In 1896, with the Imperial Edict No.13 of 1896 "Edict concerning organization of counties in Okinawa Prefecture," five counties (Shimajiri, Nakagami, Kunigami, Miyako and Yaeyama Counties) were created and island governments (Toshi) were established in Miyako and Yaeyama.
1896年（明治29年）明治29年勅令第13号「沖縄県ノ郡編制ニ関スル件」により、島尻郡、中頭郡、国頭郡、宮古郡、八重山郡の五郡を設置し、宮古と八重山に島庁（島司）を置いた。