Ikema Island, Miyakojima - Image 1
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Ikema Island

4.5
·83 reviews·Miyakojima, Japan

A serene island paradise in Okinawa, known for its breathtaking 'Ikema Blue' waters, iconic bridge, and untouched natural beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for ocean colors

CrowdMedium
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Ikema Island, Miyakojima - Image 1

Ikema Island

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for ocean colors

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene island paradise in Okinawa, known for its breathtaking 'Ikema Blue' waters, iconic bridge, and untouched natural beauty.

4.5
(83 reviews)

"The ocean here is world-class!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Rent a Car/Scooter

Essential for exploring Ikema Island's beauty at your own pace.

🦀 Watch for Crabs

Road signs warn of coconut crabs; drive cautiously and enjoy spotting them!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ikema Bridge Views

Ikema Bridge Views

Ikema Bridge

Iconic bridge offering panoramic views of the 'Ikema Blue' ocean and surrounding islands.

TikTokInstagram
Kaginmi Beach

Kaginmi Beach

Northern Ikema Island

A secluded beach with a unique rope for climbing, offering a sense of adventure and stunning ocean vistas.

Instagram
Yonoha Beach

Yonoha Beach

Southern Ikema Island

Discover this beautiful, less-crowded beach, perfect for a relaxing day by the turquoise waters.

Instagram
Coconut Crab Spotting

Coconut Crab Spotting

Roadsides

Keep an eye out for the fascinating coconut crab, a unique wildlife encounter on the island's roads.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Island Pace

Ikema Island offers a tranquil escape with stunning natural beauty. Plan for a relaxed pace, as the island is small and best explored leisurely. Renting a car or scooter is highly recommended for easy access to its scenic spots and hidden gems. TikTok

Bridge to Paradise

The Ikema Bridge is your gateway to this serene island. Be prepared for breathtaking views as you cross, and consider stopping at the souvenir shops at its base for local treats and mementos. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Best light for ocean colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour for scenic views
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Holidays in Miyakojima Island in Okinawa 🌅 #japantiktok #japanlife #okinawajapan #japantravel #okinawatravel #miyakojima
@yavajapan
77.8K likes • 618.3K views

🚗 Rent a Car/Scooter

Essential for exploring Ikema Island's beauty at your own pace. TikTokInstagram

🦀 Watch for Crabs

Road signs warn of coconut crabs; drive cautiously and enjoy spotting them! Reddit

風がなかった日 #沖縄 #宮古島 #海 #シュノーケリングツアー #okinawa #miyakojima
@agape2222
39.3K likes • 616.3K views
カギンミビーチ(池間ロープ) Kaginmi Beach(Ikema Rope)/ Ikema Island . . . . . . . 30年ほど前に、ビーチへの崖に一本のロープをかけた海人(インシャー)がいました。 元々は、地元の子供たちの体験学習のためだったらしいですが、自分が海の知恵を周囲の大人から教えられてきたように、 自身も子ども達に伝え残さねばならないと強く感じて、長らく体験学習の先生をされていたらしいです。 それで、このビーチを通称「池間ロープ」と呼ぶらしいです。 . . . . . About 30 years ago, a fisherman (insha) hung a rope from the cliffs to the beach. It was originally intended as a learning experience for local ...
kohji7230
152 likes • 893 views

🛍️ Souvenir Stops

Grab cheap sea grapes and sugarcane juice at shops near Ikema Bridge. Reddit

📸 Drone Photography

Capture stunning aerial views of the island and its vibrant blue waters. Instagram+1

Ikema island where I am staying now is a small island located across a bridge from Miyako Island, the southernmost island of Japan. #ocean #beach #japantravelphoto #nature #japantrip #japan #instajapan #pleasefollow #follow #oceanview #followers #photography #空と海 #natural_essentiality.ig #daily_photo_japan #tokyocameraclub #super_japan_channel #explorejpn. #bestjapanpics_ #_photo_japan_ #art _...
mitsuyo_jyothi
550 likes • 2.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Rent a Car/Scooter

Essential for exploring Ikema Island's beauty at your own pace. TikTokInstagram

🦀 Watch for Crabs

Road signs warn of coconut crabs; drive cautiously and enjoy spotting them! Reddit

