Makiyama Observatory | 360-Degree Views of the Irabu Ohashi Bridge (Miyako)

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2026年06月19日

Makiyama Observatory is a free public observatory standing at the highest point on Irabu Island, in the south-east of the island. It is characterised by a white building shaped after the town symbol, the migratory grey-faced buzzard with its wings spread, completed in 1981. Stand on the observation deck and a 360-degree grand panorama spreads out, taking in the Irabu Ohashi Bridge as well as the main island of Miyako, Kurimajima and Ikemajima. It is known as one of the few viewpoints from which you can see all three of Miyakojima's great bridges at once. From the car park you arrive after about a 3-minute walk along a green-tunnel-like promenade, and you can also enjoy a stroll surrounded by subtropical plants. Toilets are provided too, and as it is free and open 24 hours, it is convenient for a stop on a drive or for evening views. The view of the emerald-green sea and the bridge on a clear day is exceptional, and it can be called one of the highlights of Irabu Island sightseeing.

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Map & Access

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Basic Information

Location (Island)Irabu Island
AddressAza Ikemazoe, Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa
Hours / Opening time24 hours (always open)
ClosedNone (always open)
FeeFree
ParkingAvailable, free
ContactMiyakojima City Hall Tourism and Commerce Division 0980-73-1881

Visiting tips & what to bring

To the observatory you walk a promenade of about 300m, roughly a 3-minute walk from the car park. As there are stairs and slopes, easy-to-walk footwear is recommended. The upper part of the observatory has little shade and strong sun in summer, so take hat and sun protection. Insects can appear on the promenade where subtropical greenery grows thick, so insect repellent gives peace of mind. As it is not along the coast the footing is relatively good, but the tourism association also warns of caution when waste-oil balls wash ashore. Toilets available.

For families with small children

It is an easy spot to visit even with children aged 0 to 6. Parking and toilets are provided, it is free, and the promenade is short at about 3 minutes, walked in the shade of greenery. However, the upper part of the observatory has stairs and gaps in the railings, so do not take your eyes off small children. A pushchair is less suitable as there are sections with steps on the promenade, so a baby carrier is safer. There is little shade, so take heat measures and keep the visit short for comfort.

FAQ

Q.Are admission and parking free?

A.Yes, both admission and parking are free. A dedicated car park and toilets are provided, and you can use it freely 24 hours a day.

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

A.From the car park to the observatory is about 300m, roughly a 3-minute walk. As you walk a promenade surrounded by greenery, easy-to-walk footwear is recommended.

Q.What kind of view can you see?

A.You can enjoy a 360-degree panorama taking in the Irabu Ohashi Bridge and the main island of Miyako, and on a clear day Kurimajima and Ikemajima. It is a precious spot from which you can see all three of Miyakojima's great bridges.

Q.How should I get there?

A.Access by car is convenient. About 40 to 45 minutes from Miyako Airport across the Irabu Ohashi Bridge. Public transport is limited, so a hire car is recommended.

Q.Is there a recommended time?

A.In the daytime the gradation of the sea is beautiful, and in the evening the sunset setting toward the main island of Miyako is also appealing. The sun is strong, so visiting with a hat and sun protection is comfortable.