Hafen
Miyako Island

Settle in for a remarkably panoramic drive around Miyakojima and two neighboring islands with frequent stops at the most naturally beautiful attractions. Water views are plentiful as you will discover while pausing at bridges leading to the islands off Miyakojima and at Higashi Hennazaki, a low rocky cape that juts into the typically crashing sea. Similarly, water is the prominent feature at scenic Maehama Beach, the pair of brilliant blue Tooriike Ponds on Shimojijima Island and at the Miyakojima Marine Park, where you will observe a spectacular array of marine life through large underwater windows. Perched atop a hill, Makiyama Observatory offers an all-encompassing view of the area and some of the attractions that you will have already seen up-close. A leisurely tour of Yuki Shio will reveal how the saltworks factory removes mineral-rich sea salt from the ocean. The company’s name means “snow salt,” a reflection of the salt’s brilliant white color.

HIGHLIGHTS:
• Admire the natural beauty of Miyakojima and other islands from the best vantage points.
• Behold the unexpected dips in Irabu Ohashi Bridge, the longest toll-free bridge in Japan.
• Observe unusual sea creatures through the viewing windows at Miyakojima Marine Park.
• See how salt is extracted from the sea and gaze out of the ocean at lovely Maehama Beach.

Explore highlights that define Miyakojima’s northern half, many of them manmade as a counterpoint to the island’s natural resources. Yuki Shio saltworks is particularly noteworthy, as the Guinness Book of World Records certified its salt as the world’s best because of its extraordinarily high mineral content. The product is extracted from deep in the ocean through a complex process that yields a powdery dust-like salt. You will observe some of the creatures that inhabit the surrounding sea through the underwater windows at Miyakojima Marine Park, a star attraction on the island’s northern peninsula. As you will see from the scenic lookout, a lengthy bridge connects the peninsula to Ikema Island. Nearby, you will find the expansive Shimajiri mangrove forests that line the brackish waterways that extend inland. As you meander along the wooden boardwalk in Shimajiri, the guide will point out the various species of trees, including the loop-root mangrove.

HIGHLIGHTS:
• View the factory that produces a mineral-rich sea salt certified to be the world’s best.
• Observe unusual sea creatures through the viewing windows at Miyakojima Marine Park.
• Take in the area’s striking natural beauty from the observation platform at Ikema Bridge.
• Walk along a boardwalk that winds through a pristine mangrove forest.

Enjoy a panoramic and wonderfully circuitous drive around Miyakojima Island and two neighboring islands, taking in a remarkable diversity of sights. Before crossing the Irabu Ohashi Bridge, you will pause to admire the unusually curved, double-hump concrete span. Continuing on across Irabu and Shimojijima islands will bring you to twin Toriike ponds, a gorgeous natural attraction known for its mermaid legend. Another stop at inspiring, white-sand Maehama Beach will present an excellent view of low-lying Kurima Island, much of which is agricultural. You can’t help but notice the clarity of the surrounding waters, which are teeming with brightly colored marine life. The best perspective to observe the creatures underwater is through the dozens of windows below the surface in the Miyakojima Marine Park, which was constructed on the ocean floor. You will also discover how mineral-rich salt is removed from the seawater at Yuki Shio, an innovative saltworks factory.

HIGHLIGHTS:
• Admire the natural beauty of Miyakojima and other islands from the best vantage points.
• Cross Irabu Ohashi, a bridge with double dips that is the longest toll-free bridge in Japan.
• Admire the gorgeous Toriike Ponds, whose water frequently changes colors.
• Observe unusual sea creatures through the viewing windows at Miyakojima Marine Park.
• See how salt is extracted from the sea and gaze out of the ocean at lovely Maehama Beach.

The emerald-green sea captures the spotlight on this jaunt around Miyakojima and its neighboring islands that presents one picturesque setting after another. Not far from port, you will pause at Maehama Beach, a four-mile stretch of white sand that consistently ranks among the finest in all of Japan. The island that you will see to the north is Irabu, which you will reach by crossing the Irabu Ohashi Bridge. The span was constructed with a double-hump design and curved shape so it looks more like a natural feature than a concrete bridge. It leads to Makiyama Observatory, which offers spectacular sweeping views as well as Irabu Ohashi Bridge. From the sea, the observatory looks like a bird spreading its wings in flight. The twin Toriike Ponds are the must-see attraction on Shimojishima Island. An underground channel connects the ponds, and you may see adventurous divers emerging from it. Be sure to ask the guide about the mermaid legend associated with the Toriike Ponds.

Immerse yourself in the school system and highlights of Miyako, on this unique half-day tour offering the opportunity to meet and interact with the students from the local Junior High School. Top off your visit with traditional dance performance offered by the students. At the end of your visit to the local school, explore some of Myiako's highlights accompanied by the students.

