Jellyfish Sea or Glass Sea? You can have both!
1. Best Time to Travel
Recommended season: April–October (summer is suitable for diving, spring and autumn have pleasant weather).
Avoid typhoon season: Typhoons are common in August and September. Pay attention to weather forecasts.
Special events:
April: Miyakojima Dugong Festival (related to the rare animal "dugong").
July: Triathlon (international competition, may affect accommodation bookings).
2. Transportation
Getting to Miyakojima:
Airplane: Transfer from Naha Airport (Okinawa main island) to Miyako Airport (about 1 hour), or fly directly from Tokyo/Osaka (fewer flights).
Ferry: Depart from Naha Tomari Port (about 10 hours, suitable for budget travelers).
Getting around the island:
Car rental: Most recommended (requires an international driving permit), price is approximately JPY 5,000–8,000/day.
Bicycle: Suitable for short distances (some hotels offer rentals).
Bus: Less frequent, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance.
3. Must-See Attractions
Beaches and natural scenery:
Yonaha Maehama Beach: One of Japan's top 100 beaches, a 7 km stretch of white sand beach, suitable for swimming and sunset strolls.
Sunayama Beach: A secluded beach surrounded by sand dunes, a 5-minute walk away.
Higashi-hennazaki Cape: A lighthouse on a cliff overlooking coral reefs and magnificent sea views (admission JPY 300).
Diving and water activities:
Yaeganase: A sandbar that appears at low tide in spring, where you can snorkel or take a glass-bottom boat (best from April to June).
Aragusuku Beach: A diving spot where you have the chance to encounter sea turtles.
Kayaking/SUP: Experience the crystal-clear waters around Kurima Island.
Cultural attractions:
Miyakojima City Tropical Botanical Garden: Free admission, suitable for families with children.
Shimoji Island: The legendary "Tonchi" (two connected blue holes) and Irabu Bridge (Japan's longest toll-free bridge).
4. Food Recommendations
Miyako Soba: Chewy noodles in a pork bone or bonito broth, recommended at "Miyakojima Shokudo".
Seafood: Must-try Ise lobster and turban shells (fresh sashimi available at "Uminchu", an izakaya on the island).
Dessert: Ice cream made with Miyako snow salt ("Yukisio Shop" offers DIY seasoning).
Awamori: Local distilled liquor, recommended brand "Yonaguni".
5. Accommodation Recommendations
High-end resorts: Shigira Bayside Suite Allamanda (private beach, hot springs).
Cost-effective options: Hotel Locus Miyakojima (near the city center, convenient for car rentals).
Guesthouse experience: Choose a guesthouse near the beach, such as "Painagama Beach House".
6. Sample Itinerary
3 days and 2 nights classic route:
Day 1: Arrival → Yonaha Maehama Beach → Sunset at Higashi-hennazaki Cape.
Day 2: Snorkeling at Yaeganase → Irabu Bridge → Tonchi exploration.
Day 3: Sunayama Beach → Buy snow salt souvenirs → Return.
In-depth tour: Add cycling on Kurima Island or participate in nighttime stargazing activities (Miyakojima has little light pollution).
7. Useful Tips
Sun protection and mosquito repellent: The island has strong UV rays, so SPF 50+ sunscreen is necessary; bring mosquito repellent for jungle areas.
Cash preparation: Some small shops/guesthouses only accept cash.
Environmental protection: Coral reefs are fragile, avoid applying sunscreen before entering the water (you can wear sun protection clothing).