How Many Hours and Kilometers Does It Take to Circle Miyako Island? Travel Times by Car and Bicycle, and Recommended Routes

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A trip around Miyako Island is about 100 km if you stick to the perimeter of the main island, and it takes about 3 to 4 hours by car.

 

In this article, local shops will introduce not only distances, travel times, modes of transportation, and routes, but also must-see spots on each island and activities you can enjoy while touring the islands.

 

How Many Kilometers and How Many Hours Does It Take to Go Around Miyako Island? [Conclusion]

A trip around Miyako Island is,If you're just driving around the perimeter of the main island, it's about 100 km; a nonstop drive takes about 3 to 4 hours.It is.

 

If you plan to stop at various places along the way, it’s best to plan a one-day itinerary that starts in the morning and ends in the evening—that way, it won’t be too much of a rush.

 

Estimated Distances and Travel Times for Tours of the Main Island Only and the Five Islands

The time required varies greatly depending on how you define a “full lap.”

 

The "Five Islands" refer to Miyako Island, Irabu Island, Shimoji Island, Kurima Island, and Ikema Island. Since they are all connected by bridges, you can drive between them.

 

Can You Complete the Circuit in One Day? Estimated Departure Times

In conclusion, it is possible to travel all the way around Miyako Island in one day.

 

Since it takes about 30 minutes per location to take photos and explore, if you plan to visit all five islands,Let's set out early in the morning and limit the number of stops we make.

 

You can search for activities to enjoy during your trip by time of day or category.

 

Comparing Transportation Options for Traveling Around Miyako Island

A trip around Miyako Island is,If you value flexibility with your schedule, renting a car is the most practical option.It is.

 

Since there aren't many local buses, those who don't drive should opt for a sightseeing bus tour, while those who are confident in their stamina should choose to rent a bicycle.

 

Rental Cars: A Classic Way to Explore at Your Own Pace

Since Miyako Island is flat and doesn't have much traffic, it's an island that's easy to drive on, even for those who aren't used to driving.

 

Reservations tend to fill up quickly during summer vacation and long weekends, so,Once your travel plans are set, be sure to book your accommodations as soon as possible.

 

Rates vary depending on the season and vehicle type, so please check the booking site for the latest information.

 

Bike Rentals: Stamina and Choosing Where to Turn Back Are Key

With few hills, it’s an island that’s easy to cycle on—so much so that events like the Tour de Miyakojima are held there.

 

However, since the sun and sea breeze can quickly drain your energy,Decide in advance where you'll turn back toward the city if things get too tough.

 

Many hotels offer these for rent, so it’s a good idea to check with your accommodation.

 

Sightseeing Bus Tours: For Those Who Don't Drive

You can tour the five islands—Miyako, Ikema, Irabu, Shimoji, and Kurima—and their scenic spots in a single day with a guide.

 

One of the appeals of a high-riding bus is that it offers a clear view of the ocean scenery—which is often obstructed by bridge railings when traveling in a rental car.

 

On foot: Walking the entire circuit isn't realistic.

To walk the entire 100 km loop, it would take more than three days, even if you walked about 30 km a day.

 

Because of the strong sunlight and the fact that some sections lack proper sidewalks, you should opt for a car or a bus tour if you're visiting for sightseeing.

 

Sample Route for a Tour Around Miyako Island (Clockwise)

The route around Miyako Island is,We recommend taking a clockwise route starting from the city center (Taira).It is.

 

Below is an example of a route that connects the spots featured in this article in a clockwise direction.

 

Please adjust the order as needed based on the weather and tide times.

 

Why it's easier to turn when assembled clockwise

The main reason I recommend going clockwise is that,The end of the day comes from the west, where the sun sets.Point.

 

Since the Irabu Bridge spans a river near the city center, the drive home after watching the sunset is a short one.

 

Order of Stops Based on Tides and Sunset Times

17END and Heart Rock are,Visits around low tideYou can clearly see the white sandy bottom and the heart-shaped pattern.

 

Check the tide table in advance to find out when low tide is, and, Let's figure out our departure time by working backward from the low tide spot and sunset time.

 

For those who still want to keep the fun going after sunset, we recommend ending your day with a night tour to enjoy Miyako Island after dark.

 

Things to Know Before Traveling Around Miyako Island

When cycling around Miyako Island, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the rules at the Ohashi Bridge, prepare for refueling and restroom breaks, and check the weather forecast before setting out.

 

Once you leave the city, there are fewer places to stop along the way, so how well you plan your trip will determine how satisfying your day is.

 

No stopping or parking on the three major bridges

You are not allowed to stop your car on the Irabu Bridge, Kurima Bridge, or Ikema Bridge.

