Location & Transportation
I love arriving at the Port of Hirara, tucked in the northwestern part of Miyako Island. It’s a pleasant 15-minute walk to downtown Hirara, where you’ll find plenty of local shops and cozy cafés. If you have heavy luggage or just want to relax, there’s a shuttle bus service that takes you from the berth (about 1 km away) to the terminal. Traveling around the island is easy, and the tropical breezes make every trip feel like a mini-vacation.
Sightseeing
Miyakojima is all about natural beauty and laid-back island life. While exploring, be sure to check out:
- The charming town of Hirara, with its relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals.
- Wide, white-sand beaches that stretch along the coast—perfect for a leisurely stroll or soaking up the sun.
- Scenic sugar cane fields that paint the landscape with a hint of local agriculture.
- And a fun fact: unlike many other parts of Okinawa, Miyakojima is free of habu snakes, which makes wandering around even more carefree!
For more details, you can explore the Miyako (Okinawa) Wikivoyage page.
Tours & Excursions
If you’re craving a bit more adventure, there’s plenty to do:
- Visit the Miyakojima City Tropical Plant Garden, home to 1,600 plant species and 40,000 trees—a true treat for nature lovers.
- Enjoy a round of golf on one of the island’s scenic courses.
- Consider a snorkeling or diving tour to explore the vibrant coral reefs in the surrounding waters.
- Pre-book an excursion through GetYourGuide or Viator for a hassle-free experience.
Shopping
Shopping in Hirara offers a mix of traditional Okinawan crafts and modern souvenirs. You’ll find small boutiques selling local delicacies, handmade crafts, and unique island gifts. Whether you’re looking for Ryukyu glass, local textiles, or even a quirky memento from the island, a wander through the local shops is a delightful way to take a piece of Miyakojima home.
Dining
Miyakojima’s cuisine is a delicious blend of traditional Japanese flavors and unique Okinawan influences. When dining on the island, consider trying:
- Okinawa soba: a hearty noodle soup that’s a local staple.
- Rafute: tender braised pork that melts in your mouth.
- Fresh seafood dishes, often caught just off the coast.
- Casual izakayas where you can sample a variety of small plates in a friendly, relaxed setting.
Many restaurants in downtown Hirara offer menus in English, making it easy for visitors to enjoy an authentic taste of Okinawan life.
Culture & Local Events
Exploring Miyakojima is also about soaking up the local culture:
- In Japan, cash is king in smaller shops and restaurants—even though credit cards are accepted in many places, having some yen on hand is a good idea.
- Japanese is the primary language here, with English signage appearing in tourist spots. Still, a few basic Japanese phrases can go a long way.
- Tipping isn’t customary in Japan, so you can relax knowing that service is part of the overall experience.
- Local business hours typically run from around 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, though you might find variations during national holidays or special festivals.
- The island occasionally hosts cultural events and seasonal festivals where traditional music and dance light up the community. If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with a local celebration that gives you a real taste of Okinawan hospitality.
Safety & Awareness
I always remind visitors that Japan is very safe, but it's wise to:
- Keep your personal belongings secure, especially in crowded areas.
- Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers (dial 110 for police and 119 for fire or medical emergencies).
- Respect local customs, which will make your interactions with residents even more pleasant.