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The Irie Bay Observatory is located in the southern part of Miyako Island, offering a tranquil environment where visitors can take in the beautiful view of Irie Bay. Opened in 2009, the site features a well-maintained parking area and is easily accessible. With relatively few tourists, it remains a hidden gem where you can enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace.
From the observatory, you can gaze upon Irie Bay, which stretches inland like a brackish lake formed where the sea and river meet. The bay’s unique geography features emerald-green waters and mangrove forests along the shoreline, evoking a lush subtropical atmosphere. The river flowing like the sea and the calm landscape that extends deep into the bay create a dreamlike, otherworldly feeling.
The observatory is located between Kurima Bridge and Higashi-Hennazaki, about a 15-minute drive from Miyako Airport. It sits at the foot of a bridge along the Bora-Uechi Prefectural Road and is ideal as a rest stop during a scenic drive. It’s the perfect place to enjoy sweeping views while spending a quiet, peaceful moment.
Address: Kadekaru, Shimoji, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture
