Introducing Miyako Island Night Activity Tours & Starry Sky Spots! Let's have fun till night!

Hello everyone!

Do you know Miyako Island?

Miyako Island is a remote island located about 300 km further southwest of the main island of Okinawa, where Naha City is located.

Known for its sparkling jewel-like blue ocean, called "Miyako blue," it forms the Miyako Archipelago with Irabu Island, Shimoji Island, and other islands, and is loved by many people as a resort area where they can experience the tropical travel atmosphere.

When it comes to the pleasures of a trip to Okinawa, many people probably think of swimming and activities in the blue ocean and visiting local spots where you can taste the cuisine and culture.

Along with the brilliant tropical sun, the best part of Miyako Island is during the daytime!

But then, is there nothing to see on Miyako Island at night?

No, it is not.

The nighttime on Miyako Island has a mysterious charm different from that of the daytime.

The sky is full of stars, including the Milky Way, shooting stars, and even the Southern Cross, and there are many exciting and thrilling encounters with creatures never seen before on the remote islands of Okinawa!

In this article, we will introduce the nighttime attractions of Miyakojima and its night tours.

 

Full of attractions different from daytime! Miyako Island Night Tour

There are many restaurants in the urban area of Miyako Island, all offering delicious island cuisine.

You can enjoy gourmet food to the fullest by simply researching on the Internet and visiting highly rated restaurants.

Once you have recovered your energy, you can go sightseeing in Miyako Island at night.

However, even if you try to enjoy the night on Miyako Island, it is a remote island, so it is pitch black at night outside of the city center.

Unsure of where to go, tourists wandering around aimlessly are apt to find themselves in a situation where they cannot find any particular spot.

We recommend that you take advantage of the Miyako Island Night Tour!

One of the main attractions of Miyako Island at night is the tropical jungle nurtured by the mild environment of Miyako Island, which belongs to the subtropical zone, and the star-filled sky seen in the clear air.

 

Recommended night tours to enjoy the night in Miyako Island

Now, several night tours are organized on Miyako Island.

Each has its own features and different attractions, so we will introduce the most popular plans in order!

Star gazing & jungle night tour

One of the most popular night tours on Miyako Island is the Stargazing & Jungle Night Tour.

The subtropical jungle is home to many nocturnal creatures.

If you want to encounter the palm crabs, Yaeyama flying fox, Ryukyu kite, and other creatures introduced above, you should definitely join this jungle night tour.

As a precaution, it is basically not recommended to try to explore the jungles of Miyako Island at night on your own.

The jungle at night has no light source at all, and it is so dark that only moonlight can be relied on.

It is very difficult for those who do not know the land to get directions and current location in the jungle, and it can be very difficult to get lost.

It is a good idea to take a tour accompanied by a local guide without overdoing it.

If you accompany a guide, you can also listen to explanations about the creatures you encounter, so you can enjoy Miyako Island at night several times more by participating in a jungle night tour!

The starry sky of Miyako Island is also called a natural planetarium, and due to its latitude, a whopping 84 of the 88 officially recognized constellations can be seen.

You can also view the Southern Cross, which is basically impossible to see in the northern hemisphere, so you will definitely be able to enjoy the great nature of Miyako Island to the fullest if you participate in the jungle night tour!

 

Night Canoe Tour

Like SUP, night canoeing is a popular activity for experiencing the ocean at night.

The canoes used on the tours are very stable, and some are designed for two people so that even young children can experience the activity by riding along.

It is also recommended for couples to enjoy romantic talks while gazing at the beautiful starry sky.

In the silence of the night, which is different from the hustle and bustle of the day, the sea at night is fantastic, with only the sea breeze, the sound of the waves, and the sound of paddling water to be heard.

It will be a perfect experience to end the day of your trip to Miyako Island.

 

Sagaribana Light-up Tour

The last activity introduced here is the Sagaribana Light-up Tour.

Have you ever heard of the "phantom flower" sagaribana?

Because this flowering tree is native only to wetlands in subtropical climates, it is basically impossible to see it on the mainland.

The sagaribana has the peculiar property of blooming at night and falling off by morning, which is why it is called a phantom flower.

The buds slowly begin to open after sunset, and it is only at midnight that they blossom into full bloom.

Then, in the morning, the petals fall off and flop down.

Because of its emotional and fragile nature, the flower is widely loved by locals and tourists alike.

Sagaribana on Miyako Island are not natural, but have been artificially transplanted to form colonies, which makes them easy to visit for sightseeing.

