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日本旅行 · Trip prep

Miyako Island, Okinawa — where to start?

Today's weather in Miyako Island
Tue Oct 27, 16:09 Japan now
27° Average temperature
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Tax-free & shopping guide

Tax-freeFrom November 1, it switches to a 'refund system.' You pay tax-inclusive prices in stores and get the tax back after a customs check at the airport when you leave. Be sure to bring your passport.

SouvenirsYukishio (snow salt) sweets, mango sweets, Miyako jofu (traditional ramie cloth)

Shopping tipMany island shops close early. You can get most souvenirs at Miyako Airport too.

Shopping spots in Miyako Island
Getting around Miyako Island

Rental carThere are almost no buses, so a rental car is a must; Irabu and Kurima islands are linked by bridges

BusOnly a few buses a day — taxis and tours are the alternative

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Shopping

Shopping streets & markets in Miyako Island, Okinawa · 2

Tax-free shopping changes from November 1, 2026

Instead of tax being deducted at the store, you now pay including tax and get it refunded later.

  1. Show your passport at a tax-free store and pay the tax-inclusive price
  2. When leaving Japan, customs at the airport checks your passport and purchases
  3. Once checked, the store (or a refund agent) refunds the consumption tax

Minimum spend and refund methods can vary by store, so ask before paying.

Local productsMiyako Island

Shima-no-Eki Miyako

島の駅みやこ

A farmers' market for Miyako Island vegetables, fruit and sweets.

Car
Shopping streetMiyako Island

Nishizato Street

西里大通り

The main shopping street in central Miyako.

Central Hirara

Local products & gift ideas

3 gifts to bring home from Okinawa and where to buy them · Miyako Island first

SweetsKokusai-dori

Chinsuko

ちんすこう

Traditional Ryukyu cookies baked with lard, in salt and brown sugar flavors.

Most are also sold at souvenir shops in airports and major stations. Check hours and stock via the Google Maps links.