A guide to the captivating isolated islands of
Okinawa / Miyako Islands

OkinawanRemote
Okinawan
remoteIslands
islands

MIYA
IISSLLAANNKO
DD
SS

Miyak

o Islands

Ikema
Island/O
Shimoogam
ji Island/Minn i Island/Irab
u
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Miyak
o Islan Island/Taram Island
d /Kurima Isla a Islandnd

By airFlightAirlineTokyo – Miyako

JTA

Naha – Miyako

ANA / JTA

Ishigaki – Miyako

RAC

Miyako – Tarama

RAC

Inquiries
Navi Dial

Tokyo Tel. 03-5460-0522
Osaka Tel. 06-6344-2355
Naha Tel. 098-863-8522

Naha Tel. 098-861-8800

By bus/taxi●Bus

Miyako/Miyako Kyoei Bus

Irabu/Kyowa Bus

Miyako/Yachiyo Bus●Taxi

Miyako/Miyako Taxi Association

Miyako/Sanko Taxi

Miyako/Maruchiku

Miyako/Yachiyo Taxi

Miyako/Maruichi Taxi

Miyako/Takara Taxi

Miyako/Maruta Taxi

Miyako/Deigo Taxi

Miyako/Kyowa Taxi

Irabu/Nikko Taxi

Miyako/Kyoei Taxi

Irabu/Kaihatsu Taxi

Miyako/Minato Taxi

Irabu/Irabu Shinyo Taxi

Miyako/Taihei Taxi

Irabu/Shinsei Taxi

●Rental Car

ORIX Rent-a-Car

By ferry

Higashi-Hennazaki/Miyako Island●Miyako – Oogami●Miyako – Tarama

OogamiKaiun

Tarama Kaiun

Kume
IslandArea* For plane and ferry schedules, see each airline/ferry company homepage, or inquire at the information desk.

Miyakojima Tourist Association
TEL: 0980-73-1881

Irabu Tourist Association
TEL: 0980-78-6250

Airport Tourist Information Ofﬁce
TEL: 0980-72-0899

Okinawa Convention& Visitors Bureau

Naha Airport Visitor
Information Center

1831-1 Oroku, Naha City, Okinawa(Okinawa Industrial Support Center 2F)
TEL: 098-859-6123 (main switchboard)

150 Kagamizu, Naha City, Okinawa(Domestic Line Passenger Terminal 1F)
TEL: 098-857-6884 (main switchboard)
open year-round 9:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Tarama Village Tourist Association
TEL: 0980-79-2828

Naha Airport
International Terminal Bldg.
Visitor Information Center
174 Kagamizu, Naha City, Okinawa
TEL: 098-859-0742 (main switchboard)
open year-round 10:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m.

Facebook

Okinawa Tourist
Information

http://www.visitokinawa.jp* Information listed is current as of September 2014, and may change without notice. * Unauthorized reprinting or reproduction is prohibited.

Okinawa
Main
IslandMiyakoArea

Okinawa Prefecture

Okinawa Convention & Visitors Bureau

Yaeyama
Area

s to
Acces

wa

Okina

TianjinBeijing
Seoul
Japan
Korea
Busan

Tokyo

China

Osaka

NagoyaFukuokaDomestic Flights
Naha←→TokyoShanghaiApprox. 150 min.

Naha←
→OsakaApprox. 120 min.

To know them is to love
them: ﬁnd out what’s
so great about
the Miyako Islands!

Miyakojima City Mascot

MiyaThis character represents the spirit of
Miyako Island. The hair symbolizes beauty ofthe ocean and waves.The design of the hatcomes M for Miyakojima City.The two leaves
on the hat express the island’s
eco-friendlybases. Miya holds famous
Miyakojima mango in one hand. The body
represents the Miyakojima City.

Naha←→NagoyaApprox.130 min.

Naha←
→FukuokaApprox. 100 min.

Miyako←→TokyoApprox. 150 min.

Approx. 150 min.

Miyako←→Ishigaki

Approx. 120 min.

Approx. 50 min.

Naha←
→BusanNaha

Approx. 35 min.

Approx. 180 min.

Naha←
→SeoulMiyako←→Naha

TaipeiInternational Flights
Naha←→Beijing/Tianjin

Approx. 120 min.

Naha←
→ShanghaiApprox. 120 min.

Taichung

Ishigaki

MiyakoNaha←→Hong Kong
Approx. 150 min.

Naha←
→Taipei

Hong
Kong

Approx. 90 min.

Kaohsiung

Naha←→TaichungApprox. 100 min.

Naha←
→KaohsiungApprox. 110 min.

Miyako Islands
Enlarged Map

Island←→MiyakoIkema Oogami
Approx. 15 min.
IslandOogami Island●●

The Miyako Islands are 8 inhabited islands of various
sizes located about 300 km southwest of Okinawa Main
Island. Miyako Islands offer exquisite sightseeing spots
like Maehama Beach,which is chosen as the mostpopular beach in Japan by “Trip Adviser’s Choice” ,Higashi-Hennazaki which is counted among Japan’s one
hundred most beautiful views, the bridges to Ikema andKurima Islands and more; Irabu Island offers uniqueculture and hideaway swimming spots; Ikema Island isrich in natural beauty such as the rare Yabiji coral reefs
and the Ikema Wetland; the mystical Oogami Island has

long been said to be the home of the gods and the secrethiding place for the privateer Kidd’s treasure; Kurima
Island offers untouched nature and plentiful agriculture
and fruit; Tarama Island has traditional buildings whichhave gained it the title of the most beautiful village inJapan; and little Minna Island, where just one family
lives, is surrounded by coral reefs. Enjoy yourslow-paced travel around Miyako Islands and feelwarmth welcome as if you were part of the island
people.

Okinawa Miyako Islands Pavilion
Miyako Island

Ikema Island

Oogami Island

Kurima Island

The center of the Miyako Islands.
Start your island travels here!

The entire island is a national wildlife
protection area including the central Ikema
Wetland, which are a paradise for wild birds.