The temple is illuminated at night when it is in full bloom, making it easy to visit at night. If you join a tour, a local guide will drive you to and from the temple and show you around, so you can enjoy viewing the temple without getting lost.

Sagaribana blooms colorfully in white and pink while releasing a sweet vanilla-like fragrance.

The euphoric sight of the flowers, which is also aptly described in the language of flowers as bringing good luck, will be something you will never forget once you see it.

If you are able to visit Miyako Island when they are in full bloom, please join a viewing tour.

 

Creatures most likely to be encountered on the Miyakojima Jungle Night Tour

To fully appreciate such a jungle environment and starry sky, we encourage you to join a local night tour.

Let us first introduce some of the precious creatures that can be seen on the night tours of Miyako Island, which are unique to the island.

coconut crab (Birgus latro)

The coconut crab, which can only be seen in various parts of Okinawa Prefecture in Japan, is synonymous with nighttime sightseeing on Miyako Island.

This crustacean is a member of the crustacean family that looks somewhere between a shrimp and a crab, and its size can reach up to 40 cm, depending on the individual.

It is said that its strong scissors can match the strength of a lion's jaws. What do you think the coconut crab is a member of?

Because of the crab in its name, it is often mistaken for a member of the crab family, but in fact, the coconut crab is a member of the hermit crab family.

The hermit crabs evolved to be so large that they could no longer carry their shells on their backs, so their shells became the covering that they are today.

However, some individuals may still retain vestiges of their hermit crab habit, as they sometimes carry coconuts on their backs for lodging.

The name "coconut crab" is said to derive from the fact that it cuts off and eats coconuts, but in fact, no coconut crab has ever been found in such behavior.

It is true that coconut crabs are adept at climbing trees, but they have not been found cutting fruit off trees.

Coconut crabs are omnivorous and have a unique ecology that allows them to feed evenly on coconuts, animal carcasses, and their favorite food, adan nuts.

Such coconut crabs live in grass and forests near the seashore, but during the day they hide behind rocks and bushes.

So you have a high probability of meeting them if you are on a night tour, as they roam around at night.

Even if you are not interested in crustaceans, you will become a fan of coconut crabs when you see them walking leisurely around the island, looking as if they belong there.

A word of caution, however: coconut crabs are listed as an endangered species, and a protection ordinance enacted in 2011 banned the catching of coconut crabs altogether.

If you catch a coconut crab, you will be fined 100,000 yen for violating the ordinance, so if you find one, just observe it!

 

Russian tortoise (Agrionemys horsfieldii)

Miyako Island originally had no native turtles.

The Yaeyama tortoise was brought to the island from the outside, adapted to the environment of Miyako Island, and reproduced explosively.

The Yaeyama tortoise has been exterminated locally as a nuisance alien species that destroys the native ecosystem due to its high reproductive capacity, but it is a cute tortoise to see as a tourist.

Nocturnal Yaeyama tortoises prefer slow-flowing rivers and wetlands, and during the day they lurk in mud or under water plants.

They become active at night and leave their habitat to feed on insects and worms, and can be frequently seen on night tours.

Incidentally, it has the name of a pond turtle, but the ecology is completely different from that of the Japanese pond turtle, which is popular as a pet.

 

Yaeyama flying fox (Pteropus volitans)

The Yaeyama flying fox is a species of flying fox that is widely distributed not only in Miyako Island but also in the Yaeyama Islands south of the Miyako Archipelago.

They are not very fearful of people and can sometimes be seen at night, even near private homes.

It is not a large species among flying foxes, though its wings can reach nearly 60 cm when spread out.

Some people may have a frightening image of bats as blood-sucking creatures, but the Yaeyama flying fox does not suck blood, but rather feeds on nectar from fruits and flowers, which makes it a lovely creature.

They are mild-mannered, and a closer look will confirm that they have a very charming face that somewhat resembles a raccoon dog.

It has light black or brown fur around its neck, giving it a humorous appearance that makes it look like it is wearing a scarf, depending on how you look at it.

Nevertheless, its stature is of a size that is not easily seen on the streets of the mainland.

The sight of them flying overhead in the middle of the night is sure to amaze you!

Their main habitat is the jungle, not caves, where they rest during the day by hanging from tree branches.

Since they fly around the island from the time around sunset, you should have a high probability of encountering them if you take a night tour.

 

long-eared owl (Asio otus)

The Ryukyu konohaku is a small owl, about 20 cm long, living on Amami-Oshima Island and southwards.

