A Roundup of Miyako Island’s 7 Outlying Islands! How to Get There and What to See on the 4 Islands Accessible by Bridge and the Islands Reachable by Boat

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There are seven outlying islands around Miyako Island, ranging from those accessible by car via a bridge to those that can only be reached by boat.

 

In this article, we’ve compiled information on how to get to each of the seven islands, whether they’re suitable for day trips, spots recommended by local staff, and sample day-trip itineraries.

 

7 Islands Near Miyako Island | Compare Travel Options at a Glance

The remote islands around Miyako Island are,Ikema Island・Irabu Island (port island)・Shimochijima Island・Kurima Island・Ogami Island・Tarama Island and Minna Island・7It is.

 

Four of these islands are connected to Miyako Island by bridges, andYou can go on a day trip using a rental car.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.

 

Since the remaining three islands require travel by boat or plane, how you plan your trip will vary significantly depending on your mode of transportation.

 

You can see the relative locations of the seven islands on the map below.

 

Just west of Miyako Island lie Irabu Island and Shimoji Island; to the north are Ikema Island and Ogami Island; and to the southwest is Kurima Island. Tarama Island and Minna Island are located farther out to sea to the west of Miyako Island.

 

The eight inhabited islands that make up the Miyako Islands

The Miyako Islands consist of eight inhabited islands: Miyako Island, Ikema Island, Ogami Island, Kurima Island, Irabu Island, Shimoji Island, Tarama Island, and Minna Island.

 

The seven islands other than the central island of Miyako Island are what are known as the “outlying islands of Miyako Island.”

 

With the opening of the Irabu Bridge in 2015, the five islands of Miyako, Ikema, Kurima, Irabu, and Shimoji were connected by bridges.

 

Three Ways to Get There: Bridges, Scheduled Ferries, and Chartered Boats

There are three ways to get to the outlying islands of Miyako Island: “by bridge (car),” “by scheduled ferry or plane,” and “by chartered boat.”

 

Since the number of ferry and flight departures and their schedules vary depending on the season and day of the week,Be sure to check the latest information from the airline before your trip.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.

 

Four remote islands accessible by car from Miyako Island via a bridge

The four islands of Irabu, Shimoji, Ikema, and Kurima are connected to Miyako Island by bridges, andYou can come and go freely by car.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.

 

Since you can explore at your own pace without worrying about ferry schedules, even first-time visitors to Miyako Island can easily enjoy the atmosphere of the outlying islands.

 

A rental car is a convenient way to get around, so be sure to make a reservation as soon as you decide to go on your trip.

 

Irabu Island | An island perfect for water activities, featuring the Blue Cave and beautiful beaches

Irabu Island is connected to Miyako Island by the Irabu Bridge, which is 3,540 meters long.

 

Just past the bridge, you'll find a cluster of popular seaside attractions, including the Blue Grotto and beautiful beaches.

 

If you want to see the island's highlights efficiently, we recommend spending a full day exploring it together with Shimojijima.

For more information about Irabu Island, click here!

 

Blue Cave

One of the most popular attractions on Irabu Island is,The "Blue Grotto," which can only be accessed from the seaIt is.

 

Since it’s inaccessible by land, you’ll take a snorkeling boat or a glass-bottom boat from Sarahama Port to the entrance of the cave.

 

Since this is an area that is highly susceptible to tidal currents and waves, for safety reasonsWe recommend joining a tourIt is.

You can do it at the Blue Cave.
For more information on snorkeling, click here!

 

mangrove

Mangroves, which grow where freshwater and seawater mix, are another attraction unique to subtropical islands.

 

On Irabu Island, mangroves stretch along the inlet that runs between Irabu and Shimoji Islands.

 

The tour, which takes you through the mangroves on a SUP or canoe, features the second half, “Activities to Enjoy on the Outlying Islands of Miyako Island" is featured in [...].

 

Watakuchi Beach

Watariguchi Beach is one of Irabu Island’s most iconic beaches, featuring a long stretch of fine, powdery sand.

 

Sometimes, when you walk on the sandy beach, you can hear a sound like the sand crunching.

 

The beautiful contrast between the white sandy beach and the blue sea makes it a popular spot for wedding photos.

Wedding photography available on Miyako Island.
For more information, click here!

