The Miyako pony is a rare breed of pony originating from Miyako Island in Japan. The Miyako is one of eight breeds considered native to Japan. 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 and after World War II they were crossed with larger stallions to increased their size to around 14 hands high for farming purposes. They are mostly used as riding ponies and for light draft work.