Irabu Island lies just offshore from Miyako Island, connected since 2015 by the Irabu Bridge — at 3.5km the longest toll-free bridge in Japan. The bridge itself is spectacular, rising high above turquoise water and offering views across the Miyako coral reef system. The island beneath is quieter and less developed than Miyako, with excellent beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
Key Beaches
Toguchi no Hama Beach on Irabu’s west coast is a wide crescent of pure white sand with shallow, glassy water — one of the finest beaches in the Miyako Island group and far less visited than Miyako’s famous Yonaha Maehama. Sawada no Hama Beach offers a wilder, more natural setting with interesting rock formations at the water’s edge.
Best Time to Visit
May to October for swimming and beach relaxation. The Irabu Bridge drive is beautiful at any time of year — the views from the bridge’s highest point over the coral reef below are extraordinary on clear days.
Access
Drive or cycle across the Irabu Bridge from Miyako Island (no toll, no public transport). Fly to Miyako Airport from Tokyo, Osaka, or Naha. A rental car or scooter is needed to reach the beaches.
