Making the most of Miyakojima
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Port of Hirara lies in north-western Miyako Island, around a 15-minute walk from the town centre. Shuttles operate most of the time.
The terminal stands approximately 1 km from the berth, with a shuttle bus carrying passengers between them.
Miyakojima, or Miyako Island, is Okinawa's fourth-largest island, celebrated for beautiful beaches and excellent coral reefs. Its tropical conditions make it popular throughout the year, and dense sugar-cane fields cover the land.
Miyako ranks as Okinawa Prefecture's fourth-largest island. With no significant hills or mountains, it consists mostly of sugar-cane fields and several towns. Hirara is the biggest and has a moderate choice of bars and restaurants. Pensions and resort hotels are found throughout the island. Unlike elsewhere in Okinawa, Miyako has no habu snakes.
Getting around
Away from the beach, Miyakojima City Tropical Plant Garden contains 1,600 plant species and 40,000 trees. Visitors can also play golf on a selection of courses.
Money
The yen is Japan's currency. Notes come as ¥10,000;¥5,000 and ¥1,000, alongside ¥500, ¥100, ¥50, ¥10, ¥5 and ¥1 coins.