The Miyako originated in Japan on the Miyako Island. It is used for riding and light draft.

 

Miyako Island in Okinawa Prefecture has been known as a horse breeding area for centuries, and small horses have always been found in this area. During World War II they were crossed with larger stallions to increase their size to around 14 hands for farming purposes.

 

About 1955, population of the Miyako peaked at around 10,000 head. But due to the increase of motorization they began to decline. Great efforts have been made since 1975 to preserve the remaining few Miyako ponies, as the breed is of great antiquity. As of December of 1988 only eleven head were living.

 

The predominant color is bay or dun and they resemble the Mongolian horse. They stand approximately 14 h.h.

 

Population Status: Rare

 

References

Hendricks, Bonnie L., International Encyclopedia of Horse Breeds, Univ of Oklahoma Press, 1995.