Yamatobu Oiwa Rock | A 25-Metre Giant Limestone Boulder on Irabu Island (Miyako)

Yamatobu Oiwa is a giant limestone boulder soaring at the foot of Makiyama Observatory on the east side of Irabu Island, about 25 metres high, about 18 metres in diameter and weighing over 30,000 tonnes. It is Tomori limestone exposed at the surface by crustal movement such as faulting, registered as a Miyakojima City-designated historic site as a geologically valuable feature. It is said to have been a landmark for the entrance to the Shimomaki shore where people first settled on Irabu, and is also cherished as a power spot. The south side of the rock forms a small inlet, where the milky pale-blue sea surface creates a distinctive landscape. In front of the inlet stand the Irabu Ohashi Bridge opening monument and the Okinawa reversion monument, and the view of the Irabu Ohashi Bridge is appealing too. Easy to drop by together with Makiyama Observatory, it is recommended as a rest stop mid-drive.

Full article about this spot

Yamatobu Rock: The Giant Sacred Limestone of Irabu Island (Miyako)

Yamatobu Rock on Irabu Island near Miyakojima is a 25 m monolithic limestone and local power spot. Its scale, fishermen faith, the cove, an Irabu Bridge view and access.

Map & Access

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Basic Information

Location (Island)Irabu Island
AddressIkemazoe 923, Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa
Hours / Opening time24 hours (always open)
ClosedNone (always open)
FeeFree
ParkingAvailable, free (small space for a few cars; limited number)
Contacthttps://www.city.miyakojima.lg.jp/soshiki/kyouiku/syougaigakusyu/syougaikakusyu/bunkazai-Yamatobu.html

Visiting tips & what to bring

It is an outdoor historic site, and the area around the rock is not fully paved in places. Easy-to-walk footwear is recommended. In summer the sun is strong with little shade, so preparing a hat and drinks gives peace of mind. You cannot climb the rock itself; you view it by looking up close. When the grass is overgrown, insect repellent is comfortable. As the parking is limited to a few cars, consider using the car park on the Makiyama Observatory side when crowded. The seaside inlet has slippery footing, so take care.

For families with small children

An outdoor spot for looking up at a giant rock, viewable right after getting out of the car, so even families with children aged 0 to 6 can enjoy it in a short time. There are toilets and parking nearby, and it is convenient that you can combine it with Makiyama Observatory. However, the footing around the inlet is poor, with places unsuitable for a pushchair. There are also places by the sea without railings, so do not take your eyes off small children.

FAQ

Q.Are there parking and toilets?

A.There is free parking for a few cars and toilets. As the number is limited, when crowded it is good to consider using the nearby Makiyama Observatory car park.

Q.Is there an admission fee or viewing-time restriction?

A.As an outdoor historic site, admission is free and you can view it 24 hours a day. There are no set opening hours or closing days.

Q.How should I get there?

A.From Miyakojima, cross the Irabu Ohashi Bridge and head toward Makiyama Observatory. About 17 minutes by car from Miyako Airport. Access by hire car is convenient.

Q.How long does viewing take?

A.About 10 to 15 minutes if you look up at the rock and view the monuments and inlet. You can tour it together with Makiyama Observatory in around 30 minutes.

Q.Can you climb or touch the rock?

A.You cannot climb the rock; you view it by looking up from its foot. As some surrounding areas have uneven footing, easy-to-walk footwear is recommended.