 

Sawada Beach

Sawada Beach is a shallow beach dotted with rocks of various sizes jutting into the sea, andJapan's 100 Best BeachesIt has also been selected for...

 

At dusk, the silhouettes of the rocks stand out, offering a particularly beautiful view on Irabu Island.

 

Incidentally, the “triangulation point” on Irabu Island, which is sometimes featured online as a “scenic spot,” is,Miyako Island Tourism AssociationandAreas Where Entry Is ProhibitedIt is.

 

Since it is located on a cliff with no railing and is dangerous, please do not visit it.

 

Shimojishima | The Island Home to 17END and Toriike Pond

Shimojishima is a small island connected to Irabujima by a bridge.

 

Since 2019, regular passenger flights have been operating out of Shimojishima Airport, making it another gateway to the Miyako area.

 

Since it’s right across the waterway from Irabu Island, we recommend visiting both places together.

For more information about Shimoji Island, click here!

 

17END・35END

17END is a shallow stretch of water that extends beyond the runway at Shimojishima Airport.

 

When the tide goes out, a white sandy beach and crystal-clear ocean are revealed, andOne of Miyako Island's top photo spotsIt is known as the

 

The administrative walkways at the airport areVehicle Access Prohibited Starting in March 2019So, I'll walk there from the parking lot up ahead.

 

35END, located at the opposite end of the runway, is another spot worth visiting, but please be sure not to enter the airport grounds at either location.

 

pond in a garden

Tori-ike is a mysterious landform consisting of two circular ponds connected underground, which are also connected to the ocean.

 

National scenic spots and natural monumentsThe name is designated in the

 

It's also gaining popularity as a diving spot where you can dive into the pond.

About Street Pond
For more information, click here!

 

Nakanoshima Beach

Nakanoshima Beach is a popular snorkeling spot featuring a coral reef that stretches across a cove surrounded by rocks.

 

Tidal currents and wave heights vary from day to day.

 

Before going into the water, be sure to check the ocean conditions for that day.

 

Ikema Island | Heart Rock and the Yaese Islands

Ikemajima is an island located just beyond the 1,425-meter-long Ikemajima Bridge, which connects to the northern part of Miyako Island.

 

The island is small, so you can drive around it in no time.

 

From the bridge, you can look out over the Miyako Blue sea.

For more information about Ikema Island, click here!

 

Heart Rock (Heart Stone)

Heart Rock is located at Ikizoo Beach on the west side of Ikemajima,A rock with a heart-shaped hole in itIt is.

 

At high tide, it sinks into the sea, andThey appear around the time of low tideSo, be sure to check the tide table for the times before you visit.

 

Since this is a privately owned property that has been opened to the public, a facility usage fee is required for visits.

 

eight-holed arrow whistle

In the waters north of Ikemajima lies the Yaebise Reef, said to be one of Japan’s largest coral reef systems.

 

Since it's a place that can't be reached by land,Snorkeling Tour by BoatIt is common to use [...].

At Yaehigase
of snorkeling tours.
For more information, click here!
(External site)

 

Kurima Island | A Small Island Where You Can Relax

Kurima Island is an island accessible via the 1,690-meter-long Kurima Bridge, which extends from Yonaha Maehama Beach.

 

It's close to Miyako Airport, making it easy to stop by even for a short visit on the first or last day of your trip.

 

There are cafes dotted throughout the island, so you can relax and enjoy the island's laid-back pace.

For more information about Kurima Island, click here!

 

long stretch of beach

Since Nagama Beach is located in a somewhat hard-to-find spot, even during the tourist season,A hidden gem of a beach with fewer peopleIt is.

 

The sea, dotted with adan trees and coral reefs, stretches out before us.

 

There are no parking lots, restrooms, or showers, so,Let's get everything ready before we head out.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.

 

Dragon's Palace Observatory

The Ryugu-jo Observation Deck is a scenic spot on top of a hill that offers a panoramic view of the Kurima Bridge and the sea around Miyako Island.

 

You can see all the way to Yonaha Maehama Beach.

 

Please stop by while you're out for a drive.

 

Two remote islands accessible by ferry (scheduled service) from Miyako Island

Ōgami Island and Tarama Island are remote islands accessible by regular ferry from Miyako Island.

 

Not only are the number of flights limited for both routes, but flights may also be canceled due to weather conditions.

