Located 300 km south of Okinawa’s main island, Miyakojima is internationally recognized as the home of some of Japan's most beautiful beaches. Thanks to its subtropical climate, the island is an ideal getaway no matter the time of year. From sightseeing and swimming, to snorkeling and sunbathing, there’s never a dull moment on the hidden paradise that is Miyakojima.
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Higashi Henna Zaki
The best ways to begin your exploration of the island is by beginning at the southernmost point of Miyakojima, the cape of Higashi Henna Zaki. With steep limestone cliffs beaten smooth the waves that crash against the narrow path out to the ocean, its scenic beauty knows no bounds. If you’re up early enough, the watching the sunrise at the point of Higashi Henna Zaki is a must do. Sitting at the tip of the Higashi Henna Zaki is the Higashi Henna Zaki lighthouse, which was built in 1967, as a way to combat the numerous boating accidents that happened on this protrusion.
Higashi Henna Zaki
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Snorkeling at Shigira Beach
Once you’ve spent some time at the lighthouse it’s time to hit the beach, you are in Okinawa after all. Also situated on the southern end of the island is the stunning Shigira Beach. What’s just so special about Shigira Beach is hard to pinpoint, but its private beach like atmosphere has something to do with it. The shore is dotted with super cute, available to rent beach houses maintained by Shigira Resort. Given its crystal clear blue ocean, pure white sand and lush green foliage, it’s the ideal place to kick back for a for a few hours and soak up your surrounds. If you’re feeling a little more active, rent out snorkeling gear or go sea kayaking, both of which are available on the beach and explore the world below sea level.
Snorkeling at Shigira Beach
- Shigira Beach House
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- Okinawa Miyakojima-shi Ueno Shinzato 1405-214
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- 0980763008
View AllHOTEL SHIGIRA MIRAGE
1405-201 Uenoshinzato Miyakojima-City Okinawa
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03
Makiyama Observation Deck
As the day carries though make your way to the Makiyama observation deck also known as Makiyama Observatory. Situated near Irabu Bridge, the deck is the best way to get a seriously immersive panoramic view of the beauty that is Miyakojima. Watch the sparkle of the blue ocean contrast against the rich green vegetation in the afternoon sun as it rolls on through the tides.
Makiyama Observation Deck
- Makiyama Observation Deck
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- Okinawa Pref. Miyakojimashi Irabu Ikemazoe
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- 0980786250
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- Free walking
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Sunset at Sunayama Beach
So to begin the day you watched the sun rise at Higashi Henna Zaki, now it’s time to make your way to the other end of the island to watch it set. There’s no better place to watch the sunset than the shores of Sunayama Beach. Located just 4km from Miyakojima’s main city of Hirara, its clear white sand and fascinating rock formations play the perfect backdrop to one of the most stunning sunsets you are about to witness in your whole life. Though it is a popular destination for those frequenting the area, it doesn’t feel overrun. As the fiery orange spreads across the evening sky contrasting against the eclectic blue ocean, it brings out the inner nature photographer in everyone. Get your camera ready.
Sunset at Sunayama Beach
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05
Dinner at El Comal
Between sun watching, swimming, snorkeling and exploring the island there’s no doubt you’ve worked up an appetite. And there’s no better place to vanquish those hunger pains than by visiting El Comal. Located about 5kms from Sunayama Beach, it’s a leisurely 50-minute walk through town or if you’re exhausted a very easy short drive. The restaurant specializes in everything Mexican, so grab a beer, some tacos and let the evening roll deep into the night.
Dinner at El Comal