What is Irabu Island?
Irabu Island (Irabu-jima) is a beautiful island in the Miyako Islands of Okinawa Prefecture, a hidden gem for travelers offering crystal-clear seas, spectacular beaches, excellent diving spots, and local seafood cuisine.
Features of Irabu Island
- Accessible from Miyako Island via the Irabu Ohashi Bridge!
- Beaches with emerald-blue seas and white sand
- Many renowned snorkeling and diving spots
- Enjoy fresh, local seafood specialties
The island is relatively quiet compared to other tourist spots, making it popular for those who want to relax and enjoy Okinawa’s natural beauty.
Top 5 Sights on Irabu Island
1. Irabu Ohashi Bridge | A spectacular drive
Irabu Ohashi is a 3,540-meter bridge connecting Miyako Island and Irabu Island, famous as Japan’s longest free-to-use bridge.
Highlights
- Drive over emerald-green waters!
- Photo spots at both ends of the bridge and nearby parking lots/viewpoints
- Stunning sunrises and sunsets—different views depending on the time of day
Even just crossing the bridge gives you the exhilarating feeling of driving over the sea!
2. Sawada Beach | One of Japan’s 100 best shorelines
Sawada Beach is a calm, relaxing beach with gentle waves.
Its shallow waters make it ideal for families and beginner snorkelers.
Features
- Unique landscape dotted with large rocks
- At low tide a wide sandy area appears—perfect for photos
- Famous for its sunsets, offering a romantic atmosphere
Perfect for snorkeling or a leisurely stroll along the shore!
3. Mysterious diving spots like the Blue Cave and Tori-ike (Door Pond)
Irabu’s “Blue Cave” is known as one of Okinawa’s most mysterious spots.
When sunlight streams in, the water inside the cave glows blue, creating a magical atmosphere.
Activities
- Explore the caves by diving or snorkeling!
- Spot sea turtles, tropical fish, and other rich marine life
- Beautiful contrasts of light and water—great for Instagram-worthy photos!
This area is a perfect adventure zone to fully appreciate nature’s beauty!
4. Shiratori Misaki | 360-degree panoramic viewpoint
Shiratori Misaki (Shiratori Cape) is a scenic spot at the northern tip of Irabu Island.
It offers expansive views of the horizon and the Miyako Blue sea.
Recommended points
- Don’t miss the panoramic view from the observation deck!
- A refreshing spot with pleasant sea breezes
- If you’re lucky, you may spot humpback whales in winter
A quiet hidden spot where you can enjoy the great outdoors in peace.
5. Local cuisine: “Irabu Soba” and bonito dishes
Irabu soba is a local noodle dish similar to Miyako soba but with its own distinctive flavor.
Bonito (katsuo) dishes are also famous!
- Delicious dishes like “katsuo no tataki” (seared bonito) and “katsuo no zuke-don” (marinated bonito rice bowl)
- Enjoy fresh seafood unique to Irabu Island
- Available at local eateries such as “Maruyoshi Shokudo”
After enjoying the island’s nature, satisfy your appetite with these tasty local dishes!
Useful information for travelers
1. Getting to Irabu Island
Accessible by car from Miyako Island!
- About 15 minutes by car across the Irabu Ohashi from Miyako Airport
From Naha Airport to Miyako Island by plane
- About a 50-minute flight from Naha Airport to Miyako Airport
Direct flights are also available!
- There are direct flights to Miyako Airport from Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya
Renting a car is the best way to explore the island!
2. Recommended accommodation on Irabu Island
Hotels & resorts
- Ronsard Resort IRABU (ocean-view accommodation with spectacular scenery)
- ヴィラブリゾート (enjoy a private, relaxing atmosphere)
There are plenty of lodging options, so you can choose according to your travel style!
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Summary
✅ Irabu Island is a scenic island reachable by car from Miyako Island!
✅ A natural paradise with crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches!
✅ Plenty of snorkeling and diving spots!
✅ Don’t miss the scenic drive across the Irabu Ohashi!
✅ Be sure to try local specialties like Irabu soba and bonito dishes!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the single best sightseeing spot on Irabu Island?
A: The drive across Irabu Ohashi and snorkeling in the Blue Cave are absolute musts!
Q: How do you get around Irabu Island?
A: Renting a car is best! Rental motorbikes and bicycles are also options.
Q: What is the best season to visit Irabu Island?
A: April to October is ideal! Especially May to July when the weather is stable and the sea is at its clearest.
Experience the beautiful sea and great nature of Irabu Island—be sure to visit!
