Makiyama Park | A Subtropical Hilltop Park with Island Panoramas (Irabu, Miyako)

Makiyama Park is a free public park spreading across the highest hilltop on Irabu Island, in the south-east of the island. In 1981, promenades and gazebos were laid out, and within the grounds surrounded by subtropical primeval forest you can enjoy forest bathing and strolling. The park symbol is the white Makiyama Observatory, shaped after the migratory grey-faced buzzard with its wings spread, from which you can take in the main island of Miyako, Kurimajima, Ikemajima and the Irabu Ohashi Bridge. A wide free car park and toilets are in place, and from the car park to the observatory is about a 4-minute walk along the promenade. As there is no hand-washing facility beyond the toilet beside the observatory, it is reassuring to take care of things here. Note that the city plans a large-scale renewal including demolition and rebuilding of the observatory from fiscal 2026 onward, and entry and views may be restricted during construction. It is recommended to check the latest opening status before visiting.

Full article about this spot

Uoichiba Ichiwa: The 900-Yen Tub Sashimi Bowl by Sarahama Fishing Port on Irabu Island (Miyako)

A review of Uoichiba Ichiwa by Sarahama Fishing Port on Irabu Island near Miyakojima: a now-closed diner famous for a 900-yen tub-piled tuna and bonito sashimi bowl with four ways to eat it.

Map & Access

Open in Google Maps

Basic Information

Location (Island)Irabu Island
AddressAza Ikemazoe, Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa
Hours / Opening time24 hours (always-open outdoor park). Neither the observatory nor the promenade has an entry-time restriction, but as there are few streetlights and the footing is hard to see at night, daytime use is reassuring.
ClosedNone (always open). However, from fiscal 2026 onward, part or all may be restricted due to observatory renewal construction.
FeeFree
ParkingAvailable (wide free car park). From the car park to the observatory is about a 4-minute walk along a single path.
ContactMiyakojima City Tourism and Commerce Division (park management) 0980-73-1881

Visiting tips & what to bring

The grounds are subtropical forest with much shade, but the sun is strong around the observatory, so take hat and sun protection. In summer there are many insects such as mosquitoes and horseflies, so insect repellent is comfortable to have. The promenade mixes paved and unpaved sections with steps, and there are slippery spots, so easy-to-walk footwear is recommended. At cliff-top viewing spots, do not go beyond the railing and take great care against falling. Toilets are only beside the observatory, with no facilities beyond. From fiscal 2026 onward, entry restrictions may arise due to observatory renewal construction, so visit after checking the latest status in advance.

For families with small children

With a wide car park and toilets and a maintained promenade, it is a relatively easy spot to visit even with children aged 0 to 6. It is a calm environment where you can enjoy forest bathing and birdsong, but as the single path to the observatory and the cliff-top viewing points have steps and a risk of falling, do not take your eyes off children. In summer there are many insects, so take insect-repellent measures. A pushchair may be hard to push on unpaved sections, so using a baby carrier too is reassuring. During construction there may be entry restrictions.

FAQ

Q.Are admission and parking free?

A.Yes, both entry and parking are free. A wide car park and toilets are provided.

Q.How far do you walk from the car park to the observatory?

A.About a 4-minute walk along a single promenade path from the car park. There is a toilet beside the observatory, with no hand-washing facility beyond it.

Q.What can you see from the observatory?

A.Located at the highest point on the island, you can enjoy a magnificent panorama taking in the main island of Miyako, Kurimajima, Ikemajima and the Irabu Ohashi Bridge.

Q.Can families with small children enjoy it?

A.While the car park, toilets and promenade make it easy to visit, do not take your eyes off children as there is a risk of falling at cliff tops and steps. In summer, insect-repellent measures are reassuring.

Q.Can you be unable to enter due to renewal construction?

A.Miyakojima City plans demolition and rebuilding of the observatory from fiscal 2026 onward. Entry and views may be restricted during construction, so check the latest status before visiting.