✓ Joining us on our Whatsapp Channel: 💬 Explore and Escape!.
Booking through us:
✓ 🏩 🛌 Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget: Booking.com | Agoda.com
✓ 🍹⛱️ Deals on Private xfers, SIM Cards, City tours, Day trips : 📍🗺️ GetYourGuide | 🛵🧳 Klook
If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Miyako.
Miyako, like a hidden gem, awaits to be discovered.
The small island in Okinawa, Japan, is a postcard-perfect paradise that offers a myriad of activities that will entice adventurers, foodies, and nature-lovers alike.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Miyako:
1. Sunayama Beach
Sunayama Beach is a beautiful and secluded beach located on Miyako Island in Okinawa, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy crystal clear waters, soft white sand, and stunning rock formations that are perfect for snorkeling and diving. The beach is also a great spot for relaxing, sunbathing, and taking in the picturesque scenery.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Sunayama Beach is the natural archway that has been carved out of the rocks by the sea.
This stunning feature creates a picturesque frame for the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean.
Insider travel tips: – The beach can get crowded during the peak tourist season, so it’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
2. Miyakojima Marine Park
Miyakojima Marine Park is a popular spot for tourists to go snorkeling and scuba diving, located on the coast of Miyakojima Island in Okinawa, Japan.
What to see or do: At Miyakojima Marine Park, tourists can explore the underwater world and see a wide variety of marine life, including colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, and manta rays.
Visitors can rent snorkeling or scuba diving gear and take guided underwater tours for a closer look at the stunning marine biodiversity.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to spot manta rays while scuba diving at Miyakojima Marine Park. These majestic creatures are known for their graceful, sweeping movements underwater and are a highlight for many visitors.
Insider travel tips: – One of the best times to visit is during the winter months, when water visibility is at its peak.
3. Shigira Beach
Shigira Beach is a stunning sandy beach located on the south-west coast of Miyako Island in Okinawa, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can indulge in various water sports such as surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking or simply relax on the sandy beach while taking in the pristine blue waters and stunning sunsets.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to explore the coral reefs while snorkeling, where you can get up close and personal with a range of exotic marine life.
Insider travel tips: – Best time to visit is during the off-season for fewer crowds.
4. Kurima Bridge
A unique red bridge located in Miyako, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can cross the bridge while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding area.
Don’t miss: Take in the breathtaking sunset over the ocean from the bridge.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring a camera for incredible photo opportunities. It’s also recommended to visit during the offseason when there are fewer tourists.
5. Irabu Bridge
Irabu Bridge is a stunning bridge that connects Miyako Island to Irabu Island in Okinawa, Japan.
What to see or do: Experience a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean as you drive or walk across the bridge. On clear days, you can also see the nearby Kurima Bridge and even the Yae-yama Islands in the distance.
Don’t miss: Stop at the Irabu Observation Platform, located at the highest point on the bridge, to take in the amazing scenery and snap some photos.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit during sunrise or sunset for even more stunning views.
If you’re driving across the bridge, be sure to use the designated pullover areas to take pictures – stopping the car on the bridge itself is prohibited.
6. Yonaha Maehama Beach
One of the most beautiful beaches in Japan, Yonaha Maehama Beach is located on Miyako Island in Okinawa.
What to see or do: Take a dip in the clear blue water, sunbathe on the smooth white sand, and enjoy stunning picturesque views of the ocean.
You can also rent snorkeling equipment and explore the colorful underwater world.
Don’t miss: Catching one of the legendary Miyako Island sunsets, which is truly a sight to behold.
Insider travel tips: Bring your own food and drinks as there aren’t many nearby vendors, and be sure to visit during the week to avoid the crowds that come on weekends.
7. Aragusuku Beach
Aragusuku Beach is a picturesque beach located in Miyako Island, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The crystal clear blue waters make it a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Visitors can also sunbathe on the white sandy beach or take a walk along the shore.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to experience the unique marine life that inhabits the waters around Aragusuku Beach, including various colorful fish, sea turtles, and coral reefs.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit is during the summer months as the water is warm and the weather is sunny.
8. Maehama Beach
Maehama Beach is located on the Miyako Island of Okinawa, Japan, and is known for its long stretches of white sand and crystal clear turquoise waters.
What to see or do: Visitors can swim and sunbathe on the beach, take a leisurely walk along the shore, or go snorkeling to explore the coral reefs and marine life.