Legends say that the privateer
Kidd’s treasure is hidden on thismystical island.

Easily reach this popular island,with its untouched nature, bybridge.

Irabu Island

Shimoji Island

Tarama Island

Minna Island

Lots of ocean sightseeing, such as
the Sawadano hama and Toguchino hama beaches.

The mystical “Tori-ike” pond is a
popular spot for diving.

Old buildings and streets are still to
be found on this island, with its
plentiful traditional arts.

Surrounded by a coral reef, it lies
north of Tarama Island.

Okinawa Main Island

Naha←→MiyakoApprox. 50 min.

●Irabu Island
Minna Island
Shimoji Island●

Irabu Great Bridge

Tarama←→Minna Island

Approx. 15 min.

●●Miyako Island●●

Tarama←→MiyakoApprox. 120 min.

Tarama Island

Kurima Island

Flights

Miyako←→Tarama

Approx. 25 min.

1

Ferries

2

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SunayamTake the whole family on an exciting trip aroundark

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Ikema G

the islands, or revel in ocean fun with dear friends.

Heart RockMake the most of a relaxing journey tothe sunbathed Miyako Islands!
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Ikema Island
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Oogami Island

Ikema Islandangroves

Shimajiri M

Irabu Island

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Botanica
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Poll Tax Sto

Sawada Beach

ShimojiIslandnnazakigashiheCape Hi

Irabu Great Bridge
Painagama Beach
Monument of
Hisamatstu Five Bravesu UtakiHarimiz

Miyako Island
Aragusuku Coastline
Blue Planet
Nagamahama
Coastle Festiva

Nakahara Limestone Cave
Tomori Imugya

Kurima Islandeach
Maehama B

Tarama IslandancAugust D

servatory

Ryugujo Ob

3ereat Bridg

Kurima Gan
Ueno Germ

Miyakojima Kaihokan

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Okinawa Miyako Islands

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SPRING

ko IslaniyadMNagaki (rock weirs)
A traditional method of on-shore ﬁshing, in which a rock wall isbuilt on the beach to trap ﬁsh washed up by high tide. Designatedand protected as a tangible folklore cultural asset of the former
Irabu Town.

springnds

the isla
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m
m
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t
Take a leap inWhile the most part of Japan still is chilly,
it's summer already in the Miyako Islands.
Refresh yourself in the glorious sunshine and abundant nature here.
Forget your daily grind and enjoy your relaxing trip!

Recommended Course

Active trip around the Miyako Islands, experiencing your ﬁll of nature

2 nights 3 days/Miyako Island, Irabu Island, Shimoji Island

Ikema Island

Ikema Great Bridge
2

Heart Rock 3

Oogami Island

Yukishio Saltworks 4

Irabu Island

5

Makiyama Observatory Underwater Park
7
Public Market
Shimoji Island 8
Minna Island
9
6
Miyakojima City Tropical Botanical Garden
Irabu Island Irabu Great
10
Bridge1
Shimoji Island
Underground Dam Museum
Miyako Airport
12 Cape Higashihennazaki
Tarama Island
Miyako Island
13
Kurima Island
11
Mega-Solar Demonstration Research Center

Cape Higashihennazaki

Day 1

Day 3

❶Miyako Airport

Ikema Island

Miyako Island

Irabu Island

Shimoji Island

Miyako Island

Miyako Island

Miyako Island

Welcome to the airport, with its red
tile roof evoking the spirit of Kagisuma(“beautiful island” in dialect).
Approx. 28 min.

Approx. 10 min.

Ikema Great Bridge

5❸Heart RockHeart Rock, on Ikizu Beach
where the soap opera “Junand Ai” was ﬁlmed.

Approx. 12 min.

Approx. 7 min.

Miyako Island❺Miyakojima
Underwater ParkDay 2

Approx. 5 min.

Irabu Island❼Makiyama
Observatory

Superb point viewing “Irabu
Ohashi Bridge”

At this popular location,
you can observe ﬁshand corals in a rainbow
of colors.

Approx 25 min.

❽Shimoji Island
The sea viewed from
Shimoji Island, just westof Irabu Island, is said toglimmer opalescently
according to the light.

Miyako Island

Local cooking
experience
The local cooking
experience usingisland ingredientsis fun for the wholefamily!

11 Mega-Solar●

Miyako Island

Approx. 16 min.

Demonstration
Research Facility
Aiming to provide
ecological power
supply with solar
and wind power.

❷Ikema Great Bridge❹Yukishio Saltworks❻Irabu Island❾Public Market

10 Miyakojima City Tropical●The bridge between Miyako and Ikema
Islands, it will give you a sense ofdriving on the surface of the sea.

Yukishio salt contains a high degree ofsaltwater components like calcium andmagnesium. A guide will show you throughthe saltworks and how the salt is used.

Irabu Island, home ofbeautiful nature andtraditional culture

Renovated in 2011, the PublicMarket offers fresh agricultural
products and Miyakojima
Mamoru-kun products.

Gloriously blooming tropical plants.

Botanical Garden

Approx. 21 min.

Miyako Island

Approx. 35 min.

13 Cape Higashihennazaki●
At the southeast tip of Miyako
Island, this cape blooms along its
length in spring with Easter lilies.

12 Underground●

Miyako Airport

Dam Museum

Learn about the world’s ﬁrst full-scale
underground dam as well as Miyako
Island water.

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Okinawa Miyako Islands

Easter lilies
Easter lilies are at their best from April through May, one of the flowers of earlysummer. Higashi-Hennazaki, one of Japan’s “hundred most beautiful sights,”

springdisplays a field of lilies blooming brilliantly white.

Shisa
The lares and penates of Okinawan households, the“shisa” are also very popular as souvenirs. Make
your own, tough-looking or cute as you please.
Wouldn’t you like your very own shisa to guard yourhouse or decorate its rooms?

