Airport ground staff, Miki Shinjo
Miki Shinjo has worked for many years as a ground staff member at JAL Sky Airport Okinawa, Ishigaki Airport. At the gateway to Yaeyama, she works at the counter and guides passengers at the boarding gate. Miki has been learning Yaeyama dance since she was a child, and is active in the local performing arts club and youth association, carrying on local events and the island's traditional culture.
Near the airport, there is a single road that descends straight to the sea, commonly known as Peegoro Hill. On his commute route, "On a clear day, the boundary between the sky and the sea disappears and the clear blue view is truly beautiful." When he is on the early shift, he can see the morning sun rising over the sea, which makes him feel refreshed.
Approximately 5 minutes by car
This spot, located on the north deck on the second floor of the airport, offers a direct view of the planes parking after landing. "It's really cool to see the planes slowly coming in with Mount Omoto in the background."
There is a marshalling experience corner where you can try guiding an airplane by holding the paddles provided.
Approximately 15 minutes by car
He also commutes to Miyara Bridge, which spans the Miyara River. He says he likes the view from the mangrove river to the sea. "I see people enjoying canoeing and SUP, and it makes me feel calm on my way to work."
Approximately 30 minutes by car
He often brings his four children to a large park on the seafront near the city center. They love the freedom to play on the playground equipment, kick a ball around on the grass, or splash around in the ocean.
Approximately 10 minutes by car
He used to live nearby and would always watch the sunset from here. "The sun setting over the ocean was so beautiful, it was very soothing."
Born in Tonoshiro, Ishigaki City. After graduating from Yae High School, she joined the company and has been working there for about 15 years. Miki was the 32nd Miss Yaeyama in 2011, and her mother was the 3rd Miss Yaeyama. As she says, "I don't want to leave the island," she is a person who loves the island and has never lived outside of Ishigaki.