Best of Miyakojima

Settle in for a remarkably panoramic drive around Miyakojima and two neighboring islands with frequent stops at the most naturally beautiful attractions. Water views are plentiful as you will discover while pausing at bridges leading to the islands off Miyakojima and at Higashi Hennazaki, a low rocky cape that juts into the typically crashing sea. Similarly, water is the prominent feature at scenic Maehama Beach, the pair of brilliant blue Tooriike Ponds on Shimojijima Island and at the Miyakojima Marine Park, where you will observe a spectacular array of marine life through large underwater windows. Perched atop a hill, Makiyama Observatory offers an all-encompassing view of the area and some of the attractions that you will have already seen up-close. A leisurely tour of Yuki Shio will reveal how the saltworks factory removes mineral-rich sea salt from the ocean. The company’s name means “snow salt,” a reflection of the salt’s brilliant white color.

HIGHLIGHTS:
• Admire the natural beauty of Miyakojima and other islands from the best vantage points.
• Behold the unexpected dips in Irabu Ohashi Bridge, the longest toll-free bridge in Japan.
• Observe unusual sea creatures through the viewing windows at Miyakojima Marine Park.
• See how salt is extracted from the sea and gaze out of the ocean at lovely Maehama Beach.