Pinda Aasu Goat Fight Tournament
Tarama Island hosts this tournament, of notbullfighting but goatfighting. The spectacle of two big
goats, nearly 100 kg apiece, locking horns is

Let the gently warm sunlight lead you on

stunning. “Pinda” in Tarama dialect means “goat”
and “aasu” means “fighting.” The championships

Yabiji Coral Reefs

a thrilling trip around the islands of the south

are divided into the 40 to 70 kg and 70 kg and up
divisions.

This large coral reef community is stretching between 5 and 22 kilometers
northward from Ikema Island.
Appearing on the sea surface at high tide, it is called “the vanishing continent.”

Swimming begins in late March in the Miyako Islands. Luxuriate in the season,enjoying ocean fun in the midst of fresh greenery.
The warmth of the sun, different again from full summer on the island,
gives you a sense of summer come early.

●● ●Yukishio Museum

Ikema Great Bridge

Find “Miyako Island Mamoru-kun” here

Underwater Park❶●

Mega-Solar
Demonstration
Research Facility
and Wind Power“Mamoru-kun” are the police statues who protect Miyako
Island! Each of the 18 statues has a different face; look
for them all!

Shimajiri Mangroves

Irabu Island❷❸

Mega-Solar Demonstration
Research Facility and wind
power. Aiming to provide
ecological power supply with

Poll Tax Stonee ●Harimuzu Utaki ●natural energy.

Underground
Dam Museum
Images and narration provide
information on the structure

Sunflower fields
The sunflowers open to announce the coming of summer.
7

Miyako General Vocational High School’s Farm #2 includes a
giant sunflower maze within its sunflower fields.

and construction technology of
the world’s first undergrounddam, the mechanism ofunderground water, andMiyako Island’s water.

❹❺●

Miyakojima City Tropical Botanical Garden❻

2

Oura Public Hall

17 Public Market

3

Nishibe Elementary School

18 Irabu

4

Megumi Market at a five-forked road5

Miyako Island Police Station

6

County JA Intersection

7

Higa Entrance

8

Kaihokan at T-junction

9

Ueno Elementary School

Don’t missmy little sister
Maruko-chan!

11 German Culture Village Intersection

Aragusuku Coastline●

Karimata Route10 Utopia Entrance❼
Maehama Beach

Miyako Electrical and
16 Plumbing Contractors

1

●

❾

12 German Culture Village Entrance
13 Kenji’s House
14 Shimoji Elementary School

Tomori Imugya● ●Taragawa Sake Brewery●

Blue Planet

HoragaLimestone Cave●●

Miyako Island
Kaihokan❽

15 Miyako Airport Lobby●

Cape Higashihennazaki

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springAll Japan Triathlon Miyakojima

Miyakojima Underwater Park

The All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima is Miyako Island’s

The Miyako Island Miyakojima Underwater Park

biggest event. The second oldest among Japanese

opened in April 2011, with 24 acrylic panels making

triathlons, it is the first to have been broadcast live by NHK.

the beautiful depths of the sea visible. Come to thisPowerful runners, swimmers, and bicyclists assemble.

popular spot to observe fish and coral at leisure.

Soothe yourself with a trip through the beautiful islands,

Experience traditional Miyako weaving
Experience traditional Miyako weaving. You can even take the cloth you’ve woven homewith you.

experiencing the graceful scenery of people and nature
Miyakojima City has declared its intention to protect the nature, lifestyles,
and culture of the island in its “Declaration of Eco Island.”Also selected for Prime Ministerial approval as an “eco-model city,” it offers a variety of ecological tours.

With take-out island ingredients inThrilling!
Miyako Island is on fire with music!

the warm southern sunlight…
In the freedom of nature, try out ingredients you never eat as arule—this is part of the delight of traveling. And your friends athome will be thrilled to hear about it afterwards!

Miyako Island is the yearly host to various
festivals, including the Kagisuma Music
Convention. The island heats up withexciting sounds, giving everyone a smile.

Tarama beef soup
The soup makes ample use of meat from
Tarama cattle raised free-range on thenature-rich island, developing freely
without stress. Don’t miss the tender,
delicate meat.

Kingdom of flowers, Miyako
The Miyakojima City TropicalBotanical Garden features

Island banana smoothies

the blooming plants of the subtropics. In earlysummer, any number of plants are at their colorful

Smo o th i e s ma d e fro m fre s h i s l a n dpeak. Enjoy the elegant koi within the gardens as well.

bananas grown without chemicals. The

Ride a horse around Miyako Island

unadorned taste is the true sweetness of

Try riding the indigenous Miyako horses. With a

Brown sugar sata andagi buns

fruit.

height of just 120 cm, they are a good bet forchildren as well.

Try kayaking
For an activity without a swimsuit needed, try kayaking. Paddle through the glories of nature!

Sata andagi is a traditional Okinawan

Taragawa Sake Brewery
Founded in 1948, its motto is “You don’t make Awamori, you bring it up.”
They bring up the best Awamori on these principles. Taragawa Sake
Brewery’s “Ryukyu Ocho” has maintained steady sales as a popular Miyako

9Island brand.

pastry. The popular sata andagi made with
Tarama Island brown sugar are richly
flavorful, fluffy and fragrant! The crisp
outside of a fresh sata andagi will blow you
away.
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OthersightsOkagani crab spawning
Okagani crabs usually live on land, but on nights when the moonis full from June through October, they go down to the sea tospawn, returning to the land when they have ﬁnished. You might
be lucky enough to witness this mystical natural phenomenon.

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In full summer, the sea shines with myriad colors under the blazing sun,a thrill just to watch.
The breeze in the shade under a tree is refreshing,and night fills the sky with stars.
Recommended Course

The irresistible Miyako blue: experience ocean fun

2 nights 3 days/Oogami Island, Irabu Island, Shimoji Island, Miyako Island

Ikema Island

5
Ikema Island Marsh

Unusual rocks Oogami Island
4
3 Oogami Island

Irabu Island

Sunayama Beach
2

Minna Island Tooriike Pond 7
Shimoji Island
Tarama Island

Miyako Airport
1

6 Irabu Great Bridge
Toguchi-no-hama Beach
8

Aragusuku Coastline
9Make your own Shisa

Miyako Island
11
Maipari Miyakojima Island Tropical Fruit Park
Cape Higashihennazaki 10

Kurima Island

Irabu Great Bridge

Day 1

Miyako Airport
Oogami Island❶Miyako Airport
Welcome to the airport, with its red tile
roof evoking the spirit of Kagisuma(“beautiful island” in dialect).
Approx. 21 min.

