Miyakojima, Japan

Miyakojima is famed for its natural beauty, with several must-see locations. Yonaha Maehama Beach is consistently ranked among Japan's best beaches, featuring a seven-kilometer stretch of pure white sand and turquoise water, located about a 20-minute drive from the port.

The drive across the Irabu Bridge is an attraction in itself. As the longest toll-free bridge in Japan, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean as it connects Miyako to Irabu Island.

At the southeastern tip of the island lies Higashi-hennazaki, a beautiful, narrow cape extending two kilometers into the sea. A lighthouse at its end provides a stunning vantage point over the dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters, approximately a 40-minute drive from Hirara Port.

Another popular spot is the Ueno German Culture Village, a unique theme park with a replica castle commemorating the rescue of German sailors in the 19th century.

Several smaller islands are connected to Miyakojima by scenic bridges, making for excellent day trips.

Irabu Island is easily accessible via the spectacular Irabu Bridge, offering its own pristine beaches and viewpoints just a short drive from the port.

To the north, Ikema Island is connected by the Ikema Bridge and is known for its incredible water colors, charming fishing village, and a small wetlands area. The drive to the bridge takes approximately 30 minutes.

Kurima Island, just across the Kurima Bridge from Yonaha Maehama Beach, is a tiny island with stylish cafes and observation decks offering stunning views.

The main cruise port in Miyakojima is Hirara Port, which is conveniently located adjacent to Hirara, the island's largest city.

The downtown area, with its shops, restaurants, and markets, is just 1-2 kilometers away, making it easily accessible on foot for most passengers. A leisurely walk of 15-20 minutes will bring you to the main commercial streets.

Due to this proximity, port shuttles to the city center are not always necessary, though some cruise lines may offer them for convenience or for excursions to farther attractions. Taxis are also readily available at the pier. While most ships dock directly at the pier, tendering is a possibility depending on port congestion, though it is not the standard procedure.

The official currency used in Miyakojima is the Japanese Yen (JPY).

While major credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger stores, and restaurants, it is highly recommended to carry a sufficient amount of Yen in cash. Many smaller local shops, food stalls, and taxis may not accept credit cards.

US Dollars and Euros are not accepted for transactions. Cruise passengers can find ATMs that accept international cards at post offices and 7-Eleven convenience stores, which are readily available in the main town of Hirara.

Miyakojima is an extremely safe destination with a very low crime rate, consistent with the rest of Japan. Visitors can feel comfortable and secure exploring the island independently, both day and night.

The primary safety considerations are related to nature. Be aware of weather conditions, especially during typhoon season from June to October, and always follow official advisories. When swimming or snorkeling, be mindful of strong sea currents and potentially hazardous marine life like certain types of jellyfish; it's best to use designated swimming areas. If renting a vehicle, remember to drive on the left side of the road.

Miyakojima has a subtropical oceanic climate, characterized by warm to hot weather throughout the year. The main cruise season sees varied conditions.

Spring (March-May) and autumn (October-November) offer the most pleasant weather, with average temperatures between 20°C and 25°C (68°F-77°F) and lower humidity. Summer (June-September) is hot and humid, with temperatures often rising above 30°C (86°F).

Summer is also the peak rainy season and falls within the Pacific typhoon season, so visitors should be prepared for potential storms. Regardless of the season, it is advisable to pack lightweight clothing, strong sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear. A light rain jacket or umbrella is also recommended, especially for summer travel.

The most popular and convenient way to explore Miyakojima is by renting a car, which provides the most flexibility for visiting the island's spread-out beaches and capes. Rental agencies are available near the port, but an International Driving Permit is required for many foreign visitors.

Taxis are readily available at the cruise terminal and are a good option for shorter trips to nearby destinations, though they can become expensive for full-day island tours. Ride-sharing apps are not prevalent on the island.

A public bus system, operated by Miyako Kyoei Bus, does exist but routes can be infrequent and may not be the most practical option for cruise passengers on a tight schedule.

The primary shopping area for cruise passengers is in downtown Hirara, particularly along Nishi-dori (West Street) and around the public market. Here you can find a mix of souvenir shops, local boutiques, and food stores.

Miyakojima is famous for several local specialties that make for unique souvenirs. Look for "Yukishio" (snow salt), a powdery, mineral-rich salt, and "Kokuto" (Okinawan brown sugar). Other popular items include Shisa statues, the guardian lion-dogs of Okinawan culture, and the local rice liquor, Awamori.

Prices are fixed, and bargaining is not a common practice. While there are some duty-free options on the island, the best shopping experience involves exploring the local shops for authentic island products.