With their brownish-brown bodies and yellow eyes, they are very popular among the creatures you can encounter on night tours because of their compact size and their cute, somewhat kyoton-like faces.

This bird inhabits mountain forests and has a nocturnal ecology, just as the common image of owls.

During the breeding season, they make a distinctive "coho" call, so if you are aware of them, you will easily recognize them when they are nearby.

However, they are listed as quasi-threatened in the Okinawa Prefecture Red Data Book and are extremely rare.

If you scare or frighten them and adversely affect the ecosystem, there is no way to get them back.

It is easy to get excited on the way to a fun night tour, but be careful not to carelessly provoke them.

 

lightning bug

The last creature I would like to introduce is the firefly.

Fireflies, widely loved as a summer tradition, also live on Miyako Island.

Many people think of fireflies as creatures that cannot be seen except during the summer, but on Miyako Island, where the weather is warm throughout the year, fireflies can be seen all year round.

Firefly watching is at its peak during the rainy season from May to June and from fall to winter, and you can see fireflies dancing with elegant light if you visit the spots.

There is also a rare species of firefly called Miyakomado Firefly, which is found only in the Miyako Archipelago. This species is also designated as a quasi-endangered species, so visitors should be careful not to touch it even if they find it.

The Miyakomado firefly has the highest luminous capacity of all fireflies, and the sight of it shining in the pitch-dark night of Miyako Island, where there are few outdoor lights, is truly spectacular.

There are so many people who visit not just once, but many times over.

 

Recommended starry sky spots in Miyako Island

In order to maximize your enjoyment of the night on Miyakojima during your limited time on Miyakojima, it is important to choose the right spot.

Here are some starry sky spots recommended by local guides who know Miyako Island well.

1. yonaha maehama beach

The 7-km-long Yonaha-Maehama Beach is the most popular spot on Miyako Island, not only popular during the daytime, but also enjoyable at night.

The air is clear, and on a clear night the Milky Way can be seen from the beach.

It's also a great date night spot for couples.

 

2. east Heiannazaki

It is located at the easternmost tip of Miyako Island and has been selected as one of the 100 best parks in Japan.

The coral reefs of Higashi Heiannazaki are also designated as a natural monument.

At the tip of the cape is the 24-meter-high, pure white Heirayana-zaki Lighthouse,One of the attractions of Higashi Heiannazaki is the 360-degree panoramic view of Miyako Island that can be seen after climbing about 100 steps.

The starry sky from Higashi Heiannazaki at night is simply beautiful and the best starry sky you will ever see!

There are no other buildings around and the air is very clean.With the sea and starry sky as far as the eye can see, this is a sightseeing spot that you should definitely visit!

 

3, Makiyama Observatory

From the Makiyama Observatory, the highest point on Irabu Island, you can see the islands of the Miyako Archipelago: Miyako Island, Kurima Island, Ogami Island, and Ikema Island.

In the photo is the Irabu Bridge, the longest bridge in Japan that can be crossed free of charge.

Makiyama Observatory offers both a starry night sky and a night view of the island!

Fireflies can often be seen during the summer season.

It is famous as a starry sky photo spot where you can take beautiful pictures of the starry sky.

 

3. nagama beach

Nagama Beach on Kushima Island is a deep beach characterized by its long sandy beach that stretches 800 meters.

There is also an area lined with cafes, and it is nice to relax in a café until it is time to see the stars!

And because the beach on Kuruma Island faces away from the city, it is an excellent place to watch the stars without city lights reaching the beach.

It is also a popular spot to enjoy the Milky Way!

 

Higa Road Park

 

Higa Road Park is located on a hill, and looking down from the observation platform, one can see the East China Sea from the top of the cliff.

There are no stores or restaurants nearby, but a large parking lot allows visitors to enjoy the starry sky in a private space without worrying about their surroundings.

It is just the right spot for slow meteor observation.

 

 

Miyako Island Night Tour Recommendations

Let's take a look at some of the most popular places to visit on a night tour of Miyako Island.

Since these places are often included in tour plans, having prior knowledge of them will make it easier to visualize them when it comes time to choose which tour to join.

Eupatorium makinoi (species of boneset)

These are the spots where sagaribana grow in clusters on Miyako Island, as introduced above.

There is no parking lot at this location, which is visited by the Sagaribana Light-up Tour, and it is confusing to find a place to park if you go there on your own.

The area is not dangerous because it is illuminated, but it is a little difficult to find because of its secluded location, so it is safer to visit by tour.

