Imugya Marine Garden (イムギャーマリンガーデン) is a seaside park by the natural rocky cove. It is one of the top hidden gems on Miyako-jima Island that we love the most. While the beach isn’t very large, it is calm and perfect for children to swim in. It is also another beach on Miyako Island that is popular for snorkeling.
Even if you don’t want to get wet, the seafront trail leading to the observation deck atop a hill can be another reason to visit this astonishing cove. Although the staircase to the lookout is long, you will be greeted by a cow statue and spectacular scenery!
If you arrive at the beach in the afternoon, instead of departing Imugya Marine Garden after you had your fill, stay for the beautiful sunset!
Imugya Marine Garden is also known as Ingya Marine Garden. Imu means sea, and Gya means spring in Miyako-jima’s language. So together, Imugya means sea’s spring water (海の湧水), which is a perfect description of a cove that has spring water gushing out from the bottom of the sea.
Imugya Marine Garden’s Observatory
From the small beach, there is a small stone pavement along the coastline. As you follow this small road, you will eventually get to the Ingya Bridge (インギャー橋). The observatory atop the stairs on the other side of the bridge is a must-visit spot at Imugya Marine Garden.
A black Miyako cow statue marks the white wooden observatory at the end of the staircases. Although the structure may seem somewhat shabby, it is still sturdy and offers the best view of the East China Sea in the area!
The good thing about this observatory is that there is another promenade on the other side leading back to the coastline, which means that you don’t need to see the same scenery twice!
A return trip from Ingya Bridge to the observatory takes around an hour.
Tip: As there are only a few resting spots along the promenade with shade, remember to bring enough water with you. This is especially important in summer!
Snorkeling at Imugya Marine Garden
Around the Ingya Bridge is where the coral reefs spread out in the sea. It is also where many clownfish live. But just note that the water there can be as deep as 15 meters, so be sure to wear proper equipment to ensure your safety.
Another thing to keep in mind when you swim is that there are no lifeguards stationed at Imugya Marine Garden.
If you need to wash the sand off you, there is a paid shower facility at the side of the beach.
Tip: For diving and snorkeling equipment, you can rent them from DIVE Miyakojima (DIVE宮古島) or the hotels close by. Note that DIVE Miyakojima’s staff only speaks Japanese.
Nariyama Ayagu Monument (なりやまあやぐ発祥の地)
Close to the car park is a stone monument. It is to commemorate that the Tomori Village (友利) near Imugya Marine Garden is the place of origin of Miyako-jima‘s folk song, Nariyama Ayagu.
In October, a Nariyama Ayagu festival is held to enable folk songs to be passed down to the next generation.
How to Get to Imugya Marine Garden
- Imugya Marine Garden has a free car park with around a capacity of 50 cars.
- You can also take Miyako Kyōei Bus’ (宮古協栄バス) Tomori Line (友利線) and get off at Tomori (友利). Ingya Marine Garden is then a 15-minute walk away.
- You can use one of Japan’s Transport Apps to plan your visit.
Important: Imgya Marine Garden is a rocky place. So there is a risk of suffering an injury if you walk barefoot. Instead of beach sandals, water shoes are probably a better option.
Discover Other Stunning Beaches on Miyakojima Island
Speaking of Miyakojima Island, it is a destination filled with amazing beaches! In fact, whenever TripAdvisor announces Japan’s top 10 beaches, Miyako-jima often fills up most of their list! The beaches are also one of the main reasons the Japanese relocate to the enchanting island. So if you plan on visiting Okinawa soon or are keen on doing some watersports on your next Japan trip, Miyako Island should be your must-visit destination!
For more information, refer to our article on The Beaches on Miyako-jima Island!
