“Experience the magical night woven by the Milky Way, here on Miyako Island.”
As day fades and night deepens, the Milky Way appears clearly across the southern sky.
Right now, Miyako Island enters the best season to witness this mystical river of stars.
Looking up at the countless stars painting a dreamlike sky is a truly special experience—one that’s hard to find in everyday life.
🌠When is the Milky Way at its Best?
The best season to enjoy the Milky Way in Miyako Island is from April to September.
Especially from June to August, the galactic center (in the direction of Sagittarius and Scorpius) rises high in the southern sky, creating a majestic stream of stars across the heavens.
🕐Best Timing for Stargazing
- Around the New Moon: With no moonlight, the stars appear sharper and clearer.
- Before moonrise or after moonset: Between 8 PM and 1 AM is an ideal window.
- On clear, cloudless nights
You can easily check the moon phase and moonrise/set times using free stargazing apps.
🔭Recommended Stargazing Apps
Before heading out to see the stars, use one of the following apps to check the location, timing, and direction of the Milky Way:
- Sky Guide (iOS)
Beautifully designed, this app lets you intuitively locate constellations and the Milky Way just by pointing your device at the sky. - Star Walk 2 (iOS/Android)
With AR (augmented reality) mode, you can track stars and check moonrise/set times in real time. - Stellarium (iOS/Android/PC)
A professional-grade app loved by astronomy fans. You can fast-forward time to see exactly when the Milky Way becomes visible.
📍Recommended Stargazing Spots on Miyako Island
■ Cape Nishi-Hennazaki
A panoramic cape with a full 360° view. Minimal artificial light allows you to have the entire starry sky to yourself.
■ Kurima Island – Nagamahama Beach
An 800-meter-long beach also famous for sunsets. The opposite side of the island has minimal light pollution, making it a hidden gem for enjoying stars with the soothing sound of waves.
■ Kurima Island – Nagasakihama Beach
A small, secluded beach with wide-open skies. It’s a popular location for star photography and often used in starlit photo tours.
■ Ingya Marine Garden
A beautiful coastal park resembling a natural Japanese garden. At night, the calm atmosphere contrasts with the daytime bustle, and the abundance of stars will take your breath away.
■ Cape Higashi-Hennazaki
Located at the easternmost tip of the island. This cape, selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Urban Parks, offers a romantic view of the lighthouse paired with the Milky Way. You can also enjoy the “Tsunami Rock” left by a historic tsunami event.
■ Higa Road Park
A hidden gem on the east coast. With no nearby resorts, the nights are pitch black. You can listen to distant waves while enjoying a full view of the sparkling stars. Oogami Island can also be seen from here.
🔦Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Viewing Experience
- Visit the location during daylight hours beforehand for safety.
- Bring a flashlight and insect repellent—they are essential!
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as some areas may have uneven paths.
🌌A Quiet River of Stars Flowing Across the Night Sky
In Miyako Island’s dark skies, untouched by city lights, the Milky Way flows quietly.
Prepare with an app and immerse yourself in this natural planetarium.
Take a moment, look up at the night sky—and your journey will become deeper, more meaningful, and unforgettable.
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