Miyako travel guide and discussion

Jodogahama Beach on the Sanriku coast boasts stunning views, featuring white rocks, lush green pine trees, and crystal-clear turquoise waters, earning it the nickname "Beach of the Pristine Land." The tranquil atmosphere is perfect for leisurely strolls, photography, and enjoying nature. Highlights include a boat trip to the Blue Cave, a walk along the coastal path, and during the summer, swimming is possible due to the calm bay. From Miyako Station, a bus takes approximately 20-25 minutes to reach Jodogahama. 📍 Jodogahama Beach, Miyako, Iwate 📸 Recommended photo spot: The white rock formations by the sea and the observation deck overlooking the bay. #Jodogahama #Miyako #Iwate #JapanTravel #Tohoku #Tripcom

This beautiful beach in Miyako City, Iwate Prefecture, is renowned for its pristine white pebble shores, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and striking, uniquely shaped white rock formations. The contrast against the vibrant green pine trees makes the entire scene look like a masterpiece painting. A part of the Sanriku Fukko National Park, it is officially recognized as one of Japan's premier beaches. Must-see highlights include strolling along the coast for breathtaking views, photographing the iconic white rocks, and taking a boat tour to the "Blue Cave," famous for its stunning deep blue water. In the summer, visitors can also enjoy a swim in the clear waters. The beach is approximately a 20–25 minute bus ride from Miyako Station.

📍 Jodogahama, Miyako City, Iwate Prefecture, Japan White rhyolite rocks, formed by volcanic activity 52 million years ago, are scattered across the crystal-clear blue water. Dotted with tiny pine trees, the rocks make the whole bay look like a traditional landscape painting on a sunny day. 📅 Best time to visit: July–October (July–August is great for water activities, while the water colors are even more stunning in September–October.) 💡 Why you should go: The real charm of Jodogahama lies in the striking contrast between the "white rocks and blue sea." Plus, compared to Okinawa, it's far less crowded, so you can soak in the breathtaking views in peace and quiet. 💰 Cost guide: Beach: Free | Sightseeing boat: approx. 1,500–2,000 JPY 🚄 Public transit: Tokyo Station → Tohoku Shinkansen → Morioka Station → 106 Express Bus → Miyako Station → Iwate Kenpoku Bus → Oku-Jodogahama (Total travel time: approx. 4.5 hours; Transportation cost: approx. 13,000 JPY) ⚠️ Things to note: Buses along the Tohoku coast don't run very frequently, so definitely double-check your round-trip schedule before heading out. If you're traveling in a group, chartering a car is a great time-saving and convenient alternative. 4 highly recommended things to do at [Jodogahama]: ⛵ ① Take a cruise to see Jodogahama Viewing the white rhyolite from the water reveals angles you simply can't see from the shore. On a clear day, the water is incredibly transparent. 🚣 ② Hop on a small boat to the "Blue Cave" When sunlight hits the cave, the water glows a spectacular shade of blue. Just keep in mind that entering the cave depends entirely on the day's sea conditions—tours might be canceled if the waves are too rough. 🚶 ③ Stroll along the coast + hit the observatory Take a leisurely walk along the trails to admire the white rocks, pine trees, and blue bay from various vantage points. It's perfect for snapping photos or just unwinding. 🍣 ④ Savor Sanriku seafood in Miyako When visiting the Iwate coast, you absolutely must make time for a seafood feast. Sea urchin and seafood rice bowls (kaisendon) are local specialties you shouldn't miss. 🔔 A quick heads-up: The ocean in the Tohoku region stays quite chilly even in summer, so be mindful of the water temperature before taking a dip in July or August. Also, the Blue Cave is highly weather-dependent, so don't build your entire itinerary around the assumption that you'll definitely get in. If you're craving a Japanese beach getaway but are over Okinawa, Kamakura, or Enoshima, make sure to save [Jodogahama] for your next trip! 📌

