Kouri Island: Stunning Emerald-Green Waters! One of Okinawa’s Most Popular Scenic Drive Routes

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Kouri Island, located in northern Okinawa Main Island, is a popular remote island known for its Beautiful Beaches and Scenic Drives.

As you cross Kouri Bridge, you are welcomed by breathtaking Emerald-Green Waters stretching out before you.

Many people say it is their favorite view in Okinawa. It is loved not only by first-time visitors but also by travelers who return again and again.

The island is full of attractions, including Crystal-Clear Beaches, Heart Rock, a Famous Romantic Power Spot, and Scenic Viewpoints with spectacular views.

There are also plenty of cafes, local food, and souvenir shops, making it a perfect place for a relaxing drive.

In this article, we’ll introduce the must-visit attractions on Kouri Island.

Kouri Island: Features and Highlights

What Is Kouri Island? A Scenic Island Surrounded by Emerald-Green Waters

Kouri Island is a small remote island located in Nakijin Village in northern Okinawa Main Island.

Since the opening of Kouri Bridge in 2005, the island has become easily accessible by car and is now one of Okinawa’s most popular tourist destinations.

The island’s biggest attraction is its Beautiful Emerald-Green Waters.

Driving across the bridge feels like traveling over the sea. On sunny days, the blue sky and crystal-clear water create a breathtaking view that will make you want to stop and take photos.

Kouri Island is also known as the “Island of Love.”

It is home to Heart Rock and Okinawa’s version of the Adam and Eve legend, making it a popular destination for couples and visitors hoping for good luck in love.

Now, let’s take a look at the island’s main attractions.

Highlight 1: Kouri Bridge – A Spectacular Drive Across the Sea

When people think of Kouri Island, the first thing that comes to mind is Kouri Bridge.

This bridge, about 2 km long, connects Okinawa Main Island with Kouri Island. The moment you drive onto the bridge, you’ll be amazed by the emerald-green waters stretching out on both sides.

The feeling of driving across the sea is truly unforgettable and is one of the best scenic drives in Okinawa.

Just before the bridge, there is a viewing area with a popular photo spot overlooking Kouri Bridge.

Many of the photos of Kouri Bridge you see on social media are taken from this location.

Your Kouri Island adventure begins the moment you cross the bridge. Take your time, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and have a relaxing drive.

Highlight 2: Kouri Beach – A Crystal-Clear Beach with Stunning Views

After crossing Kouri Bridge, the first place you’ll see on your left is Kouri Beach.

With its white sandy shore and crystal-clear waters, it is one of Kouri Island’s most beautiful beaches. The water is so clear that you can often see fish swimming in the shallow areas.

The beach has shallow, calm waters, making it a great place for families with young children to enjoy the sea.

In summer, many visitors come here for swimming and snorkeling, but the scenery alone is worth the visit.

There are also restaurants and small shops just a short walk from the beach, making it a perfect stop during your drive.

Don’t forget to take a photo with Kouri Bridge in the background for a classic Okinawa memory.

Highlight 3: Kouri Island Station Sorahashi – Enjoy Local Food and Souvenirs

If you’re looking for a place to take a break during your visit to Kouri Island, Kouri Island Station Sorahashi is a great choice.

Here you’ll find restaurants serving Okinawan Food, a stylish cafe, and souvenir shops.

There is also a great selection of Okinawan snacks and local specialties, making it the perfect place to find souvenirs or a special gift to remember your trip.

Take a break with a cold drink or a sweet treat, and enjoy the island’s relaxing atmosphere before continuing your drive.

The facility also provides tourist information, making it a convenient place to plan your next stop. If you’re exploring Kouri Island, this is definitely a place worth visiting.

Highlight 4: Tinu Beach (Heart Rock) – The Symbol of Love Island

One of the must-visit spots on Kouri Island is Tinu Beach, home to the famous Heart Rock.

Over many years, the waves shaped two rocks into what looks like a heart, giving this natural landmark its popular name, Heart Rock.

Heart Rock became famous across Japan after appearing in a TV commercial and is now one of Kouri Island’s most popular attractions.

From the parking area, it’s a short walk down to the beach. Once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of the sea and the iconic Heart Rock.

It’s also a popular photo spot, so don’t forget to take a memorable picture during your visit.

Highlight 5: Kouri Ocean Tower – A Scenic Observatory Overlooking Kouri Island

After crossing Kouri Bridge, the first building you’ll notice is Kouri Ocean Tower.

Its unique design, which looks a bit like a giant mushroom, makes it easy to spot!

The view from the observation deck is simply breathtaking. The panoramic scenery of Kouri Bridge, the blue ocean, and the surrounding islands is one of the most iconic views on Kouri Island.

Inside the tower, you’ll find a shell museum featuring seashells from around the world, as well as a restaurant and a cafe where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery.

It’s a wonderful place to relax and take in the views, making it a popular attraction for couples and families alike.

Highlight 6: Even More Attractions to Explore!

