- Island Time at Japan's Most Stylish Airport
- What Is Miyako Shimojishima Airport? Let's Cover the Basics First
- The History of Shimojishima Airport | From Training Airfield to Tourism Hub
- The Airport Facilities Are Too Stylish | Just Like a Resort Hotel
- Enjoy Island Cuisine at "Coral Port Grab&Go"
- Plenty of Souvenir Shops | Some Things You Can Only Buy Here
- The Area After Security Is Plentiful Too
- How to Get There | Access to Shimojishima Airport
- Sights Around Shimojishima Airport
- Tips for Enjoying the Airport
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What Shimojishima Airport Taught Me
Island Time at Japan's Most Stylish Airport
When I first set foot at Shimojishima Airport, I thought, "wait, is this really an airport? A resort hotel?"
An orange tiled roof. Wooden fittings that feel warm. Natural light pouring down from a high ceiling. Wherever you look it's stylish, Okinawan, yet refined. An airport that lifts your spirits the moment you land like this — I don't think there's another.
And what surprised me was the airport's facilities. Both the café and the souvenir shop can be used even by those not taking a flight. I actually went to visit twice during my stay on Miyako Island. The airport itself being a tourist spot — isn't that amazing?
And above all, the location. It's situated between Irabu Island and Shimojishima, surrounded by the Miyako-blue sea. It's close to spectacular spots like 17END and Toriike Pond too, making it the best base for sightseeing.
I'll tell you thoroughly about "Miyako Shimojishima Airport," interwoven with my own experience of actually visiting many times. I want those searching "Miyako Island sightseeing" or "Irabu Island sightseeing" to read it. There must be many people who don't know an airport could be this appealing.
What Is Miyako Shimojishima Airport? Let's Cover the Basics First
"Miyako Shimojishima Airport" is the second airport in the Miyako Islands, which had its renewal opening on 30 March 2019. The official name is "Shimojishima Airport," but the terminal facility's name is "Miyako Shimojishima Airport Terminal."
The location is Shimojishima, adjacent to Irabu Island. From Miyako Island it's a distance of about 25 minutes by car, crossing the Irabu Bridge.
Basic Information
Location: Sawada, Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa
Opened: July 1979 (as a training airfield)
Renewal: 30 March 2019
Runway: 3,000 m × 60 m
Serving airlines: Skymark, Jetstar, Jin Air
Car park: free (299 spaces + 10 for the disabled)
Features: domestic and international flights, pilot training also ongoing
▶Please check the latest information on the [Shimojishima Airport official site]
Whereas Miyako Airport is close to the urban area, Shimojishima Airport is in a somewhat distant place. But in return, there are many sights nearby, and the appeal is being able to sightsee right after arrival.
The History of Shimojishima Airport | From Training Airfield to Tourism Hub
Knowing the history of Shimojishima Airport deepens your affection for it. It gets a little long, but it's an interesting story, so please listen.
Birth as a Pilot Training Airfield
In the 1960s, as the era of mass jet-airliner transport approached, the construction of a pilot training airfield became urgent in Japan. Seven domestic locations were candidates, but all had drawbacks, and Shimojishima was finally chosen.
In July 1979, Shimojishima Airport opened. As Japan's only "pilot training airport," it became a training base for airlines including JAL and ANA.
A Holy Site of Touch-and-Go
What made Shimojishima Airport famous was the training called "touch-and-go." That full-of-force training where a plane lands on the runway and immediately revs the engine to full and takes off again.
The figure of planes repeating touch-and-go with a roar, against the backdrop of blue sea and blue sky. For aviation fans, Shimojishima Airport was a holy site. I've seen it just once, and it was goosebump-inducing. Even if you're not a plane lover, you get excited.
The "Shimojishima Airport RW17 End" on the north side of the airport was popular as a photo spot where you could see touch-and-go up close. The approach lights extending over the sea are distinctive too, and the sight of planes descending along these approach lights is truly stunning.
The Withdrawal of JAL and ANA, and a New Path
JAL withdrew from training in 2012, ANA in 2014. For a time use plummeted, and the airport's future was worried about.
But Okinawa Prefecture and Mitsubishi Estate joined hands and put forward a new utilisation plan. With the concept "the resort begins at the airport," they aimed for revival as a tourism hub.
And in March 2019, scheduled flights — the first in a full 24 years — began serving. A stylish terminal was completed, and a new history began.
Training Flights Still Continue Today
Even now that scheduled flights serve, training flights continue. The Japan Coast Guard, Ryukyu Air Commuter, and occasionally Solaseed Air and AirDo also come for training.
If the timing's right, you can still see touch-and-go today. However, since 2019, vehicle entry onto the perimeter road has been restricted, and you can no longer see it as close up as before. Even so, you can enjoy it plenty from around the airport.
