Driving Model Routes from Miyako Airport | Recommended Itineraries for Arrival Day, During your stay, and the Final Day
Start Your Adventure by Rental Car from Miyako Airport
Miyako Island is home to many spectacular spots that are well worth visiting, including Yonaha Maehama Beach, Cape Higashihenna-zaki, and Irabu Bridge.
One of the biggest advantages of having a rental car is the freedom to explore the island at your own pace without worrying about schedules. "How much of the island can I explore on my arrival day?" "What's a good route for a full day of sightseeing?" "What can I do on my final day before my flight?" For those wondering how to plan their trip, here are some recommended routes starting from Miyako Airport.
【Arrival Day】A Half-Day Drive to Enjoy Miyako Island's Signature Scenery
Duration: Approx. 4–5 hours / Driving distance: Approx. 40 km
Miyako Airport
Yonaha Maehama Beach (approx. 15 min.)
One of Miyako Island's most iconic beaches, often described as one of the most beautiful beaches in the East.Enjoy the famous Miyako Blue immediately after arriving.
Kurima Bridge / Kurima Island (approx. 15 min.)
A popular spot for an exhilarating drive across the ocean. The views from the bridge are uniquely characteristic of Miyako Island.
Ryugujo Observatory (approx. 5 min.)
A signature scenic viewpoint on Kurima Island. Enjoy panoramic views of Kurima Bridge and Yonaha Maehama Beach.
Miyako City Center / Hotel (approx. 20 min.)
After checking in at your hotel, enjoy Miyako Island's local cuisine and relaxed island atmosphere.
Tips
Since you may be tired from your flight on the arrival day, this route is recommended for enjoying the characteristic scenery of Miyako Island while keeping driving distances relatively short.
【2nd Day】A Scenic Driving Route Across Bridges and Around Miyako Island
Duration: Approx. 8–9 hours / Driving distance: Approx. 90 km
Miyako City Center
Cape Higashi-hennazaki (approx. 35 min.)
A spectacular scenic spot located at the easternmost point of Miyako Island. Enjoy dynamic views surrounded by the ocean.
Irabu Bridge (approx. 40 min.)
At 3,540 m long, this is one of Japan's longest toll-free bridges. The exhilarating feeling of driving across the Miyako Blue ocean is one of the highlights of a Miyako Island road trip.
17END (approx. 10 min.)
This is a popular spot for photographing airplanes and the ocean together. A beautiful sandy beach appears at low tide.
Toriike (approx. 10 min.)
This is a mysterious pair of ponds designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument of Japan. The dynamic terrain created by nature is a must-see.
Sawada no Hama Beach (approx. 10 min.)
This is a beach featuring a characteristic Miyako Island landscape with rocks of various sizes scattered along the shore. The scenery in the evening is also highly recommended.
Miyako City Center (approx. 30 min.)
Tips
One of the highlights of Miyako Island is the drive itself, crossing its many impressive bridges. Be sure to enjoy not only the spectacular scenic spots but also the beautiful Miyako Blue waters visible from the bridges.
【Final Day】A Route to Make the Most of Your Time Before Your Flight
Duration: Approx. 3–4 hours / Driving distance: Approx. 35 km
Hotel
Yukishio Museum (approx. 20 min.)
This is a popular spot for finding souvenirs from Miyako Island. You can also learn about Yukishio salt in an enjoyable and informative way.
Ikema Bridge / Ikema Island (approx. 20 min.)
This is a bridge leading to the northern part of Miyako Island. The beautiful gradation of blue in the ocean viewed from the bridge is spectacular.
Cape Nishihenna (approx. 10 min.)
A popular scenic viewpoint overlooking Ikema Bridge. It is also a perfect final stop for your island drive.
Miyako Airport (approx. 35 min.)
Tips
On the final day, it is recommended to plan a schedule that makes it easy to return to the airport while keeping your flight departure time in mind. Be sure to allow plenty of time for returning the rental car and refueling.
3 Tips for Enjoying a Drive Around Miyako Island
① Plan a Relaxed Schedule with Plenty of Extra Time
Miyako Island has relatively few traffic lights and is easy to drive around, but there are many scenic spots, cafés, and other places that will make you want to stop along the way. Avoid packing your schedule too tightly and make sure to leave time to enjoy the scenery.
② Crossing the Bridges Is Part of the Travel Experience
Irabu Bridge, Kurima Bridge, and Ikema Bridge each offer a different view and atmosphere. Don't just focus on the destinations—the time spent crossing the bridges is also one of the highlights of a trip to Miyako Island.
③ Don't Forget to Refuel and Allow Time for the Car Return on Your Final Day
You may need to refuel the rental car before returning it. To make sure you catch your flight, plan your schedule based on the rental car return time.
Enjoy Miyako Island to the Fullest with a Rental Car from Miyako Airport
Starting your trip from Miyako Airport with a rental car allows you to efficiently explore Miyako Island's spectacular scenery and the surrounding islands connected by bridges. Use these model routes as a guide based on the length of your trip and flight schedule, and enjoy creating your own Miyako Island road trip.
Summary
Miyako Island is full of attractions that are best enjoyed by rental car, including its islands connected by bridges and the beautiful Miyako Blue waters. By choosing a comfortable model route that fits your arrival day, during your stay, and final day, you can make the most of Miyako Island even with limited time. Make the most of your rental car and enjoy your own unique Miyako Island road trip.