 

After deciding on the departure time for the return flight first,...We recommend planning how you'll spend your time on the island.

 

Ogami Island | The “Island of the Gods,” About a 15-Minute Boat Ride Away

To get to Ogami Island, take a scheduled ferry operated by Ogami Kaiun from Shimajiri Fishing Port in northern Miyako Island; the trip takes about 15 minutes.

 

Since there are several flights a day, it's possible to make a day trip.

 

Since there are few departures, be sure to check the latest schedule.

For more information about Ogamijima, click here!

 

Rules You Should Know Before Visiting

Ōgami Island has long been revered as the “Island of the Gods,” and there are sacred areas on the island that even the islanders do not enter.

 

Please avoid approaching sacred sites (utaki) and similar places without good reason.

 

On days when Shinto rituals are held, there are areas where entry is prohibited.Let's keep that in mind, too.

 

Oogami Island Observation Deck

The Ogami Island Observation Deck is a viewpoint offering a 360-degree panoramic view from the summit, which stands at an elevation of approximately 75 meters.

 

There are stairs all the way to the summit, so please wear comfortable walking shoes.

 

Rugged Rocks (Notch)

The island's coastline is lined with strange rock formations (notches) whose bases have been eroded by the waves into mushroom-like shapes.

 

If you visit at low tide, you can really appreciate its unique shape.

 

Tarama Island | A Peaceful Island Accessible by Ferry and Plane

Tarama Island is an island located roughly halfway between Miyako Island and Ishigaki Island.

 

."Japan's Most Beautiful Villages"It is a member of the federation, and its traditional villages and customs are still carefully preserved today."

 

There are two ways to get there: a 2-hour ferry ride from Taira Port on the Tarama Marine ferry, or a 25-minute flight from Miyako Airport.

 

The ferry operates one round trip per day,No service on Sundays, Departure times may vary depending on the season.

 

Yaeyama Observation Deck

Located at the highest point on the island, the Yaeyama Observation Deck is a nationally designated historic site built around the 17th century to monitor the sea.

 

The exterior, built from stacked Ryukyu limestone, evokes the island's history.

 

Shiokawa Ontake: The Village with the Fukugi Tree-Lined Avenue

The island is dotted with sacred sites called “utaki” where deities are enshrined, and Shiokawa Utaki is one of them.

 

A path lined with large Fukugi trees still remains in the village, allowing visitors to take a stroll while experiencing the island’s traditional way of life.

 

The “August Dance,” held every year in the eighth month of the lunar calendar, is known as the island’s largest traditional event.

 

Transportation on the Island

Since Tarama Island is flat, you can explore it at a leisurely pace by rental car or rental bicycle.

 

Since the number of vehicles is limited, it's best to make a reservation in advance if you plan to use the service.

 

Since there aren't many restaurants or shops, be sure to check their hours of operation in advance.

 

Minna Island: A Remote Island Not Directly Accessible from Miyako Island

Minna Island is a remote island that cannot be reached directly from Miyako Island, as there are neither bridges nor regular ferry service connecting the two.

 

It is a small island north of Tarama Island; you can get there by arranging a charter boat from Tarama Island.

 

Of the seven islands, this one is the hardest to visit and is best suited for seasoned travelers.

 

How to Get to Minna Island and What to Prepare in Advance

First, we’ll travel from Miyako Island to Tarama Island, and from Tarama Island,Reserve a charter boat in advanceI will do so.

 

Since there are no restaurants or shops on the island,Food and drinks will be provided on Tarama IslandLet's head over after we're done.

 

It’s a good idea to build some flexibility into your schedule in case the boat doesn’t run on certain days.

 

A Sample Itinerary for a Day Trip to Miyako Island's Outlying Islands

If you're planning a day trip to visit some remote islands,One full day on Irabu Island and Shimoji Island; half a day on Ikema Island and Kurima IslandThat's just the right combination.

 

Here, we’ll introduce sample itineraries starting from Miyako Airport or the Hirara city center by rental car, along with estimated travel times.

 

Travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions, so please allow plenty of time when planning your trip.

 

Irabu Island and Shimoji Island 1-Day Tour

After crossing the Irabu Bridge,Take a leisurely tour of the beaches and scenic spotsThis is a classic course.