The Airport Facilities Are Too Stylish | Just Like a Resort Hotel
The greatest appeal of Shimojishima Airport is, above all, the design of the facilities. It's really stylish.
An Exterior Full of Okinawan Character
What first catches your eye is the orange tiled roof. Even from a distance you immediately know "ah, it's the airport." A colour reminiscent of Okinawa's traditional red tiles, it stands out well against the blue sky.
The building itself is low-rise, with a design that blends into the surrounding nature. Not a "big, imposing airport" but a "airport that nestles up to the island." This warmth is just the best.
The Care in the Terminal Interior
Go inside and you'll sigh.
High ceiling
The openness is incredible. Natural light pours in, bright and pleasant.
The warmth of wood
Wood is used here and there on the floors and walls, with a warmth to it. Completely different from an inorganic airport.
Okinawan art
Works by local artists are displayed, with touches that let you feel Okinawan culture down to the fine details.
Spacious seating
Both sofa seats and table seats are plentiful. You can spend the time until your flight truly relaxed.
On a day during my stay on Miyako Island when I had "nothing in particular to do today," I once relaxed for about two hours at the Shimojishima Airport café. Reading a book, gazing blankly outside. It's an airport, yet it's a space where you can relax.
The Special Facility "Island Time Post Office"
What's interesting is the "Island Time Post Office" inside the airport. A postbox and various picture postcards are provided, and you can write and post a picture postcard on the spot.
It being "island time," what you send arrives a bit late… no, that's not actually the case (laughs), but sending a picture postcard as a travel memory has a certain romance to it, doesn't it.
I sent a friend in Tokyo a picture postcard, sort of "with love from Shimojishima." My friend's reaction was "huh, from the airport? (laughs)", but they were happy.
Enjoy Island Cuisine at "Coral Port Grab&Go"
Another appeal of Shimojishima Airport is the café "Coral Port Grab&Go."
This café is in the check-in building, so even those not taking a flight can use it. This is really convenient.
A Menu Using Island Ingredients
Coral Port Grab&Go prides itself on a menu using the island's fresh ingredients.
Sandwich
The sandwich using bonito namari-bushi and sea grapes is the speciality. A dish you can only eat at Shimojishima Airport.
When I first heard it, I thought "bonito namari-bushi and sea grapes, do they go together?", but this is surprisingly good. The umami of the bonito and the popping texture of the sea grapes are exquisite — Western-style yet an Okinawan taste.
My friend was surprised, "a sea-grape sandwich, my first ever!" Indeed, you don't see it elsewhere, do you.
Smoothies
Smoothies using fresh mango and pineapple are popular too. The sweetness of tropical fruit sinks into a tired body.
Desserts
Local sweets are plentiful too. Mango pudding, beni-imo (purple sweet potato) tart and the like. You can buy them as souvenirs too.
Plenty of Alcohol Too
Not just soft drinks, the alcohol menu is plentiful too. Orion Beer, awamori, Okinawan cocktails and the like.
I once dropped by the airport in the evening and gazed at the sunset while drinking Orion Beer. I thought, "drinking beer at an airport is somehow strange but luxurious."
Opening Hours and Price Range
Opening hours: 9:00–19:00
Price range: sandwiches ¥500–800 (about US$3–5), drinks ¥300–600 (about US$2–4)
They're tourist-spot prices, but reasonable for an airport. And considering the quality, the prices make total sense.
An Atmosphere Easy to Drop Into
The good thing about Coral Port Grab&Go is its casualness. Order at the counter, and you can take away or eat on the spot.
For a break on a drive, between sightseeing, before a flight. A convenient café usable in any scene.
Plenty of Souvenir Shops | Some Things You Can Only Buy Here
Shimojishima Airport has two souvenir shops.
"coral port the Shop (Landside)"
In the check-in building, a shop you can use even without taking a flight.
From local liquor, drinks and sweets to general goods, a varied range of souvenirs is on offer. Shimojishima Airport original products especially are worth checking. There are items you can only buy here.
What I bought was the airport-original mango juice. The package had an illustration of Shimojishima Airport on it, and it made for a good story too.
There's apparel and children's goods too, handy when you suddenly need something. Many things can be bought for under ¥500 (about US$3), so it's usable for choosing a little souvenir too.
Opening hours: 9:00–19:00
"coral port the Shop (Airside)"
A shop in the area after passing the security check. This one is usable only by passengers.
It's more compact than the Landside shop, but carefully selected products are lined up. Even when you think "ah, I forgot a souvenir!" just before your flight, you're fine.
A High-End Selection
Shimojishima Airport's souvenir shops are overall a high-end line. Not the usual "mass-produced souvenirs," but many products with care put into them.
So they come in handy when you want to "choose a souvenir with a difference." The prices are a little high, but the quality is good in return.
