Shimoji Island in Okinawa’s Miyako Islands group is home to 17END — one of Japan’s most extraordinary and photogenic beaches. Named for the end of Runway 17 at Miyako Airport on the adjacent island, the beach sits at the edge of the ocean where the runway appears to extend directly into the turquoise sea.
17END Beach
The crystal-clear turquoise lagoon at 17END is among the most visually striking in all of Japan. The shallow water changes colour dramatically through the day — pale mint at dawn, deep cobalt at midday, gold and pink at sunset. The sight of aircraft on approach low over the water adds a unique drama to the scene.
Nagamahama Beach
On the west coast of Shimoji, Nagamahama Beach is a crescent of white sand backed by tropical vegetation. The beach faces the open Pacific and offers spectacular sunsets. Together, both beaches make Shimoji a premier destination in the Miyako Island group.
Access
Shimoji is connected to Miyako Island by bridge. Fly to Miyako Airport from Tokyo, Osaka, or Naha, then cross the bridge by rental car or scooter. The Irabu Bridge — the longest toll-free bridge in Japan at 3.5km — offers stunning ocean views on the crossing.