Approx. 20 min.

This small island, some 4kilometers northeast of
Miyako Island, is said tobe the home of the gods.

Approx. 5 min.

Approx. 12 min. Approx. 25 min.

❸Oogami Island❺Ikema Island Marsh

Oogami Island

Miyako Island

Approx. 20 min.

The largest marsh in
Okinawa, it has been
selected as one of the“500 Important Wetlands
in Japan.”

Irabu Island

Day 2

11

Miyako Island

Approx. 20 min.

Approx. 20 min.

Miyako Island

Shimoji Island

Ikema Island❼Tooriike Pond

❽Make your own Shisa

A nationally designatedplace of scenic beautyand natural monument
on Shimoji Island, next toIrabu Island, is also
perfect for photography.

A completely original Shisa isalso the perfect souvenir. Don’t
worry if it’s your ﬁrst time, you’ll
be patiently taught.

❷Sunayama Beach❹Unusual rocks❻Toguchi-no-hama Beach

Just as its name “Sunayama” suggests,
you cross a hill of sand to ﬁnd agorgeous sandy beach.

There is no word but “mystical”
for the landscape of scatteredrocks with their naturally bizarre
shapes.

15 minutes from Hirara Port by high-speed
ferry, this beach is a representative of
Irabu Island. The arc of white sand spreads
over a kilometer or so

Day 3

Approx. 18 min.

Miyako Island

Approx. 45 min.

10
●Cape
Higashihennazaki Miyako Island
This cape of some 2kilometers is one ofJapan’s hundred mostbeautiful views.

❾Aragusuku Coastline
Observe dozens of tropicalﬁsh in the broad shallows.
Ideal for snorkeling, evenfor children.

11
Miyakojima Island●Maipari
Tropical Fruit ParkThe islands are famous for their delicious fruit,
blessed with the plentiful sun of the sunbaked
southern regions
12

SUMMER

ko IslaniyadMSUMMER

Okinawa Miyako Islands

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Heart Rock (Ikema Island)Heart Rock on Ikizu Beach where the soap opera

The islands and their blue sky“Jun and Ai” was filmed.

will appeal to all five senses!
The surrounding seas have blessed the Miyako Islands with marvelous beaches.
Choose your favorite and relax at leisure, or bustle around the sightseeing spots as you prefer.
Make the most of your Miyako Islands summer.

Irabu Island
Irabu Island’s geography makes it ideal for all
kinds of ocean fun.

Aragusuku Coastline
A snorkeling spot as popular as the Yoshino Coast. Ideal forfirst-timers!

Irabu Island Toguchi-no-hama Beach

Kurima Island

About a 10- minute drive from Miyako Island, this beach is a representative of the

Located southwest of Miyako Island and connected to it by Kurima Bridge. To the6000-person Irabu Island. The arc of white sand spreads over a kilometer or so.

northwest, Nagamahama Beach is famous for its sunset views. The fine-grained whitesand and clear waters spread before you.

Makiyama Observatory
Superb point viewing “Irabu Great Bridge”

Relaxation
Relaxing on easy-going island time is pure bliss.

13

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Shimoji Island
Tooriike Pond
It is located to the west of Irabu Island,
and a bridge connects the two. The
nationally designated place of scenic
beauty and natural monument “Tooriike
Pond” is its most famous sightseeing
area, appearing as two ponds fromabove but in fact connected undergroundand even linked to the sea.

Summer in the south is a treasure house ofisland gourmet
Cape Higashihennazaki

The whole island is a sight to see,This stunning cape is one of Japan’s
hundred most beautiful views. A major

nature’s grandeur refreshingsightseeing spot, it is also designated as one
of Japan’s historic sites, places of scenic

You haven’t tasted the islands until you’ve eaten your fill of cooking and sweets madewith unique island ingredients. Some of the sweets are available only in this season.
Because the spiny lobster (ise-ebi) fishing season begins in July,
earlier than elsewhere in Japan, you can get your start on it here.

beauty and natural monuments. Look out tomind and bodythe horizon from the lighthouse, or in spring
admire the field of blooming Easter lilies.

Everywhere you go, everything you see, in the Miyako Islands is a sightworth remembering. Perhaps there’s some strange power in nature thatmakes visitors want to come back again and then again… See the sights,
eat your fill of island gourmet, or wander as you please.
The island gives you the choice, which is its greatest luxury.

Apple mangos
With no mountains, Miyako
Island is open to the sunlightall day long! Apple mangos
have an unusually high sugar

Ikema Islandcontent. A bite will fill yourmouth with sweetness, andLocated north of Miyako Island, Ikema Island can be reached by the Ikema

two bites will make you

Great Bridge. It is the nearest island to the “vanishing continent” Yabiji coral

happy all day.

reefs. At its heart are the Ikema Wetlands, the largest wetland in Okinawa.

Tarama Island

15

Spiny lobster

Fresh-baked waffles

Located between Miyako and Ishigaki Islands, it can be reached by plane or ferry.

The fishing season for spiny lobster begins in July, making this their peak season. Try rich, meaty

Waffles served with island bananas and mangos. Enjoy the island breeze as

The August Dance Festival, designated as a national significant intangible folk

lobster caught by divers the night before as sashimi, miso soup ingredient, or an oven roast. Go to town

you savor the flavor.

cultural asset, is just a part of the traditional culture that permeates the island.

on lobster!

