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Can you enjoy Miyako Island by cab? Local Staff Thoroughly Explains the Taxi Situation on Miyako Island
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Miyako Island ADVENTURE PiPiIt is!
If you're sightseeing on Miyako Island, you'll want a way to get around freely to the places you want to visit, right?
It can be difficult to reserve a rental car during peak seasons, and many people are likely nervous about driving.
So, in this article, we’ll cover Miyako Island’sTaxi Fares, How to Hail a Taxi, and What to Do When You Can't Catch OneWe’ll introduce this from the perspective of our local staff.
Table of Contents
Can You Explore Miyako Island Using Only Taxis? Conclusion and Who It’s Best For
Conclusions,You can explore Miyako Island just by taking taxis.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
However, since there are no trains on Miyako Island and the number of bus routes is limited, it’s important to understand how taxis work.
Taxis are a comfortable option for short trips, days when you want to enjoy a drink, or when you’d rather not drive.
Who Should Take a Taxi vs. Who Should Rent a Car
Taxis are best suited for,People who don't have a driver's license or who don't usually driveWell, these are people who feel anxious about driving in an unfamiliar area.
For those who want to enjoy Awamori—a local liquor from Miyako Island—whenever they please, taking a taxi offers peace of mind since there’s no need to worry about driving under the influence.
Local drivers know the area well and can sometimes provide firsthand information about shops and attractions.
On the other hand,There are few vehicles, so wait times are common.The fact that you have to settle your bill every time you stop or move is a drawback.
If you plan to visit several locations on a long-distance trip, such as a tour around the island, renting a car is likely to be more cost-effective.
We recommend choosing the mode of transportation based on your plans: take a taxi if you’re visiting “a few nearby spots,” and rent a car if you want to “explore the entire island at your own pace.”
Taxi Fares on Miyako Island | Starting Fares and Average Rates by Distance
Taxi fares on Miyako Island are,500 yen for the first 1,136 meters; 100 yen for every additional 463 metersThis is a system in which [...], etc., are added (revised in August 2023).
Miyako Island falls under the "Okinawa Prefecture Remote Islands Region" fare category, so fares there tend to be more affordable than on the mainland or Okinawa Main Island.
Initial Fare and How It Is Calculated
The first ride is500 yen to 1,136 metersSo, from there...100 yen for every 463 metersIt will be added.
In addition, during the hours from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. the following day,Late-Night SurchargeThis rule applies, so the fare is higher than during the day, even for the same distance.
Estimated Rates by Distance (Quick Reference Chart)
The approximate rates by distance are as follows.
| 1 km | 2 km | 3 km | 5 km | 10 km |
| About 500 yen | About 700 yen | About 1,000 yen | About 1,400 yen | About 2,500 yen |
Actual fares may vary depending on traffic conditions and wait times, so please consider these figures as a general guide only.
Estimated Fares and Travel Times to Airports and Major Attractions
From Shimojishima Airport to downtown Miyako Island,Approx. 25 minutes, approx. 4,000 yenThis is a rough estimate (subject to traffic conditions).
Since fares from Miyako Airport to various destinations vary based on distance and time, it’s a good idea to check the app for an estimate before getting in or confirm the fare when the ride is assigned.
How to Call a Taxi on Miyako Island | Apps, Phone Calls, and Hailing Taxis on the Street
On Miyako Island, it's rare to see empty taxis cruising around, andBooking a ride via the app or by phone is the standard methodIt is.
Book a ride using the "DiDi" taxi app
The main taxi apps available on Miyako Island are"DiDi"It is.
A major app'sGO, Uber Taxi, and S.RIDE do not serve remote islandsFor this reason, it cannot be used on Miyako Island.
If you download the app before your trip, you can request a ride smoothly without having to verbally provide your current location.
Pick them up by phone, at hotels, or on the street
The most common way to get a taxi on Miyako Island is to call a taxi company to request one.
If you provide your current location, name, and contact information, they will arrange a ride for you. If you're staying at a hotel, asking the front desk is also a sure way to get one.
While you may occasionally see taxis driving around on the main streets of Taira, it's safer to make a reservation if you want to be sure of getting a ride.
The Option of a Tourist Taxi (Charter)
For those who want to efficiently visit multiple locations,Hourly Tourist Taxi (Private Charter)is also recommended.
There are courses lasting 3 hours, half a day, or a full day, so you don't have to go through the trouble of calling for a ride each time, and you can also enjoy the driver's guidance.
Rates vary by company, time, and vehicle type, so please confirm them when making your reservation.
5 Must-See Tourist Spots on Miyako Island That You Can Reach by Taxi
Here are five tourist attractions on Miyako Island that are easily accessible by taxi.
The estimated travel times for each destination are approximate. Fares vary depending on distance and traffic conditions, so please check them before boarding.
1) Yonaha Maehama Beach
Yonaha Maehama Beach is,The most beautiful in the OrientIt is also known as one of Miyako Island's most famous beaches.
The crystal-clear "Miyako Blue" sea and fine white sandy beaches stretch out before you.
