Observatory / Outlook Spots in Miyako Island Area

  • Ryugujo Observation Deck
    Travel / Tourism
    Okinawa Pref. Miyakojimashi Shimoji Kurima
    This observation deck shaped like Ryugu Castle is located on a hill on Kurima Island. It has three floors, and you can see the beautiful sea right before you, Maehama Beach with its white sands on the other side, Kurima Bridge and Irabu Island. The sand and coral gradations are wonderful, and especially the color of the morning sea is something you must see.
  • Makiyama Observation Deck
    Travel / Tourism
    Okinawa Pref. Miyakojimashi Irabu Ikemazoe
    The symbol of Irabu Island, this observatory modeled after the sashiba (grey-faced buzzard) is located at the highest point on the island and is where you can see Miyako Island, Kurima Island and Ikema Island. The beautiful view of the sea and the blue sky is wonderful, and it is an indispensable place for sightseeing on Irabu Island. In addition, there is a promenade at the foot of the observatory, and you can enjoy walking in the middle of the subtropical virgin forest.
  • Yaeyama Tomidai Observatory
    Travel / Tourism
    Okinawa Miyako-gun Tarama Mura Nakasuji 1097
    This watchtower is located due north of the Tarama Village Furusato Minzoku Gakushukan and northwest along the road from the Tsuchihara Ugan prayer site. Part of the Yaeyama Tomidai Observatory Park, the watchtower stands on a 33 meter-high spot, the highest point on Tarama Island. The Ryukyu limestone pedestal of the original watchtower, which is said to have been built in the 17th century for the purpose of monitoring the ships coming and going from the island, still exists. The modern concrete observation tower allows visitors to take in the sights of the island and to see as far as Ishigaki Island on clear days. It is one of the most scenically beautiful places on the island.
  • Matsunoki Observation Deck (Gajumaru Observation Deck)
    Travel / Tourism
    Okinawa Miyakojima-shi Shimoji Kurima

Okinawa Areas

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Let go of your image of a busy, ordered Japan and replace it with crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and relaxing folk music: You’ve arrived in Okinawa. A world away from the high intensity of Tokyo, Okinawans appear to live a laid-back beach life on this paradisiacal tropical island that lies in the middle of the East China Sea almost 1,000 kilometers south of mainland Japan’s most southern tip. Home to a spattering of islands, prepare yourself to discover underwater caves, star-shaped sand, and an island culture sometimes unrecognizable from mainland Japan.

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