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ko IslaniyadMOkinawa Miyako Islands

OthersightsPaantu Festival

AUTUMN

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ko IslaniyadM

One of Miyako Island’s more unusual festivals, it features visiting
masked gods who smear tourists, islanders, and newly built houses withmud. The mud is said to drive away bad luck and bring and good health.

n

autum

* If you get too close, you risk being covered in mud!

e of

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Surrounded w

t over
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is little island,

yet!

th

The southern islands have an autumn charm all their own.
Linger over ocean fun and relaxation with good friends,
and make the most of traditional arts or unusual island flavors on your journey.
Recommended Course

Spin out a journey of easy-going relaxation

2 nights 3 days/Miyako Island

Ikema Island

Oogami Island

Irabu Island
Minna Island
Shimoji Island

Irabu Great Bridge

Tarama Island

Miyako Airport
1

Miyako Island Takenakayama ObservatoryPark
2

Kurima Island

Pumpkin Hole

3

Miyako Island/Pumpkin Hole

Day 2

Day 1
❶Miyako Airport

Miyako Island

Welcome to the airport, with its red tile
roof evoking the spirit of Kagisuma(“beautiful island” in dialect).

Miyako Island

Miyako Island❷Takenakayama
Observatory Park Miyako Island
Enjoy a 360-degree panoramaof sugarcane ﬁelds and theHigashi-Hennazaki lighthouse.

17

Miyako Island

Miyako Island

Miyako Island

JetskiYou’ll love marine sports
on Yonaha Maehama
Beach, said to be themost beautiful in Asia.

Miyako Island

Snorkeling

Hot springs

Recommended even forbe gi nne rs, w h o ca nencounter colorful ﬁsh
and corals in Miyako
Island’s shallow waters.

Comfort your tired bodyin a natural hot spring
while you admire thenight sky.

Try unusual
island foods
Make your last island meal
memorable!
Miyako Island

Buggy

Beauty treatment❸Pumpkin Hole

Make your own ramie strap

It’s still summer on Miyako
Island. Enjoy the breeze of
traveling by buggy.

Refresh soul and body at oncewith Miyako ingredients forbeauty treatment like Yukishio
salt and shellﬂowers.

Find mystical power at thislimestone cave, reachable
only from the sea at certain
times only!

The thread used for Miyako Jofu
cloth, highly valued as traditional art,
is said to serve as an amulet…

Miyako Airport

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Okinawa Miyako Islands
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Quicha Festival
Held to celebrate the centennial of the elimination of the Head Tax, theQuicha Festival showcases Quicha, Miyako Island’s traditional dance.
Traditional and innovative Quicha dances are performed by region and bygroup at the festival, for large audiences.

Find your real self in the fragrance ofAugust Dance Festival
Tarama Island

Tarama Ungusu-utaki

Folksong “Nariyama Ayagu”

Ungusu-utaki is just one of the many places“Nariyama Ayagu” is one of Miyako Island’s most famous folk

around Tarama said to be mystical powersongs, passed down for three hundred years. Singing voices

spots.

resonate through the special event area set up on the coast. At
night, the whole area glows fantastically with lanterns.

The August Dance Festival, a nationallydesignated significant intangible folk cultural

the island breeze

asset, is held on Tarama Island during
August by the old calendar. It bustles withvisitors, enjoying the colorful costumes anddaring dancing.

Traditional arts are deeply rooted in the life of the islanders.
The gods are said to live in the MiyakoIslands,
where traditional culture still remains.
The island still takes pains to pass on its history to its descendants.

Takenakayama
Observatory Park
Lose yourself in the view of the island from
Takenakayama Observatory.

Myakuzutsu
The Myakuzutsu Festival is Ikema and other
Islands’ traditional events, held to pray forplentiful grain crops and good fishing.
Written in kanji, it uses the samecharacters as Miyako Island. As a major
event, it is held over the course of threedays, with Quicha dancers in the mainsquare drawing the spectators into theircircle for the energetic climax.

Pumpkin HoleFor a limited time at ebb tide, the mystical limestone cave

Kaizoku Festival“Pumpkin Hole” is accessible from the sea alone. This marvelous

Every region of Miyako Island takes part insacred power spot.

this festival, with its theme of enjoying thesea, eating the sea, competing in the sea,

Yonaha Maehama Beach

Miyako Jofu cloth

creation of nature will take your breath away. It’s also famous as a

Grey-faced buzzard

watching the sea. It includes a Harry

The grey-faced buzzard is a migratingcompetition with racing dragon boats and abird from the hawk family, famous as afishing competition.

symbol of autumn in the Miyako

Have Yonaha Maehama Beach, said to be the mostOnce used as tax goods, Miyako Jofu cloth isIslands. An endangered species, it isbeautiful in Asia, all to yourself.

highly valued as traditional art. You can weave

protected carefully.

your own while on the island.
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KAZE JETSKI
Endurance Race
The Miyakojima Kaze Jetski Endurance Race is held on
Asia’s number one beach, Yonaha Maehama. This
popular race has many participants from outside Okinawa
as well, and there are KAZE JETSKI model exhibitions too.

Marine leisure (Clear Kayak)
Paddle out into the ocean in a clear kayak to get your fill of the cute little fish and beautiful coral reefs underwater. This could only
happen in the clear waters of Ikema Island.

Rough Water Swim in Miyako Island
The Rough Water Swim in Miyako Island is held at Yonaha Maehama Beach,

Eco Island Miyakojima Marathon

Journey through the humanwarmth of the Miyako Islands!

The EcoIsland Miyakojima Marathon began in 2010, with eager
support from participants who created the course along the shore.
Run Miyako Island while enjoying the emerald green waters of thesea.

where the All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima kicks off. As well as individual andgroup events, there is the RWS Aquathlon with beach running, swimming,and running, popular with iron-man competitors proud of their strength.

Mangroves
The bay between Irabu and Shimoji Islands is overgrownwith beautiful mangroves. Wild and migratory birds maketheir homes here.

Eco-Island Miyako Island, making thefuture beautiful with homemade energy
Miyako Island, surrounded with glorious nature in the form of emerald green
seas and colorful plants, is involved in environmentally friendly energy
development like wind power and solar power, preserving the beautiful

Autumn is still summer-warm in the Miyako Islands.
The tourist season has passed its peak,so now is your chance to enjoy a moment of bliss in ideal weather.
You’ll have your choice of events,from Paantu and the EcoIsland Miyakojima Marathon to jetski races.

island and its beautiful sea.

