Located 300 km south of Okinawa’s main island sits Miyakojima, also known as Miyako Island. Recognized internationally as the home of some of Japan's most beautiful beaches, the island’s subtropical climate makes it the perfect getaway all year round. The fourth largest island in the Okinawa prefecture, Miyakojima’s 100 km long coastal line is covered in pearly white sand and features some of the clearest ocean and uninterrupted natural surroundings. Its surrounds make it the ideal location for snorkeling and exploring the coral reefs. Unlike Okinawa’s popular main island, the isolation of Miyakojima has a little bit of a subtle ‘hidden getaway’ feel to it making it the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of Japan’s mega cities.
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There is so much to do in Miyakojima, but of course it's the area’s beaches that are its main attraction. Picturesque and expansive, the versatile coast of Miyakojima provides an excellent backdrop for swimming, sunning, snorkeling, and everything else in between. The three must visit beaches on the island are Sunayama, Yoshino and Maehama. Sunayama is an easy journey only 4km from Miyakojima’s main city of Hirara. With its clear white sand and fascinating rock formations, it has become one of the most popular visitor destinations in the area, however it never feels crowded. Be sure to get a photo of the beaches’ iconic rock arch, which has been formed over centuries by crashing waves carving away at the coral wall.
If you want to explore the world below sea level, Yoshino Beach, also known as Yoshino Kaigan is a must visit location. Schools upon schools of rainbow colored fish call the shores of Yoshino Beach home, making it one of the most scenic experiences you will ever have. Once you start to go deeper into the crystal clear waters you’ll discover an underwater wonderland. The area is home to a maze of a stunning coral reef with is home to an abundance of the area’s marine life.
Arguably the most popular beach in Miyakojima is Yonaha-Maehama Beach. Stretching over seven kilometers, Yonaha-Maehama is the best place to go to try out a few new water sports like snorkeling, yachting, and trying your hand at jet-skiing. If you’re feeling super adventurous, maybe you can even compete in the annual Miyako Triathlon, which kicks off here in late April. Once you’ve used up all your energy trying out the Yonaha-Maehama’s many beach activities, kick back and witness the sun set across the ocean. As the orange and yellow flames of the sun spread over the cold electric blue of the ocean this beach plays host to one of the most spectacular natural light shows in the world.
Thanks to the friendly climate the beaches are open year round, but the optimal time to visit the island is between April and November when the water is warm and the temperature consistently sits around 25 degrees. As well as beaches, when you do visit you have to try some of the island’s most popular local dishes like Goya chanpuru and soba noodles. Miyakojima is very accessible, with the local airport running regular direct flights to Tokyo, Osaka and Naha daily. Flights from Tokyo and Osaka will take around 2 to 3 hours while flying from Naha is a very easy 50-minute trip.Sea Turtle Snorkeling and Pumpkin Limestone Caving
¥6,900
Update date：2024/04/25
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