Miyako Airport

Miyako Airport is not just a transport hub, but a true "gateway to summer," where the atmosphere of a tropical resort is felt immediately upon landing. The small but cosy terminal, featuring a traditional red tiled roof characteristic of Okinawa, warmly welcomes guests, instantly setting a relaxed mood. There is no hustle and bustle of huge international hubs here, and the air seems already infused with the scent of the sea and blooming hibiscus, promising an unforgettable introduction to the famous "Miyako Blue" colour of the coastal waters.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Despite its compact size, Miyako Airport offers travellers excellent service and unique local flair, making the start and end of the journey as comfortable as possible.

• Okinawan Atmosphere: The terminal building is designed in the style of traditional Ryukyu architecture, creating a sense of comfort and authenticity. Inside, there is plenty of greenery and natural light, visually expanding the space.
• Convenience and Speed: Thanks to its small size, all procedures — from baggage claim to getting a taxi — take mere minutes. Queues are rare here, and navigation is intuitive even for those visiting the island for the first time.
• Gastronomy and Souvenirs: On the second floor, there is a shopping area where you can buy the island's main hits: the famous "Yukishio" salt, sweets made from purple sweet potato, and, of course, ripe mangoes when in season. There is also a popular restaurant of the A&W chain, which is considered a hallmark of Okinawa.
• Observation Deck: An open observation deck is equipped on the roof of the terminal, offering a stunning view of the runway and the turquoise sea in the distance — an ideal place for first or farewell photos.

• Official Airport Website: miyakoap.co.jp (website available in Japanese).
• Information Desk Phone: +81 980-72-3321. You can obtain general information about airport operations at this number.
• Airport Address: 1657-128 Gusukube Shimoji, Miyako City (Miyakojima), Okinawa Prefecture, 906-0507, Japan.
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the phone or the special form on the official website for communication.
• Airport Social Media: At this moment, the airport does not maintain official pages on popular social networks.
• Lost and Found Information: If you have lost items within the terminal building, please contact the information desk at +81 980-72-3321. If items were lost on board the aircraft, you must contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and consultations at the airport, please contact the central information desk at the number listed above.

Miyako Airport (MMY) is conveniently located just a few kilometres from the centre of Miyako City (Hirara district), making the journey there quick and simple. There are several ways to get to the terminal, suitable for any budget and travel style.

Public Transport: The most economical option is local buses. Several routes connect the airport with central districts of the city and major hotels. A bus ride usually takes about 15-25 minutes depending on your departure point, and the fare is approximately 200-300 JPY. This is the ideal choice for solo travellers or those travelling light who wish to experience local life.

Taxi and Transfer: For maximum convenience, use a taxi. Taxi stands are located right outside the arrivals hall exit. A trip to the city centre will take only 10-15 minutes, and the cost will be around 1500-2000 JPY. Although this is a more expensive option compared to the bus, it ensures comfort and fast "door-to-door" delivery, which is especially convenient for families with children or travellers with bulky luggage. You can also book a private transfer in advance.

Car Rental: Many tourists prefer to rent a car to freely explore the beauty of the island. Several rental company counters operate within Miyako Airport and nearby. It is recommended to book a car in advance online, especially during the peak tourist season. Having a car gives you complete freedom of movement for the entire duration of your holiday. Do not forget that an International Driving Permit is often required for renting in Japan.

Airport Parking: If you are arriving in your own or a rented car, parking is provided on the airport grounds. Both short-term and long-term parking spaces are available, allowing you to conveniently leave your vehicle for the duration of your trip.

Miyako Airport (MMY) is a modern and compact regional aviation hub distinguished by a simple and clear structure for passengers. You will not have to worry about complex navigation, as there is only one passenger terminal here, serving both domestic departures and arrivals.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The building generally has two floors. On the first floor, check-in counters and the arrivals area with baggage claim are located. On the second floor, you will find the departure area with the security checkpoint, as well as shops, restaurants, and access to the gates. Thanks to the compact size and clear signs in Japanese and English, getting lost here is practically impossible. Since there is only one terminal, inter-terminal transfers are not required.

Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated. After checking in on the first floor, you proceed to the second floor, where you pass through pre-flight security. The waiting lounge is small but cosy. The arrivals area is on the first floor, and very little time passes between disembarking the plane and collecting your luggage.

The main feature of the terminal is its efficiency and speed of service. Completing all procedures, including flight check-in and security screening, usually takes no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport about an hour before departure to check in luggage without rushing and to visit souvenir shops or cafes.

For easy navigation, simply follow the signs. Upon entering the building, you will immediately see the flight information board and check-in counters. If you are departing, head to the second floor to the security zone. If you are arriving, your path will lead to the baggage claim area and the exit to the city. Miyako Airport is designed to ensure maximum comfort for travellers starting or ending their acquaintance with the beautiful islands of Japan.

The history of Miyako Airport (MMY) begins during the years of World War II. It was founded in 1943 as an airbase for the Imperial Japanese Navy and had an exclusively military purpose, playing a strategic role in the region.

