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We’ll introduce a scenic drive course that circles around Miyakojima. From historical landmarks to beautiful beaches and breathtaking viewpoints, this one-day route lets you fully enjoy the charms of the island. Be sure to rent a car and make the most of your time in Miyakojima!
1. PIKYAZU – A MYSTICAL POND WHERE HISTORY AND NATURE INTERTWINE
Start your journey with an easily accessible spot from the city — Pikiyazu.
This circular pond is a mystical location deeply tied to the legends of Miyako Island. Surrounded by lush greenery and a serene atmosphere, it has long been a place of worship for the local people. You can truly feel the spiritual energy that lingers here.
2. MIYAKO SHRINE – GREET THE ISLAND’S PROTECTIVE DEITY
Located in the heart of Miyako Island, this shrine is cherished by locals. It enshrines Minamoto no Tametomo, who played a significant role in the development of Miyako. The grounds feature a large banyan tree, offering a powerful sense of the island’s natural energy and history.
3. Harimizu Utaki – The Most Powerful Spiritual Spot on Miyako Island
Harimizu Utaki is considered the most prestigious and spiritually powerful sacred site on Miyako Island.
It has long been revered by locals as a holy place, deeply rooted in the island’s spiritual traditions.
Nestled quietly in a forest, the serene atmosphere offers a cleansing, sacred experience simply by being there.
Please be respectful when visiting, and do not enter any restricted areas.
4. Yamato-ga – A Historic Well That Tells the Story of Miyako Island
Yamato-ga is one of the valuable wells that supported Miyako Island during times of water shortage, built during the Ryukyu Kingdom era.
As there are no rivers on the island, such wells have long supported daily life.
Descending the stone-carved steps gives a glimpse into the lives of people in the past and a strong sense of history.
5. SUNAYAMA BEACH – ONE OF MIYAKOJIMA’S MOST SCENIC BEACHES
Next, head to one of Miyakojima’s most iconic scenic spots: Sunayama Beach.
Beyond the fine white sand dunes lies a stunning view of emerald green sea and beautiful shoreline. Frequently featured in tourist brochures, it’s also a popular photo spot.
However, please be cautious when swimming, as there is no coral reef shelf and the water becomes deep quickly offshore.
6. HARRY’S SHRIMP TRUCK – AUTHENTIC GARLIC SHRIMP FLAVORS FROM HAWAII
For lunch, head to “HARRY’S Shrimp Truck,” where you can enjoy the taste of Hawaii while taking in breathtaking views.
Here, you’ll savor juicy shrimp coated in a delicious butter garlic sauce. Enjoying lunch with a view of the Miyako Blue sea is sure to become a special memory of your trip.
7. YUKISHIO MUSEUM – DISCOVER THE SECRETS OF MIYAKOJIMA’S FAMOUS SALT
After lunch, it’s time for dessert.
At the Yukishio Museum, where you can learn about the salt-making process and uses of Yukishio in a fun way, the popular Yukishio Soft Serve Ice Cream is highly recommended. Its subtly salty-sweet flavor is delightfully addictive. It’s also a great place to pick up some Yukishio as a souvenir.
8. Higa Road Park – One of Miyako Island’s Top Scenic Drive Spots
Set your GPS to “Higa Road Park” and head to the eastern side of Miyako Island.
This spot offers a breathtaking view that feels like you’re looking down from an airplane. The expansive Miyako Blue sea stretches out before you, with an open horizon view that’s truly stunning.
It’s also a perfect place to take a break during your drive, so be sure to stop by.
9. RECOMMENDED BEACHES IN MIYAKO ISLAND! SNORKELING SPOTS & RELAXING BEACH GUIDE
Miyako Island has many beaches, and choosing the right one for your purpose will help you make the most of your time. Whether you want to fully enjoy snorkeling or simply relax by the beach, we’ll introduce the perfect spots for each.
Aragusuku Beach
This beach features a shallow shoreline, making it easy to reach the reef area with just a short swim. Colorful tropical fish gather around the coral reefs, making it a safe and enjoyable snorkeling spot even for beginners.
- Highlights:
✔ Shallow waters, ideal for beginners
✔ Crystal-clear water with tropical fish visible up close
✔ Relatively calm sea conditions
⚠ It can get crowded during peak season, so visiting early in the day is recommended.
