Driving is another way for you to enjoy the gorgeous scenery of Okinawa! The straight road surrounded by ocean, the romantic sunset, the little-known beach, the observation tower etc. Which is the one that you wish to visit? We are going to introduce those places in this article. Leave us comments in the comment box!
Kouri Bridge + Warumi Strait
The Kouri Bridge connects both Kouri Island and Yagaji Island with 1,960m in length. Driving along the long straight road on this emerald green ocean is undoubtable a wonderful experience! At the end of this road, you can find beaches and gift shops.
The Warumi Bridge connects both Hon Jima (Okinawa Island) and Yagaji Island. Warumi Strait can be seen from the bridge. As the bridge is 37m in height, it is an ideal spot to have a whole view of the surroundings. This is a typical driving route as many of the tourists from the Churaumi Aquarium would pass thru both Warumi Bridge and Kouri Bridge.
Place:Northern Okinawa island. Motobu Peninsula
Mid-Sea Road + Katsuren Castle Ruins
This 5km bridge above the sea with unlimited view of Okinawa’s ocean is another popular drive route. 4 islands including Hamahiga Island, Ikei Island are connected by this bridge.
Katsuren Castle was registered as World Cultural Heritage. It is a castle town that is said to have lived by Kazutariyu Aman who brought prosperity for overseas trade during the 15th century. You can overlook the shining blue sea from the top.
Places: Eastern Okinawa Island. Uruma City
Cape Maeda + Moon Beach + Manzamo
The west coast is the signature resort area for Okinawa. Cape Maeda is facing the deep blue west coast, famous with the Blue Cave, and also not forgettable with the long steps along it. You can even spot whales going north from the observatory deck around February to April. Why don’t you take rest at Onnano Eki (rest area) to try the local food, Sata-Andagi.
Hotel Moon Beach is located at a resort area in Onna-son. It has a private beach which is also accessible to even non-hotel guest with a fee. The beach is even selected as “The best 100 beached” by the Ministry of Environment. Relaxing at this smooth beach is for sure a good choice.
Manzamo Cape is among the best cliffs in Okinawa. The stone with the shape of elephant’s nose on the deep-blue sea, is one of the most symbolic thing here. Sunset at this place is also well-known.
Place: Okinawa Island. Onna Village
Niraikania Bridge + Sefa Utaki
A bridge with 660m long and 80m between the highest and the lowest point, draws a big curve towards the sea. “Niraikanai” means the ideal utopia over the sea. This bridge faces the Cape Chinen and Kudaka Island (the God island) which float on the cobalt-blue sea. Let’s go to the observatory on the tunnel
Sefa Utaki is a sacred place representing Okinawa and is still well protected. Let's experience the spiritual world of Okinawa in a sacred space registered as the world cultural heritage.
Place: Southern Okinawa Island. Nanjo City Chinen
Cape Kiyatake + Peace Memorial Park
Cape Kiyatake is a tourist spot with a steep cliff and azure water around it, located at the southern end of Okinawa. It is also well-known by the deep blue of the ocean and you can enjoy a different view from the ocean seen at other spots in Okinawa.
The Peace Memorial Park was located was previously the battleground of Okinawa war. Facilities such as memorial towers and museums were built to make people realize the preciousness of peace. Let’s pray for the world permanent peace.
Place: Southern Okinawa Island. Itsumi City
Cape Hedo
Cape Hedo is located at the northernmost tip of Okinawa main island. The way the waves hit the cliff is very dynamic. You can experience the mother nature along the scenery. This place is registered as the Okinawa Coast National Park. Yoron Island can be seen from here on sunny days.。
Place: Northern Okinawa Island. Kunigami Village
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