Kouri Island has many wonderful places to explore beyond its most famous attractions.

If you have some extra time, it’s worth visiting a few of the island’s hidden gems.

Take a relaxing drive around the island and discover your own favorite views along the way.

Tokei Beach (Pothole) – Unique Rock Formations Shaped by the Waves

Tokei Beach is a hidden gem where you can enjoy beautiful ocean views and unique rock formations.

One of the highlights is the “Pothole,” naturally formed hole in the rock that was created by the power of the waves over many years. Seeing these unusual formations up close is truly impressive.

Because the beach is less crowded than the island’s popular attractions, you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere at your own pace.

The crystal-clear waters also make it a great place for photography. It’s the perfect spot to experience a different side of Kouri Island’s natural beauty.

Chigunu Beach (The Beginning Cave) – Okinawa’s Version of the Adam and Eve Legend

Chigunu Beach is a peaceful spot known for “The Beginning Cave.”

According to local legend, Kouri Island is home to “Okinawa’s version of the Adam and Eve story,” and this cave is believed to be one of the places where the legend began.

This is also one of the reasons why Kouri Island is known as the “Island of Love.”

Although it is not a major tourist attraction, it is a special place where you can learn about the island’s history and legends.

Visiting both The Beginning Cave and Heart Rock will give you a deeper understanding of Kouri Island’s unique charm.

Peace Beach – A Quiet Hidden Beach

If you prefer a quiet beach away from the crowds, Peace Beach is a great choice.

It is a peaceful hidden spot with fewer visitors, where you can relax while listening to the sound of the waves.

It’s a perfect place to stop during your drive, sit back, and simply enjoy the beautiful ocean views.

Tomibansho Ruins (Amajafubaru Rural Park) – A Historic Site with Panoramic Ocean Views

Tomibansho Ruins is a historic site that was once used to watch over the surrounding seas during the Ryukyu Kingdom era.

It is located within “Amajafubaru Rural Park,” the highest point on Kouri Island.

Although the original building no longer remains, the hilltop offers panoramic views of the ocean surrounding the island.

On a clear day, you can relax and enjoy the endless blue waters stretching out before you.

Whether you’re interested in history or simply want to enjoy the scenery, this is a place worth visiting.

Kouri Island Camp Garden – A Scenic Campground with Beautiful Views

Kouri Island Camp Garden is a campground where you can enjoy spectacular views.

Located on a hill, it offers wide-open views and a relaxing atmosphere.

During the day, you can admire the blue ocean. In the evening, you can watch a beautiful sunset, and at night, enjoy a sky full of stars.

Every time of day offers a different side of Kouri Island’s natural beauty.

It’s a great place for campers and anyone who wants to spend a relaxing time on Kouri Island.

I also introduce this campground on my camping website, “Shimatabi Camp.”

If you’re interested in camping, be sure to check it out!

Kouri Island: Basic Info, Fees, Parking, and Access

Kouri Island is a small island in northern Okinawa.

Since it is connected to Okinawa Main Island by Kouri Bridge, you can easily get there by car without taking a ferry.

The island is not very large, so you can visit most of its main attractions in about half a day.

If you have extra time, relax on the beach, stop by a cafe, and enjoy the island’s laid-back atmosphere.

Basic Information

Name	Kouri Island
Photo
Address	Kouri, Nakijin Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa
Official Website	Kouri Island Official Site
Tel	0980-56-4909
Hours	Open 24 hours
Closed	-
Fee	Free
Parking	Free (some paid parking areas available)
Access	About 1 hour 40 minutes by car from Naha Airport (via the Okinawa Expressway)
Description	A popular island known for its Emerald-Green Sea and the Spectacular Views of Kouri Bridge. Major attractions on Kouri Island: *Kouri Bridge *Kouri Beach *Kouri Island Station Sorahashi *Tinu Beach (Heart Rock): The symbol of the Island of Love *Tokei Beach (Pothole) *Chigunu Beach (The Beginning Cave): Home to Okinawa's version of the Adam and Eve legend *Peace Beach *Kouri Ocean Tower *Kouri Island Camp Garden *Tomibansho Ruins (located in Amajafubaru Rural Park)

Fees

There is no admission fee to enter Kouri Island, and crossing Kouri Bridge is also free.

Kouri Beach is free to use as well.

Some parking lots, including the one at Tinu Beach (Heart Rock), charge a parking fee.

Please note that Kouri Ocean Tower requires an admission fee.

Parking

Kouri Beach

Free parking is available.

Tinu Beach (Heart Rock)

Paid parking costs between 200 to 300 yen.

There is also a free parking lot near Tokei Beach, but you’ll need to walk a bit from there.

Estimated Time Required

It takes about 15 to 20 minutes to drive around Kouri Island without stopping.

If you want to visit the main attractions, allow 2 to 3 hours to explore at a relaxed pace.

If you’d like to spend time at the beach or relax at a cafe, plan to stay for half a day to a full day to fully enjoy everything Kouri Island has to offer.

Access