The ideal season for unusual island foods
and hard-to-find ingredients!
Glass bead making
Try making your own original glass beads as a souvenir ofyour journey.

Autumn is when your appetite picks up,
so make the most of seasonal island vegetables and sea grapes.
The rich flavor of coconut crabs will grab you, perfect with famous island sake.

Milk sake
Milk sake is popular in the Ikema area, made ofawamori and condensed milk. Women will love
how easily it goes down too! Milk sake is an
inherent part of the Ikema Island Myakuzutsu
Festival.

Marine leisure21

The ocean is still ready for fun. Encounter rainbows of coral reefs and fish.

Unique southern hot springs

The legendary Keitt mango

What could be better than a hot spring with the blue sky

The sweetest, biggest, rarest fruit, tempting

above and tropical plants around you? Find a whole newmango lover. Bigger than apple mangos, away of enjoying hot springs in the southern islands.

single fruit will feed four.

Lunch featuring
island vegetables
Have a peaceful lunch at a café offering
the riches of nature.

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Okinawa Miyako Islands

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Miyako Island cherry blossoms
Viewing spots: Kamama-mine Park, Miyako Island Tropical Gardens
Cherry blossoms come to Miyako Island in February, just a little after
Okinawa Main Island! Relish the deep pink blossoms all over the island.

winterOn a journey

WINTER

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ethingare som
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The warm southern winters are ideal for relaxation or activity,
making your journey a thrill whether it’s traveling throughisland history or exploring the nature of small islands.
Let the island breeze take you where it will.
Recommended Course

Traveling for adults in the southern winter: Learning the Miyako Islands from history

2 nights 3 days/Miyako Island, Tarama Island

Ikema Island

Oogami Island

Irabu Island
Poll Tax Stone
3

Minna Island
Shimoji Island

Harimizu Utaki 2
Irabu Great Bridge

1 Miyako Airport

Miyako Island

Ethnographic Learning Center5
6 Shiokawa Utaki

Kurima Island

Tarama Island

7
4 German Culture Village Travertine terraces

Day 2

Day 1
❶Miyako Airport

Miyako Island

Tarama Island

Miyako Island

Welcome to the airport, with its red tile
roof evoking the spirit of Kagisuma(“beautiful island” in dialect).

Tarama Island
Approx. 14 min.

❸Poll Tax Stone

Hot springs
Miyako Island

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Tarama Island

Hot water wells up fromthe island underground.
The circulating water willsoothe you as it washes
away the sweat.

Miyako Island

There is an old story that
person who reached theheight of this stone wassubject to taxation.

Tarama Island
Miyako Island

Tarama Island, roughly
halfway between Miyako
and Ishigaki Islands, isofﬁcially “the most beautiful
village in Japan.”

Miyako Airport

Approx. 120 min.
Approx. 1 min.

Approx. 120 min.

Miyako Island❺Ethnographic
Learning CenterWest Coast
Beach sunset

Displays include valuable olddocuments and traditional
crafts, teaching visitors about
culture and folkloric arts.

The evening sun sinks
down past the horizon.
Savor the mysticalcrimson of the sunset.

Tarama Island

Day 3
Miyako Island❼Travertine
terraces

Miyako Island

These natural terraces
are usually found withinlimestone caves, so theirlocation by the seashore
is rare.

Golf❷Harimizu Utaki❹Illuminations❻Take a good walk

Morning market

Try making aroma water

Winter, still warm on Miyako
Island, is the best season forgolf. Enjoy a lavish game amid
stunning views.

Utaki are sites of ritual island
belief; here the creator godsof Miyako Island, Koitsuno
and Koitama, are worshipped.

Every December, the Ueno
German Culture Village isilluminated, the largest
such event on the island.

Fukugi trees line the road for some 650 km.
Along with the Shiokawa-utaki Forest, this isa designated prefectural natural treasure.

With its fresh agricultural
products and special produce,
the market is ideal for buying
souvenirs as well.

You’ve heard of aroma water, now try
your hand at it! Among other things, it’ssaid to be good for the skin, good forthe soul, and good at keeping off bugs.

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Okinawa Miyako Islands

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Okinawa

ko IslaniyadM⑥Sho’unji Temple
Stone WallA temple built at the word of the Satsuma
domain officials. The stone wall is thought
to be the result of a major construction
project in the early 18th century.

⑦Sumyaa Ruins
The remains of a village which existed from
Nikadori

Hirara Port

the late 12th through the early 17th century.
The ruins of early-15th century pit dwellings

Yamatoga

and many imported potsherds have beenfound.

North Junior High

⑧German Monument To Commemorate
Goodwill In Miyako
Hirara Port

North Elementary
Miyako City Hall

①Poll Tax Stone

North Elementary School

North Gas Station⑨Harimizu Utaki

In 1873 the German merchant ship Robertson was

This utaki, with its “serpent bridegroom”

shipwrecked near Miyako after being caught in alegend, honors the creator gods oftyphoon. The islanders rescued the sailors, helping

Miyako Island, Koitsuno and Koitama.

them return to Germany. The German Emperor sent

This place of worship is the heart of faiththis stone in gratitude for the islanders’ charity.

on the island.

Ryukyu Shimpo
Miyako Ofﬁce

There is an old story that person who reached the height of this stone
was subject to taxation, but in fact all people between fifteen to fifty
years old were subject to taxation.

The good old islands,
wrapped in eternal history
Miyako Island is rich in relics of history and tradition.
Enjoy a leisurely walk through the Hirara Port neighborhood,the traditional entrance to the island,
where relics and cultural treasures speak of the island’s history.
Touch the sad history of the island and the histories of its people for yourself.

②Upunui Utaki
Utaki is the word for a sacred placehonoring a god. Upunui means “bigforest.” Made by a lay doctor as avillage utaki, it has a shrine to thechief of the gods, Matsukama.

