HK Express Resumes Summer Flights to Miyako Island, Offering Direct Access to Japan’s Tropical Paradise
In a strategic boost to regional air travel and leisure tourism, HK Express has resumed its seasonal flight service connecting Hong Kong to Miyako (Shimojishima) Island in Japan’s Okinawa Prefecture. Starting June 27, 2025, the airline will operate four flights weekly to Shimojishima Airport (SHI), a gateway to one of Japan’s most pristine and tranquil island destinations.
This relaunch marks a significant opportunity for travelers looking to escape city life and explore the serene beauty of the Miyako Islands, known for their crystal-clear waters, powder-white beaches, and rich Okinawan heritage. HK Express, a low-cost subsidiary of Cathay Pacific, continues to expand its leisure-focused routes amid growing demand for short-haul island getaways across Asia.
Scenic Gateway to Okinawa’s Hidden Gem
The reintroduced flights land directly at Shimojishima Airport, located on a small yet accessible islet connected via bridges to the larger Miyako Island and nearby Irabu Island. This seamless access makes it easier than ever for tourists from Hong Kong to explore the full range of attractions the archipelago offers without the need for inter-island transfers.
Miyako Island stands out as one of Japan’s top tropical escapes. With its laid-back atmosphere and unspoiled environment, the island provides a perfect counterpoint to the hustle of urban life. Despite its natural beauty, Miyako remains relatively under the radar for international tourists, preserving its charm and authenticity.
Beaches That Inspire Awe
The highlight of any trip to Miyako is undoubtedly its beaches. Yonaha Maehama Beach is often ranked among Japan’s most beautiful, stretching over seven kilometers of fine white sand and calm, turquoise sea. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and watching vibrant sunsets.
Equally enticing is Aragusuku Beach, a family-friendly spot popular for snorkeling. The shallow coral reefs are teeming with colorful marine life, making it a favorite among underwater explorers and beginner snorkelers alike. Calm waters and soft sands make it suitable for children and older travelers.
For those seeking seclusion and unique natural scenery, Sunayama Beach offers dramatic rock formations and a picture-perfect stone arch framing the open sea. Accessible via a short forest trail, the beach is a haven for photographers and nature lovers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.
A Culinary Adventure
Miyako Island’s culinary landscape is as rich as its scenery. One of its crown jewels is Miyako beef, a premium wagyu variety known for its exceptional marbling and melt-in-the-mouth texture. Often grilled in yakiniku restaurants or featured in gourmet dishes, Miyako beef has become a sought-after delicacy for foodies.
Visitors should also try the locally famous Miyako soba—a noodle soup with subtle differences from Okinawa soba. Served with pork, fish cake, or vegetables, the toppings are hidden beneath the noodles, offering a layered experience of taste and texture.
To top it all off, the island’s summer mangoes are a seasonal favorite. Juicy, fragrant, and sun-ripened, these tropical fruits are widely considered among the best in Japan and are often used in desserts, smoothies, and local festivals.
Strategic Timing for Summer Escapes
The timing of HK Express’s route relaunch coincides with the peak summer travel period, appealing to holidaymakers seeking tropical escapes within a short flight from Hong Kong. With more travelers prioritizing nature, wellness, and slower travel experiences post-pandemic, Miyako Island ticks all the boxes.
Outdoor enthusiasts can engage in marine sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and scuba diving, while cultural seekers can explore the island’s local crafts, spiritual heritage sites, and village festivals that highlight Okinawan culture.
Strengthening Tourism and Connectivity
The seasonal route underscores HK Express’s continued commitment to supporting Japan-bound tourism and strengthening regional connectivity. Since its debut in 2016, the airline has focused on affordable access to leisure destinations, and the revival of the Hong Kong–Shimojishima route complements this mission.
Japan remains a top international destination for Hongkongers, and Okinawa’s remote islands offer a distinct alternative to mainland favorites like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. As regional travel rebounds, especially to beach and nature-focused locales, Miyako’s appeal is set to grow further.
HK Express’s decision to reinstate the route is also aligned with the Japanese government’s broader tourism push for Okinawa. Local authorities are investing in tourism infrastructure and promoting the southern islands as key pillars of their “Visit Japan” campaign.
Final Boarding Call for Paradise
With direct flights now available four times a week, vacationers from Hong Kong can easily plan a relaxing island escape to Miyako. Whether for a long weekend or an extended stay, the combination of serene beaches, vibrant marine life, flavorful cuisine, and gentle island hospitality makes Miyako one of Asia’s most underrated summer gems.
As more travelers search for meaningful, nature-rich getaways, HK Express’s renewed service offers a timely and convenient path to one of Japan’s most breathtaking corners—just a short flight away.
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