Summary of this article
Fun diving in Miyako Island is possible because of the dense concentration of underwater caves, arches, and drop-offs.One of the world's leading topographical diving areasIt has 5 areas and over 51 diving points, with the three major Miyako Island points (Demon King's Palace, Antonio Gaudi, and Toriike Pond) being its biggest attraction. The best season isMarch to NovemberHowever, topographical diving can be enjoyed year-round. This article will guide you through the entirety of fun diving in Miyako Island, from major dive sites and seasons to the necessary skills and how to choose a dive shop.
Last updated: 2026-05-15
First, check out the primary sources (official URLs).
- List of diving spots in Miyako Island
- Frequently Asked Questions (Fun Diving)
- Price (for fun diving)
- Reservations and requests (inquiries)
[Comparison Chart] Checklist for Choosing a Shop (How to Avoid Mistakes)
| Comparison axis | Check points | Location to verify (primary information) |
|---|---|---|
| Participation conditions | Are the requirements such as experience level, skill level, and age clearly stated? (Vague requirements can easily lead to mismatches on the day of the interview.) | See the "Participation Requirements," "FAQ," and "Notes" on the official website. |
| Small group/guided system | How many people per guide? Can we do staggered dives or pace ourselves for photography/terrain exploration? | FAQ / Tour Information / Blog |
| Safety standards | Can you explain the criteria for briefings, emergency response, and weather assessments? | FAQ / Important Notes / Pre-Reservation Information |
| Point policy | Does it explain the reasons why it's possible/impossible to go (sea conditions, level, congestion)? | Points Introduction / Blog / FAQ |
| Ship/Comfort | Since travel and breaks are long, the ship's facilities and comfort significantly impact satisfaction. | Official website introduction page / FAQ |
| Reservation/Cancellation | Are the cancellation policy, meeting time on the day, and payment method clear? | Reservation page / FAQ |
Check availability and booking status
Why fun diving in Miyako Island is special
If you had to describe diving in Miyako Island in one word, it would be "topography." Abundant spring water gushing from all over the island has, over many years, eroded the limestone from the inside, creating complex caves, arches, and holes. This "erosion from the inside" is rare worldwide, and there are more than 30 cave-type diving spots alone. The abundance of underwater caves is number one in Japan and among the best in the world.
While Ishigaki Island is known for manta rays and the Kerama Islands for coral, Miyako Island isDynamic topographic divingThis is the main attraction. Rather than sandy areas or coral reefs, experienced divers gather here seeking the impressive sights of light shining into caverns and the breathtaking arches viewed from a depth of 30 meters.
Miyako Island's three major points of interest: The Demon King's Palace, Antonio Gaudí, and Toriike Pond
When it comes to "underwater topography diving" in Miyako Island, these three are the first to come to mind. All of them are located towards Shimoji Island and boast world-renowned underwater scenery.
Demon King's Palace (Maximum water depth: approximately 25m / Difficulty: Intermediate)
A massive cave system with three rooms connected by a corridor. The shaft of light shining into the innermost "bedroom" is Miyako Island's most famous underwater scenery. August and September are the most beautiful times of the year, with light entering all three rooms from directly above. The light starts entering from April and can be enjoyed until November. BIGHOLIDAY selects this location 60 times a year (2025 figures. 2022-2025: 53-69 times/year, confirmed figures based on BIGHOLIDAY's operating performance).
Miyako Island - The Complete Guide to Diving at the Demon King's Palace
Antonio Gaudí (Maximum depth: approximately 35m / Difficulty: Advanced)
A complex landscape of arches and holes created by nature. The intricate and artistic formations are reminiscent of the works of Spanish architect Gaudí. There are areas exceeding 30m in depth, requiring skills in neutral buoyancy and air management. July and August are when the sunlight is strongest, making it surprisingly bright even in the deepest parts. BIGHOLIDAY selects 66 dives per year (2025 figures; 2022-2025: 43-66 dives/year).
Miyako Island Antonio Gaudi Diving Complete Guide
Toriike Pond (Maximum depth: approximately 25m / Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced / National Natural Monument)
A nationally designated natural monument. This diving spot involves navigating a cave 25 meters deep and ascending through a thermocline where freshwater and saltwater mix. The unique experience of seeing the water's color and temperature change depending on the layer is something you won't find at other diving spots. A distinctive feature is the feeling of the water's texture shifting the moment the light changes color. BIGHOLIDAY selects this spot 21 times a year (2025 figures; 2022-2025: 18-23 times/year).
Complete Guide to Diving at Toriike Pond in Miyako Island
In addition to the three major points in Miyako Island, there are 51 other points as well.
