Guided in Japanese: Highlights of Great Irabu bridge and island

4 hours | Miyakojima | MMY-229
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Points of Interest

  • Irabu Ohashi Bridge
Moderate activity

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

WHAT YOU WILL VISIT:
Makiyama Observatory
Follow a lush botanical path to the 75 steps that take you to the top of the Makiyama Observatory. Resembling a bird in flight, this observatory boasts panoramic views of Miyako, Irabu and the bridges that connect the surrounding islands, including the remarkable Irabu Ohashi Bridge, the longest in Okinawa.

Tori-ike Ponds
Lying on the west coast of Shimoji Island are two round ponds called Tori-ike. Legend has it that a mermaid was held captive by humans and the ponds were created when a huge wave crashed over the land to free her. Connected by an underwater tunnel, which combine fresh water and sea water, the ponds boast a stunning array of deep blue and green hues. They are a popular dive site and are surrounded by pleasant walking trails.

PHOTO OPPORTUNITY:
Irabu Ohashi Bridge
Spanning a length of 2.1 miles (3.5 kilometers) between the islands of Irabu and Miyako, the Irabu Ohashi Bridge is the longest in Okinawa. The gentle arch has been called the "Bridge of Dreams," as it took over 40 years to come to fruition from the first planning stages to the opening. It took nine years to build and cost almost ÂĄ400 billion. The remarkable views of the expansive sky and sparkling sea were certainly worth the wait.

Maehama Beach
Considered one of Japan's best beaches, this stunning 4.3-mile (7-kilometer) stretch of soft white sand on the southwestern corner of Miyako Island offers a magnificent view of the glistening seas and the Kurima Ohashi Bridge. Perfect for swimming and watersports, the crystal-clear waters are also the starting point of the All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima.

WHAT YOU WILL SEE ALONG THE WAY:
Sugarcane fronds wave gently in the breeze of the lush subtropical Miyako Island. Here, limestone rocks meet powder-soft white-sand beaches on the chain of islands that for good reason are considered some of the loveliest places in Japan.

SHOPPING:
Complete your day with a stop at a local souvenir shop, the perfect place to pick up mementos and gifts.

Special Notes:

This tour is a tour to enjoy the scenery. The weather will affect the situation. The Makiyama observatory requires stair climbing. There is no slope or ramp. Guests can't see the scenery unless they go to the observation deck. At the Tori-ike pond, it is an approx. 10-15-minute walk on the boardwalk from the parking lot. Please wear comfortable shoes and wear. This tour is not considered suitable for passengers with walking difficulties. Passengers should bring local currency for any purchases. Tour order may vary.

Tour timeline may vary to avoid overcrowding, etc.