The Area After Security Is Plentiful Too
The area after the security check, usable only by those taking a flight. This is wonderful too.
"coral port LOUNGE the Kitchen"
A restaurant after the security check. You can enjoy meals making use of Miyako Islands ingredients.
Popular menu items:
- 10-vegetable and Miyako mango curry
- Irabu namari-bushi soba
- A plate using Okinawa-produced wagyu beef
- Miyako soba
- Original Okinawan dandan noodles
It's nice to be able to enjoy Okinawan flavours right up to the last moment before boarding. There are takeaway menu items you can eat on the plane too.
The opening hours vary to match the flight operation times, so check in advance.
"coral port LOUNGE Cafe & Bar"
Likewise in the area after the security check, a café and bar.
It offers cocktails full of resort feel, local beer, juices and the like. You can spend the time before boarding elegantly.
My friend drank an awamori-based cocktail at this lounge and was delighted, "Okinawa mood right to the very end!"
The Waterside Lounge
In the area after the security check there's also a special place called the waterside lounge. You can see the sea from the window, with the best openness.
Spending the time until your flight here at leisure is nice too. There are many seats, so you can generally sit even when crowded.
How to Get There | Access to Shimojishima Airport
There are mainly three ways to access Shimojishima Airport.
Arriving Directly by Plane
Serving routes (as of December 2025):
Skymark
- Haneda–Shimojishima (year-round)
- Kobe–Shimojishima (year-round)
- Naha–Shimojishima (year-round)
- Fukuoka–Shimojishima (summer only)
▶Please check the latest information on the [Skymark official site]
Jetstar
- Narita–Shimojishima (one round trip daily, except some periods)
▶Please check the latest information on the [Jetstar official site]
Jin Air
- Seoul (Incheon)–Shimojishima (international)
▶Please check the latest information on the [Jin Air official site]
Having direct flights is really convenient. From Haneda especially, the Tokyo crowd often chooses Shimojishima Airport.
Rental Car from Miyako Airport
The pattern of arriving at Miyako Airport and then going to Shimojishima Airport by rental car.
Time needed: about 30 minutes
Route: Miyako Airport → Irabu Bridge → Shimojishima Airport
The drive across the Irabu Bridge is itself sightseeing, so it's recommended. The view from the bridge is really beautiful.
Bus
"Miyako Kyoei Bus" and "Chuo Kotsu Bus" connect Shimojishima Airport with the Miyako Island urban area.
If you don't have a rental car, the bus is an option too. However, the frequency is low, so check the timetable in advance.
Taxi
A taxi from Miyako Airport or the urban area is possible too. However, the fare is on the high side (about ¥3,000–4,000, or US$20–27, from Miyako Airport).
If you're travelling as a group, splitting the cost for a taxi might be an option too.
Car Park Information
Fee: free
Spaces: 299 general spaces, 10 for the disabled
Usage period: within 5 days
Being able to park free is nice, isn't it. It can fill up on weekends and in busy periods, so I recommend arriving early.
Sights Around Shimojishima Airport
The appeal of Shimojishima Airport is that spectacular spots gather around it.
17END
About 5 minutes by car from the airport. A beach at the tip of the Shimojishima Airport runway, called the "last paradise."
Pure-white sand and a clear sea. The scenery at low tide is so beautiful it leaves you lost for words. If the timing's right, you can see a plane just before landing up close.
Arrive at Shimojishima Airport and first go to 17END. This is my standard route.
Toriike Pond
About 10 minutes by car from the airport. A mystical natural pond where two ponds, large and small, connect underground.
It's also called the "Dragon's Eye" and is popular as a power spot. The emerald-blue water surface is really beautiful. There's a path, so you can enjoy it while strolling.
Toguchi-no-Hama
About 6 minutes by car from the airport. A natural beach representative of Irabu Island.
A bow-shaped beach about 800 metres long. The powder sand is fluffy, and walking barefoot feels good. The sea is calm too and easy to swim in.
Sarahama Port
About 15 minutes by car from the airport. A fishing port famous for bonito fishing.
At "Insha-no-Eki Sarahama" you can eat fresh seafood bowls. The colourful settlement spreading behind the port is a must-see too.
Nakanoshima Beach
Close to the airport, a popular snorkelling spot.
You can see lots of fish, and even beginners can enjoy it. The sea's clarity is high, and the underwater world is clearly visible.
Use Shimojishima Airport as a base and you can go round these spots efficiently. The flow of arrive at the airport → sightsee nearby → take a break at the airport café in the evening is the best feeling.
Tips for Enjoying the Airport
To enjoy Shimojishima Airport to the fullest, there are a few tips.
Allow Plenty of Time
For a flight, I recommend arriving at the airport two hours before.
