Photo files: Free
Frequently Asked Questions About the Night Sky on Miyako Island
No matter the time of year, choosing a week or so around the new moon—when there is little moonlight—makes it easier to see the stars.
Since the elevation is low, choose a spot where you can see all the way to the southern horizon, such as Higashi-Hezanazaki or Imgya Marine Garden.
It’s reassuring to check the rain cloud radar to see how the clouds are moving as well.
It's a good idea to bring a flashlight, insect repellent, and a pair of comfortable sneakers.
PiPi's night tour offers free transportation throughout Miyako Island and to Kurima Island, so it's highly recommended for those without a car.
The key is to secure the camera to a tripod or railing and keep it steady while shooting.
Be sure to check the event status and cancellation policy on the plan page before making a reservation.
in the end
The starry skies of Miyako Island are a highlight of any trip—if the timing and conditions are right, you can even see the Milky Way and the Southern Cross.
Check the moonrise and moonset times and the stargazing index, then head to a dark spot with an unobstructed view to gaze up at the star-filled sky!
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