The Ikema Bridge, famous as a stunningly scenic bridge, is one of the must-see attractions on the tropical resort island of Miyako. The waters around Miyako Island display the vivid “Miyako Blue” and the shallow areas reveal a gradient of clear white and emerald green. The bridge’s gently arched central span adds to its beauty.
Why not cross the Ikema Bridge by rental car, bicycle, or even on foot? Here, we’ll also dive into recommended viewpoints and surrounding information.
1. Remote Islands and Bridges: Rental Cars Recommended for Miyako Island
There are no railways on the remote island of Miyako. While taxis and buses are available, if you want to tour the island efficiently, comfortably, and freely, the best option is definitely a rental car.
One of Miyako Island’s defining features is the long bridges connecting it to the surrounding islands: Ikema Island, Kurima Island, and Irabu Island. These bridges make it possible to travel between islands without using a boat, and all three bridges are toll-free. For sightseeing around the nearby islands, a rental car is extremely convenient. On top of that, the exhilarating feeling of driving across these scenic bridges is unmatched. If you visit Miyako Island, be sure to enjoy driving across these breathtaking bridges.
2. Ikema Bridge at the Northernmost Point of Miyako Island
Ikema Island is a small island located to the north of Miyako Island. The 1,425-meter-long Ikema Bridge connects the two islands. Along with Irabu Bridge and Kurima Bridge, it is one of three long, beautiful bridges on Miyako, but Ikema Bridge is known for offering the most spectacular views, attracting visitors year-round.
Facilities such as observation areas and shops are located nearby, and the scenery from the lookout points offers exactly the kind of breathtaking view that defines Miyako Island. It’s a sight you can gaze at endlessly without growing tired.
3. Miyako Island Side: A Viewpoint Before Crossing Ikema Bridge
Before crossing Ikema Bridge, stop by the parking area just before the bridge. Many don’t realize it, but before reaching Ikema Bridge from the Miyako Island side, there is actually another small bridge—the Sedo Bridge. After crossing Sedo Bridge and driving a bit further, you’ll approach Ikema Bridge.
Right before Ikema Bridge, on the right-hand side, you’ll see a small building and parking lot—this is the spot we recommend. Whether you’re heading to Ikema Island or returning from it, it’s worth a stop. In the morning, the view from this parking lot on the Miyako side is best for photography, as looking from the Ikema side can be backlit.
From this parking lot, you can see Ikema Bridge from the side or even from underneath. On both sides of the bridge lies the gorgeous sea of Miyako. You can take the stairs down and walk right to the water’s edge.
To the east of the parking lot is another breathtaking scene—the brilliant blue sea, so vivid it seems otherworldly.
4. Cross by Rental Car for an Exhilarating Drive Over the Sea!
Now it’s time to cross Ikema Bridge by car. Other than the bridge, nothing obstructs the view—just open sea on both sides. You’ll feel as if you’re driving over the ocean itself. This is one of the clearest areas of Miyako’s waters, and though you might be tempted to keep gazing at the scenery, be sure to keep your eyes on the road for safety. Once you cross, even more spectacular views await.
5. Try Crossing by Bicycle!
If you don’t have a driver’s license, or if you’d like to feel the sea breeze while enjoying the scenery, consider renting a bicycle. The bridges on Miyako Island, including Ikema Bridge, are all accessible to bicycles. Crossing the bridge while being caressed by the wind is an incredibly refreshing experience.
6. Walk Across and Fully Enjoy the Miyako Blue Sea
Although crossing the bridge by car takes only a moment, walking across allows you to leisurely enjoy the spectacular view to your heart’s content. The roughly 1.4 km bridge can be crossed to Ikema Island in about 30 minutes at a relaxed walking pace. Walking gives you unlimited opportunities to take photos of the Miyako Blue sea.
Since Ikema Island is small, you can walk around the whole island in about two hours. You might discover scenery you would have missed if you were driving. For those with extra time, exploring on foot is highly recommended.
7. Just After Crossing, Turn Right to the "Kaimeeru" Drive-in Observation Deck
Right after crossing the Ikema Bridge from Miyako Island, you’ll find a parking area with several shops offering seafood rice bowls, light meals, and cafes.
The pink building closest to the bridge is "Kaimeeru." It serves light snacks such as mango juice, Miyako soba, and grilled turban shell, as well as selling souvenirs. The second floor and rooftop of Kaimeeru are superb observation spots, so take your purchased drink up and enjoy the view.
The scenery of Ikema Bridge from here is breathtaking. Make sure to enjoy this view right at the entrance to Ikema Island.
8. Go Down to the Beach and Relax
The views from the bridge and observation decks are great, but seeing Miyako’s sea up close is also wonderful. From the parking area, walk down to the beach right next to Ikema Bridge.
The colors of the sea in front of you form an incredibly beautiful gradient. It’s a beauty that photos can’t fully capture and makes you forget the passage of time. On remote islands, instead of rushing from one sightseeing spot to another, it’s best to spend your time leisurely, gazing at the sea and enjoying the slow island pace.
9. The View from Nishi-Hennazaki "Ikema Bridge Observation Deck"
Driving toward the tip of Nishi-Hennazaki, located on the northwestern tip of Miyako Island, you’ll see large wind turbines. This is the "Ikema Bridge Observation Deck," marked by three wind turbines. The aligned turbines are photogenic, so capture them together with the beautiful sea.
Nishi-Hennazaki offers an excellent location to view Ikema Bridge to the east. From the rooftop of the observation deck, the view is spectacular—you can see Ikema Island and Ikema Bridge over the emerald green and Miyako Blue sea, the narrow stretch of Nishi-Hennazaki you just drove, and to the southwest, Irabu Island. It’s a full 360-degree panorama.
Name: Nishi-Hennazaki
Address: Hirara Karimata, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture
Official/Related Website URL: https://miyako-guide.net/spots/spots-889/
◎ Finally: Cross the Irabu Bridge and Kurima Bridge Too
The "Irabu Bridge," connecting Miyako Island to its largest neighboring island, Irabu Island, is about 3,540 meters long, making it the longest bridge in Japan. Completed in 2015, it’s a beautiful bridge with striking curves and gentle rises and falls. The Irabu Bridge is just as popular as the Ikema Bridge.
The "Kurima Bridge," connecting to Kurima Island in the southwest, is also beautiful. From the Kurima Island side’s Kurima Bridge Observation Deck, you can see the bridge in its entirety, and from the Ryugujo Observation Deck, you can look out at Miyakojima Tokyu Hotel & Resorts and Maehama Beach.
The views of the Miyako Blue sea from Irabu and Kurima Bridges are, of course, stunning. Since you’re visiting Miyako Island, cross all three bridges over the sea to fully experience their breathtaking beauty. Each of the remote islands at the other end of the bridges has its own unique charm.