The airport itself is a tourist spot, so arrive early and spend time at leisure. Have tea at the café, look at souvenirs, gaze at the scenery outside. It makes a far better close to your trip than boarding in a rush.
Use It as a Sightseeing Base
Even without taking a flight, you can use it as a sightseeing base.
During my stay on Miyako Island, I went to Shimojishima Airport three times. Once on arrival, once for a sightseeing break, and finally at departure. I could enjoy it differently each time.
The toilets are clean, there's Wi-Fi, and it's excellent as a rest spot.
Enjoy It as a Set with Nearby Sightseeing
It's a waste to end with just Shimojishima Airport.
Going round as a set with nearby spots like 17END, Toriike Pond and Toguchi-no-Hama is recommended. With half a day, you can go round the main spots.
An Evening Visit Is Recommended Too
Shimojishima Airport at dusk is lovely too.
The orange sky and sea, and the airport building. Orion Beer while gazing at the sunset from the café terrace seats. This is the most luxurious time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can you use it without taking a flight?
You can! The café "Coral Port Grab&Go" and the souvenir shop "coral port the Shop (Landside)" in the check-in building are usable by anyone.
Q2: Miyako Airport or Shimojishima Airport, which is more convenient?
For access to the urban area, Miyako Airport is convenient. But if you prioritise sightseeing on Irabu Island and Shimojishima, Shimojishima Airport is recommended.
Q3: Can you eat inside the airport?
You can. The café has sandwiches and smoothies, and the area after security has a proper restaurant too.
Q4: Is the car park paid?
It's free! There are 299 parking spaces (within 5 days).
※Please check the latest information at the Miyako Shimojishima Airport guide.
Q5: Can you use Wi-Fi?
You can. Free Wi-Fi is available inside the airport.
Q6: Are there coin lockers?
There are. Deposit your luggage and sightsee unburdened.
Q7: Can you definitely see touch-and-go?
Not definitely. The training schedule is irregular, and it can be cancelled depending on the weather. It's good to check information in advance.
Q8: Can you walk from the airport to 17END?
It's possible distance-wise, but it takes about 40 minutes. I recommend using a rental car or taxi.
Q9: Are there international flights too?
There are. Jin Air (Korea) operates the Seoul (Incheon)–Shimojishima route.
Q10: Are the souvenirs more plentiful than at Miyako Airport?
The range is greater at Miyako Airport, but Shimojishima Airport has a high-end-oriented selection. If you're looking for a "souvenir with a difference," it's Shimojishima Airport.
What Shimojishima Airport Taught Me
An airport is usually "a place for transit," isn't it. A place you want to pass through quickly and reach your destination.
But Shimojishima Airport was different.
This is an airport that can become "the destination itself." A place where the trip begins the moment you land and you can enjoy it right up to the last moment of leaving.
When I first visited, I thought "so an airport can become such an appealing place." Stylish, comfortable, with delicious things, and spectacular scenery spreading around.
Its history as a pilot training airfield. Its revival after a 24-year blank. Its operation as one with the region. All of it makes this airport's appeal.
My favourite is the blueness of the sea visible from the airport. From the window, from the terrace seats, the Miyako blue beautiful from wherever you look. It's the moment you really feel "ah, I've come to the Miyako Islands."
After returning to Tokyo, when I talk about Miyako Island to friends, I always say "the airport was really good." "It's rare to say the airport was good, isn't it," my friend laughed too, but it's really true.
If you visit Irabu Island and Shimojishima, do make use of Shimojishima Airport. Those arriving by plane, and those who arrived at Miyako Airport, I want you to drop by even between sightseeing.
Have tea at the café, look at souvenirs, gaze at the sea. Just that makes for a time well worth it.
You're sure to understand the reason it's called "Japan's most stylish airport."
Facility Information Summary
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Official name | Shimojishima Airport |
| Terminal name | Miyako Shimojishima Airport Terminal |
| Location | Sawada, Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa |
| Opened | July 1979 (as a training airfield) |
| Renewal | 30 March 2019 |
| Runway | 3,000 m × 60 m |
| Car park | free (299 spaces + 10 for the disabled) |
| Main facilities | café, restaurant, souvenir shops, lounge |
| Serving airlines | Skymark, Jetstar, Jin Air |
▶Please check the latest arrival/departure information on the [Shimojishima Airport official site]
Cafés and Restaurants
- Coral Port Grab&Go (9:00–19:00, check-in building)
- coral port LOUNGE the Kitchen (after security)
- coral port LOUNGE Cafe & Bar (after security)
▶Please check the latest information on the [Tabelog site]
Access
- About 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
- About 25 minutes by car from the Miyako Island urban area
- Bus: Miyako Kyoei Bus, Chuo Kotsu Bus
For the start and end of a wonderful trip in the Miyako Islands, Shimojishima Airport. It's sure to make your trip something more special.