Every time I book an ANA domestic award flight, I find myself looking up, "Is it low season right now? How many miles do I need again?"—so I made a quick reference chart for myself! 😊 It turned out to be incredibly handy, so I'm sharing it with all my fellow travel lovers! ⭐︎ 2026–2028 Edition ⭐︎ · ーーーーーーーーーー* 📌 What this chart covers: ・Dates for Low, Regular, and High seasons ・Required miles for major routes departing from Tokyo ・A quick glance at the miles needed for Okinawa, Miyako, and Ishigaki! · ーーーーーーーーーー* I collect ANA miles, so whenever I’m planning a trip, I check this chart first and try to aim for the low season whenever possible. ✨ For example... 🏯 Tohoku / Osaka area: From 6,000 miles~ 🌺 Okinawa: From 8,000 miles~ 🏝️ Miyako / Ishigaki: From 9,500 miles~ · One-way during low season Even for the exact same route, the miles required for award flights change depending on your travel dates. That's why I highly recommend checking the seasons before planning your trip! Save this post, and you can easily look back whenever you're wondering, "How many miles do I need for these dates?" 📱✨ Where do you want to travel with your hard-earned miles? ✈️

Day 1: 5/08 (Fri) | Sen. 🚗 2026 Tohoku, Japan Road Trip: The Complete 8-Day, 7-Night Itinerary Guide 📅 Day 1: 5/08 (Fri) | Depart from Sendai, Head to Hiraizumi · 12:00 Pick up the rental car at Sendai Airport and officially hit the road. · 14:30 Hiraizumi & Chuson-ji Temple: Drive directly to the parking lot next to "Konjikido" (Golden Hall). · 16:30 Genbikei Gorge: Take in the stunning valley scenery. · 🏨 Accommodation: Bijin no Yu Sannozan Onsen Zuisenkyo (65-2 Kudarimatsu, Genbicho, Ichinoseki, Iwate 021-0101) 📅 Day 2: 5/09 (Sat) | Geibikei Gorge & Ryusendo Cave · 10:00 Geibikei Gorge Boat Ride (approx. 90 mins): A relaxing, elder-friendly boat ride while listening to traditional folk songs. · 15:00 Ryusendo Cave: Explore one of Japan's three major limestone caves and marvel at its mysterious blue-lit underground lakes. · 🏨 Accommodation: Jodogahama Park Hotel (Miyako, Iwate 027-0001) 📅 Day 3: 5/10 (Sun) | Morioka Castle Ruins & Famous Cold Noodles · 11:30 Morioka Castle Ruins Park: Admire the historic stone walls surrounded by fresh greenery. · 12:30 Lunch: Try the local specialty, "Morioka Reimen" (cold noodles). · 17:00 Arrive at the hotel in the Hakkoda Mountains. · 🏨 Accommodation: Hotel Jogakura — Night 1 (Aomori City, Aomori 030-0111) 📅 Day 4: 5/11 (Mon) | Oirase Gorge & Lake Towada · 10:00 Oirase Gorge: Drive along the scenic mountain stream, stopping at the picturesque "Choshi Ohtaki" waterfall for photos. · 12:30 Lake Towada: Hop on a sightseeing boat to enjoy the breathtaking views of this magnificent crater lake. · 🏨 Accommodation: Hotel Jogakura — Night 2 📅 Day 5: 5/12 (Tue) | Hirosaki Apple Blossoms & Seeing a Friend Off · 10:00 Hirosaki Apple Park: Witness thousands of white apple blossoms in full bloom with a panoramic view of Mount Iwaki in the background. · 15:30 Drop off a friend at "Shin-Aomori Station": Your friend will catch the Shinkansen to depart. · 🏨 Accommodation: Hotel Jogakura — Night 3 📅 Day 6: 5/13 (Wed) | Lake Tazawa Sightseeing & Nostalgic Schoolhouse · 13:00 Lake Tazawa Tour: Snap photos at the golden "Statue of Tatsuko" and the iconic torii gate of "Goza no Ishi Shrine". · 15:00 Omoide no Kata Branch School: Step back in time as you explore this nostalgic wooden schoolhouse. · 🏨 Accommodation: Tazawako Kogen Onsen Resort Lodge Alice (2-32 Komagatake, Obonai, Tazawako, Semboku, Akita 014-1201) 📅 Day 7: 5/14 (Thu) | Kakunodate Samurai District & Final Shopping in Sendai · 09:30 Kakunodate Bukeyashiki (Samurai District): Stroll down the black-fenced streets of "Little Kyoto" and visit the historic samurai manors. · 12:00 Lunch, then prepare to depart from Akita. · 13:30 Drive back to Sendai: A smooth 2.5-hour drive via the expressway. · 16:00 Arrive in Sendai & Hotel Check-in: A hotel near Sendai Station (West Exit) is highly recommended. · 16:30 Elder-Friendly Shopping Time: · Drop the elders off at S-PAL Sendai (connected to the station) or the Sendai Ichibancho Shopping Arcade. · Once they're comfortably settled at a department store or large drugstore, you can drive solo to return the rental car. · 18:00 Dinner Meetup: After returning the car, head back to the shopping arcade to meet the elders for a final feast of Sendai's famous grilled beef tongue. · 🏨 Accommodation: (Suggested: Hotel Metropolitan Sendai or another hotel near the station) 📅 Day 8: 5/15 (Fri) | Final Sprint in Sendai City — Airport · 09:00 Last-Minute Shopping: · Do a final sweep for souvenirs and goodies at the department stores or local specialty shops inside the station. · 11:15 Take Public Transit: · Catch the [Sendai Airport Access Line] from "JR Sendai Station". · The ride takes just 17-25 minutes and drops you off right at the airport terminal, making it the most hassle-free option for the elders. · 12:00 Arrive at Sendai Airport: Check in for your flight, complete any final tax refunds, and do some last-minute duty-free shopping. · 14:30 Flight Departure: Fly safely back home, taking wonderful memories with you.