Miyako Island boasts over 51 diving points across 5 areas, including Ichinose Hole (No. 1 in popularity among repeat visitors, rated as equal to or better than the three major points), 35 Hole (a gigantic cave measuring 20m wide x 20m high x 50m deep), Nakanoshima Channel (a labyrinthine topography where a curtain of light descends), and Panata (a tornado of hundreds of trevally). Points are scattered not only around Shimoji Island, but also around Irabu Island, Yaebise, Karimata, and the southern coast of Miyako Island, allowing for flexible point selection depending on wind direction and sea conditions.
List of diving spots in Miyako Island
When is the best time to target the three major fishing spots in Miyako Island?
The three main diving spots in Miyako Island are Maou no Kyuden (Demon King's Palace), Antonio Gaudi, and Toriike Pond. Since all three are located towards Shimojishima Island, the days on which we can offer tours will vary depending on the wind direction and sea conditions.
The table below shows the total number of times BIGHOLIDAY dived at the three major dive sites in Miyako Island, broken down by month, over the four-year period from 2022 to 2025, based on their business performance.
| Month | Number of dives in 4 years | Average number of dives per month | Comment: |
|---|---|---|---|
| April | 14 times | 3.50 times | There is a winter break, so the number of sessions is limited. |
| April | 33 times | 8.25 times | There is a winter break, so the number of sessions is limited. |
| April | 45 times | 11.25 times | It's easier to target Shimojishima, but it can also be seen on days with southerly winds. |
| April | 53 times | 13.25 times | It's easy to aim for even on a yearly basis. |
| April | 46 times | 11.50 times | Southerly winds are starting to increase, and there are many examples of this. |
| April | 32 times | 8.00 times | The number of days when we can't go out is increasing due to southerly winds. |
| April | 29 times | 7.25 times | There are many days when the southerly winds are strong and the area is closer to Irabu Island. |
| April | 46 times | 11.50 times | If the sea conditions are right, the light is strong. |
| April | 59 times | 14.75 times | The direction of Shimojishima is starting to return. |
| April | 73 times | 18.25 times | There are many recreational divers, making it easy to target Shimojishima Island. |
| April | 78 times | 19.50 times | Many top-tier achievements throughout the year |
| April | 52 times | 13.00 times | Winter weather makes it easier to target, but some stores are closed. |
Based on past experience, October, November, September, April, and December are generally considered good months to target Miyako Island's three main diving spots. However, these numbers do not guarantee success. The actual selection of a diving spot depends on the wind direction, waves, swell, the overall skill level of the team, and safety considerations on the day of the dive.
Seasonal Guide — When is the best time to go?
Diving in Miyako Island can be enjoyed year-round, but the diving areas and the appearance of the sea change dramatically depending on the season. Based on area-specific performance data from BIGHOLIDAY's 2022-2025 dive log, we have summarized the characteristics of each season.
Spring (March – May)
water temperature: 22 ~ 25 ℃
Main area: Shimojishima 61% + Irabujima 29% + Yaebise 9%
Feature: March is a highly diverse time of year, offering dives in three different areas. Encounters with large marine life are most frequent in March. April offers the widest range of dive site options due to stable sea conditions. The period from after Golden Week to the rainy season is a quiet, off-season, making it a hidden gem.
Summer (June to August)
water temperature: 27 ~ 29 ℃
Main area: Shimojishima 51% + Irabujima 39% + Yaebise 8%
Feature: The light is strongest of the year. From June to the first half of July, the Kachibai (summer solstice southerly wind) makes Irabu Island the main dive site. From late July to August, the water is calm and you can dive anywhere. The light at Miyako Island's three major dive sites is the most beautiful.
Autumn (September – November)
water temperature: 25 ~ 29 ℃
Main area: Shimoji Island 81% + Irabu Island 12% + Karimata 6%
Feature: The peak season is underway in Shimojishima. With stable northerly winds, it's the best time to target Miyako Island's three major dive spots. October offers the "best average" catches at famous spots. November is surprisingly a high season.
Winter (December to February)
water temperature: 21 ~ 23 ℃
Main area: Shimojishima 92% + Irabujima 7%
Feature: Shimojishima is pretty much the only option. Visibility in winter is the best of the year. Trips may be canceled when a weather front passes (wind speed 15m/s or more, wave height 5m). February has the highest chance of encountering manta rays all year. Many shops are closed during the winter, so research is essential.