 

Take photos from the parking lot or observation deck at the foot of the bridge, and drive at a moderate speed on windy days.

 

Fill up on gas and use the restroom in town

Since gas stations are concentrated in urban areas,It’s a good idea to fill up the tank before heading out on a road trip.It is.

 

Since there are few places in the suburbs where you can use the restroom or buy drinks, be sure to include stops at convenience stores and tourist attractions in your itinerary.

 

Check Typhoon and Weather Conditions and Sunset Times

From summer through fall, typhoons may approach the area, and on days with strong winds, traffic on the bridge and marine activities may be affected.

 

Before leaving, check the weather forecast and sunset time, andA plan to return to the city before sunsetLet's set up a

 

Places to Stop Along the Way While Driving Around Main Miyako Island

The coastline of Miyako Island is dotted with spots offering breathtaking ocean views, such as Yonaha Maehama Beach and Shinshiro Coast.

 

From here on, we'll introduce spots recommended by local guides, organized by island.

 

Yonaha Maehama Beach

With a stretch of white sandy beach—said to be the finest in all of the Orient—extending for about 7 km, and the Kurima Bridge spanning the water right in front of you, this is one of Miyako Island’s most popular beaches.

 

With its shallow waters, it’s perfect for swimming, and water sports like banana boat rides are very popular, so be sure to stop by before heading over to Kurima Island.

 

Im Gyor Marine Garden

This seaside park takes advantage of the cove's natural topography, and its calm beach is ideal for stand-up paddleboarding and canoeing.

 

There are walking trails and an observation deck on a hilltop, so you can enjoy the ocean views while taking a break from your drive.

 

Shinshiro Coast

This is a popular snorkeling beach where you have a good chance of encountering tropical fish and sea turtles in the shallow, coral-filled waters.

 

If you're new to snorkeling, joining a guided tour is a great way to enjoy the experience with peace of mind.

 

Higa Road Park

This is an observation rest area located along Prefectural Route 83 in the southeastern part of Miyako Island, at the highest point of the coastal road.

 

With parking, restrooms, and a gazebo available, and a view of the ocean below and Ōgami Island on clear days, it’s the perfect spot to take a break during a drive around the island.

 

Shigira Beach

Surrounded by rocks and with calm waters, this cove is a beach that’s easy to enjoy even with children.

 

A short distance offshore, the coral becomes more abundant, making this a popular snorkeling spot where you can see tropical fish such as clownfish.

 

Ueno German Cultural Village

This facility, which offers visitors a chance to experience German culture, was established based on the historical event in which the islanders rescued the crew of a German merchant ship during the Meiji era.

 

There is the Hakuai Memorial Hall, a full-scale replica of an ancient castle, as well as a semi-submersible sightseeing boat that allows visitors to observe the coral reef without getting wet, andPlaces to Stop By on a Rainy DayIt is also recommended as a

 

Sunset Beach

Located with a view of the Irabu Bridge, this beach—true to its name—offers a beautiful sunset.

 

Tours available in the evening include:List of Sunset ActivitiesYou can search from here.

 

Miyakojima Underwater Park

This facility allows visitors to observe the ocean—which is about 3 to 5 meters deep—through a window while wearing their regular clothes.

 

Places to stop by on days when the weather turns bad or when you can't go in the oceanIt’s also a great spot to visit, and it’s conveniently located so you can easily stop by before or after heading to Ikemajima.

 

Azuma Heinanazaki

This cape, designated as a National Scenic Spot, stretches narrowly for about 2 km along the southeastern tip of Miyako Island.

 

From the area around the lighthouse at the tip, you can see nearly 360 degrees of the surrounding sea, and the clockwise route makes it the perfect spot for a morning stop.

 

Places to Visit on a Tour Around Irabu Island and Shimoji Island

Irabu Island and Shimoji Island are connected by the Irabu Bridge. The combined circumference of the two islands is about 30 km, and it takes about 45 minutes to drive around them.

 

If you plan your route so that you arrive in this area in the evening, you'll have a better chance of enjoying the sunset over the ocean to the west.

 

Irabu Bridge

A 3,540-meter-long bridge connecting Miyako Island and Irabu Island,The longest bridge in Japan that can be crossed for freeIt is.

 

Since parking and stopping are prohibited on the bridge, please take photos from the parking lot at the base of the bridge or at the “Irabu Bridge Umi-no-Eki” on the Irabu Island side.

 

Watakuchi Beach

Located in the western part of Irabu Island, this beach features a white sandy shore stretching for about 800 meters.

