Japan
Day 12: Miyako
Explore one of Japan's most beautiful spots. Afterward, relax on stunning beaches and enjoy some delicious food.
Sunrise at Cape Higashi-Hennazaki
Start your day with a sunrise at Cape Higashi-Hennazaki, a stunning cape that stretches into the Pacific Ocean. This spot is known for its sweeping views and its lighthouse standing tall against the vibrant morning sky. If we’re being honest, we probably had the most amazing sunrise of our entire lives here. It’s an almost 360° view of water everywhere you look, and the way the sun shines on the ocean is pure magic.
30 minutes is all it takes to get to the next spot of the day.
Relax at Yonaha Beach
After your early start, unwind at Yonaha Beach. It is one of the most beautiful beaches on Miyakojima, and also the busiest. Soft white sand and clear, shallow waters make it ideal for swimming or just soaking up the sun. Since Yonaha Beach can get pretty busy, we recommend coming here as soon as your “turtle adventure” is finished. That way you will undoubtedly find a great spot to relax at, or rent a sunbed and beach umbrella. It’s also a great place to do any (water) sports like jet skiing, volleyball, or going on the banana boat.
It’s a 30-minute drive to your lunch spot of the day.
Lunch at HARRY’S Shrimp Truck
When it’s time for lunch, head over to HARRY'S Shrimp Truck. First off, the location of this restaurant along the northwest coast alone is worth the visit, even if shrimp isn’t your thing. But trust us, you’ll want to try the shrimp! The garlic butter option is so tasty, with tons of delicious shrimp and rice for 1400 yen, which is about € 9. The place operates out of a vibrant "American school bus" and is always buzzing with people from the moment they open at 11 AM. Such a cool spot!
A 10-minute ride over Ikema Bridge takes you to the last location of the day.
End your day at Ikizu Beach
Wrap up your day with a visit to Ikizu Beach. It gives you that private beach feeling, and you’ll have to look long and hard to see another soul here. If you’re after a glimpse of the famous heart rock, go to Gelato Cafe Ninufa. To see the heart-shaped rock, you’ll need to buy a drink or snack, but trust us, it’s worth it. The cafe has some of the best food on the island, from great pizzas and homemade lemonades to ice cream that’s absolutely to die for (pistachio, anyone?). Plus, the staff is super friendly! They gave us tons of free samples and all waved goodbye as we left. So cute!
