Whether you’re working from home, sheltering in place or just staying home, if you’re like us, you’re probably dreaming of open skies, sandy beaches, tall mountains, or perfect powdery slopes. Our travel plans may be on hold, but that doesn’t mean we can’t dream up where we’ll go next.

Welcome to virtual vacation video series where we can explore destinations from the comfort of our homes.

Join us as we take a short virtual journey to Miyako Island.

Miyako is easy to get to from most bases around Japan’s mainland and is a quick flight from Tokyo and Okinawa. Miyako Island has plenty of culture, shopping, activities and food, which make it a great place for a getaway.

Some of the must-see spots on Miyako Island include:

• Sunayama Beach— Only a 15-minute drive away from Miyakojima Airport, this sandy beach is as its name in Japanese suggests: a beach beyond a small “sand mountain.” Once you reach the bottom of the “mountain,” you will be greeted by a cove in the shape of a gateway welcoming you to this beautiful location.

• Higashihennazaki— This is a cape stretching about 1.2 miles providing a dynamic view you will not find anywhere else in Okinawa. As you travel through this stretch, you’ll notice large rocks and boulders along the coastline thought to be remnants of an earthquake from 250 years ago.

• Irabu-Ohashi Bridge— The bridge, at 2.2-miles long, is the lengthiest toll-free bridge in Japan and it connects Miyako and Irabu islands. This bridge also provides stunning ocean views.

• Tooriike on Irabu Island— This area along the islands rocky coast is a popular diving spot and consists of two interconnected ponds.

While touring Okinawa, make sure you try some local mango. Especially during the summer, the juicy taste of the island’s signature fruit dazzles many tourists and locals.

I hope you enjoyed a look at Miyako Island through travel photos and that it's inspired your next trip. Stay safe and get ready to travel with us in our next video. Thanks for watching!