Located about 300 km southwest of Okinawa’s main island, Miyakojima is part of a small island group that includes Ikema, Kurima, Irabu, and Shimoji Island, all under the administration of Miyakojima City. The area is known for powdery white sand made from broken coral and clear, emerald-colored water. With few streetlights or tall buildings, light pollution stays low, and on clear nights the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye.
How to Get to Miyakojima
Miyakojima is served by direct flights not only from Okinawa’s main island (Naha) but also from Tokyo (Haneda and Narita), Osaka (Kansai), Nagoya (Chubu), and Fukuoka (seasonal routes).
The Naha–Miyakojima route is operated by ANA, JTA (Japan Transocean Air), and RAC (Ryukyu Air Commuter). The distance between the two airports is about 282 km, and the direct flight takes roughly 55 minutes.
Miyakojima has two airports:
- Miyako Airport – serves Miyakojima’s main island
- Shimojishima Airport – serves Irabu and Shimoji Island, and also handles some international flights
Both airports have rental car shuttle buses waiting just outside the exit, typically taking 5–15 minutes to reach the rental office. If your itinerary includes a layover with sightseeing, use the coin lockers at the airport to store luggage, and plan to return at least 90 minutes before a domestic departure.
Renting a Car in Miyakojima
Public transportation is limited on Miyakojima, so renting a car is considered essential for getting around.
International Driving Permit
An English-language Korean driver’s license is not accepted in Japan — an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required. It can typically be issued the same day at a local police station or at the IDP counters at Incheon International Airport (Terminal 1, 3rd floor; Terminal 2, 2nd floor) with just a passport and driver’s license.
When to Book ‘
Search trends show rental car demand in Miyakojima peaks in March and again in July–August. During spring break (late March–early April), Golden Week (late April–early May), and peak summer, cars can book out quickly, so reserving in advance is recommended.
Driving Notes
Japan drives on the left. If you pick up your car at Shimojishima Airport, the first stretch into town crosses Irabu Bridge, known for the “Miyako Blue” ocean views on both sides. On narrow local roads, folding in your side mirrors can make it easier to pass oncoming traffic.
Best Snorkeling Spots in Miyakojima
Miyakojima’s coastline is made up almost entirely of coral reef, which means there are several strong snorkeling spots scattered around the island.
Aragusuku Beach
Known for a high chance of spotting sea turtles, this beach is often listed as one of the island’s top snorkeling spots for its clear, emerald water.
Imgya Marine Garden
The inner part of the bay has calm water suitable for swimming, and the surrounding reef attracts enough fish to make it a popular snorkeling spot as well.
Yonaha Maehama Beach
Widely considered one of Miyakojima’s signature beaches, known for its wide stretch of white sand and clear water.
Sapphire Cave
A cave-style snorkeling point near Irabu Island, usually visited as part of a guided tour, known for dense coral and fish life inside the cave.
Yabiji
A large reef system off the coast of Miyakojima, typically accessed by boat as part of a snorkeling tour rather than from shore.Source: Seraha Log
Snorkeling spots generally fall into two categories: beaches you can visit independently, and reef or cave sites that require a boat or guide. It’s worth confirming which type applies before you go, since equipment rental and tour pricing vary by operator.
Box jellyfish (habu kurage) season runs roughly from June to October. During this period, wearing a rash guard and checking posted safety notices at the beach is recommended to minimize skin exposure.
Pre-Trip Checklist
- Apply for an International Driving Permit ahead of time (police station or Incheon Airport)
- Book a rental car early during peak seasons (March, July–August)
- Confirm whether each snorkeling spot is self-access or tour-only
- Review box jellyfish safety guidance if visiting June–October
- Check conditions for stargazing if visiting June–August
- If arriving via Shimojishima Airport, factor in the Irabu Bridge route into your plans
This guide reflects information available at the time of writing. Flight schedules, pricing, and operator details should be confirmed through official channels before booking.