Miyakojima: Sunayama Beach and Irabu Bridge, a Scenic Drive to Savor Miyako Blue

A sea so clear it seems to draw you in, pure-white coral sand, and a great bridge crossing the emerald sea in a straight line. Miyakojima in Okinawa is one of Japan finest resort islands, known for the beautiful sea called Miyako Blue. Packed with scenic spots such as Sunayama Beach with its striking arch-shaped rock and Irabu Bridge, the longest toll-free bridge in Japan, this is an island surrounded by clear water. Set out on a refreshing scenic drive around it.

A Resort Island of Miyako Blue

Miyakojima lies about 290 kilometers southwest of Okinawa main island. Known for a sea with clarity among the finest in Japan and pure-white sand made of crushed coral, its beautiful sea color, called Miyako Blue, endlessly captivates travelers. Because there are no high mountains or large rivers, little sediment flows into the sea, keeping the water clear. Another great charm of Miyakojima is that the surrounding islands are linked by bridges, letting you enjoy scenic touring easily by car.

The Scenery of Sunayama Beach

One of Miyakojima signature beaches is Sunayama Beach. As its name suggests, you reach the beach by climbing over a small sand hill. The scene of white sand and clear sea that spreads before you the moment you cross the hill is breathtaking. Especially famous is a large arch-shaped rock formed by wave erosion, long loved as a symbol of the beach. Note, however, that because of the risk of falling rocks, a fence was set up in front of the arch in 2018 and the surrounding area is now off-limits. You cannot approach it, but you can view and photograph its form from a little distance.

Crossing Irabu Bridge

The highlight of a Miyakojima drive is Irabu Bridge, opened in 2015. Linking Miyakojima with neighboring Irabu Island, this bridge is about 3,540 meters long and is the longest toll-free bridge in Japan. Driving across the bridge, which extends straight over the emerald-green sea, is refreshing in a word. The scenery of the Miyako Blue sea spreading on both sides is exceptional. Beyond the bridge, Irabu Island and Shimoji Island are also dotted with attractions such as the Blue Cave and scenic beaches.

Practical Travel Notes

• Sunayama Beach has an off-limits zone around the arch rock due to the risk of falling rocks. Do not enter inside the fence, and view it from a safe place. The beach is a natural shore without lifeguards, so swim at your own risk and do not overdo it
• Irabu Bridge is toll-free, but stopping or parking on the bridge is prohibited. To take in the view at leisure, use the observation space or parking lot at the foot of the bridge
• Getting around the island is basically by rental car. Reserve a rental car at the airport or port early, especially in the busy summer season
• Many beaches have little shade or few shops, so bring drinks, sunscreen, and a hat, and take care against heatstroke
• At popular spots such as 17END on Shimoji Island, parking manners can become an issue. Use the designated parking lots

Best Season and Access

To fully enjoy the sea, summer (around May to September), warm and with many clear days, is the best season. For access, getting around from Miyako Airport to each spot by rental car is convenient. Many scenic beaches and bridges are dotted across the island, so touring by car is recommended. Savor the clear Miyako Blue sea and a refreshing bridge tour to your heart content.

📚 Sources

This article draws on tourism guidance from Miyakojima City, published information on Sunayama Beach and the Irabu Bridge, Okinawa Prefecture information on the bridges and roads linking Miyako with Irabu and Shimoji islands, and flight information from the airlines serving Miyako Airport. Descriptions of the closed arch rock and parking etiquette at 17END follow on-site guidance. Beach conditions and operating status change with season and sea conditions, so please confirm details on the official Miyakojima City and operator sources before visiting.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: Scenic spots such as Sunayama Beach and the Irabu Bridge are spread out, so a rental-car drive touring the views is convenient.
• What to prepare: Many beaches have little shade or few shops, so bring water, sunscreen, and a hat and beware of heatstroke.
• Safety note: The arch rock at Sunayama Beach has a closed zone due to rockfall risk. Stay outside the fence and view from a safe spot. As it is a natural beach without lifeguards, do not overexert when swimming.
• Parking etiquette: The Irabu Bridge is toll-free but stopping on the bridge is prohibited; use the viewpoint or lots at the ends. At popular spots such as 17END on Shimoji, use the designated parking.
• Best season: To enjoy the sea, warm and mostly sunny summer (around May to September) is the best season.