Cruise port Miyako-jima (Okinawa)
Info for port Miyako-jima (Okinawa) on 2 Jan 2027
Port information & tips for Miyako-jima (Okinawa)
Miyako-jima is the emerald green jewel of the Okinawa archipelago and is considered one of Japan's most exclusive island paradises. The destination impresses with its relaxed, subtropical flair as well as its world-famous coral reefs and crystal-clear water, which delights divers and those seeking relaxation alike. Unforgettable highlights in the immediate vicinity include the dreamlike Yonaha Maehama Beach, the impressive Irabu-Ohashi Bridge, and the iconic Sunayama Beach with its striking rock arch. Cruise ships dock at the modern Hirara Port Cruise Terminal, from where the lively city center of Hirara is easily and quickly accessible by shuttle or taxi thanks to a short distance of around two kilometers.
Miyako-jima (Okinawa) is an enchanting island port in Japan that is primarily accessible to cruise guests from the DACH region by plane. The main terminal, Hirara Port, is conveniently located near the city center. Please note that ships often dock at the 1.4-kilometer-long Cruise Direct Pier, and using a shuttle to the Marine Terminal is recommended, as the pier is not comfortable to traverse on foot.
Airplane
Travel from the DACH region usually involves a long-haul flight to a major Japanese hub such as Tokyo (Haneda, HND) or Osaka (Kansai, KIX), followed by a convenient domestic flight to Miyako-jima. The island has two airports: the centrally located Miyako Airport (MMY) and the Miyako Shimojishima Airport (SHI), which is connected to Miyako-jima via the Irabu Bridge. Direct flights to MMY are offered by ANA and JAL from Tokyo Haneda and Osaka Kansai, while Skymark often provides more affordable connections to SHI.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Miyako Airport (MMY), you can reach Hirara Port or the city center in about fifteen to twenty minutes by taxi. Alternatively, Miyako Kyoei Bus Line No. 5 connects the airport with the city center. From Miyako Shimojishima Airport (SHI), you can reach Hirara Port by bus in around 28 minutes for approximately 360 to 700 Yen, or by taxi in about 22 minutes for 4,300 to 5,500 Yen. Additionally, the practical Miyako Island Loop Bus connects the airports and Hirara Port with key points across the island.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey from the DACH region with layovers in Japan, an overnight stay in a pre-cruise hotel on Miyako-jima is recommended. This allows for a relaxed start to your cruise without time pressure on embarkation day. Many hotels on the island also offer their own shuttle services to and from the airports. Miyako-jima does not have train connections, and rental cars for exploration are very popular for international guests with a valid International Driving Permit.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually include a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the latest announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times may change at short notice.
In port on 02 Jan 2027
