Sabaokiido (Saba Utsuga) | A Historic Cliff Well on Irabu Island (Miyako)

Sponsored

2026年06月19日

Sabaokiido (Saba Utsuga) is a Miyakojima City-designated historic site on a seaside cliff in the Sarahama area of Irabu Island. For about 240 years until a simple water supply was installed in 1964, it served as a precious source of daily water for people who had moved over from Ikemajima. Going down a steep stone stairway of about 123 steps from the gap in the railing to near the sea surface, the remains of a well springing up among the rocks appear. It is said that mainly women carried water up many times a day, a historic place that evokes their toil. On the cliff top there is a viewing space and ocean-view seating, with a magnificent view taking in the main island of Miyako and Ikemajima. Part of the cliff collapsed in a 2020 typhoon and it was temporarily closed, but it has now been restored and can be visited. With good access of about 3 minutes by car from Sarahama Port, it is a spot where you can taste history and a spectacular view at once.

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 Maezato-soe 553-1, Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa
Hours / Opening time24 hours (always open)
ClosedNone (always open)
FeeFree
ParkingAvailable, free. Parking for about 3 to 5 cars near the well. About 20 spaces at Sabaoki Garden, a 3-minute walk away.
ContactMiyakojima City Board of Education, Lifelong Learning Promotion Division (Cultural Properties) / https://miyakojimabunkazai.jp/

Visiting tips & what to bring

The biggest caution is the steep stone stairway. As you descend about 123 steps to near the sea surface, it strains the legs and back, and easy-to-walk footwear such as non-slip trainers or marine shoes is essential. The handrails are insufficient in places, and after rain or on wet steps it is slippery, so take care. The cliff edge has limited railings and a risk of falling, so do not get too close to the edge. Shade and benches are only at the cliff-top viewing space, with almost no shade near the well. Take a hat, drinks and sun protection. There are no toilets on site, so it is reassuring to take care of things at Sarahama Port or nearby facilities. The well water contains salt and is not suitable for drinking.

For families with small children

It is not very suitable for families with infants. You need to climb up and down about 123 steep, slippery stone steps to near the sea surface, a pushchair cannot be used, and carrying a child up and down is a big burden on adults with a high risk of falling. The cliff edge has limited railings, so families with small children especially need to be careful. If you enjoy the view and atmosphere from the cliff-top viewing space without going down to the well, you can drop by safely without strain.

FAQ

Q.Is going down to the well hard? How long does it take?

A.You descend about 123 steep stone steps to near the sea surface. Allow 20 to 30 minutes for the round trip and viewing. Those not confident in their leg strength can enjoy the atmosphere just by looking from the cliff-top viewing space.

Q.What footwear and clothing should I wear?

A.The steps are large and slippery when wet, so non-slip trainers or marine shoes are essential. Avoid sandals and heels, and preparing a sun hat and drinks gives peace of mind.

Q.Is there parking?

A.Yes. There is free space for about 3 to 5 cars near the well, and about 20 spaces at Sabaoki Garden a 3-minute walk away.

Q.Is there an admission fee or opening hours?

A.As a historic site it is free, and you can view it freely at all times. However, the stone steps are dangerous from evening when the footing darkens and in rain, so a visit during bright hours is recommended.

Q.Is it better to go by car or on foot?

A.As it is about 3 minutes by car from Sarahama Port, visiting by hire car is convenient. The roads within the village are narrow in places, so drive carefully.