🛍️ Souvenir Stops

Grab cheap sea grapes and sugarcane juice at shops near Ikema Bridge. Reddit

📸 Drone Photography

Capture stunning aerial views of the island and its vibrant blue waters. Instagram+1

🥾 Rough Terrain

Be prepared for rocky paths if exploring coastlines; sturdy shoes are recommended. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(83 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Ikema Island's stunning natural beauty, particularly the vibrant 'Ikema Blue' ocean and the iconic Ikema Bridge. Many appreciate the island's tranquil atmosphere and lack of crowds, making it a perfect escape. Some enjoy the unique experience of spotting coconut crabs and the local treats available near the bridge.

"I found a coconut crab here!! I happened to spot it walking down the road. I put on my hazard lights, got out of the car and took a look. There was a road sign nearby warning of crabs, and I found it right after. It's a great memory."

ごじら

"This island has many delicious restaurants and the scenery is amazing. Miyakojima has many bridges, but I especially like this island! It has many delicious cafes and restaurants with great views!"

m.0802 t.1025

"You can go around Ikema Island.
There is a souvenir shop at the foot of the bridge where you can buy cheap sea grapes. They also sell sugarcane juice."

MAKOTO誠

What People Like

Stunning 'Ikema Blue' ocean
Iconic Ikema Bridge views
Tranquil, uncrowded atmosphere

What People Dislike

Rocky coastal paths
Limited dining variety

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ikema Island is easily accessible from Miyakojima by crossing the Ikema Bridge. You can drive or take a scooter across. TikTokInstagram Many visitors rent a car or scooter on Miyakojima to explore both islands. TikTok

While there isn't direct public transport to Ikema Island itself, buses operate on Miyakojima, and you can then rent a vehicle to cross the bridge. TikTok suggests a ferry option to nearby areas, but direct island access is best via car or scooter.

Renting a car or a scooter is highly recommended for exploring Ikema Island at your own pace and reaching its various scenic spots and beaches. TikTokInstagram

The Ikema Bridge is approximately 1,425 meters long. Driving across it takes only a few minutes, offering spectacular views of the ocean. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there are parking areas available, particularly near the Ikema Bridge and at popular spots like Kaginmi Beach and Yonoha Beach. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Ikema Island. Access is free, allowing you to explore its beaches and scenic spots at your leisure. TikTok

Ikema Island is accessible 24/7, as it's a natural island. However, shops and restaurants may have specific operating hours. TikTok

While not as common as on larger islands, some local tour operators on Miyakojima may offer excursions that include Ikema Island, often focusing on its natural beauty and beaches. TikTok

The beaches on Ikema Island, such as Kaginmi Beach and Yonoha Beach, are free to access. Instagram+1

Yes, Ikema Island can be visited year-round. The best time to visit for pleasant weather and clear waters is typically during the spring and summer months. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Ikema Bridge offers stunning panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset. TikTokInstagram Beaches like Kaginmi and Yonoha provide beautiful coastal scenery. Instagram+1 Drone photography is also very popular here for capturing the 'Ikema Blue' waters. Instagram+1

Drone photography is popular and generally permitted on Ikema Island, offering incredible aerial perspectives of the island and its surrounding ocean. Instagram+1 Always be mindful of local regulations and privacy. TikTok

'Ikema Blue' refers to the stunning, deep blue gradation of the ocean waters surrounding Ikema Island. It's best viewed from the Ikema Bridge and along the island's coastline. Instagram+1

Yes, keep an eye out for coconut crabs along the roadsides, which can make for a unique wildlife photograph. Reddit

The golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography, enhancing the colors of the ocean and landscape. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Ikema Island has a selection of delicious cafes and restaurants, many offering great views of the ocean. Reddit You can also find local specialties like sea grapes and sugarcane juice. Reddit

Don't miss trying fresh sea grapes and sugarcane juice, which are readily available at souvenir shops near the Ikema Bridge. Reddit

Yes, there are souvenir shops at the foot of the Ikema Bridge that also offer local food and drinks. Reddit

Dining options might be limited for strict vegetarian or vegan diets, as local cuisine often features seafood. It's advisable to check with restaurants in advance or explore options on Miyakojima. TikTok mentions a bar, suggesting some variety.

