Highlights of Great Irabu Bridge & Miyako Island
-
Port
Miyakojima (Hirara), Miyako, Japan
-
Activity Level
Moderate Activity
-
Excursion Type
All
-
Wheelchair Accessible
No
-
Starting At (prices in USD)
$220
-
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
-
Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
-
Meals Included
Meals not included
Spend a leisurely half day discovering the scenic highlights of lovely southern Miyako Island. You'll set off by motorcoach; then follow a lush botanical path up 75 steps to the top. Resembling a bird in flight, the Makiyama Observatory offers picture-perfect views of Miyako, Irabu, and the bridges connecting the surrounding islands.
Cross one of them en route to Shimoji Island, where you'll admire two round ponds called Tori-ike. Connected by an underwater tunnel, which combine freshwater and seawater, the ponds boast a stunning array of deep blue and green hues. They are a popular dive site.
Next, capture stunning photos of the Irabu Ohashi Bridge — Okinawa's longest bridge, spanning the distance between Irabu and Miyako — against expansive sky and sparkling sea vistas. View Maehama Beach. This stunning 4.3-mile stretch is one Japan's best stretches of sand and lies at the southwestern corner of Miyako Island.
Conclude your day with some souvenir shopping at the Miyakojima City Traditional Crafts Center. A staff member will explain the Miyakojima textile industry, which centers on a traditional high-quality hemp cloth called Miyakojima-Jofu.
Please note: In the unlikely event the observatory is closed, an alternative observation viewpoint will be substituted. Terrain includes even and uneven surfaces, inclines, and many steps. Not advisable for guests with mobility limitations. Wear sturdy non-skid walking shoes. The Miyakojima City Traditional Crafts Center is closed on Sundays. Bring local currency or credit cards, as most vendors do not accept US dollars. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water. Weather and atmospheric conditions vary; no guarantee is offered with regard to visibility or views on any particular day. Tour sequence may vary. Unfamiliar accents can be challenging; feel free to ask your guide to repeat or elaborate on information, and to speak more slowly so you can fully comprehend and converse.