Irabu Ohashi Bridge
Drive over Japan's longest non-toll bridge, connecting Miyakojima to Irabu, with breathtaking views of the turquoise Okinawan sea.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
See the stunning ocean colors
Irabu Ohashi Bridge
Best Time
See the stunning ocean colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Drive over Japan's longest non-toll bridge, connecting Miyakojima to Irabu, with breathtaking views of the turquoise Okinawan sea.
"Epic, out-of-this-world place with the feeling of a car literally going up into the beautiful sea of Miyako-jima."
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Driving yourself offers the best way to explore the bridge and surrounding islands at your own pace.
📸 Stop for Photos
Utilize the pull-off spots to capture incredible shots of the bridge and the ocean.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Emerald Ocean Drive
The entire length of the bridge
Experience the surreal feeling of driving over a vast expanse of vibrant emerald and blue ocean waters.
Bridge Viewpoints
Designated pull-off areas
Stop at scenic spots along the bridge to photograph its impressive length and the stunning surrounding seascape.
Connecting Miyako and Irabu
Irabu Ohashi Bridge
This impressive 3.54km bridge is Japan's longest non-toll bridge, linking Miyako Island to Irabu Island.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Drive the Bridge
Parking and Photo Spots
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Driving yourself offers the best way to explore the bridge and surrounding islands at your own pace.
📸 Stop for Photos
Utilize the pull-off spots to capture incredible shots of the bridge and the ocean.
☀️ Check the Weather
Sunny days offer the most vibrant ocean colors, but even cloudy days have their own dramatic beauty.
🚶 Walk a Section
For a unique perspective, consider walking a portion of the bridge to truly appreciate its scale.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Driving yourself offers the best way to explore the bridge and surrounding islands at your own pace.
📸 Stop for Photos
Utilize the pull-off spots to capture incredible shots of the bridge and the ocean.
☀️ Check the Weather
Sunny days offer the most vibrant ocean colors, but even cloudy days have their own dramatic beauty.
🚶 Walk a Section
For a unique perspective, consider walking a portion of the bridge to truly appreciate its scale.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Irabu Ohashi Bridge, calling it an 'epic, out-of-this-world place' with 'stunning views' of the ocean. The drive feels like floating over a tropical paradise, and the ability to stop at scenic pull-offs enhances the experience. It's considered a must-do for anyone visiting Miyakojima.
"Irabu Ohashi Bridge is incredibly long and offers some of the most stunning views of the ocean in Miyakojima. The water below is a beautiful shade of blue and changes color depending on the sunlight and weather, making the drive feel like you're floating above a tropical paradise.
There are a few parking spots along the way where you can safely stop, get out, and take photos. Definitely worth doing—some of the best views of the bridge and the water are from these pull-off areas.
If you're visiting Miyakojima, driving across this bridge is a must. Even if you’re not heading to Irabu Island for anything specific, the drive alone is worth it."
Ákos Győrváry
"Epic, out-of-this-world place with the feeling of a car literally going up into the beautiful sea of Miyako-jima. You can never get bored crossing this bridge."
Quang Hải Trương
"Such a cool place to take in the beautiful emerald ocean. They also have a couple of places you can pull over on the bridge to take pics and videos from the middle. So thoughtful."
Liz W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to experience Irabu Ohashi Bridge is by renting a car on Miyakojima Island. The bridge directly connects Miyakojima to Irabu Island. Many visitors also enjoy cycling across parts of the bridge.
Yes, it is possible to walk across the bridge, but it's quite long (3.54km). Walking the entire length can take about an hour.
While there are bus services on Miyakojima, direct bus routes specifically for crossing the entire Irabu Ohashi Bridge might be limited. Renting a car or using a taxi is generally more convenient for exploring both islands.
Driving or cycling across the bridge offers the most immersive experience. Stopping at the designated viewpoints provides excellent photo opportunities.
Yes, some local tours on Miyakojima may include drives or stops at the Irabu Ohashi Bridge, offering guided insights into the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, crossing the Irabu Ohashi Bridge is completely free. It is a public road connecting Miyakojima and Irabu islands.
Irabu Ohashi Bridge is Japan's longest non-toll bridge, so there are no tolls to pay when crossing.
The bridge is a public road and is accessible 24 hours a day. However, visiting during daylight hours is highly recommended for the best views.
The viewing areas and pull-off spots along the bridge are free to access. They are designed for visitors to safely enjoy the scenery.
Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon on weekdays generally results in fewer crowds, allowing for a more serene experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The designated pull-off areas along the bridge offer fantastic vantage points. The viewing decks provide panoramic shots of the entire bridge and the surrounding ocean.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in the area before flying.
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. However, the vibrant blues of the ocean are most striking during midday on a sunny day. +1
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views of the bridge and the ocean. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant shots of the islands.
Capturing the bridge from a distance, perhaps from a viewpoint on Miyakojima or Irabu Island, can showcase its impressive scale. Also, photos from the pull-offs on the bridge itself highlight the unique experience of driving over the sea.
🎫 🌊 Ocean & Nature
You'll be amazed by the stunning shades of turquoise, emerald, and deep blue. The water color changes beautifully with the sunlight and weather.
While not guaranteed, it's possible to spot marine life like fish from the bridge, especially in clearer waters.
Miyakojima has a subtropical climate, generally warm and humid. Expect sunshine, but also occasional rain and strong winds, especially outside of summer.
Swimming directly under or very close to the bridge might not be advisable due to boat traffic and currents. It's best to visit designated beaches for swimming.
Nearby islands like Irabu and Shimoji offer beautiful beaches such as Toguchi Beach and Sawada Beach, known for their clear waters and snorkeling opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many families enjoy the rental car experience as it allows for flexibility in stopping and exploring.
The sheer scale of the bridge can be awe-inspiring for kids, and the vibrant ocean colors are a constant source of wonder. 🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Plan your drive to coincide with daylight hours to witness the full spectrum of the ocean's colors.
📸 Photography Buffs
Utilize the designated viewing areas for the best angles to capture the bridge's length and the vibrant ocean hues. Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the vastness of the scene.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Driving the Irabu Ohashi Bridge
Rental cars are highly recommended for exploring the bridge and the surrounding islands at your own pace. Several companies operate on Miyakojima, offering a range of vehicles.
Remember to drive on the left side of the road. The journey offers constantly changing perspectives of the ocean, making it a memorable drive for any visitor. Be sure to take advantage of the designated pull-off areas and viewing decks. These spots are crucial for safely stopping to admire the panoramic views, take photos, and truly appreciate the scale of the bridge and the beauty of the Okinawan sea.
Capturing the Beauty: Photography Tips
The pull-off areas are your best friends here, providing safe spaces to park and set up your camera. Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the full grandeur of the bridge and the expansive ocean.
The changing light throughout the day dramatically affects the water's color, so visiting during different times can yield vastly different, yet equally beautiful, results. Golden hour offers soft, warm light, while midday sun accentuates the vivid blues and greens. Don't forget to experiment with different angles and compositions. Shots looking down from the bridge, or capturing the road disappearing into the horizon, can be very effective.
Exploring Irabu and Shimoji Islands
On Irabu Island, you can discover beautiful beaches like Toguchi Beach, which is popular for snorkeling and its calm waters. Sawada Beach on Shimoji Island is another gem, offering a picturesque setting.
For adventure seekers, activities like SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding) and sea kayaking are popular around these islands, allowing you to get even closer to the water and explore hidden coves.
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