🏖️ Atmosphere & Facilities: Shimojishima Airport (SHI), located in the Miyako Islands, is easily the most "resort-like" airport in all of Japan. It’s far more than just a transit hub; it feels like a sophisticated, low-key luxury boutique hotel. ✈️ Shimojishima Airport: The Gateway to the Stunning "Miyako Blue" If traditional airports are like cold, sterile transit hubs, Shimojishima Airport is a "wooden sanctuary." From the moment you step into the terminal, you’ll find yourself naturally slowing down. 🪵 A Healing Terminal Design The terminal features extensive wooden structures, coral stone walls, and a lush, open-air courtyard. Instead of the usual airport stress, the air is filled with the gentle scent of wood and a refreshing sea breeze. Rest Areas: The departure lounge is furnished with cozy sofas and even features an outdoor courtyard, allowing you to soak up the sun and embrace Okinawa’s slow pace before your flight. 💞 Why I Recommend It: Seamless Navigation: The terminal's manageable size means check-in and arrivals are incredibly fast—completely free from the crowds and long lines of major airports. 🌊 A Sanctuary for Aviation Fans: 17END Shimojishima Airport is most famous for "17END," located at the north end of the runway. Breathtaking Views: Here, you’ll find the clearest, most vibrant shades of "Miyako Blue" in the entire region. A Thrilling Experience: Watching a plane descend over the Tiffany-blue waters is a visual spectacle unlike any other. Even if you’re not flying, it’s an essential photo stop on any island drive. 🍹 Gourmet Local Dining & Curated Shopping Grab & Go: The terminal’s cafe serves sandwiches and light bites made with local Miyako ingredients. Pairing them with a craft beer is the perfect pre-flight indulgence. Curated Shop: The souvenir shop is a delight. Beyond the standard brown sugar and specialty salts, you’ll find high-quality, exclusive Shimojishima Airport merchandise that makes for perfect gifts. 💡 Travel Tips Getting Around: While the airport is on Shimojishima, you can reach downtown Miyako by crossing the magnificent Irabu Bridge—the ocean views along the drive are stunning. Who It’s For: If you’re seeking total relaxation, love photography, or are flying with Jetstar or Skymark, choosing Shimojishima Airport ensures your trip starts with a "wow" moment. Summary: This is an airport you won't want to leave in a hurry. It’s not just a place to catch a plane; it’s a place to savor the peace and elegance of the Okinawan islands. Are you planning a trip to Miyako Island soon?

