Miyako Islands are made up of about 8 small islands. To get there it is about a 45 min. flight from Naha or about a 10 hr. ferry boat ride. Miyako is well known for its beautiful diving and snorkeling. One of the sites you can't miss is the Tori-ike on Shimoji island, this is a set of pools like linked to the ocean by an underground channel.
The Miyako Islands consist of 8 islands some large and some small. Miyako Island is the core island among them, with its main city set in Hirara. Most of the population of these islands is concentrated in this city. Miyako Island has a beautiful coastline fringed with the coral reefs. This island has an excellent reputation for its beauty. Both the coral sand beachs and the emerald green sea show untouched beauty. The scale of coral reefs far outshines others.
The land, rather flat, and mostly produces alot of sugar canes. During the harvest season, the entire island is covered with sugar cane. There are many historical sites symbolizing life on this island that was so mercilessly ruled in the past, but the expressions of the local people and the words they use as well as the distinct dialect combined with the melody of the traditional songs make this a cheerful place.
Higashi Henna Promontory
The eastern most part of Miyako Island, this 2 km long, narrow promontory jutting out into the sea. This spot is the most scenic on Miyako Island. The point of the promontory dividing the sea into the Pacific Ocean in the right and the East China Sea in the left commands a 360 degrees panoramic view. When looking into the coral sea from the top of the cliff, groups of tropical fish swimming there can be seen through the crystal clear water. Also, the plant community spread over the cliff should not be missed. The whole area of this promontory is full of brilliant flowers year round. This place was also designated protected.
Sunayama Beach
The snow-white, fine sand and the shapes of the small sand dunes there. Walking past the small dunes, you can get to the beach where the emerald green sea spread before your eyes. The natural cave of coral reef rocks also plays a role in weaving the excellent scene. Equipment and tools for all types of ocean sports are available through a rental services.
Miyako Fabrics
Miyako is also known for its quality fabrics that were often woven as a tribute to the king. The beautiful, quiet coloring dyed with indigo is excellent and would make a perfect gift for a special friend.
Hirara City Tropical Plant Garden
Tropical trees and flowers fill the garden, with highlights on the promenades of bottle palms and Deigo (Prefectural Flower) and the big Chinese banyan trees.
Ninto-zei-seki
Miyako Island has a history of suffering under heavy taxation, called Ninto-zei until the Meiji Period (the end of the 19th century). It is said that the tax was levied on every islander taller than this 1.4 meter stone.
Yonaha Maehama Beach
This 4 km long beach of snow-white sand is better known as Maipama Beach. The beautiful contrast of the white coral sand, the deep blue ocean, and the subtropical trees behind the beach is excellent. Often utilized as the stage of water sporting events by the visitors at Tokyu Resort Hotel in the beachside area, this beach has become a mecca of ocean resorts.
The Japan Triathlon Championship Meet
In the Japan Triathlon Championship Meet, which is held every April on Miyako Island worldclass triathletes challenge themselves on a tough course. One must fight to the end of this long-distance course consisting of 3 km swimming, 136 km bicycling, and 42.195 km of running.
If you know of any other legends or stories about Okinawa or the surrounding islands please send us what you know and pictures if possible. Thanks.
