Irabu Bridge

Irabu Bridge is a 3,540-meter-long bridge that connects Miyako Island and Irabu Island. It became a hot topic when it was built, as it allowed people to travel between the two islands by land instead of only by boat. Since its opening in 2015, it has become one of the popular tourist spots in Miyako Island. The bridge spans over the sparkling Miyako Blue Sea, and the combination of the beautiful sea and the bridge is magnificent. It's a must-visit spot when traveling to Miyako Island.

Irabu Bridge is actually known as the longest free bridge in Japan that you can cross for free. It takes about 15 minutes to drive across. With the opening of Irabu Bridge, accommodations and commercial facilities on Irabu Island have also increased, and in recent years, it has become very lively. Since it's now easy to get to Irabu Island, please consider adding it to your itinerary when traveling to Miyako Island! Please note that it is possible to cross on foot or by bicycle, but there is no dedicated pedestrian walkway, and the bridge is often windy and dangerous, so it is recommended to cross by car as much as possible.

When traveling to Miyako Island, it is recommended to move around by rental car! Miyako Island is a relatively large island, and it takes about 100km to go around the island. Famous tourist spots are scattered throughout the island, and there are many beaches, so having a car that allows you to move freely greatly expands your range of activities. The surrounding islands of Ikema Island, Kurima Island, and Irabu Island are connected by bridges and all have a significant presence as tourist spots. You can enjoy a refreshing drive while admiring the beautiful sea. Among them, the newest and longest bridge, Irabu Ohashi, is a must-visit spot when you go to Miyako Island!

The Irabu Ohashi Bridge is not only great to cross, but also to see! And there's a perfect photo spot prepared as well. At the starting point of the bridge on the Miyako Island side, "Irabu Ohashi" is written in large letters, and you can take a commemorative photo with the bridge and the sea in the background. Morning is the best time for taking photos here! This is because the color of the sea looks beautiful in the morning due to the sunlight. On the other hand, afternoon is recommended for shooting on the Irabu Island side. Note that parking and stopping on the Irabu Ohashi Bridge is prohibited. Although there are parking spaces along the way, they are for emergency vehicles only, so please do not use them.

Another beautiful aspect of the Irabu Ohashi Bridge is during sunset time when the sun sets. From Miyako Sunset Beach in Miyako Island, you can view the sun sinking over the Irabu Ohashi Bridge. The contrast created by the orange-tinted sea and sky on clear days and the shadow of the Irabu Ohashi Bridge is stunning. Please enjoy a relaxing and peaceful time. By the way, not only the setting sun but also the "afterglow" time about 15 minutes after the sun sets is mysterious. Instead of immediately leaving after the sun sets, try staying there for a while and enjoying the change in the color of the sky.

Irabu Ohashi Sea Station on Irabu Island is a spot that we highly recommend you visit along with other tourist spots. This relatively new commercial facility opened in 2020 and has a restaurant, making it a perfect rest stop for those touring Miyako Island. The ocean view is sure to soothe you. The souvenir corner inside the building is also well-stocked! On the second floor, there is an observation deck where you can see the entire Irabu Ohashi Bridge. Be sure to take some photos and enjoy the view. This is a must-see spot for those traveling to Miyako Island and Irabu Island!