Which is better, Ishigaki Island or Miyako Island? Thorough comparison from means of transportation (plane, ferry) to size.
Table of Contents
- 1 Which do you recommend, Ishigaki Island or Miyako Island?
- 2 Comparison of access to Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island
- 3 Which is easier to get to, Ishigaki Island or Miyako Island?
- 4 Difference in size and tourist attractions between Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island
- 5 Which is cheaper to travel to Ishigaki Island or Miyako Island?
- 6 Comparison of Sightseeing Spots in Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island
- 7 Which one enjoys activities?
- 8 Which would you recommend as a winter destination?
- 9 Which is more urban, Ishigaki Island or Miyako Island?
- 10 Q&A about Ishigaki Island & Miyako Island
- 11 summary
Which do you recommend, Ishigaki Island or Miyako Island?
Ishigaki and Miyako islands are two of the most popular tourist destinations among the remote islands of Okinawa.
Ishigaki Island is,It is a bustling tourist destination with convenient facilities!Taketomi Island, Iriomote Island, and Kuroshima are located in the vicinity, making it ideal for island-hopping!
Miyako Island, on the other hand,It is suitable for those who want to relax in a quieter environment.The beaches and natural beauty of the area, as well as its unspoiled nature, offer a more serene atmosphere than other tourist destinations.
To choose which is right for you, it is important to consider your style of sightseeing and accessibility.
◆To compare popular sightseeing spots in Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island
◆If you want to know about popular activities in Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island
◆If you are not sure whether to travel to Ishigaki or Miyako Island
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Ishigaki Island.
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Miyako Island.
Comparison of access to Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island
There are several differences between Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island in terms of access.
Both islands are accessible by air and boat (ferry), but let's take a look at the characteristics and convenience of each.
Access to Miyako and Ishigaki Islands
Compare Flights, Ferries & Direct Flights
Both Miyako and Ishigaki islands are accessible from the mainland.Airplane is the basisIt is!
The following is a comparison of flights from major cities to each island.
◆Haneda Airport (JAL/ANA) about 3 hours
◆Kansai International Airport (JAL/ANA) about 2 hours and 30 minutes
◆Central Japan International Airport Centrair (JAL/ANA) about 2 hours and 30 minutes
〜Miyako Shimojishima Airport
◆Haneda Airport (Skymark) about 3 hours
◆Kobe Airport (Skymark) about 2 hours 20 minutes
It is also accessible via Naha, and the flight from Naha to Miyako Island takes about 50 minutes.
◆Haneda Airport (JAL/ANA) about 3 hours
◆Narita Airport (Peach): 3 hours 20 minutes
◆Kansai International Airport (JAL/ANA/Peach) approx. 2 hr. 30 min.
◆Central Japan International Airport Centrair (JAL/ANA) about 2 hours and 30 minutes
◆Fukuoka Airport (Peach) about 2 hours
The flight from Naha Airport to Ishigaki Airport takes approximately one hour.
Miyako Island also has bridges leading to Kurima Island and Irabu Oshima,You can cross to the islands by car!
Ishigaki Island is also a transportation hub with surrounding islands,Excellent ferry service to Taketomi Island and Iriomote IslandI'm doing ☆.
Easy booking of ferries to Ishigaki Island from here
Which is easier to get to, Ishigaki Island or Miyako Island?
Next, let's look at which is easier to travel in terms of access distance and travel time.
Distance and access from Tokyo and Osaka
Distance is slightly closer to Miyako Island.However,Physical travel time is about the same.It is.Tokyo → Ishigaki is the furthest route.
Shorter overall departure from Osakaand is within easy distance for weekend trips.
| place of departure | destination | Approximate straight line distance | Required time for direct flights (approximate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo (Haneda) → Ishigaki Island | Approx. 1,950 km | Approx. 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours | Direct flights available on ANA, JAL, etc. |
| Tokyo (Haneda) → Miyakojima | Approx. 1,850 km | Approximately 3 hours 20 minutes to 3 hours 50 minutes | Miyako Airport / Direct flights to Shimojishima Airport available |
| Osaka (Kansai) → Ishigakijima | Approx. 1,550 km | Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours | Multiple routes including LCC |
| Osaka (Kansai) → Miyakojima | Approx. 1,450 km | Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes to 2 hours 50 minutes | Flights available to both Miyako and Shimojishima |
Distance and access from Okinawa
From the main island of Okinawa, Ishigaki and Miyako islands are accessible by air.