Local Junior High School, Students Encounter &Traditional Dances Performance

Board your coach for the approximately 15-minute transfer to the Local Junior School for a once of a lifetime encounter with the local students. Here, assist to their performance of local traditional dances, such as the Ushifushi Nembutsu Sword Dance from 1190 of the Kamakura period. It is said that the "Ushifushi Nembutsu Sword Dance began when 27 Samurais danced and held a memorial service to comfort the spirits of samurai who died in battle, regardless of whether they were enemies or allies. Even now, it is still danced in the area every year during Obon to comfort the spirits of the dead and ancestors. “Nanatsu Odori (seven dances)” Dancers dance with seven types of weapons and agricultural tools (swords, long swords, bows, sickles, pestles, axes, and clubs), praying for peace, good health, and good harvest.

Nowadays, it is also danced during local celebrations. After the performance, join in the exchange meeting. Students will introduce Miyako's history, culture, and the Great East Japan Earthquake that their region experienced in English.

Jyodogahama Beach, White Sands, Blue Ocean

After this hearwarming encounter, re-board your coach for a short drive to the exquisite Jyodogahama Beach, which beckons you with its serene landscape. The jagged rocks line up to create an otherworldly landscape, and the contrast between the white sands and deep blue of the ocean evokes images of a paradise. The area was critically affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami of 2011, as the tidal waves carried debris from destroyed buildings and covered the entire beach. However, locals worked to remove the debris and preserve the iconic landscape of Miyako.

Miyako Gyosai Fish Market

Following your visit to Jyodogahama Beach, your tour concludes with a short visit to Miyako Gyosai Fish Market. Miyako City is home to a vibrant fishing industry that harvests a large variety of seafood from the waters along the Sanriku Coast.  Due to its inland location, it escaped direct damage by the 2011 Tsunami. The market is packed tightly with rows of vendors selling all sorts of fish, seafood, vegetables and fruits. Much of the seafood is freshly brought in from Miyako Port. In addition to the larger stalls, the market reserves one section for local farmer's to directly sell their produce to market visitors.

Explore the beauty of nature on half-day tour visiting the Jodogahama beach and the Ryusendo cave, which is enlisted as a Natural Monument of Japan.

Sanriku Fukko National Park Coastline and Jodogahama beach

Depart the port in the morning and head to the picturesque coastline of Sanriku Fukko National Park. Jodogahama awaits you for a serene view, which got its name as resembling the idea of Buddhist paradise "Jodo" or "Pure Land". The jagged rocks line up to create a lovely landscape, with the contrast between the white sand and the deep blue of the ocean. The area was critically affected by the tsunami of March 11th, 2011 as the tidal waves carried debris from destroyed buildings and covered the entire beach.

Ryusendo Cave

Travel inland this time to the Ryusendo Cave, considered to be one of the three primary limestone caves in all of Japan. A seemingly fathomless subterranean world of its own, more than 2.5 miles has been discovered out of which 0.4 miles is open to the public. See the clear blue underground lakes and stalagmites that constitute this mystical world that expands underground.

After your underground adventure, reboard your coach for the return to the port.

Miyako, a city located in the center of the coastal Iwate Prefecture, suffered devastating damage from the earthquake and tsunami of 2011. Seawater swept across the city's coastal districts, destroying everything in its path. Your tour takes you to the Jodogahama area which boasts picturesque scenery with the jagged rocks protruding from the sea.

Head to Jodogahama Beach for a photo stop. The name derives from a Buddhist monk from the 17th century comparing the landscape to the idea of "Jodo" or "Pure Land" which is believed to be one of the Buddhist versions of paradise. It is a National Scenic Reserve, known for the beautiful white-pebble beach that creates a striking contrast against the deep blue ocean. The pine trees which grow on top of the rocks enhance the landscape. The area was critically affected by the tsunami of March 11th, 2011 as the tidal waves carried debris from destroyed buildings and covered the entire beach. However, locals worked to remove the debris and preserve the iconic landscape of their hometown.

Michinoeki Taro

Stop by at Michinoeki Taro, which was newly built in 2018 as a symbol of the area's recovery from the tsunami impact. The facility sells local produce.

Sanno-iwa Rocks

Drive further up north to take in the unique view of the Sanno-iwa rocks which consist of the Otoko-iwa, Onna-iwa and Taiko-iwa. These rocks were first formed through volcanic activities in the area, and then sediments deposited onto the ocean floor which eventually were exposed to the wind and waves to be carved out into their shapes today.

Miyako Gyosai Fish Market

Finally you will visit the Miyako Gyosai Fish Market. Miyako City is home to a vibrant fishing industry that harvests a large variety of seafood from the waters along the Sanriku Coast. The Miyako Gyosai Fish Market is one of the city's public markets.