Best season conclusionIf you want to enjoy the light of topographical divingMarch to NovemberIf it's a good time to target the famous spots on Shimoji Island...March to NovemberIf you want to enjoy the diversity of the three areas...March to NovemberIf you prioritize cost-effectiveness, airfare is cheap.January-February/May After Golden Week/JuneYou can enjoy topographical diving at any time of year, so it's best to choose a time that fits your schedule.
Detailed information for each month is available in the complete monthly guide.
Complete Guide to Winter Diving in Miyako Island | Explanation of Visibility and Manta Rays in Shimoji Island in December, January, and February
Skill level required for diving around Miyako Island's topography
The topographical diving spots around Miyako Island are more challenging than those with sandy bottoms or coral reefs. The water is deep (25-35m at Miyako Island's three major spots) and the terrain is very undulating.Air management, neutral buoyancy, ear equalization, BCD operationThe frequency of this will increase.
To safely enjoy the topographical points of Miyako Island, it is essential to have a C-card, as well as stable basic skills such as neutral buoyancy, air management, and ear equalization. Participation requirements vary from shop to shop, but because of the depth and the ups and downs within the caves, choosing a shop that matches your experience level will directly impact your satisfaction. At BIGHOLIDAY, participation requirements include having a C-card and having 30 or more dives, and we guide you to oceans that meet the standards of experienced divers, without having to accommodate introductory divers.
For beginners and divers who haven't diverd in a whileThere are many shallow, easy-to-navigate dive sites where even beginners and divers who haven't dived in a while can safely and enjoyably explore. Beginner-friendly diving shops tend to focus on selecting such sites. A good way to find them is to search using the keyword "beginner-friendly." Diving shops that also offer snorkeling and introductory dives tend to choose relatively easy dive sites for their fun dives. Looking at the atmosphere of the customers featured in the shop's blog can give you an idea of whether it's geared towards advanced or beginner divers. It's best to choose a shop that matches your skill level.
Choosing a diving shop for fun dives — what criteria should you use?
While there are many diving shops in Miyako Island, the choice of shop can greatly affect your diving experience. This is especially true if you want to visit Miyako Island's three major diving spots in the summer (Maou no Kyuden, Toriike, and Antonio Gaudi), in which case choosing the right shop is crucial.
There are four points you should check.
1. Will you focus primarily on recreational diving, or will you also offer introductory diving experiences?
When experienced divers and beginner divers are on the same boat, the dive sites tend to be shallower, and the pace underwater is set according to beginner standards. If you go to a shop that mainly offers fun dives, the entire team for the day is more likely to consist of certified divers, and they are more likely to select deeper dive sites with unique topography, as long as the sea conditions allow.
2. Check out the actual point selection on the blog.
Check the shop's official blog or social media to see what dive spots they actually frequent. Shops that frequently mention the three major dive spots in Miyako Island have a proven track record of selecting them.
3. Guide ratio (how many guests per guide)
The number of people diving with one guide directly impacts safety management and the satisfaction of the underwater experience. However, a small group isn't always better. Too few people might indicate that the shop is a shared boat operator without its own boat, or that it's geared more towards beginners or introductory dives. For fun dives with intermediate and advanced divers, it's recommended to aim for around 5-6 people per guide, and to choose a shop based on the team's experience level and the shop's operational structure.
4. Boat equipment
Diving in Miyako Island involves three dives a day, so you spend a lot of time on the boat. The amount of floor space, the availability of toilets and hot showers, and the seating arrangement all greatly affect your comfort.
To avoid a mismatch, it's important to clearly define what kind of diving you want to do—whether you want to focus on the topography, coral reefs, a relaxed dive, or challenging yourself at daring spots.
Diving with BIGHOLIDAY, a shop that focuses on fun dives.
You may have heard the phrase "focused on fun diving." Simply put, it means they don't offer introductory dives.
Many diving shops in Miyako Island conduct both fun dives and introductory dives from the same boat. There's nothing inherently wrong with this. However, having introductory divers and snorkelers on the boat inevitably restricts the selection of dive sites. When introductory guests are present, the dive depth tends to be shallower, and the chosen sites may not feature the dynamic topography characteristic of Miyako Island. The content of the briefing also differs depending on whether or not the guest has a diving license.
In shops that focus on fun dives, all guests on any given day are certified D-card holders with over 30 dives under their belts. This makes it easier to target dive sites with topographical features at depths exceeding 30 meters, as long as sea conditions permit. Briefings can delve into topics ranging from how to navigate the terrain to camera placement, and underwater pacing is based on the assumption that everyone is a recreational diver.
BIGHOLIDAY was founded in 2012 and shifted its focus to fun diving in 2016. Currently, the average number of dives experienced by guests is 262 (based on actual data from 2025). Because we have many experienced customers, we are able to select dives with almost no overlap in locations, even for a 3-day, 9-dive itinerary.
