The Irabu Ohashi, completed in January 2015, spans 3,540 metres across the shallow lagoon connecting Miyako to Irabu Island — at the time of its opening, the longest toll-free bridge in Japan. Driving across it, especially early in the morning or at dusk, is one of the island's essential experiences: the road rises and falls in a series of gentle curves over water so clear you can see the seabed and the reef patches below.
From the bridge, the views extend in all directions — back to Miyako's flat silhouette, forward to Irabu and Shimoji islands, and out to open ocean. Stop in one of the small lay-bys partway across (there are a few) to get out and look. On the Irabu side, Toguchi-no-Hama beach and the village of Sawada are worth the short detour.