Yoshino Coast
The coral reefs start just off the shallow waters, making it easy even for snorkeling beginners to enjoy the stunning underwater scenery right away. With its crystal-clear waters, you can observe colorful fish swimming up close.
• Points:
✔ Ideal for snorkeling with coral reefs located nearby
✔ A wide variety of fish can be observed
✔ Enjoyable even in shallow water
⚠ During peak season, direct access to the beach by rental car is restricted. Visitors must transfer to a shuttle bus at the parking lot.
Recommended for those who prefer a relaxing beach experience!
If you’re not into snorkeling and just want to unwind, the stunning Yonaha Maehama Beach, one of Miyakojima’s most iconic beaches, is highly recommended.
Yonaha Maehama Beach
Known as “the most beautiful beach in the East,” this stunning spot features pure white sand and the dazzling Miyako Blue sea, making it one of Miyakojima’s most scenic locations. Frequently ranked among the top in guidebooks and travel rankings, its charm lies in the breathtaking contrast that looks like a painting.
Each beach in Miyakojima has its own unique features, so the key is to choose one that matches your style. Whether you enjoy snorkeling or just relaxing on the beach, make the most of the Miyako Blue ocean.
10. Higashi-Hennazaki – A Scenic Cape Selected as One of Japan’s Top 100 Urban Parks
Located at the easternmost point of Miyako Island, this scenic cape offers a magnificent view where wild waves crash against the rocks.
Designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty, it’s a breathtaking spot where the blue ocean contrasts beautifully with the white lighthouse.
Take a walk along the promenade and feel the full power of nature.
To reach a hidden photo spot, follow this route: Before reaching the monument at Higashi-Hennazaki Park, turn left onto the narrow path. After walking a bit, you’ll find a scenic lookout point on the right.
From there, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Miyako Blue ocean, with the lighthouse as a perfect photo backdrop.
As it’s often windy in this area, be cautious with hats and small items that can easily blow away.
11. Island Café Tunkaraya – Take a Break at a Scenic Café
Wrap up your drive with a visit to “Island Café Tunkaraya,” located near the Shigira Golf Course.
Enjoy a relaxing café time while taking in the stunning view of Miyako Island’s beautiful ocean.
There’s also a connected gift shop, perfect for finding souvenirs to remember your trip.
12. BAKERY NANSEI NO KAZE – FRESHLY BAKED BREAD PERFECT FOR SOUVENIRS
End your journey with a visit to “Bakery Nansei no Kaze” to pick up some takeaway bread. Their fragrant croissants and baguettes are especially popular and perfect for enjoying while admiring the natural beauty of Miyakojima. The Ueno German Culture Village is also nearby, so it might be worth a stop if you’re interested.
13.Bonus… Not a destination worth visiting on its own, but a spot worth stopping by if you’re driving nearby.
There are many places around Miyako Island where you can experience its rich history and natural beauty beyond the major tourist attractions. If you come across any of them while heading to your destination, feel free to stop by and explore.
SHICHIMATA BEACH TIDE-DRAWING SITE
“Tide-drawing site – A place that tells the history of the islanders who drew seawater.”
Located on the eastern coast of Miyako Island, Shichimata Beach is known for its rugged cliffs and dramatic scenery. Among them is the “tide-drawing site,” where people once collected seawater for daily life. Because the spot is sheltered from strong waves, the seawater was ideal for making salt and used in food preparation. This quiet historical site reveals the close connection between the island’s nature and the people’s way of life.
TARAGAWA DISTILLERY
“A long-established distillery producing beloved local Awamori. Its cave-aged Kusu (aged Awamori) is especially popular.”
Founded in 1948, Taragawa Distillery is one of the most iconic producers of Awamori in Miyako Island. Visitors can join a guided tour to learn about the production process and the history of Awamori, with a highlight being the unique cave cellar used for aging. The tour concludes with a tasting session, where you can select your favorite bottle as a souvenir of your trip.
Mamoru-kun and Mamoruko-chan of Miyako Island
“How many Mamoru-kun can you find?”
Mamoru-kun, the symbol of traffic safety on Miyako Island, can be spotted all around the island, along with his little sister Mamoruko-chan. These police officer statues stand at key locations, keeping a watchful eye and have become a popular photo spot for tourists. While driving around the island, try counting how many Mamoru-kun and Mamoruko-chan you can find!