 

The sand is very fine and soft, and the contrast with the blue sea is stunning.

 

Nudocubiabu

This hidden gem on the mystical island of Irabu features a large, hollowed-out area with the aerial roots of a banyan tree hanging down.

 

The roads in the area are narrow, and the ground is uneven, so please drive carefully and wear comfortable walking shoes when you visit.

 

pond in a garden

This is a spot with a unique geological formation where two ponds on Shimojishima are connected underground and also connect to the ocean.

 

The deep, rich blue water is truly impressive, and the area is also known as a diving spot.

I can go to Torii Pond
For more information on sightseeing tours, click here!

 

17END

This is a spot with crystal-clear waters located near the northern end of the runway at Shimojishima Airport.

 

During low tide, a white sandy bottom appears in the ocean, so,Let's check the tide table before we head out.

 

Places to Visit on a Tour Around Kurima Island

Kurima Island is a small island with a circumference of less than 10 km that can be reached by car via the Kurima Bridge.

 

It’s perfect not only for incorporating into your week-long trip but also for half-day sightseeing on your arrival or departure day.

 

Raima Bridge

This 1,690-meter-long bridge connects Miyako Island and Kurima Island, with the white sands of Yonaha Maehama Beach stretching out below.

 

Since there’s a sidewalk and the round trip is about 3 km, we recommend parking your car at the base of the bridge and walking across.

 

Nagama Beach

Located on the west side of Kurima Island, this natural beach is uncrowded, making it the perfect spot to enjoy some quiet time.

 

Since it faces west, the sunset is beautiful here, so we recommend stopping by in the evening as part of your loop route.

 

octopus park

At this park, marked by an octopus monument, you can take a stroll along the walking path lined with lush subtropical plants, feeling as if you're on an adventure.

 

At the end of the walking trail, there is a beach that resembles a natural pool, surrounded by rock cliffs.

 

Places to Visit on a Tour Around Ikemajima

Ikemajima is a peaceful island connected to Miyakojima by the Ikemajima Bridge, with vast fields of sugarcane stretching across it.

 

Since it's about a 30-minute drive from Miyako Airport, it's an easy first stop on a clockwise route.

 

Ikema Bridge

This 1,425-meter-long bridge connects Miyako Island and Ikema Island, and at low tide, the gradient from the shallow waters to the deep blue is truly stunning.

 

From the Tamoto Observation Deck, you can also see Ogami Island, known as a sacred island.

 

Heart Rock

Located on Ikizoo Beach on Ikema Island, this rock resembles a heart and is also known as a filming location for the morning drama "Jun to Ai."

 

Since the shape is hard to make out when the tide comes in,We recommend visiting during low tide.

 

Funakusu Beach

Also known as “Ikemma Block,” it offers a view of the beautiful, gradient-colored sea around Ikemma Island from a slightly elevated vantage point.

 

On days when the waves are calm, you can sometimes see coral from the shore, but be careful—the rocky areas can be slippery.

 

3 Must-Try Activities to Include on Your Miyako Island Tour

If you include one activity during your drive around the island, you'll be able to enjoy Miyako Island's ocean even more.

 

Since the event schedule is subject to change depending on the weather and sea conditions,We recommend deciding on the tour time first and then planning your route around it.

 

SUP & Canoeing: Recommended for sunset time in the evening

A SUP or canoe cruise on the water is the perfect way to wrap up a drive around the island.

 

If you participate in the evening, you can enjoy a special moment watching the sunset over the ocean.

 

Sea Turtle Snorkeling: One week ago, in the morning

This is a classic activity on Miyako Island where you can swim with sea turtles in the crystal-clear waters and observe tropical fish up close.

 

If you choose a tour that doesn't take too long, you can take it in the morning and then go for a drive around the area in the afternoon.

 

Pumpkin Cave Caving: Timed for Low Tide

Pumpkin Cave is a hidden gem that can only be reached by tour, as its entrance appears only during the period leading up to low tide and requires a canoe to get there.

 

Since the start time depends on the tide, be sure to book your tour first, and then plan your route around it.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

We've compiled a list of frequently asked questions about touring Miyako Island that we often receive before trips.

 

Be sure to check things like distance, time, transportation options, and how to spend rainy days before making your plans.

 

in the end

A trip around Miyako Island is about 100 km if you stick to the main island—which takes about 3 to 4 hours by car—but if you’re visiting all five islands, we recommend traveling clockwise so you’ll reach the western side by evening.

 

Before departure,Three things: filling up with gas, the tide table, and sunset timesCheck them out and combine them with other activities to fully enjoy the ocean around Miyako Island.

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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