③Yamatoga

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This well is said to have been dug around 1720.
Its name, meaning the Yamato or mainland
Japanese well, apparently comes from theSatsuma domain officials who used it, forbidding
its use to the common people. The well is madewith sophisticated stone construction techniques.

④N’nushu-utakiThis utaki is dedicated to Urukabechin Shioku, who introduced
potatoes from China. Choshin-uji Shioku is worshipped here as
the god of potatoes. Shioku was blown off course by a storm on
his way home to the island from the Ryukyu Kingdom, ending up
in China, from where he eventually brought potato plants home.

⑤Funatatedo
This utaki honors the brother and sister Kanedono and Shirakuniyasutsukasa as
the gods of the forge and of agriculture. Set adrift by their parents on Kume
Island after a sister-in-law told a lie, they drifted here. In time, their father
suffered from guilt feelings and sent iron and scrolls from Kume Island. The older
brother used these to make agricultural tools, developing farming on the island.

⑩Harimizu stone-paved road

⑪Nakasone Tuyumya Grave⑫Chirimara Tuyumya Grave

This street was paved with good-quality stone during the major

The grave of Nakasone Tuyumya, mayor of Miyako from the 15 th throughThe grave of Chirimara Tuyumya, third son of

construction of the early 18 century. It once ran from Harimizu

the early 16 th centuries. This stone step structure is unusual even in

Nakasone Tuyumya. It is also known as “theUtaki to Sho’unji Temple, but war and road expansion projects have

Okinawa, designated as a national tangible cultural property.

grave of Yaeyama Tuyumya.” Stone constructionth

reduced it to a third of its former length.

sophisticated for its time is used.
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winterMiyako Island 100 km Waido Marathon“Waido” means “do your best!” in Miyako dialect. The 100-km race around theisland is popular with runners from outside Okinawa as well.

Golf (Champion Course)
Miyako Island is a golf paradise in the tourist offseason. The Champion Course is waiting for you to take a swing in thiswarm southern winter, surrounded by panoramas of nature.

The island’s grandeur of naturesatisfies heart and body alike.

Ueno German Culture Village

Sugarcane fields
before harvest

This is a theme park built in the area where Meiji-era
Miyaguni residents saved shipwrecked German sailors. Savor

The morning market is the kitchen of marine products. Each morning it bustles

The sugarcane fields before harvest are a

German culture and beautiful Miyako Island nature to the full.

with people in search of fresh Miyako Island seafood.

Harbor Morning Market

splendor of shining silver.

Try warm island stew (oden) or

Enjoy a grownup journey with the chance to encounter abundant nature
and warm-hearted people. There’s nothing quite like golf or ocean fun
set against the spectacular scenery. Relish the adult chance to travelin this season for the diverse charms of the Kagisuma (beautiful islands).

the island vegetables of the season.
Island vegetables are plentiful in the Miyako Islands winter. Enjoy them as tempura or simmered in a stew.
Island stew (oden) with slow-cooked trotters is another seasonal delicacy.

Miyako Soba Noodles

Island Vegetables
Taste the natural freshness of theFresh, delicate Miyako soba noodles

island in these vegetables.

eaten al dente are irresistible.

Paper kite butterfly
As southern flowers spangle the villages with color, look
for the paper kite winging elegantly over them.

Run the beautiful Irabu Island coastline in the“Romantic Road Irabujima Marathon”

Island Stew
Pork Broth (Waabuni Soup)
Pork from the famous island pigs is

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The “Romantic Road Irabujima Marathon” is run along theslowly simmered to make this pork

beautiful Irabu Island coastline. Parents with children can(waabuni) broth.

choose shorter options like 2.3 km or the half-course.

Don’t miss the collagen-rich trotters(tebichi).

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Island events and rhapsodies

Some festivals and events may be changed.
As well, traditional events are held according to the old calendar. Please confirm in advance.
See the back cover for inquiries for each island.

March

April
Miyako Opening of the Ocean(Miyako Island)

May

June

Beach Volleyballin Miyako Island

Hari (Dragon Boat)(Miyako Island)(Miyako Island)

July
Miyako Water Festival(Miyako Island)

AugustOrion Beer Fest(Miyako Island)

September

OctoberNovember December

Great Tug of War of Miyaguni

Pinda Aasu Goat Fighting Tournament

Quicha Festival(Miyako Island)(Tarama Island)(Miyako Island)

Kaizoku Festival

Mango Festival

Miyakojima 100 km
Waido Marathon(Miyako Island)

February
Romantic Road Irabujima
Marathon (Irabu Island)

Tarama Island Marathon(Ikema Island, Oogami Island)(Miyako Island)

Utopia Farm
Hibiscus Festival(Miyako Island)

January(Tarama Island)

Tarama August Dance Festival(Tarama Island)

Yabiji Coral Sightseeing(Miyako Island)

Pinda Aasu (Goat Fighting
Tournament) (Tarama Island)

Tour de Miyakojima

Eco Island
Miyakojima Marathon

Payao Day Festival(Miyako Island)(Miyako Island)

Miyako Island Summer Festival

Irabu Togani Festival(Miyako Island)

Abundance Festival(Irabu Island)

All Japan Triathlon
Miyakojima

Ueno German Culture Village
Carp Streamer Flying Fest

EventsEvents(Miyako Islands)

Sanitsu Beach Carnival(Miyako Island)

Miyako Festival of Commerce(Miyako Island)(Miyako Island)

Masutorya

Miyakojima City
Lifelong Learning Festival

Myakuzutsu(Miyako Island)(Miyako Island)(Ikema Island)

KAZE JETSKI Endurance
Race in Miyakojima

Yamasupunaka(Kurima Island)

Ueno German Culture Village
Danke Fest (Miyako Island)

Nambu Chuhei Cup
Ground Golf Tournament

Nariyama Ayagu Festival(Miyako Island)(Miyako Island)(Miyako Island)(Miyako Island)(Miyako Island)(Miyako Island)

Sanitsu (High Tide Festival)

Satiparo Ritual

Ueno German Culture Village
Illumination Fest(Miyako Island)(Miyako Island)

Kagisuma Music
Conventionin Miyakojima(Miyako Island)

Hibiscus/bougainvillea (all year)

Hibiscus/bougainvillea (all year)

Chinese Ixora

Chinese Ixora

Golden trumpet

Beach hibiscus (yuuna)

Golden trumpet

Camellia

Crape myrtle

Seasonal ﬂowers/foods

Seasonal ﬂowers/foods

Powder-puff tree

Mozuku seaweed

Pineapple

Poinsettia

Starfruit

Mango

Winter melon

Winter melon

Seasonal dress

Seasonal dress[Thin long sleeves or short sleeves]
The most comfortable time of year.
T-shirts, jeans, etc.