Both are easily accessible and travel times are relatively short and convenient.
| place of departure | destination | Approximate straight line distance | Flight time (approximate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naha → Ishigaki Island | Approx. 400 km | Approx. 1 hour | Easy to travel with a large number of flights |
| Naha → Miyakojima | Approx. 290 km | Approx. 45 minutes to 1 hour | A little closer than a stone wall |
| Ishigaki Island → Miyako Island | Approx. 130 km | Approx. 30-40 min. | Local flights only, such as JTA |
Difference in size and tourist attractions between Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island
Next, let's compare the size and tourist attractions of Ishigaki and Miyako islands.
Focuses on the scale and diversity of tourism that each island offers.
Compare the size of the island with the number of tourist attractions
Ishigaki Island is relatively large (approximately 223 square kilometers) and has a variety of sightseeing spotsIt is.
It also offers convenient access to surrounding islands such as Taketomi Island and Iriomote Island, allowing visitors to visit multiple tourist destinations.
Miyako Island is a little smaller in area (about 158 square kilometers), but that is where the natural beauty of the island is concentrated.
The number of tourist attractions is fewer than on Ishigaki Island, but the island's scenery and beaches are charming.
Which is more convenient for sightseeing?
Ishigaki Island has a wide range of sightseeing spots, and it is common to use a rental car to get around.It is.
The roads are well maintained and provide easy access between tourist destinations.
Miyako Island also has good access to tourist attractions, but it is relatively quiet,Recommended for those seeking a calm sightseeing experience.It is!
Which is cheaper to travel to Ishigaki Island or Miyako Island?
Ishigaki and Miyako are both popular remote islands, but there are distinct differences in travel costs.
Here is a straightforward comparison of airfare and lodging cost trends to see which is more cost-effective.
Airline Ticket Differences
Ishigaki Island is served by many LCCs including Peach,It is easy to secure very reasonable airline tickets through sales and early bird specials.is a feature of this product!
On the other hand, Miyakojima Island has few LCC options, and ticket prices tend to soar, especially during peak season.
Difference in Accommodation Costs
In recent years, a series of high-end resort hotels have opened on Miyako Island,Tendency for higher overall lodging costsThe following is located in the
Ishigaki Island offers a wide range of options from guesthouses to mid-range hotels, making it relatively easy to fit your budget!
Comparison of Sightseeing Spots in Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island
Let's compare the sights of Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island and see what each has to offer.
Popular Tourist Spots in Ishigaki Island
Ishigaki Island is rich in natural beauty spots such as Kabira Bay, Tamatorizaki Observatory, and Ishigaki Island limestone caves.
| Spot Name | Features & Highlights | Approximate time required | remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kabira Bay | A spectacular bay with three Michelin stars. Emerald green sea. | 30 minutes to 1.5 hours | No swimming / Glass boats are popular |
| Tamatorizaki Observatory | An elevated viewing spot overlooking the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean. | 20 to 40 minutes | Good views in the early morning and evening. |
| Yonehara Beach | A snorkeling classic with lots of coral and tropical fish. | 1-3 hours | Strong currents in some areas, life jackets recommended |
| Ogamizaki | A place for sunsets with a spectacular view of the cliffs and the sea. | 30 minutes to 1 hour | Visiting at dusk is recommended. |
| Ishigaki Yaima Village | A cultural experience spot where visitors can enjoy traditional houses and mangroves. | 1 to 2 hours | Experience Okinawan culture while sightseeing |
| Fusaki Beach | Accessible beach with a resort feel. The pier is a photo spot. | 1-3 hours | Popular as a sunset spot |
| Fukidogawa River (Fukidogawa) Mangrove | A place to experience nature by kayak or SUP. | 1.5 to 3 hours | Convenient pre-booked activities |
| Ishigakijima Observatory | A facility where visitors can observe the tropical starry sky. | 1 to 2 hours | Evening appointment programs may be available |
Popular Tourist Spots in Miyako Island
Miyako Island has many spots of natural beauty, such as Yonaha Maehama Beach and Cape Higashi Heianana.
