Gems of Miyakojima

Enjoy a panoramic and wonderfully circuitous drive around Miyakojima Island and two neighboring islands, taking in a remarkable diversity of sights. Before crossing the Irabu Ohashi Bridge, you will pause to admire the unusually curved, double-hump concrete span. Continuing on across Irabu and Shimojijima islands will bring you to twin Toriike ponds, a gorgeous natural attraction known for its mermaid legend. Another stop at inspiring, white-sand Maehama Beach will present an excellent view of low-lying Kurima Island, much of which is agricultural. You can’t help but notice the clarity of the surrounding waters, which are teeming with brightly colored marine life. The best perspective to observe the creatures underwater is through the dozens of windows below the surface in the Miyakojima Marine Park, which was constructed on the ocean floor. You will also discover how mineral-rich salt is removed from the seawater at Yuki Shio, an innovative saltworks factory.

HIGHLIGHTS:
• Admire the natural beauty of Miyakojima and other islands from the best vantage points.
• Cross Irabu Ohashi, a bridge with double dips that is the longest toll-free bridge in Japan.
• Admire the gorgeous Toriike Ponds, whose water frequently changes colors.
• 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.