[Short sleeves]
Daily heat and humidity.
Short sleeves, shorts.

[Short sleeves]Arrange to avoid the sun.
Thin shirts, sunglasses, etc.

[Short sleeves]
Avoid sunburn with thin shirts,
sunglasses, etc.!
Keep an eye on typhoon forecasts.

[Short sleeves]Hats, sunglasses, thin long-sleeved
shirts to avoid the sun.
Seasonal dress

Max. 22.7ºC / Min. 17.7ºC / Average 20.0ºC
Average humidity 77%

Max. 25.1ºC / Min. 20.2ºC / Average 22.4ºC
Average humidity 80%

Max. 27.5ºC / Min. 22.7ºC / Average 24.8ºC
Average humidity 82%

Max. 29.9ºC / Min. 25.2ºC / Average 27.2ºC
Average humidity 84%

Max. 31.6ºC / Min. 26.6ºC / Average 28.7ºC
Average humidity 80%

Max. 31.2ºC / Min. 26.3ºC / Average 28.5ºC
Average humidity 80%

Temperature / Humidity

Temperature / Humidity[Long sleeves]
The spring is glorious,
but long sleeves are a must at night.

[Short sleeves]
The heat is past its peak,
but you can still go to the beach.
Sunglasses are needed.

[Long or short sleeves]You’ll need a light jacket formornings and evenings.

[Long sleeves]
All-weather gear,
light cardigans etc.

[Long sleeves]
The winter is warm compared tothe mainland.
Sweatshirts, jeans, etc.

[Long sleeves and sweaters]
A strong seasonal windbrings a sharp windchill.
Wear a light jacket.

[Long sleeves and sweaters]
Nights are still chilly.
Wear a spring coat or similar jacket.

Max. 30.0ºC / Min. 25.3ºC / Average 27.4ºC
Average humidity 79%

Max. 27.8ºC / Min. 23.6ºC / Average 25.4ºC
Average humidity 75%

Max. 25.0ºC / Min. 20.8ºC / Average 22.7ºC
Average humidity 73%

Max. 22.0ºC / Min. 17.8ºC / Average 19.7ºC
Average humidity 70%

Max. 20.4ºC / Min. 16.0ºC / Average 18.0ºC
Average humidity 72%

Max. 20.9ºC / Min. 16.2ºC / Average 18.3ºC
Average humidity 75%

The monthly average temperature or humidity corresponds to a mean of monthly records for 30 years between 1981 and 2010.

A guide to the captivating isolated islands of
Okinawa / Miyako Islands

OkinawanRemote
Okinawan
remoteIslands
islands

MIYA
IISSLLAANNKO
DD
SS

Miyak

o Islands

Ikema
Island/O
Shimoogam
ji Island/Minn i Island/Irab
u
a
Miyak
o Islan Island/Taram Island
d /Kurima Isla a Islandnd

By airFlightAirlineTokyo – Miyako

JTA

Naha – Miyako

ANA / JTA

Ishigaki – Miyako

RAC

Miyako – Tarama

RAC

Inquiries
Navi Dial

Tokyo Tel. 03-5460-0522
Osaka Tel. 06-6344-2355
Naha Tel. 098-863-8522

Naha Tel. 098-861-8800

By bus/taxi●Bus

Miyako/Miyako Kyoei Bus

Irabu/Kyowa Bus

Miyako/Yachiyo Bus●Taxi

Miyako/Miyako Taxi Association

Miyako/Sanko Taxi

Miyako/Maruchiku

Miyako/Yachiyo Taxi

Miyako/Maruichi Taxi

Miyako/Takara Taxi

Miyako/Maruta Taxi

Miyako/Deigo Taxi

Miyako/Kyowa Taxi

Irabu/Nikko Taxi

Miyako/Kyoei Taxi

Irabu/Kaihatsu Taxi

Miyako/Minato Taxi

Irabu/Irabu Shinyo Taxi

Miyako/Taihei Taxi

Irabu/Shinsei Taxi

●Rental Car

ORIX Rent-a-Car

By ferry

Higashi-Hennazaki/Miyako Island●Miyako – Oogami●Miyako – Tarama

OogamiKaiun

Tarama Kaiun

Kume
IslandArea* For plane and ferry schedules, see each airline/ferry company homepage, or inquire at the information desk.

Miyakojima Tourist Association
TEL: 0980-73-1881

Irabu Tourist Association
TEL: 0980-78-6250

Airport Tourist Information Ofﬁce
TEL: 0980-72-0899

Okinawa Convention& Visitors Bureau

Naha Airport Visitor
Information Center

1831-1 Oroku, Naha City, Okinawa(Okinawa Industrial Support Center 2F)
TEL: 098-859-6123 (main switchboard)

150 Kagamizu, Naha City, Okinawa(Domestic Line Passenger Terminal 1F)
TEL: 098-857-6884 (main switchboard)
open year-round 9:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Tarama Village Tourist Association
TEL: 0980-79-2828

Naha Airport
International Terminal Bldg.
Visitor Information Center
174 Kagamizu, Naha City, Okinawa
TEL: 098-859-0742 (main switchboard)
open year-round 10:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m.

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Okinawa Tourist
Information

http://www.visitokinawa.jp* Information listed is current as of September 2014, and may change without notice. * Unauthorized reprinting or reproduction is prohibited.

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Okinawa Prefecture

Okinawa Convention & Visitors Bureau

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