| Spot Name | Features & Highlights | Approximate time required | remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yonaha Maehama Beach | The beach is called "the whitest sandy beach in the East. | 1-3 hours | Shallow water makes it easy to spend time / Particularly beautiful from noon to evening |
| Sunayama Beach | The rock arch is a symbolic photo spot. | 30 minutes to 1 hour | Slightly steep ascent and descent of sand / Evening view is also recommended |
| Irabu Bridge | A free scenic bridge (3,540 m long) connects Miyako Island and Irabu Island. | 10-20 minutes passing through / 40 minutes stopping over | When the weather is clear, the gradation of the sea is breathtaking. |
| 17 END (Shimojishima) | A spectacular viewpoint where the runways line up with the bright aqua-colored sea. | 30 minutes to 1.5 hours | Visibility changes with low tide, weather, and time of day. |
| East Hennazaki | The easternmost cape on Miyako Island. Dynamic and spectacular views of the sea and cliffs. | 40 minutes to 1.5 hours | Walkway available / Sun protection required |
| Kushima Island & Kushima Bridge | A small island where you can enjoy a calm island time. Dotted with cafes. | 1-3 hours | Touring together with Maehama Beach is ◎. |
| Yoshino Coast | Famous as a snorkeling sanctuary. Coral & fish are abundant. | 1.5 to 3 hours | Swimming caution depending on sea conditions / Life jacket recommended |
| Snow Salt Museum | Observe the process of salt production and sample the much talked about "snow salt". | 30 minutes to 1 hour | Store & snow salt soft serve are popular |
Which one enjoys activities?
Both islands offer a wealth of activities, but they differ slightly.
Recommended Activities in Ishigaki Island
Ishigaki Island offers a wide variety of activities such as snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.
Exploring nature on Taketomi Island and Iriomote Island and visiting waterfalls are also popular activities.
⬇︎ held on Ishigaki Island! Blue Cave Exploration Tour
⬇︎ held on Ishigaki Island! Phantom Island Landing Tour
Held at ⬇︎ Ishigaki Island! Popular Kayak Tour
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Ishigaki Island.
Recommended Activities in Miyako Island
On Miyako Island, snorkeling tours where you can encounter sea turtles and tours to explore pumpkin limestone caves are especially popular.
In particular, swimming and water sports on the beautiful beaches of Miyako Island are a must-see.
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Miyako Island.
Which would you recommend as a winter destination?
Ishigaki Island is,Mild climate and many tourist attractions even in winterTherefore, it is recommended for those who want to enjoy themselves actively!
Miyako Island, on the other hand, is even moreQuiet and calm atmosphere is appealing.The following is a list of the most common problems with the
Recommended for those who want to enjoy diving and snorkeling in crystal clear waters!
Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island suitable for winter sightseeing
Both offer comfortable sightseeing conditions even in winter and are great places to relax in warmer weather!
Ishigaki Island has better tourist facilities and can be enjoyed even during winter trips.
Click here for popular sightseeing tours in Ishigaki Island.
Click here for popular island sightseeing tours in Miyako Island.
Which is more urban, Ishigaki Island or Miyako Island?
Q&A about Ishigaki Island & Miyako Island
April-June and October-November The climate is stable and comfortable. It is also recommended because of the relatively low cost of living.
Typhoon season from July to OctoberIt is. Remember to check the weather forecast before you travel!
Both beaches are very clear and beautiful!
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Ishigaki Island: Coral is abundant and there are many creatures.
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Miyako Island: White sand & shallow water with clear beaches
summary
Ishigaki Island and Miyako Island each have their own unique charms, and the best island to visit depends on the purpose of your visit and your travel style.
Plenty of activities and easy mobility for families and active people. Ishigaki Island is a perfect fit.
For couples and the more laid-back crowd, there are beautiful beaches scattered throughout the area, making it easy to spend time in peace and quiet. Miyako Island (Okinawa) is especially recommended!
Please choose the island that best suits your needs, taking into consideration ease of access and how much you enjoy sightseeing.
Both islands offer a warm welcome with their beautiful nature and charming spots.
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