Having visited Japan so many times, Sendai left a deep impression on me. I booked round-trip tickets to Sendai and some accommodations through Trip as usual. I must say, aside from the well-known Zao and Ginzan Onsen, what truly left me in awe was the scenery of Jōdo-no-hama in Miyako. It was absolutely stunning! For a moment, I thought I had entered a paradise! Additionally, Fox Village, Matsushima, Ōtani Coast, Lake Tazawa... all were breathtaking. Japan is indeed a perfect destination for self-driving trips.

Driving along Route 106 connecting Morioka and Miyako, a sharp peak rising in the distance from the Kuukai Pass marks our destination for today—Kabuto Myojin Peak. This mountain is a popular excursion spot among local elementary school students, and for good reason. It is renowned for its beginner-friendly trails and breathtaking views. The trailhead is located at the well-equipped Kuukai Hiking Center, which features a large parking lot and clean restrooms, making it an excellent starting point. As a favored educational route, the trail is well-maintained. The journey begins with a surprisingly steep climb, but fortunately, this challenging section is short. Along the way, the majestic Permian-era white birch trees and lush green beech forests create a picturesque setting. Simply walking through these woods is a delight, heightening the anticipation for the "luxurious views only accessible by hiking." Overall, Kabuto Myojin Peak is an easy summit to conquer, even for children. Most adults can reach the top from the parking lot in about 40 minutes. At the summit, while the space is not expansive, the 360-degree panoramic view is more than enough to make up for it. From here, you can take in the sights of Morioka City and the majestic Hayachine Mountain, a breathtaking spectacle that unfolds before your eyes. The mountain also features a campsite, making it an ideal outdoor destination for the whole family. However, the terrain near the summit becomes steeper and rockier, with the rocky areas near the edge of the peak being particularly hazardous. Be sure to watch your step, know your limits, and prioritize safety above all.

Address: 32-32-4 Hitachihamacho, Miyako City, Iwate Prefecture, 027-0001 Content: Unfortunately, it was cloudy, but the view of the ocean from the hotel was exceptional! I was able to relax and calm my mind while watching the ocean. The staff were also kind and polite! It's not in the photo, but there is also an open-air bath, and bathing while watching the stars was the best 🌠 #Cost-effective hotel#Prefectural residents discount

Address: 32-32-4 Hitachihamacho, Miyako City, Iwate Prefecture, 027-0001 Atmosphere/Facilities: I had a good, fluffy sleep in the twin bed! I ate the manju that was in the room and spent the night relaxing! From the room, I could see the ocean at Jodogahama ☺️ Breakfast was a buffet with all-you-can-eat seafood 🤤 #Cost-effective hotel

Name of restaurant: Gyosai-tei Sumiyoshi Address: 2-10 Sakaemachi, Miyako City, Iwate Prefecture Budget per person: 1,650 yen and up Rating (out of 5): ★★★★★ Points: *A short walk from Miyako Station on the Sanriku Railway! · This is a hands-on local bowl of rice where you put seasonal Miyako ingredients in a milk bottle and serve it yourself when you eat it. · There are 10 stores in Miyako City, and the contents of the bottle are different at each store. It was very delicious!! #Gourmet #Iwate Prefecture #Gourmet trip #Photogenic spot #Sanriku Railway #East Japan

Jodogahama is located in the center of Sanriku Fukko National Park and Sanriku Geopark. The waves are calm because it is isolated from the open sea. I went down to the beach and took a walk, and it was a relaxing time that was very refreshing. About 20 minutes by bus from Miyako Station Information as of July 2022. #BreathtakingView #PhotogenicSpot #Jodogahama #EasternJapan #Iwate #IwatePrefecture

📍Trip Overview Solo Touring 🚩Route Tokyo → Hokkaido → Ofunato → Tokyo 🏖️Photogenic Spot Jodogahama Beach 🚇Transportation Motorcycle 📷Recommended Photo Spots 🍜Delicious Food 🏠Recommended Accommodation Ofunato Onsen 💡Notes

A fascinating spot for snorkeling at Miyama - Shigira Beach. The guide and photographer, Ten, did a great job 👍. We came across numerous fish and turtles. The clownfish stood out, reminding us of the fish from the Nemo cartoon. Fun fact: Clownfish are all born male, and the dominant female is the largest in the group. If the female dies, the strongest male transitions into the new female. Enjoy Miyako's unique nature, and after snorkeling with Ten, take time to gaze at the stars and spot palm-thief crabs in the island's jungle!

