Things To Do
in Miyako
Miyako is a picturesque coastal city located in Iwate Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its stunning natural scenery, including pristine beaches and rugged cliffs. The city offers a peaceful and relaxing environment, making it a popular destination for those seeking tranquility.
Miyako also has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional festivals and historic sites to explore.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along the beautiful sunlight beach. Enjoy the calming sound of the waves and take some stunning photos.
Have lunch at a local seaside café featuring fresh seafood. Spend your afternoon sunbathing and enjoying water activities like snorkeling.
Watch the sunset over the ocean while enjoying a beach bonfire. It’s a perfect ending to a day filled with beach fun.
Explore the stunning coastal landscapes of Miyako Island by kayak. Paddle through clear waters and discover hidden coves.
Stop for a picnic at a scenic overlook with breathtaking views of the coastline. Spend the afternoon hiking some of the island's trails.
Head back for a relaxing evening at a local izakaya. Indulge in delicious local dishes while mingling with friendly locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage, including traditional crafts and festivals.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and coastal views.
- Access to fresh seafood and local cuisine.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Proximity to historical sites and landmarks.
- Limited access to international transportation and major cities.
- Potential language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
- Economic challenges in rural areas leading to job scarcity.
- Risk of natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis.
- Harsh winter weather may not be ideal for everyone.
Best Activities in Miyako
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life around Miyako's coral reefs.
Visit picturesque beaches such as Sunayama Beach and Maehama Beach for swimming, sunbathing, and stunning views.
Enjoy scenic cycling routes around the island, taking in the beautiful coastal and rural landscapes.
Paddle along Miyako's coastline and discover secluded coves and hidden beaches.
Tours
Uncover the best of Miyako with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Miyako
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers picturesque views of the sunset and a natural archway
Famous for its white sand and stunning ocean views
Provides panoramic vistas of Miyako and the surrounding islands
Offers breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes
Food in Miyako
Miyako Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local specialty dish prepared using Nanbu ironware, featuring a variety of ingredients such as seafood, meat, and vegetables, cooked in a special technique that enhances the flavor and tenderness of the ingredients. Visitors can enjoy Nanbu tekki at traditional local restaurants like Nanbu Tekki Yokocho.
Must-Try!
Miyako is renowned for its large and succulent scallops, known locally as jumbo hotate. These delicious scallops can be savored at seafood markets, Izakayas, and fine dining restaurants throughout Miyako.
Miyako jidori refers to locally raised, free-range chicken renowned for its tender meat and rich flavor. It's commonly prepared in a variety of dishes, including yakitori and hot pot, and can be sampled at local eateries like Miyako Jidori no Yakata.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Miyako better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located near the port, the Miyako Fish Market offers a wide array of fresh seafood, including jumbo hotate, sashimi, and other local delights. Visitors can also enjoy freshly prepared street food such as grilled squid, seafood skewers, and tempura.
Every morning, the Miyako Morning Market bustles with activity, offering an assortment of fresh produce, local snacks, and street food. It's an ideal place to sample regional snacks and mingle with the locals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Miyako, Japan, it is important to show respect for elders through polite language and gestures such as bowing.
When entering a home or certain traditional establishments, it is customary to remove your shoes as a sign of respect and cleanliness.
In Miyako, Japan, it is polite to say 'itadakimasu' before meals to express gratitude, and to avoid sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl as it resembles a funeral ritual.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Miyako with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Miyako
Ensure a smooth experience
In Miyako, Japan, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or taxi services. Instead, excellent service is acknowledged with a polite and gracious 'thank you'.
Payment in Miyako, Japan is predominantly cash-based. Credit cards are becoming more widely accepted in larger establishments, but it's always wise to carry cash, especially when traveling to smaller businesses and local markets. It's also important to note that some places may not accept foreign credit cards, so having yen on hand is advisable.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Miyako.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossoms, pleasant weather, and cultural festivals
Expect warm weather, outdoor activities, and the opportunity to enjoy beaches and water sports
Ideal for fall foliage, mild weather, and food festivals featuring local cuisine
Great for winter illuminations, hot springs, and seasonal seafood delicacies
Miyako at Night
Hiking in Miyako
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and coastlines, ideal for both beginners and experienced hikers.
This trail offers a unique experience of Miyako's lush landscapes and diverse wildlife, with several viewpoints along the way.
A popular hiking destination on Miyako Island, featuring a moderately challenging trail that rewards hikers with panoramic views from the summit.
A coastal hiking path that runs along the stunning Sugami Beach, perfect for those who enjoy both hiking and beach exploration.
An interesting route that leads to the eastern cape of Miyako Island, known for its dramatic cliffs and breathtaking ocean views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Miyako through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Miyako by plane.
The main international airport in Okinawa, located approximately 220 km from Miyako, serves numerous domestic and international flights.
An important international airport situated in Osaka, about 800 km from Miyako, it serves a wide range of international destinations.
One of the primary airports in Tokyo, located around 1,600 km from Miyako, it handles a large volume of domestic and international flights.
An international airport in Fukuoka, approximately 450 km from Miyako, it links central Japan to several international locations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group, comprising the majority of the population in Miyako.
Includes individuals from various countries residing in Miyako, contributing to its multicultural community.
A small indigenous group in Japan with historical roots in the region, though their population is limited.
The Soul of Miyako
Discover the essence of Miyako through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Miyako, with a strong local following and numerous youth teams.
Soccer has gained popularity in Miyako, with many local clubs and schools promoting the sport among young players.
Given its coastal location, fishing is a popular recreational activity in Miyako, attracting both locals and tourists.
Basketball is widely played in schools and local communities, contributing to its popularity among the youth in Miyako.
Various forms of martial arts, including judo and karate, are practiced in Miyako, fostering discipline and physical fitness.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Miyako.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, many restaurants and cafes in Miyako are beginning to offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. It's advisable for visitors with dietary restrictions to communicate their preferences clearly, and some establishments can accommodate customized dishes upon request.
While Miyako's cuisine traditionally includes soy sauce and other gluten-containing ingredients, some eateries are adapting to provide gluten-free alternatives. Visitors with gluten intolerance should inquire about ingredient specifics and may find limited yet increasing options in select restaurants.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Miyako with these cultural adventures.
