Miyako Travel Guide
Explore the beautiful Miyako Islands and discover its rich culture, natural wonders, mouth-watering cuisine, and exciting outdoor activities. This comprehensive tour guide will help you plan your trip and make the most out of your visit to Miyako.
- Introduction to Miyako
- List of Places to Visit in Miyako
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Miyako
- Best Things to Do in Miyako: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Miyako
- Food and Drink Scene of Miyako
- Where to Stay in Miyako: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Miyako: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Miyako
- Best Time to Visit Miyako
- Do’s and Don’ts of Miyako
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Miyako: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Miyako
- Where to Go Next from Miyako: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Miyako
Located in the southernmost part of Japan’s Okinawa Prefecture, Miyako is a beautiful tropical island known for its pristine beaches, unique culture, and breathtaking landscapes. The Miyako Islands consist of eight islands, but the main island, Miyakojima, is the largest and most popular among tourists. Miyako is a hidden gem that is slowly drawing more visitors every year. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, Miyako has something to offer.
List of Places to Visit in Miyako
Miyako is a treasure trove of cultural and natural attractions. Here is a list of the top places to visit in Miyako.
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Miyako Shrine
- Miyakojima City Museum
- Tanaka Isson Memorial Art Museum
- Painagama Site
Natural Attractions of Miyako: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Yonaha Maehama Beach
- Sunayama Beach
- Irabu Bridge
- Kurima Bridge
- Higashi Hennazaki Lighthouse
- Ibaruma Sabichi Cave
- Ikema Ohashi Bridge
Hiking/Biking Routes of Miyako
Miyako is a perfect destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some hiking and biking routes that you should not miss during your visit to Miyako.
- Yabiji Trail
- Toguchi Trail
- Cape Higashi Hennazaki Trail
- Kurima-jima Island
- Irabu-jima Island
Best Things to Do in Miyako: Activities and Tours
Miyako offers a wealth of activities and tours for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the best things to do in Miyako.
- Snorkeling and Diving
- Parasailing and Water Sports
- Sunset Cruises
- Island Hopping Tours
- Renting a Car or Bike for Exploring
- Exploring the Small Local Villages
- Trying Local Tropical Fruits at a Farmers Market
Week-Long Itinerary for Miyako
Here is a week-long itinerary that will help you explore the best of Miyako.
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival and check-in. Relax on the beach. |
| Day 2 | Explore Miyako City – visit the Miyako-jima City Museum and Painagama Site. |
| Day 3 | Take a day tour to Ikema Island and view the famous haibiscus flowers. |
| Day 4 | Enjoy an outdoor adventure – hike the Cape Higashi Hennazaki Trail or rent a bike to explore. |
| Day 5 | Go island-hopping and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the smaller islands. |
| Day 6 | Visit the Yonaha Maehama Beach and enjoy various water sports. |
| Day 7 | Explore the local food and culture scene. Visit the farmers market and try local cuisines. Departure |
Food and Drink Scene of Miyako
Miyako has a unique food culture influenced by China and the historical Ryukyu Kingdom. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages during your stay in Miyako.
Must-Try Dishes
- Miyako Soba
- Goya Champuru (Bitter Melon Stir Fry)
- Rafute (Slow-Cooked Pork Belly)
- Taco Rice
- Okonomiyaki (Japanese-style Omelet)
Local Beverages
- Awamori (Distilled Rice Wine)
- Shikuwasa Juice (Local Citrus Juice)
- Tropical Fruit Cocktails
- Green Tea
Where to Stay in Miyako: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Miyako has a wide range of accommodations catering to various budgets and preferences. Here are some popular options.
- Shigira Bayside Suite Allamanda
- Hotel Atollemerald Miyakojima
- East China Sea Resort Hotel 1931
- Miyako Central Hotel
- Poka Poka Miyako
What to Buy in Miyako: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Miyako offers a wide range of souvenirs and local products that you can take home as a memory of your trip. Here are some popular choices.
- Awamori (Local Rice Whiskey)
- Shisa (Guardian Lions)
- Ryukyu Glassware
- Tropical Fruits
- Seashell Crafts
Local Culture and Customs of Miyako
Miyako has a rich cultural heritage that reflects the influences of Ryukyu, China, and Japan. Here are some things that you should know about Miyako’s local culture and customs.
- Respect the local traditions and customs.
- Take off your shoes when entering a private residence, temple, or shrine.
- Avoid wearing revealing clothing or swimwear outside of the beach areas.
- Respect the nature and do not leave garbage behind.
- Learn some basic Japanese phrases to enhance your communication.
Best Time to Visit Miyako
The best time to visit Miyako is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild, and the crowds are fewer. April to June and September to November are ideal seasons for visiting Miyako. The summer season from July to August can be hot, humid, and crowded, while during the winter, the weather is cool and comfortable, but hotel prices are higher.
Do’s and Don’ts of Miyako
Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Miyako.
Do:
- Try the local cuisine and delicacies.
- Respect the local traditions and customs.
- Enjoy the natural scenery and outdoor adventures of Miyako.
- Be polite and courteous to the locals.
- Learn some basic Japanese phrases.
Don’t:
- Litter or leave garbage behind.
- Wear revealing clothing outside the beach areas.
- Ride a bike on sidewalks.
- Touch or climb on historical artifacts.
- Be late for appointments.
Safety and Health
Your safety and health are vital during your visit to Miyako. Here are some things to keep in mind.
Safety in Miyako
- Swim only in designated beach areas.
- Be aware of jellyfish and other sea creatures.
- Avoid leaving valuables in your rental car.
- Be careful while hiking or biking in the mountains.
- Secure your belongings in your accommodation.
Health in Miyako
- Drink only bottled water.
- Wear sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
- Watch out for heatstroke during hot summer days.
- Seek medical help if you feel unwell.
Getting to Miyako: Transportation Options and Logistics
Miyako is well-connected with various transportation options. Here is how to get to Miyako.
Airports Near Miyako
Miyako Airport is the main airport serving the Miyako Islands. It offers flights to major cities in Japan, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya.
Bus Stations Near Miyako
There are no public bus services on Miyako Island. However, most accommodations provide shuttle bus services to the airport and ferry terminal.
Other Options
Miyako can be easily accessed by ferry from Okinawa’s main island or Ishigaki Island. There are also inter-island flights from Ishigaki Island.
How to Get Around in Miyako
The best way to explore Miyako and its surrounding islands is by renting a car or a scooter. Alternatively, you can use taxis, shuttle buses, or hire a bicycle to get around.
Where to Go Next from Miyako: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Miyako is conveniently located and provides easy access to various nearby destinations and excursions.
- Ishigaki Island – a popular diving and beach destination.
- Okinawa Main Island – the largest and most diverse island in Okinawa Prefecture.
- Yaeyama Islands – a group of islands that offer pristine beaches, coral reefs, and unique culture.
Conclusion
Miyako is a beautiful and unique destination that offers a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. This comprehensive tour guide will help you prepare for your visit to Miyako and make the most out of your trip. Enjoy exploring Miyako and discovering its hidden treasures.