After the war ended, the airport came under the management of the US civil administration. A new stage in its history began in 1956, when civil aviation services were launched. This became a turning point for Miyako Island, which had been relatively isolated until then. With the return of Okinawa to Japanese sovereignty in 1972, the airport received a new impulse for development.

A key milestone in modernization was the reconstruction in the late 1970s. The runway was significantly extended to 2000 metres, allowing it to accommodate jet aircraft such as the Boeing 737. This event radically changed the transport accessibility of the island, opening it up to mass tourism. A logical continuation of this development was the opening of a new, more spacious and modern terminal in 1997, which welcomes travellers to this day.

Interesting fact: despite its modest size, Miyako Airport is today one of the busiest in Okinawa Prefecture, second only to the main airport in Naha. From a former military base, it has turned into the key gateway to the paradise islands of the Miyako archipelago, becoming the foundation of the region's tourism industry and making its famous beaches and coral reefs accessible to guests from all over the world.

Miyako Airport (MMY), despite its compact dimensions, offers passengers all key services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy local Okinawan cuisine or simply have a cup of coffee. Special attention should be paid to the souvenir shops, offering unique island goods such as the famous "Yukishio" salt, cane sugar products, and other local delicacies — an excellent opportunity to buy gifts for loved ones.

For travellers who value comfort, a paid lounge operates at the airport. Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere and enjoy complimentary drinks and light snacks. Throughout the terminal, free Wi-Fi is available, and charging stations for mobile devices are installed in waiting areas, allowing you to always stay connected.

ATMs for cash withdrawal are installed in the airport. A medical post is provided for first aid. Travelling families will appreciate the presence of nursing rooms, which are well-equipped and offer a private space for infant care.

The airport infrastructure is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: ramps, elevators, and specially equipped toilets are available. Staff are always ready to provide a wheelchair and assist with movement around the terminal and during boarding. Although there are no specialized conference rooms at the airport, the paid lounge can serve as a convenient place for working in silence.

There are no hotels directly within the airport terminal building, however, many hotels and resort complexes to suit any taste and budget are located in the immediate vicinity, just a 10–15 minute drive by taxi or bus. Such a convenient location makes the airport an ideal starting point for exploring all the beauties of Miyako Island.

Miyako Airport (MMY), being a compact regional airport, offers several cosy establishments where passengers can eat comfortably before departure. Although the selection here is not as vast as in major international hubs, you will easily find both options for a quick snack and places for a full meal with a focus on local cuisine.

For those wishing to have a substantial meal, restaurants operating on the upper floors of the terminal offer dishes of Okinawan and Japanese cuisine. This is an excellent opportunity to try the famous Miyako Soba noodles — the island's calling card. Also on the menu, you can often find delicacies such as Goya Chanpuru (stir-fried bitter melon with tofu and egg) or dishes with Umibudo sea grapes. Prices here are moderate, and lunch will be a wonderful conclusion to your journey through Miyako.

If you are short on time, several cafes are at your service where you can order coffee, tea, fresh tropical fruit juices, and light snacks — sandwiches, pastries, or desserts. This is an ideal option for a quick bite before boarding. Most establishments, including restaurants and cafes, are located in the public area (landside), before security control, so please plan your time accordingly. After security screening, the selection will be extremely limited.

The opening hours of dining establishments at Miyako Airport are usually synchronized with the flight schedule — they open with the first flights and close after the last departure. Regarding special dietary needs (vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes), specialized menus are likely not available here. People with strict dietary restrictions are recommended to carry food with them, although simple snacks, such as Onigiri rice balls or fruits, can be found in the airport shops.

Travel through Miyako Airport (MMY) usually proceeds smoothly and without unnecessary stress, as it is a small and well-organized regional hub. To ensure your trip begins and ends as comfortably as possible, make use of our tips.

Arrival at the Airport and Check-in. For domestic flights, which make up the majority of flights from Miyako, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time is sufficient to complete all procedures without rushing. Many airlines offer online check-in, which allows you to save time. Security and screening procedures here generally proceed faster than at large international airports, but they should not be left until the last moment.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. When flying to or from the Okinawa islands, try to secure a window seat. Stunning views of coral reefs and turquoise ocean waters will open up to you. regarding hand luggage, standard international rules apply: liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, and a ban on carrying sharp objects. Electronic devices, such as laptops and power banks, are usually requested to be removed for separate scanning.

Transfers and Flight Delays. Miyako Airport is not a major transit hub, so long layovers are rare here. If you do have a connection, note that the airport infrastructure is compact. In case of a flight delay, contact your airline representative for information. There are several souvenir shops and cafes in the terminal building where you can pass the time. Keep an eye on the information boards for updates.

Customs Control and Saving Money. Customs control is relevant only for rare international (most often charter) flights. The procedure is standard for Japan and requires declaring certain goods. To save money, book a taxi or transfer in advance, especially during peak season. Also, consider using public transport. Although there are dining establishments in the airport, buying drinks and light snacks from vending machines may be slightly cheaper.