If you were asked to make a wish list of tropical island destinations, chances are Japan would not be on it. That’s about to change as word spreads about Okinawa, a string of hundreds of islands stretching almost a thousand kilometres from the southern-most tip of the mainland toward Taiwan.

Miyako Island is at just about the centre point, favoured with long stretches of white sand like Aragusuku and Yonaha-Maehama beaches. It has many of the same natural attractions as everyone’s favourite beach destinations, like Thailand and Hawaii, but with a fraction of the crowds. It’s also a major destination for snorkelling and diving in the coral reefs…and don’t forget to sample the Miyakojima cuisine, start with the Miyako soba, and finish with the Miyako beef.