Jellyfish Sea or Glass Sea? You can have both!

1. Best Time to Travel
Recommended season: April–October (summer is suitable for diving, spring and autumn have pleasant weather).

Avoid typhoon season: Typhoons are common in August and September. Pay attention to weather forecasts.

Special events:

April: Miyakojima Dugong Festival (related to the rare animal "dugong").

July: Triathlon (international competition, may affect accommodation bookings).

2. Transportation
Getting to Miyakojima:

Airplane: Transfer from Naha Airport (Okinawa main island) to Miyako Airport (about 1 hour), or fly directly from Tokyo/Osaka (fewer flights).

Ferry: Depart from Naha Tomari Port (about 10 hours, suitable for budget travelers).

Getting around the island:

Car rental: Most recommended (requires an international driving permit), price is approximately JPY 5,000–8,000/day.

Bicycle: Suitable for short distances (some hotels offer rentals).

Bus: Less frequent, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance.

3. Must-See Attractions
Beaches and natural scenery:

Yonaha Maehama Beach: One of Japan's top 100 beaches, a 7 km stretch of white sand beach, suitable for swimming and sunset strolls.

Sunayama Beach: A secluded beach surrounded by sand dunes, a 5-minute walk away.

Higashi-hennazaki Cape: A lighthouse on a cliff overlooking coral reefs and magnificent sea views (admission JPY 300).

Diving and water activities:

Yaeganase: A sandbar that appears at low tide in spring, where you can snorkel or take a glass-bottom boat (best from April to June).

Aragusuku Beach: A diving spot where you have the chance to encounter sea turtles.

Kayaking/SUP: Experience the crystal-clear waters around Kurima Island.

Cultural attractions:

Miyakojima City Tropical Botanical Garden: Free admission, suitable for families with children.

Shimoji Island: The legendary "Tonchi" (two connected blue holes) and Irabu Bridge (Japan's longest toll-free bridge).

4. Food Recommendations
Miyako Soba: Chewy noodles in a pork bone or bonito broth, recommended at "Miyakojima Shokudo".

Seafood: Must-try Ise lobster and turban shells (fresh sashimi available at "Uminchu", an izakaya on the island).

Dessert: Ice cream made with Miyako snow salt ("Yukisio Shop" offers DIY seasoning).

Awamori: Local distilled liquor, recommended brand "Yonaguni".

5. Accommodation Recommendations
High-end resorts: Shigira Bayside Suite Allamanda (private beach, hot springs).

Cost-effective options: Hotel Locus Miyakojima (near the city center, convenient for car rentals).

Guesthouse experience: Choose a guesthouse near the beach, such as "Painagama Beach House".

6. Sample Itinerary
3 days and 2 nights classic route:

Day 1: Arrival → Yonaha Maehama Beach → Sunset at Higashi-hennazaki Cape.

Day 2: Snorkeling at Yaeganase → Irabu Bridge → Tonchi exploration.

Day 3: Sunayama Beach → Buy snow salt souvenirs → Return.

In-depth tour: Add cycling on Kurima Island or participate in nighttime stargazing activities (Miyakojima has little light pollution).

7. Useful Tips
Sun protection and mosquito repellent: The island has strong UV rays, so SPF 50+ sunscreen is necessary; bring mosquito repellent for jungle areas.

Cash preparation: Some small shops/guesthouses only accept cash.

Environmental protection: Coral reefs are fragile, avoid applying sunscreen before entering the water (you can wear sun protection clothing).