It’s conveniently located about a 15-minute drive from Miyako Airport.
| address (e.g. of house) | 1199 Shimoji Yonaha, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture |
| Area | Shimoji Area (southwestern part of the island) |
| parking lot | Free options available (with restrooms, showers, and changing rooms) |
| Access | Approximately 15 minutes by car from Miyako Airport |
| Details | The Complete Guide to Yonaha Maehama Beach |
②17END
Since 17END cannot be observed unless certain weather conditions are met,Phantom BeachIt is also called
It is located beyond the runway at Shimojishima Airport and is about a 35-minute drive from Miyako Airport.
| address (e.g. of house) | Shimojishima Airport, North Side (Irabu, Miyakojima City) |
| Area | Shimajima and Irabu Area (Western Part of the Island) |
| parking lot | Available (Vehicles are prohibited on surrounding roads) |
| Access | Approximately 35 minutes by car from Miyako Airport |
| Notes | No restrooms or concession stands |
| Details | The Complete Guide to 17END |
(iii) Marine Park
The Underwater Park is a tourist attraction where you can explore the waters around Miyako Island without getting wet.
It feels just like being underwater, and,Rich marine resources of Miyako IslandYou can touch with
By car from Miyako AirportAbout 31 minutesIt is.
| address (e.g. of house) | 2511-1 Hirara Karimata, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture |
| Area | Karamata Area (Northern Part of the Island) |
| Business Hours | 9:00-17:00 (last admission at 16:45) |
| regular closing day | None (The park may be closed due to typhoons or inclement weather.) |
| Charge | Adults: 1,000 yen / High school students: 800 yen / Elementary and middle school students: 500 yen / Children under 6: Free |
| phone | 0980-74-6335 |
| Details | Miyako Island Underwater Park Official Website |
Sunayama Beach
At Sunayama Beach, once you climb the white sand dunes,cobalt blue seaIt's a scenic spot where [...].
The arch-shaped rocks, carved by wave erosion, and the pristine white sandy beach create a picturesque landscape.
Another reason for its popularity is that it's easily accessible, located about 4 km from the city center.
| address (e.g. of house) | Hirara, Miyakojima City (Sunayama Beach) |
| Area | Taira Area (northwestern part of the island) |
| Access | About 4 km from downtown Miyako Island |
5) Snow Salt Museum
At the Snow Salt Museum, you can find Miyako Island’s specialty, “Snow Salt"You can learn how to make [...].
You can also enjoy a leisurely coffee break at the on-site shop or lounge.
It's about a 24-minute drive from Miyako Airport.
| address (e.g. of house) | 191 Karimata, Hirara, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture |
| Area | Karamata and Ikema Areas (Northern Part of the Island / Just Before the Ikema Bridge) |
| Business Hours | April–August: 9:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m. / September–March: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. |
| regular closing day | nashi (Pyrus pyrifolia, esp. var. culta) |
| Charge | Free (Tour) |
| phone | 0980-72-5667 |
| Details | Snow Salt Museum Official Website |
It's OK to meet up at the location by taxi! 5 Recommended Activities on Miyako Island
Activities on Miyako Island areMeet and disperse on-siteSince it's centrally located, it's a perfect match for taxis.
Here, we’ll introduce five recommended activities that make it easy to meet up at the location.
① Half-Day SUP/Canoeing & Sea Turtle Snorkeling
This plan is perfect for those who want to enjoy the ocean around Miyako Island in just half a day.
Choose between SUP and canoe, andSnorkeling Where You're Very Likely to See Sea TurtlesYou can enjoy the
This is the perfect introduction to the waters around Miyako Island, where you can encounter colorful fish and coral.
② The Ultimate Miyako Island Adventure Plan (SUP × Snorkeling × Caving × Canoeing)
This is a popular tour that lets you fully enjoy Miyako Island’s ocean and natural beauty in just one day.
You can experience caving through mysterious caves, canoeing and SUP to enjoy the scenery, and snorkeling to explore the underwater world—all in one go.
Indulge in 4 Activities in a Single DayWe recommend this for anyone who wants to have fun.
(3) Beach SUP/Canoe
Canoes are highly stable,Even if you're not a strong swimmer, you can feel at easeThe "I" in "I" is a "I" and "I" can enjoy it.
SUP is a versatile activity that you can enjoy whether you're standing, sitting, or lying down.
Take a moment to gaze out at the breathtaking ocean views of Miyako Island from the deck.
4) Sea turtle snorkeling
This is a popular activity where you can enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles.
Depending on the plan, even young children can participate, andFun for the whole familyThat's part of its appeal.
Amid the crystal-clear "Miyako Blue," you can encounter coral and tropical fish.
⑤ Explore the Mysterious Pumpkin Cave! Caving & Sea Kayaking Tour
Inside a cave that you can swim into from the ocean,A Mysterious Pumpkin-Shaped Cavewill spread.
Known as “Pumpkin Hole” because of its shape, there are many ways to enjoy it, such as swimming and climbing inside the cave.
This is a tour unique to Miyako Island where you can enjoy both caving and sea kayaking at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Taxis on Miyako Island
GO, Uber Taxi, and S.RIDE cannot be used on remote islands because they are outside their service areas.
A late-night surcharge applies from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. the following day.
For travel with fixed schedules, such as flights and tours, we recommend making reservations in advance.
Since this may vary depending on traffic conditions, it's a good idea to check before boarding.
If you want to see the sights efficiently, you might consider hiring a private sightseeing taxi.
Since DiDi allows for in-app payments, the app is a convenient option for those who are uncomfortable carrying cash.
in the end
In this article, we introduced taxi fares, how to hail a taxi, and how to use taxis for sightseeing on Miyako Island.
Taxis are convenient for short trips or on nights when you’re out drinking, and it’s best to book one in advance using the DiDi app or by phone.
Depending on your destination and the number of people in your party, try choosing between a rental car and a private taxi to suit your needs.
Enjoy the ocean and nature of Miyako Island with activities that are easy to join—just meet us at the location by taxi.
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