If you visit when the trees are in full bloom, you will know that the cluster is close by because of the sweet fragrance in the air.

Also, if you visit early in the morning, you can see the petals falling off, so once you have taken a tour and learned the general path, you may want to come back to view the morning sagaribana.

The path along which the sagaribana is planted is well maintained and the footing is stable, making it safe to stroll along.

If you visit with your loved one, it will surely become a romantic memory.

 

forest of trees planted to control the flow of water

Upuki Forest is the largest forest on Miyako Island and is home to many plants and animals unique to the subtropical zone.

Upuki" is a local word meaning "big tree," and as the name implies, this is a place where visitors can experience the power of nature with its rows of large trees.

This is a classic spot to visit on a jungle night tour, where you can encounter a variety of creatures.

The forest at night is filled with the sounds of birds and insects, and you will be immersed in a sense of exploration that you cannot experience in the city.

In the forested areas of Miyako Island, one has to be careful of hubs, which are poisonous snakes, but this is an area where hubs do not live, so you can enjoy exploring with peace of mind.

On a clear day, you can see the stars filling the night sky, and if the timing is right, you can clearly see the flashing satellites.

It is one of the most popular spots where you can see many sights unique to the forests of Miyakojima.

 

Shinshiro Coast

One of the many beaches on Miyako Island, Aragusuku Beach is characterized by shallow and calm waters.

Normally, shallow water tends to be safer and less crowded with underwater life, but the coral reefs on this beach are home to many of the creatures that call it home.

During the day, it is a safe and bustling snorkeling spot, but at night, the beach turns completely dark and becomes an excellent spot for star gazing.

Because there are no urban areas in the vicinity of this beach, there are no light sources to obstruct the starlight.

If you look in the direction of the ocean, there are no obstacles to block your view, so you will be able to witness a panoramic view of the sea of stars.

As an added bonus, there are also adan trees growing wild along the beach that bear fruits, a favorite food of coconut crabs, so there is a high probability of encountering coconut crabs when strolling along the beach in the middle of the night.

The sight of coconut crabs toddling along the beach is very charming, so you will want to keep an eye on your feet when visiting here.

 

Shimajiri mangrove

Mangroves, the iconic trees of Okinawa, are known to grow in muddy areas along the riverbanks.

Many people think that mangroves do not grow naturally on Miyakojima, because the island's flat terrain has no mountains and rivers do not form, but in fact, mangroves can be encountered even on Miyakojima.

Shimajiri Mangrove is the largest mangrove colony in Miyako Island.

In this area, you will find the classic mangrove plants such as Yaeyamahirugi, Ohirugi, and Mehirugi, and you will be able to see the powerful appearance of the trees, which is what Okinawa is all about.

At low tide, you can observe the southern flying goby, a fish locally nicknamed "Tontonmee," as well as a wide variety of wild birds.

Shimajiri Mangrove is well equipped with boardwalks, parking lots, toilets, and other facilities, making it a recommended spot for a safe walk even at night.

 

Manatsu Beach

The last beach we will introduce, Manatsu Beach, is one of the most scenic beaches on Miyako Island.

It is a moderate distance from Hirara, the center of Miyako Island, and can be reached by a 20-minute drive to the north, but it is not well known and has the atmosphere of a secret beach.

When you visit at night, there is often no one else around, making it the perfect spot to enjoy the serene mood with your loved one.

On the beach, there is a rocky reef that rises up to form an arch, and its special and powerful shape will surely look good when photographed.

How about listening to the sound of Miyako Island waves at night at a secluded beach known only to those in the know?

 

 

summary

Although daytime tends to be the focus of most people's attention on Miyako Island, this time we dared to shine the spotlight on the night.

Unlike the vibrant daytime scene, Miyakojima at night offers the quiet mystique of a remote island.

If you visit Miyako Island, please take a look at the thrilling and romantic nightlife of Miyako Island!

Thank you for reading to the end.

 

This article was written by.

Hello! I am Niwa-chan, your source for all things Miyakojima. I have loved being in touch with nature since I was a child, and I am especially fascinated by Okinawa's rich natural environment. Currently based in Miyakojima, I provide information on how to enjoy activities such as snorkeling, SUP, and kayaking, as well as the hidden charms of the island.

I want to experience the best activities in Miyako Island! and "I want to get local information about Miyako Island! As a local guide, I provide detailed information on recommended spots and activities on the island to those who "want to experience the best activities on Miyako Island! Our goal is to deliver an unforgettable experience for our customers while getting in touch with the local nature every day.

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