The market is packed tightly with rows of vendors selling all sorts of fish, seafood, vegetables and fruits. Much of the seafood is freshly brought in from Miyako Port. In addition to the larger stalls, the market reserves one section for local farmer's to directly sell their produce to market visitors.

Return to the pier by coach.

Discover the traditions of Morioka, the largest city in the Iwate prefecture. The tour features sake making and ironware which has been the two well-known crafts of the city.

Morioka Hachimangu Shrine

Depart from the pier by coach and drive to Morioka. Start off by paying homage to the guardian deity of city at the Morioka Hachimangu Shrine. Established by feudal lord Nanbu Shigenobu in 1680 as the guardian shrine of the then Morioka domain and its people, the shrine has been revered by the locals since, with the shrine housing 12 different deities all believed to be efficacious for different aspects of life.

Asabiraki Sake Brewery Tour, Japanese style lunch

Visit and learn about Japanese sake (rice wine) at the Asabiraki Sake Brewery established in 1871, during the Meiji Era. Take a short brewery tour and enjoy some sake samples. Morioka historically has been known for quality sake thanks to its rich production of rice and water source. The shop located in the brewery property offers a wide selection of not only the sake made at the Asabiraki brewery but also local food products related to sake.

Iwachu Nanbu Ironware Factory Museum

The Nanbu Ironware is best known for high-quality teapots which are known for its ability to maintain the temperature once heated and the rough texture of the surface preventing the content from burning out. The Iwachu Nanbu Ironware Factory Museum showcases the traditional process of the ironware as well as some contemporary productions using the traditional techniques developed over the years. See an example of Japanese craftsmanship evolving to serve the needs of everyday life in the present era. At the end of your visit you will have a chance to shop for a product which you might find functional for your everyday life as well!

Having completed your visit, return to the pier.

Northern Miyako is famous for its Ryusendo Cave Ryusendo Cave National Monument and Kitayamazaki Cliffs -- fabulous scenery and landforms just 60 minutes from the pier.

Ryusendo Cave, Japanese-style lunch

Depart the pier and travel northwest to the Ryusendo Cave, considered to be one of the three primary limestone caves in all of Japan. A seemingly fathomless subterranean world of its own, more than 2.5 miles has been discovered out of which 0.4 miles is open to the public.  See for yourself the clear blue underground lakes and stalagmites that constitute this mystical world that expands underground.

Kitayamazaki Observatory & Scenic Boat Cruise

Visit the Kitayamazaki observatory of a breathtaking view of the steep cliff that drops straight to the ocean. This cliff continues along the shoreline for about 5 miles, giving it the nickname “The Alps of the Ocean”.

After a photo stop at the observatory, head head to Jodogahama Beach, to ride a Sightseeing Boat Cruise. Jodogahama Beach, meaning ‘Pure Land Beach’ is designated as National Scenic Beauty in Japan. Enjoy the magnificent view of the beach and the contrast between white rock and green trees ashore. You would find a huge rock, called ‘Candle Rock’ during the cruising.

After disembarking the boat, your coach will return you back to the port.     

Explore Miyako-Itawe at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Miyako-Itawe at your leisure during your half-day (4-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Miyako, a city located in the center of the coastal Iwate Prefecture, suffered devastating damage from the earthquake and tsunami of 2011. Seawater swept across the city's coastal districts, destroying everything in its path. Your tour takes you to the Taro area and the Jodogahama area which boasts picturesque scenery with the jagged rocks protruding from the sea.

Taro Kanko Hotel

Depart the pier for the 30 minute journey to the Taro Kanko Hotel, which was one of the very few structures that remained intact after the tsunami washed through the town. Spend approximately one hour with your guide. The first two floors of the hotel were completely washed away with only the pillars remaining. The upper floors have been preserved and are now open to the public to provide information on disaster prevention. A local guide will join you and will share with you what happened on March 11th, 2011 and after. Brace for an explicit video showing footage of the tsunami washing out the town.

Take in the view of the Sanno-iwa rocks which consist of Otoko-iwa, Onna-iwa and Taiko-iwa. These rocks were first formed through volcanic activity in the area, and then sediments deposited onto the ocean floor which eventually were exposed to the wind and waves to be carved out into the shapes that they are today.

Michinoeki Taro

Stop at Michinoeki Taro, which was newly built in 2018 as a symbol of the area's recovery from the tsunami impact. The facility sells local produces as well as offer educational activities for disaster prevention.

Jodogahama

The final visit of the day is Jodogahama. It got its name as resembling the idea of Buddhist paradise "Jodo" or "Pure Land". The jagged rocks line up to create an unusual landscape, with the contrast between the white sand and the deep blue of the ocean The area was critically affected by the tsunami of March 11th, 2011 as the tidal waves carried debris from destroyed buildings and covered the entire beach