For those who want to carefully search for macro life and take lots of photos, a macro diving specialty shop is recommended. There are diving shops of this style in Miyako Island. BIGHOLIDAY is a shop for fun divers who want to enjoy dynamic underwater topography.
BIGHOLIDAY's Fun Diving — How to Actually Dive
Shifted to focusing on fun diving from 2016.
BIGHOLIDAY was founded in 2012, and shifted its focus to fun diving in 2016. Currently, we do not offer introductory dives, snorkeling, or license courses, but rather guide fun divers who hold a C-card and have completed 30 or more dives.
The average number of dives a guest has completed is 262 (based on actual data from 2025). Because we attract experienced customers, on days when sea conditions permit, we can select dive sites that include Miyako Island's three major dive sites and deep-sea dive sites with unique topography. Rather than emphasizing the number of years we've been in business, what's important is the approach we've taken to refine our service.
Captain Totty's point selection × 4-person guide team
The owner and captain, Totty (who has lived in Miyako Island for 21 years and has guided over 60,000 divers), is in charge of assessing sea conditions and designing the overall dive site. Underwater, a team of four guides will lead small groups of up to six people per guide. Approximately 150 dive sites are selected annually from Miyako Island's three major dive sites alone (2025 actual: 147 dives, confirmed figure based on BIGHOLIDAY's business performance)—this number underscores the judgement skills required for dive site selection.
A two-story cruiser designed specifically for fun diving.
BIGHOLIDAY's boat, "BRIENDS2," is a two-story diving cruiser designed in-house specifically for fun diving (launched in 2018). Its two-story structure provides approximately 1.5 times the floor space, with individual seats and storage boxes for each passenger. Amenities include two toilets with bidet functions (large enough for changing), two hot showers (280 liters daily), two camera storage spaces, and a gently sloping ladder for easy exit. The boat's comfort has also been highly praised in Google reviews (4.8 out of 50).
Daily Schedule
BIGHOLIDAY's fun dives consist of three dives per day, all conducted from a boat. It's a resort-style diving experience where everything, from meeting up to disbanding, takes place on the diving boat.
9:15
Meet at the port
9:30
Departure and Briefing
a.m.
First and second dives
12:30
Lunch break (on the boat)
13:30
Third dive
14:30
Return to port
15:00 ~ 15:30
Equipment cleaning, logbook entry, and disbandment.
The meeting time and port may change depending on sea conditions, wind direction, and the decision to operate on the day. The final details will be sent to you the evening before your reservation date.
Pricing (2026)
1 dives
Price (tax included): 16,500 JPY(TAX+)
含まれるもの: Guide fee, boat fare, tank, weights
2 dives
Price (tax included): 20,900 JPY(TAX+)
含まれるもの: Guide fee, boat fare, tank, weights
3 dives
Price (tax included): 25,300 JPY(TAX+)
含まれるもの: Guide fee, boat fare, tank, weights
Additional costsChuraumi Cooperation Fee: ¥500/day, Fuel Surcharge: ¥1,100/day. Full rental equipment (BCD, regulator, wetsuit, etc.) is ¥5,500/day. If you have your own equipment, you do not need to rent. We also offer advance shipping of equipment via courier. Free underwater camera rental is planned to continue until the end of 2026. For availability from 2027 onwards, please check the latest information at the time of booking or on the pricing page.
Fun diving rates and rental equipment list
Transportation/Access
We offer free pick-up and drop-off service to and from accommodations in and around the city. If you are arriving by rental car, please meet directly at the port. The port to meet at will change depending on the sea conditions and wind direction on the day, so we will contact you the evening before. It takes 10-20 minutes by rental car from Miyako Airport to each port. Diving on the day of arrival is possible if your flight arrives in the 8:00 AM hour.
Pick-up/drop-off area and service details
Achievements and evaluations
Google reviews: 4.8 / 5.0 (50 reviews)—Point Select is highly rated for its customer satisfaction and boat comfort.
Marine Diving Award We have been ranked in the Best Diving Shop category for three consecutive years (13th in 2023, 16th in 2024, and 16th in 2025). Our staff has also been ranked in the Best Instructor & Guide Diver category for two consecutive years.
Commendation from the Director-General of the Japan Coast Guard(March 15, 2024, for achievements in maritime rescue. A three-level promotion from department head to headquarters director to director-general, receiving the highest level of award.) This award demonstrates his commitment to safety management.