An easy way to view underwater marine life, as the submerged windowed portion of the boat allows you to see below while the regular boat stays above water—hence the "semi-submersible" name. Families with young kids who aren't into snorkeling or diving would especially appreciate this relaxing sit-down ride. The experience is enhanced by the staff tossing food into the sea during the ride, attracting turtles and plenty of trevallies that follow the boat! After about ten minutes, it’s worth heading upstairs to capture scenic shots of Shigira Bay and enjoy observing the feeding action from above. Interestingly, the name "Hakuai" (which means "philanthropy") is tied to the district where this boat operates, honoring the rescue of German sailors by local villagers in Miyako.

While a bit distant from Miyako Airport and Izakaya Street, the hotel is surrounded by conveniences such as a convenience store, an Aeon store, the soba restaurant Nirai, and even a self-serve gas station, allowing you to stay until the last minute. Opt for a high-floor, sea-facing room to enjoy views of the Kurima Ohashi Bridge! The parking accommodates 50 cars, with 40 spots in the front and 10 at the back. The spacious lobby offers automatic check-in/check-out options, and the large rooms provide a relaxing stay. Breakfast is buffet-style, featuring a variety of small dishes—each delicious and sure to satisfy. We've stayed here three times, and the friendly staff make it an unforgettable experience.

When I first got to Miyako, I tried a well-known snorkeling company, but it was really disappointing. The groups were huge, the spaces felt overcrowded, and it didn’t meet my expectations at all. A couple of days later, I joined Mitsu's snorkeling and sea kayak tour, and it was an entirely different experience! The group was small, the snorkeling spot was similar but further from the crowds, and Mitsu was such a fantastic guide. Skip the big brands and go with Mitsu instead! 🙌

Enjoying Miyako beef yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) during my trip to Miyako Island. I savored the luxurious taste of Miyako Island's unique brand of beef, freshly grilled. 🥩✨ The fine texture of the meat and the sweetness of the fat were impressive; it was tender and juicy when I put it in my mouth. Eating yakiniku after enjoying the blue sea and tropical scenery was the perfect reward for my trip. 🌴 🥩 Luxuriously savoring Miyako beef 🔥 Enjoying freshly grilled meat 🌴 Enjoying Miyako Island's local cuisine 📸 Taking photos of delicious-looking yakiniku When you come to Miyako Island, in addition to the sea and sightseeing, you should definitely try the local cuisine. I enjoyed a different kind of Miyako Island cuisine, distinct from Miyako soba and other island dishes! ✨ 📍Miyako Island / Okinawa Prefecture #MiyakoBeef #MiyakoBeefBBQ #MiyakoIsland #MiyakoIslandTrip #MiyakoIslandTourism #OkinawaTrip #OkinawaGourmet #MiyakoIslandGourmet #BBQ #BBQTrip #LocalGourmet #OkinawaGourmetTrip #IslandTrip #DomesticTravel #Tripcom

① Jodogahama Beach (Miyako) We visited by rental car and took a leisurely stroll along the coast. The white rock faces and blue sea are beautiful, making it one of Iwate's most representative scenic spots. There are many rocky areas and places to walk, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Since you'll be walking along the coast, don't forget sun protection! 📍32 Hitachihama-cho, Miyako City, Iwate Prefecture ② Koiwai Farm We also visited this by rental car. While enjoying the scenery of the vast farm, we had soft-serve ice cream, a specialty of the farm. It was rich and delicious, perfect as a snack between sightseeing. You can enjoy it without walking a lot, but since you'll be spending time outdoors, sun protection is recommended. 📍36-1 Maruyachi, Shizukuishi-cho, Iwate-gun, Iwate Prefecture Both are recommended tourist spots where you can enjoy the nature of Iwate. #TohokuTravel #Iwate #IwateTourism #ScenicView #ScenicSpot #Tourism

