Miyakojima driving guide: Irabu, Kurima and Ikema bridges, routes and map

The Miyakojima area covers Miyako Island and the islands connected to it by bridges: Irabu, Shimoji, Kurima and Ikema, all in Miyakojima City, Okinawa. Kurima Bridge heads south, Irabu Bridge west and Ikema Bridge north. For a first day, combine Kurima with Irabu and Shimoji, leaving the north and Cape Higashi-Hennazaki for another day so there is time to walk around. This guide covers the bridges, parking at each stop and restrictions in strong winds.

Map of the Miyakojima area

The long line runs from Maehama Beach across to Kurima, then through Irabu and Shimoji to Sawada Beach. The short line connects Shimajiri Mangroves with Cape Nishi-Hennazaki. Green numbers mark viewpoints and natural sights; tap a number to see its name.

Recommended drives

A first day from Kurima to Irabu and Shimoji

Start at Maehama Beach (1), cross Kurima Bridge and visit Ryugujo Observatory (2). Return to Miyako Island, then cross Irabu Bridge. Continue to Makiyama Observatory (3), Toguchi Beach (4) and Toriike Ponds on Shimoji (5), finishing at Sawada Beach (6).

The route is about 44.3km, with roughly 61 minutes of driving. Distances and times are calculated from map data and exclude traffic. Allow extra time for walks to the viewpoints, meals and the beaches, and add your return journey.

The section times are rounded, so they do not add up to the total. The map marker for Toriike is at the ponds. Park first, then follow the walking path.

Combine Ikema Bridge with the northern stops

Shimajiri Mangroves (8) to Cape Nishi-Hennazaki (9) is about 5.4km, or 8 minutes of driving. You can see Ikema Bridge from the cape. If you cross to Ikema Island, allow extra time for the return crossing and your stops on the island. The bridge is 1,425m long, with shops and a rest area at the Ikema end.

Check bridge opening and closing times during typhoons

Irabu and Ikema bridges close when a storm warning is in effect and winds reach 25m/s. Gates do not necessarily close or reopen at the moment a warning is issued or lifted. Check each bridge's opening and closing times before crossing to an island.

Roads you can drive

Places to stop

Views and nature

Numbers match the map.

Roadside stations

Miyakojima City has no registered Michi-no-Eki roadside stations. Higa Road Park and Cape Nishi-Hennazaki have toilets and can serve as rest stops along your route.

Best seasons and crowds

Check sunset time for your travel date so you can finish walking before dark.

Busy places and times

Allow time to park and walk at each viewpoint or beach. Leave enough room in your schedule to change the order of stops if a car park is full.

Road closures and restrictions (27 October)

Irabu and Ikema bridges have gates that close during typhoons. Advance notice is given about 2 hours before closure. Check Miyakojima City's emergency information and Okinawa Prefecture's road notices for opening and closing times on the day. Check the city's information for Kurima Bridge before setting out, too.

Getting there and fuel

Miyako Airport-mae service station is at 1176-3 Shimozato, Hirara, Miyakojima City, and opens from 7:00 to 20:00. Check your fuel before crossing the bridges and decide where to refuel as part of your return journey.

If you don't have a car

Before booking, read the guides to driving documents in Japan and airport car rental pickup.

Frequently asked questions

Where should I drive on a first visit to Miyakojima?

Start at Maehama Beach, cross to Kurima, return to Miyako Island, then explore Irabu and Shimoji. Via Ryugujo Observatory, Makiyama Observatory, Toguchi Beach and Toriike Ponds, the route to Sawada Beach is about 44.3km, with roughly 61 minutes of driving. Allow extra time for walks and your return journey.

How much is the toll for Irabu Bridge?

It is free. The bridge is 3,540m long and connects Miyako Island with Irabu Island.

Are Ikema and Kurima bridges in the same direction?

Ikema Bridge leads north to Ikema Island, while Kurima Bridge leads south to Kurima Island. Adding Ikema to a day around Kurima, Irabu and Shimoji requires extra time for the trip north and back.

Can I cross as soon as a typhoon warning is lifted?

Irabu and Ikema bridge gates do not necessarily reopen as soon as the warning is lifted. Check the opening time for each bridge.

Can I refuel along the way?

Miyako Airport-mae service station is one option. It opens from 7:00 to 20:00. Check your fuel before leaving and the opening hours of the station you plan to use on your return.

Nearby areas and guides

• Okinawa driving and travel guide