At Miyakojima’s cruise port, you’ll dock at the pretty sweet Shimosaki berth (340m long) where the CIQ folks speak English and the terminal has all the modern stuff you need.
For other Japan Cruise destinations check out our Japan Cruise Ports Guide page.
Grab a rental car (costs between ÂĄ3,000-6,000 per day) – seriously, it’s the best way to get around and see the cool spots like Cape Higashi-Hennazaki, those mysterious Toriike Ponds, and some killer beaches.
Make sure you try the local grub – soki soba and umibudo are must-eats!
Just remember to hit an ATM before exploring and download some maps to your phone since service can be spotty.
This Japanese island is totally worth the trip!
Map of Miyakojima Cruise Ship Port
Port Facilities and Arrival Information
Miyakojima’s cruise port has three key facilities along its gorgeous coastline for international ships. The main Shimosaki berth runs 340m with depths reaching 10m, which works well for bigger vessels like MSC Bellissima that carries up to 4,488 passengers.
You’ll spot permanent CIQ services with staff who speak English to handle your customs clearance right there. They spruced up the terminal back in 2017, adding rain shelters and those handy boarding bridges.
Lots of ships actually drop anchor offshore and use tenders to shuttle folks to land. The port runs on Japan Standard Time (UTC+9), with most cruise ships showing up between November and April to steer clear of typhoon season.
Getting Around Miyakojima Island
Landed on Miyakojima? You’ll need wheels to check out all the cool spots on this island. Rental cars give you the most freedom – they run about ÂĄ3,000-6,000 per day. Just make sure to reserve one right after booking your cruise, or you might get stuck without one.
The local buses will get you between the main areas for ÂĄ360-700, but they don’t come by very often. They work if you’re pinching pennies and don’t mind waiting around. Taxis are handy for quick trips – expect to pay around ÂĄ4,400-5,500 to get to Shimojishima Airport. And don’t worry about tipping – it’s not a thing here.
Want to really experience the island, including those secluded beaches and nearby Irabu and Kurima islands? Definitely rent a car. Trust me on this one.
Must-See Attractions and Landmarks
Beyond its gorgeous beaches, Miyakojima has tons of cool spots you’ll want to check out during your cruise stop. History buffs should swing by Nakasone Tuyumya Tomb, which is actually a National Cultural Property. If you’re into nature, don’t skip Cape Higashi-Hennazaki with its lighthouse trails or the weird and wonderful Toriike Ponds with their underwater connecting tunnels.
Want to get hands-on with local culture? Head to Miyakojima Traditional Crafts Village for some fun workshops. For some seriously impressive views, take a drive across Irabu Bridge—the longest toll-free bridge in Japan—or climb up to Ryugujo Observatory, which takes its inspiration from local legends and gives you jaw-dropping panoramic views of all the surrounding islands.
Beach and Water Activities for Cruise Visitors
Ready for jaw-dropping beaches when your cruise docks at Miyakojima? Trust me, the island’s waters are no joke – we’re talking insanely clear blue that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous. Yoshino Beach is the real deal – just wade in with your mask and boom – you’re swimming with colorful fish and coral without needing a boat trip.
Don’t waste your port day – hit these spots:
- Yoshino Beach for crazy-easy snorkeling right off the sand
- Sunayama’s turquoise waters – seriously, the color looks photoshopped
- Paddle through the twisty mangroves at Hisamatsu River
- Grab a glass-bottom boat if you want dry hair but still want to see the underwater party
Pack that reef-safe sunscreen though! Your shoulders AND our corals will thank you.
See what’s on offer from the Port of Nagoya for a different Japan Cruise destination.
Local Cuisine and Shopping Opportunities
Hungry? You won’t find better island eats than Miyakojima’s local specialties. Dig into a bowl of soki soba with those unique island noodles or try some umibudo – locals call them “sea grapes” – that pop with salty ocean flavor in your mouth.
Right by the port, check out Koja Sobaya for cheap, delicious bowls. Got extra cash? Treat yourself to a fancy Ryukyu tasting menu at Restaurant État d’esprit. For shopping, just hop over to Hirara Downtown – it’s only 15 minutes away.
Before you leave, snag some souvenirs – a bottle of awamori (the local booze), Miyako soba kits to make at home, or some of that addictive brown sugar candy. They’ll remind you of your island adventure once you’re back on the ship!
Practical Tips for Cruise Passengers
Getting the most out of your Miyakojima stop takes some homework. This island isn’t super easy to navigate without Japanese skills – public transport is limited and English signs are rare.
Before you hop off the ship:
- Double-check your watch! Make sure it matches Japan time (GMT+9) so you don’t miss the boat
- Grab those offline maps and translation apps while you have good wifi – cell service can be iffy for tourists
- Hit the ATM before arriving – lots of smaller spots only take cash, and ATMs near the port are hard to find
- Book your tours or rental car ahead of time, especially if visiting in March 2025 when those gusty winds kick up
Frequently Asked Questions
When Is the Paantu Festival Held Each Year?
The Paantu Festival happens yearly around late September to mid-October, falling in the ninth lunar month. They don’t tell you the exact dates until just 1-14 days before it starts – that’s their way of keeping tourist crowds manageable while protecting what’s important to locals.
Are There Dive Sites Accessible for Beginners Near the Port?
Yes, there are some great spots for newbie divers right by the port! Kurima Beach has nice shallow waters perfect for first-timers, and Yabiji Reef runs tours in waters about 6-12m deep. Plenty of local companies like Aquatic Expedition actually specialize in taking beginners out – they’ll hook you up with everything you need.
How Long Does It Take to Cross the Irabu Ohashi Bridge?
You’ll need about 5-10 minutes to drive across Irabu Ohashi Bridge, while cycling takes roughly 15-25 minutes. If you’re up for a scenic stroll, set aside 45-60 minutes to walk the whole thing. This gorgeous 3.54km curved bridge connects the islands and attracts thousands of visitors who come to check it out.
What Are the Health Benefits of Shigira Ougon Onsen Waters?
Maybe the ancients were onto something after all! Soak in Shigira Ougon Onsen’s mineral-packed waters and feel your circulation improve, inflammation cool down, and those achy joints get some real relief. Your skin gets a nice detox too, plus there’s nothing like a good hot soak to melt away stress and lift your spirits.
Is Miyakojima Affected by Typhoon Season for Cruise Cancellations?
Yes, cruises to Miyakojima can definitely get canceled during typhoon season, which runs from May through October. August and September are especially risky months. When storms start brewing, cruise companies usually play it safe by either skipping the Miyakojima port call or changing the route completely. Just something to keep in mind when planning your trip!
Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Tokyo (Yokohama) Cruise Ship Port.