Here are two recommended gourmet foods I enjoyed on my trip to Iwate. ① Uosai-tei Sumiyoshi (Miyako) A popular restaurant where you can enjoy the bounty of the Sanriku sea. There was a line during lunchtime, so it's recommended to visit with plenty of time to spare. Reservations are possible, so if you have a set schedule, it's best to book in advance. Approximately a 1-minute walk from Miyako Station. If you're using a rental car, you can use nearby paid parking lots, and a discount coupon will be issued for usage of 2,000 yen or more. 📍 2-10 Sakaemachi, Miyako City, Iwate Prefecture ② Pyonpyon-sha (Morioka) "Pyonpyon-sha" is a famous restaurant known for Morioka Reimen (cold noodles). It's one of the local gourmet foods you should definitely try when visiting Iwate. Their specialty Morioka Reimen has chewy noodles and a refreshing soup, perfect for a hot day. This time, I also tried Iwate's famous Tankaku beef. The rich flavor of the lean meat was clearly present, allowing me to enjoy the true taste of the meat. Located about a 2-minute walk from Morioka Station, it's easily accessible and a convenient stop during sightseeing. 📍9-3 Morioka Ekimae-dori, Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture #IwateTravel #GourmetTrip #Iwate #Gourmet #LocalGourmet #TohokuTravel

I stayed at IRAPH SUI, a luxury collection resort in Miyako, Okinawa, from 5/25 to 5/26/2026. The property is simply amazing—not the newest, but the service and staff truly went above and beyond to make our stay unforgettable. I was in room 125, an upgraded suite with a private pool, in celebration of my 20th wedding anniversary and my first visit to the island. Upon arrival, they welcomed us with fresh fruit and drinks. The island is rather remote and doesn’t have many stores nearby, but it’s an incredible retreat if you’re looking for quality time with loved ones without distractions. I had dinner at the restaurant, attended a morning yoga session on the pool deck, and enjoyed a semi-buffet-style breakfast. They also provided complimentary airport pickup and kindly dropped us off at the Hilton hotel the next day, which was greatly appreciated. While the island has many new developments with larger, high-rise hotels, I found IRAPH SUI to offer a unique, local experience. They also provided a free shuttle to a nearby beach and arranged pickup once we were done, making it very convenient. At 5:30 PM, they served sunset champagne and ice cream, which thrilled my son as he enjoyed the local treats and stunning views. Overall, my husband, my 5-year-old, and I were thoroughly satisfied with our stay. Even without an onsite kids’ club, my son loved playing in the pool. We would absolutely love to come back again anytime!

In order to withstand the harsh climate of the mountaintop, a wooden shrine is housed in a sturdy stone frame and iron grating. It is a 360-degree superb view with no obstruction around. It is the original source of the shrine (Satomiya) at the foot of the mountain, and has been revered as a sacred place where the gods live since ancient times. Seoritsuhime no Mikoto (Seoritsuhime no Mikoto)" is enshrined with a goddess who presedes over water and washes away all sins and impurities. The top of the mountain is windy even in summer, and when fog (gas) comes out, the temperature drops rapidly. Also, when it rains, the rocky area becomes very slippery. Please prepare solid mountaineering shoes, rainwear, and enough water to challenge.

#japanhotel Nestled along a serene stretch of coastline, Nagisatei Taroan offers a peaceful retreat that feels far removed from the rush of everyday life. From the moment you arrive, the calming sound of waves and the crisp ocean breeze set the tone for a deeply relaxing stay. The traditional Japanese design blends effortlessly with modern comforts, creating an atmosphere that is both elegant and welcoming. The rooms, often featuring ocean views, provide a perfect vantage point to watch the sunrise paint the horizon in soft hues. One of the highlights is the onsen experience soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters while gazing out at the sea is nothing short of therapeutic. The dining experience is equally memorable, with fresh seafood prepared with care and attention to detail. Nagisatei Taroan isn’t just a place to stay it’s a place to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with nature. Perfect for travelers seeking tranquility and authentic Japanese hospitality.