MUIGA CLIFF
“In Search of Breathtaking Views and the Miracle of Whales – Muiga Cliff of Miyakojima“
Located in the northeastern part of Miyakojima, Muiga Cliff is a stunning spot boasting a dramatic 100-meter-high cliff. The vast Pacific Ocean stretches out below, and in winter, lucky visitors may even catch a glimpse of humpback whales! It’s one of Miyakojima’s hidden gems where you can truly feel the power of nature.
ŌNOETSU DRAINAGE CHANNEL: ŌNO FOREST
“Miyakojima’s largest subtropical primeval forest is a healing spot where you can enjoy rich nature and a wide variety of wild birds.”
Ōno Forest, the largest forest area in Miyakojima, spans approximately 119 hectares of subtropical vegetation. With trees such as akagi and Ryukyu pine, it is also known as a bird-watching spot. Take a peaceful moment to immerse yourself in the lush nature of Miyakojima.
MIYAKOJIMA CITY UNDERGROUND DAM MUSEUM
“A unique facility where you can learn about the world’s first underground dam technology.”
Miyakojima has very few rivers and relies heavily on groundwater for its water supply. To secure this resource, an innovative technology called the “underground dam” was developed. At the museum, you can learn about how it works and the history of water resources on Miyakojima. Understanding this local technology that supports the islanders’ lives may give you a new perspective on your journey.
Ueno German Culture Village
“A unique theme park in Miyakojima where you can experience German culture and history.”
The park was established as a symbol of friendship between Miyakojima and Germany, inspired by the shipwreck of the German merchant vessel “R.J. Robertson.” The park features German-style buildings, creating an exotic atmosphere. Visitors can explore museums and an observation tower while learning about the historical ties between Miyakojima and Germany.
HISAMATSU GOYUSHI COMMEMORATIVE MONUMENT
“A monument honoring five brave men who played an important role during the post-Ryukyu annexation era.”
This commemorative monument honors five fishermen from Miyako Island who courageously informed of the approaching Baltic Fleet during the Battle of Tsushima. Their actions had a significant impact on Japanese military history.
JINTOUZEKI (HEAD TAX STONE)
A HISTORIC SITE THAT TELLS THE STORY OF MIYAKOJIMA’S PAST — A SYMBOL OF THE FORMER HARSH HEAD TAX SYSTEM.
The stone pillar symbolizes the “head tax” system that existed from the 17th century. It stands 1.43 meters tall—the height of an adult woman. Women who reached this height were considered adults and were subjected to heavy taxes. It is one of the most important historical landmarks in understanding Miyakojima’s past.
THE TOMB OF NAKASONE TOYOMIYA
NATIONALLY DESIGNATED IMPORTANT CULTURAL PROPERTY. A HISTORICAL TOMB HONORING NAKASONE TOYOMIYA, A HERO OF THE ISLAND.
The tomb honors Nakasone Toyomiya, who ruled over Miyako Island. He had close ties with the Ryukyu Kingdom, and the site stands as a valuable cultural asset reflecting the architectural techniques of the time.
MIYAKOJIMA CITY MUSEUM OF HISTORY AND FOLKLORE
A MUSEUM TO LEARN ABOUT THE HISTORY, CULTURE, AND NATURE OF MIYAKOJIMA
The museum offers a comprehensive look at Miyakojima’s nature, history, and culture. Exhibits include traditional farming tools and displays about daily life in the past, providing deep insights into the island’s roots.
BRIDGES CONNECTING THE ISLANDS OF MIYAKOJIMA
EXPERIENCE THE MAJESTIC IRABU, KURIMA, AND IKEMA BRIDGES
Surrounding Miyako Island are the Irabu Bridge (3,540m), Kurima Bridge (1,690m), and Ikema Bridge (1,425m)—each offering a unique scenic drive. Enjoy the exhilarating feeling of driving over the ocean.
IRABU BRIDGE
KURIMA BRIDGE
IKEMA BRIDGE
WHEN DRIVING NEARBY, BE SURE TO STOP BY AND DISCOVER MIYAKOJIMA’S HIDDEN CHARMS!
Finally…
Driving in Miyakojima offers different ways to enjoy your trip depending on the route you take. Plan your route based on where you’re staying, and make the most of your time on the island.
Drive safely and enjoy the best of Miyakojima!