Manta ray cleaning station "Manta Hospital" discovered(March 2025). BIGHOLIDAY was discovered and named at a depth of 25m off the coast of Ikema Island. A GPS tag survey project is also underway in collaboration with manta ray researchers at OIST (Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University).
YouTube “Totty / scuba diving”(1.2 subscribers) They share footage of actual dives. You can check the atmosphere of the dive site and the skills of the guide in advance through underwater video.
YouTube channel "Totty / scuba diving" - Miyako Island diving video channel
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. I have just under 30 flights of experience; can I still participate?
Yes, you can participate if you have 30 or more dives of experience. We will conduct a skills check (neutral buoyancy, ear equalization, air consumption) on the first dive of the day to prepare for the second dive at the main point. We will also provide advice and practice time for those who consume air quickly. If you have had a long break from diving, we may recommend that you do a refresher dive at another shop before coming with us.
Q. I have less than 30 dives under my belt. Can I dive in Miyako Island?
BIGHOLIDAY requires participants to have at least 30 dives under their belt, so we are unable to accept your application. However, there are many shallow, low-difficulty dive sites where even beginners and divers who haven't dived in a while can safely and enjoyably dive. Beginner-friendly diving shops tend to focus on selecting such sites. Try searching using keywords like "beginner-friendly" or look for shops that also offer snorkeling or introductory dives. Looking at the atmosphere of the customers featured in the shop's blog will help you determine if it's a good fit for your skill level.
Q. I'd like to dive mainly for macro photography; will I enjoy it?
BIGHOLIDAY is a dive shop that focuses on exploring dynamic terrain and caves. They don't typically do dives that involve leisurely searching for macro life in sandy areas or coral reefs. If macro photography is your goal, there are macro dive specialists in Miyako Island, and you'll likely be more satisfied there. Checking the shop's blog to see what dive sites they actually visit will help you find a shop that suits you.
Q. Can I participate even if I'm alone?
Approximately half of BIGHOLIDAY's guests attend alone. Because it's a small group setting (one guide, maximum of six people), you'll naturally get to know the other guests.
Q. Do you offer equipment rentals?
We offer full rental equipment (BCD, regulator, wetsuit, mask, fins, etc.) for ¥5,500/day. However, we recommend bringing your own equipment if you have it, as it will reduce stress underwater. We also offer equipment shipping in advance, and a cleaning, drying, packing, and cash-on-delivery shipping service after your dive.
Pricing and rental equipment details
Q. What are the chances of being able to visit the three major scenic spots in Miyako Island?
We select Miyako Island's three major dive sites a total of approximately 150 times per year (2025 figures: Maou 60 times, Gaudi 66 times, Toriike 21 times). If you dive for 2-3 consecutive days, there is a very high probability that you will be able to visit one of Miyako Island's three major dive sites. However, safety is our top priority, so we will not force a selection on days with bad sea conditions.
Q. When is the best time to make a reservation to be sure?
It's best to book as early as possible. Popular diving shops in Miyako Island can fill up two months in advance. If you find a shop you like, we recommend booking two to six months in advance. We can accommodate last-minute bookings if there are openings, so please feel free to contact us.
Check availability and make a reservation.
Articles you should read before making a reservation
The underwater scenery around Miyako Island changes dramatically with the seasons. We offer a complete guide tailored to the time of your visit.
Complete Guide to Winter Diving in Miyako Island | Explanation of Visibility and Manta Rays in Shimoji Island in December, January, and February
Complete Guide to Diving in Miyako Island's Topography | Top 3 Diving Spots, Seasons, and Shop Selection
Complete Guide to Cave Diving in Miyako Island | All Diving Spots Explained by Difficulty Level
Miyako Island Diving Guide for Advanced Divers | Diving Spots, Seasons, and Shop Selection for Intermediate and Advanced Divers
Complete Guide to Miyako Island's Top 3 Attractions: The Demon King's Palace, Antonio Gaudí, and Toriike Pond
Miyakojima Manta Diving: Manta Hospital Season, Location and Sightings
BIGHOLIDAY Fun Diving Rates
Totty — BIGHOLIDAY Owner's Guide
I've lived in Miyako Island for 21 years (since 2005). I specialize in fun diving. I select Miyako Island's three major dive sites more than 150 times a year, and I've done about 20,000 dives in Miyako Island. YouTube "Totty / scuba diving" shares Miyakojima diving information with more than twelve thousand subscribers.
Since 2023, we have been among the top-ranked Marine Diving Award winners for three consecutive years.
2023 Japan Coast Guard Director-General's Award (for meritorious service in maritime rescue)
Discoverer of Miyako Island's first manta ray station in 2025