 

17END is especially beautiful at low tide, so,Rearrange the order to coincide with low tide...and satisfaction will increase.

If you'd like to enjoy some beach activities, come in the morning.Blue Cave SnorkelingWe also recommend taking part in the event and spending the afternoon exploring the beach and Toriike Pond.

 

Ikemajima + Kuramajima Half-Day Tour

Ikemajima, located north of Miyako Island, and Kurima Island, located southwest of it,A Half-Day Road Trip ItineraryIt is.

 

Since the two islands are located at the northern and southwestern ends of Miyako Island, you should allow about an hour for travel between them.

If you have some extra time, we recommend making a trip to Kuma Island on the first or last day of your trip.

 

Tips for Enjoying a Tour of Miyako Island’s Outlying Islands

The key to enjoying a tour of the islands around Miyako Island is to plan your itinerary by dividing the islands you want to visit into those you can reach by bridge and those you can reach by boat.

 

Here, we’ll introduce how to plan a day trip, how to choose your mode of transportation, and how to prepare for the weather.

 

If you're planning a day trip, I recommend visiting the four islands connected by bridges.

If you want to enjoy a day trip to a remote island,Irabu Island, Shimoji Island, Ikema Island, and Kurima Island, Connected by Bridgesis recommended.

 

It’s most efficient to visit Irabu Island and Shimoji Island on the same day, and to combine a visit to Ikema Island and Kurima Island with nearby tourist attractions.

 

Since Ogami Island is only about a 15-minute boat ride away, you can visit it in half a day, but for Tarama Island and Minna Island, you should plan your itinerary to include an overnight stay.

 

How to Choose a Rental Car, Bus, or Taxi

If you want to explore the four islands connected by bridges at your own pace, renting a car is the most convenient option.

 

Since reservations tend to fill up quickly during the tourist season,Arranged at the same time as the airline ticketsLet's do it.

 

Since local buses run infrequently, we recommend that those who don't drive combine a chartered taxi with a tour that includes transportation.

 

Boat trips and tours may be canceled or suspended due to weather conditions.

Scheduled ferries to remote islands and tour boats heading to destinations such as the Blue Cave and Yaese may be canceled or suspended due to wind and wave conditions.

 

On days when it's sunny but windy, the ocean tends to get rough, so the weather forecast isCheck everything from wind direction to wave heightIt is safe to do so.

 

The ocean tour isBooked during the first half of the tripIf you do this, it will be easier to reschedule to another date in case the event is canceled.

 

Activities to Enjoy on the Outlying Islands of Miyako Island

If you want to enjoy the ocean and nature unique to remote islands, we recommend joining a tour that takes you to places you can’t reach by land.

 

At Miyakojima ADVENTURE PiPi, we assess the weather and ocean conditions on the day of the event to determine whether it can be held safely.

 

Miyako Island ADVENTURE PiPi is,Excellent Safety Measures Sea Area Recreation ProviderIt has been certified as [...].

 

Snorkeling at the Blue Cave on Irabu Island

The Blue Cave is a popular attraction on Irabu Island that can only be accessed from the sea.

 

On a guided tour, you'll be taken by boat from the harbor to the cave entrance, so you can enjoy places that are hard to reach on your own with peace of mind.

 

Inside the cave, where sunlight streams in, you can experience a mysterious blue world unlike the "Miyako Blue."

 

Mangrove SUP

Mangrove SUP is an activity where you stand on a board, paddle, and make your way through the mangroves.

 

Since we're moving slowly across the calm, wave-free water,Easy for beginners to tryis the appeal of this product.

 

Because you're at a higher vantage point, you can take in the view of the subtropical forest from above the water.

 

mangrove canoe

Since you paddle a mangrove canoe while seated, it's a great option even for those who aren't confident in their balance.

 

It’s more stable than SUP, so it’s also ideal for families and couples who want to enjoy a leisurely time together.

 

Please check the tour page for the minimum age requirement and meeting location before signing up.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

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

 

 

in the end

The seven outlying islands around Miyako Island—ranging from those easily accessible by bridge to those requiring multiple ferry transfers—each have their own unique charm.

 

Start by exploring the four islands connected by bridges, and if you have time, try extending your trip to Ogami Island and Tarama Island as well.

 

Thank you for reading to the end.

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