Many cafes and restaurants on Ikema Island boast fantastic ocean views, making dining a scenic experience. Reddit

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

Key attractions include the stunning Ikema Bridge, beautiful beaches like Kaginmi and Yonoha, and the chance to spot coconut crabs. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! Ikema Island is perfect for a day trip from Miyakojima, offering a peaceful contrast to the main island's activities. TikTokInstagram

The most notable wildlife is the coconut crab, which can be spotted on the roads. The island is also a wildlife refuge with birdwatching opportunities. Reddit

While not formal hiking trails, exploring the coastlines can involve walking on rocky terrain. Be cautious and wear appropriate footwear. Reddit

Ikema Island is known for its tranquil, less-crowded atmosphere, offering an escape from mass tourism and a chance to enjoy untouched nature. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ikema Island offers a relaxed environment for families. The Ikema Bridge provides a safe and scenic drive, and the beaches like Yonoha Beach are great for a family picnic and gentle play by the water. Instagram While there aren't extensive playgrounds, the natural beauty and the excitement of spotting coconut crabs can be a hit with children. Reddit Renting a car is highly recommended for families to easily navigate the island and access different spots without much hassle.

🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts

For those who love scenic drives, Ikema Island is a must-visit. The journey across the Ikema Bridge offers spectacular ocean views, and the island itself is perfect for a leisurely drive to discover hidden beaches and viewpoints. TikTokInstagram Renting a car or scooter allows you to stop at various points of interest, including the souvenir shops near the bridge and the beautiful coastal areas. TikTokInstagram Don't forget your camera for capturing the stunning landscapes.

📸 Photographers & Drone Pilots

Ikema Island is a paradise for photographers. The 'Ikema Blue' waters, the dramatic Ikema Bridge, and the pristine beaches like Kaginmi Beach offer endless photographic opportunities. Instagram+1 Drone pilots will find the island particularly rewarding, with ample space to capture breathtaking aerial shots of the coastline and the vibrant ocean. Instagram+1 The golden hour provides the best light for capturing the island's natural beauty.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Ikema Bridge

The Ikema Bridge is more than just a connection; it's a destination in itself. Spanning 1,425 meters, this impressive structure links Miyakojima to the smaller Ikema Island. As you drive or cycle across, you're treated to breathtaking vistas of the ocean, famous for its vibrant 'Ikema Blue' gradation. TikTokInstagram Many visitors stop here to take photos and soak in the panoramic views. The bridge is also a popular spot for drone enthusiasts looking to capture the island's beauty from above. Instagram+1

At the foot of the bridge on the Ikema Island side, you'll find souvenir shops offering local products like sea grapes and sugarcane juice. Reddit Climbing to the roof of one of these shops can provide an even more expansive view of the bridge and the surrounding seascape. Reddit It's a perfect spot to start or end your exploration of Ikema Island.

Exploring Ikema's Pristine Beaches

Ikema Island boasts several beautiful and relatively untouched beaches, offering a serene escape. Kaginmi Beach, known for its unique rope that was once used for climbing, provides a sense of adventure alongside stunning ocean views. Instagram Yonoha Beach is another gem, often described as beautiful and secluded, perfect for a relaxing day by the turquoise waters. Instagram Visitors can also find other hidden coves and sandy stretches by exploring the island's coastline. TikTok

When exploring the beaches, be aware that some coastal paths can be rocky and uneven, so wearing sturdy footwear is advisable. Reddit The lack of mass tourism on Ikema Island means these beaches often retain their natural charm, offering a peaceful experience away from the crowds. TikTok

Wildlife Encounters on Ikema Island

One of the unique experiences on Ikema Island is the chance to encounter coconut crabs. These fascinating crustaceans are sometimes spotted walking along the island's roads, and signs are posted to warn drivers. Reddit Spotting one is often highlighted as a memorable part of a visit. The island is also a wildlife refuge, offering opportunities for birdwatching. TikTok

While the focus is often on the marine life and stunning ocean views, these terrestrial wildlife encounters add another layer of discovery to your visit. Remember to drive cautiously and be respectful of the island's natural inhabitants.