[Miyakojima] 5 Recommended Tourist Spots for Irabu Island & Shimojishima

Irabu Island, located to the west of Miyakojima, is the largest of Miyakojima’s outlying islands. Since the opening of the Irabu Bridge in 2015, it has become very convenient to travel from Miyakojima for sightseeing.

The Irabu Bridge is not only a means of access but also a recommended tourist spot where you can enjoy the breathtaking view of the beautiful sea and the bridge itself. The scenery along the bridge is guaranteed to be soothing. Between Irabu Island and Shimojishima, which lies immediately to the west, there are six bridges that allow you to travel between the two as if crossing a river. In this article, we introduce recommended tourist attractions on both Irabu Island and Shimojishima.

1. Irabu Bridge

"Irabu Bridge" is a free toll bridge that connects Miyakojima and Irabu Island. Construction started in March 2006 and it opened on January 31, 2015. With a total length of approximately 3,540 m, the Irabu Bridge is Japan’s longest free toll bridge. Until its opening, Irabu Island could only be accessed by boat, but thanks to this bridge, you can now conveniently travel by car.

Seeing it up close, its beauty and impressive length will overwhelm you. Experience the exhilaration of crossing over the gorgeous "Miyako Blue" sea!

Image caption (from the source): The sunset at Irabu Bridge (Miyakojima) is also stunning.

2. Toriike

Venture to a mysterious site steeped in legends such as the "Unaitama Legend." Toriike is a power spot that has attracted attention, located on the west coast of Shimojishima.

Starting at the parking lot, follow a green-lined promenade that leads you to an area where expansive karst terrain unfolds. On both the left and right sides of the walkway, you’ll see one large pond each, known as "Toriike." Although they appear to be separate, the ponds are connected underground—and even connected to the sea through a huge underwater opening. This rare terrain makes it very popular with divers; you might even see a diver surfacing in one of the ponds.

The walkway continues deeper inland all the way to the area near Nabedoko Pond. As this unusual coastal formation has been designated a nationally recognized scenic spot and natural monument, it is recommended that you take your time and explore all the way to Nabedoko Pond if possible.

3. Sawada no Hama

One of the famous attractions selected as one of Japan’s 100 Beautiful Beaches is "Sawada no Hama." It is a shallow bay located on the northern side between Irabu Island and Shimojishima. Countless large rocks scattered along the white sandy beach create a fantastical scene. These enormous rocks are said to have been carried here by the great Meiwa tsunami of 1771 in the Yaeyama region.

You can also catch a glimpse of the approach lights of Shimojishima Airport in the distance, making it an excellent spot for enjoying the sunset.

4. Makiyama Observation Deck

For a full view of the Irabu Bridge, Makiyama Observation Deck is the perfect spot. This observation deck is located on the east side of Makiyama Park, atop a sheer cliff.

From the deck, you can enjoy the magnificent view of the sea’s beautiful gradient along with the Irabu Bridge and Miyakojima. It is highly recommended for those who wish to take in these breathtaking views.

5. Funauzagibana-ta

If you’re heading to Irabu Island, be sure to also visit the northern cliff-based observation spot "Funauzagibana-ta."

This observation deck, originally featuring a striking design element known as "Sashiba" (designed after a hawk), was once celebrated for its wild and imposing presence.

However, due to salt damage and aging, the iconic Sashiba section was unfortunately removed in 2019.
Even so, the observation deck itself remains accessible.

From the deck, you can gaze out at the emerald-green sea, teeming with coral reefs; beyond that, the endless blue horizon offers a grand panorama that highlights Irabu Island’s spectacular coral reef scenery.

6. Shimojishima 17-End

At the northern end of Miyako Shimojishima Airport, you’ll find the breathtaking scenic spot known as "17-End." This beautiful pier, equipped with approach lights along the extension of the runway, offers up-close views of aircraft taking off and landing.

The runway follows the shape of the island running north to south, with a section on its northern side jutting out into the sea. A stunning pier with approach lights, set on the runway’s extension, appears to stretch endlessly into the ocean. This sight has become a renowned scenic spot, especially cherished by aviation enthusiasts.

Although cars are not allowed, it is about a 30-minute walk from the parking lot at Toriike. Alternatively, you might rent a bicycle at Miyako Shimojishima Airport.

7. Nakanoshima Beach

Located along the outer ring road on the southwest coast of Shimojishima, Nakanoshima Beach is an outstanding spot for snorkeling and diving. This natural beach has minimal facilities, with almost no restrooms, changing rooms, or lockers available. The area is rocky and may not be suitable for small children without proper preparation.

Despite its few facilities, Nakanoshima Beach is a very beautiful beach. Its sandy shore is scattered with fragments of coral, and at one end, numerous odd rock formations captivate the eye. This beach offers a different, untouched nature from the main island’s swimming areas. While the water is relatively shallow near the shore, some parts in the center reach about 3 meters deep, so caution is advised.

Nakanoshima Beach is renowned for its clear waters, making it highly recommended for snorkeling and diving. With more than 100 species of fish playing among the coral reefs, you can fully enjoy the local sea that is beloved by residents.

◎ Summary of Recommended Tourist Spots for Irabu Island & Shimojishima

We have introduced a selection of recommended tourist spots for Irabu Island and Shimojishima. In addition to the spots mentioned, there are also other beautiful attractions such as Swan Cape and mystical power spots like Yamato Bu Ooi Rock and Obi Rock. Nakanoshima Beach, with its abundant peculiar rock formations and corals, is also recommended for snorkeling. With the improved accessibility provided by the Irabu Bridge, why not venture to Irabu Island and Shimojishima to experience all of these notable attractions firsthand?