#japanhotel The Park Hotel Jodogahama offers a peaceful seaside escape overlooking the breathtaking coastline of Jodogahama in Iwate Prefecture. Surrounded by dramatic rocky shores, pine-covered hills, and crystal-clear blue waters, the hotel provides a relaxing atmosphere where guests can fully enjoy the natural beauty of Sanriku Coast. The rooms are comfortable and well-kept, many featuring large windows or balconies that open up to stunning ocean views. Waking up to the sight of calm waves and rugged coastline creates a memorable and refreshing experience, especially during sunrise and sunset. A highlight of the stay is the onsen bath, where guests can unwind while enjoying views of the surrounding sea and forested landscape. The soothing hot spring waters add to the sense of relaxation after a day of sightseeing. Dining at the hotel features fresh local seafood from the Sanriku region, known for its rich marine harvest. Meals are thoughtfully prepared, showcasing the natural flavors of the area. The Park Hotel Jodogahama is ideal for travelers seeking a quiet coastal retreat, scenic ocean views, and a relaxing connection with nature in northern Japan.

Miyako Island: An Encounter with Miyako Blue and Miyako Beef I had always heard about the enchanting "Miyako Blue" of Miyako Island, and this time I finally set foot on this dreamy land. As soon as I got off the plane, that crystal-clear, almost transparent blue struck my eyes, like nature's purest gift, instantly captivating me. I couldn't wait to rush to the seaside. Standing on the beach, beneath my feet was fine, white sand, and before me stretched the boundless Miyako Blue sea. The water transitioned from shallow to deep, displaying distinct layers of blue, beautiful like a dream. Here, snorkeling is the best way to intimately connect with the ocean. Diving underwater, colorful coral reefs and lively tropical fish swam around me, as if entering a mysterious underwater kingdom. Besides the stunning scenery, Miyako Island's cuisine is unforgettable, especially Miyako beef. At a local restaurant, I tasted Miyako beef barbecue; the meat was tender and juicy, melting in my mouth. Paired with a special sauce, every bite was an ultimate delight. Miyako Island, this charming little island, with its Miyako Blue and Miyako beef, left me with unforgettable beautiful memories, making me deeply attached and eagerly looking forward to the next encounter.

#springtravel Jodogahama Beach Great Beach to go. They have a blue cave boat ride you can do for 2000 Yen per person. The other sightseeing bigger boat is only available on the weekends. You can feed the birds and they will swarm all around you. Beach is about 15 minute walk from the visitor center and the blue cave boat ride is 15 minutes in length. Overall a nice place to visit for an hour or 2.

#JanuaryDestinations2026 Have you ever seen a beach that looks like a traditional Chinese ink painting? When you come to Miyako City, Iwate Prefecture, you absolutely must visit this divine spot known as "Pure Land Beach"! The most unique feature here is the "white rhyolite" rocks standing in the sea. These sharp white rocks, covered with green pine trees, contrast beautifully with the crystal-clear turquoise water, creating an unbelievable visual effect. Legend has it that over 300 years ago, a monk named Lingjing came here and exclaimed, "This is simply a paradise!" hence the name. The water here has extremely high transparency, making it a popular swimming spot in summer. But even if you don't swim, just walking on the white pebble beach and listening to the waves crashing against the rocks will completely heal your soul! 🧘♂️ 📸 Must-Shoot Highlights: 1. White Rock Group: Find a low angle and use the white rocks as a foreground to capture the gradient blue of the sea. 2. Okujodo no Hahama: Walk along the trail to its deepest point, where there are fewer people, allowing you to enjoy this tranquil view all to yourself. 📍 Attraction Information: · Attraction Name: Jodo no Hahama (净土ヶ浜) · Access: Approximately 20 minutes by bus from JR Miyako Station (towards Okujodo no Hahama). · Admission: Free admission to the beach all day.

This summer, I planned a 14-day road trip to Tohoku. I came to Iwate Prefecture to visit Shohei Ōtani's hometown and Hanamaki Toko, and to try the delicious Morioka cold noodles. I also wanted to visit Jodogahama, a representative scenic spot in Japan. Its pristine rocky beaches, beautifully clear sea, and detached, complex terrain evoke a sense of paradise, earning it the name "Pure Land of Bliss."