Don’t miss: Sunset at Maehama Beach is a must-see, as the sky turns shades of pink and orange over the tranquil waters.
Insider travel tips: Plan to visit Maehama Beach on weekdays, as it can get crowded on weekends and during peak travel times.
Also, bring sunscreen, as the sun can be strong, and try the local island cuisine at one of the nearby restaurants for an authentic Okinawan experience.
9. Nagamahama Beach
Nagamahama Beach is a picturesque beach located in Miyako, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can relax on the pristine sandy beach and soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and marvel at the stunning views of the ocean.
There are also various water sports and activities available, such as Snorkeling and Stand-up Paddleboarding.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to watch the gorgeous sunrise or sunset over the horizon. Also, don’t forget to check out the charming local fishing villages nearby.
Insider travel tips: If you want to avoid the crowds, try to visit during the weekdays. Bring snacks and refreshments as there are limited options nearby.
Finally, bring your camera to capture the amazing views of the ocean.
10. Toriike Pond
Toriike Pond is a beautiful natural pond located in Miyako, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy a peaceful walk around the pond and take in the stunning scenery. During summer, the pond is covered in blooming water lilies which makes for a picturesque sight.
You can also rent a small boat to paddle around the pond and take in the view from a different perspective.
Don’t miss: The reflection of the surrounding trees and mountains on the clear water of the pond is simply breathtaking and not to be missed.
Insider travel tips: – Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
11. Yabiji
A small uninhabited island located in the Okinawa Prefecture of Japan.
What to see or do: Yabiji is known for its crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and coral reefs. The island is perfect for snorkelling, scuba diving, and relaxing on the beach.
Visitors can also take a boat tour around the island to see its beautiful rock formations and lush vegetation.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Yabiji is its stunning sea cave, which can only be entered during low tide. Visitors can swim through this cave and see the sunlight filtering through the water, creating a beautiful underwater effect.
Insider travel tips: Yabiji is best visited during the summer months when the weather is warm and the sea is calm. Visitors should pack plenty of sunscreen, as the sun can be very strong on the island.
It is also recommended to bring an underwater camera to capture the island’s beautiful marine life.
12. Higashi Hennazaki
Scenic cape located in Miyako, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged coastline. Snap photos of the iconic lighthouse and cliffside shrines.
Go for a hike on the nature trails and beaches.
Don’t miss: The Higashi Hennazaki Lighthouse, which is open for visitors to climb to the top and take in the breathtaking views. The Kannon-do Shrine, which offers stunning views of the ocean and nearby islands.
Insider travel tips: Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most picturesque views. Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
Bring a jacket as it can be windy. Take the Miyako Tourism Bus from JR Miyako station for convenient transportation.
13. Painagama Beach
Painagama Beach is a stunning and secluded beach located on the beautiful Miyako Island in Okinawa, Japan.
What to see or do: Swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, relax on the soft white sand, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs and lush greenery.
The beach is also perfect for snorkeling and diving, with colorful coral reefs and vibrant marine life to discover.
Don’t miss: Be sure to stay until sunset, when the sky turns a golden hue and the sun dips behind the horizon in a spectacular display of color.
Insider travel tips: – Bring your own food and drinks as there are no nearby restaurants or convenience stores.
14. Ikema Bridge
Ikema Bridge is a 1425-meter-long bridge that connects the Miyako Island and Ikema Island in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: While driving or walking on the bridge, you can enjoy the stunning panoramic view of the azure blue ocean and Miyako Island.
It’s a great spot for taking photos and enjoying the sea breeze.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the sunrise or sunset from Ikema Bridge. The view is breathtakingly beautiful with the sun casting a warm glow over the ocean.
Insider travel tips: – If you want to avoid crowds, visit the bridge during weekdays and early mornings or late afternoons.
15. Miyako Shrine
Miyako Shrine is a 12th-century Shinto shrine located in central Kyoto, Japan. It is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
What to see or do: Visit the Haiden, or main prayer hall, which features intricate carvings and gold leaf decoration. Take a walk around the shrine’s grounds, which include a beautiful garden and a sacred pond.
Don’t miss: The annual Aoi Matsuri festival, which takes place every May and includes a procession from Kyoto Imperial Palace to Miyako Shrine.
The festival is one of Kyoto’s oldest and most famous.
Insider travel tips: – Visit Miyako Shrine in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.