Kaichu Road, Okinawa: A Spectacular Drive Through Emerald-Green Seas

Kaichu Road is one of Okinawa’s most popular scenic drives, offering the unforgettable feeling of cruising across the Emerald-Green sea.

Stretching for approximately 5 km (3.1 miles), the road leads to Henza Island and serves as the gateway to beautiful remote islands such as Hamahiga Island, Miyagi Island, and Ikei Island, each with its own unique charm.

Along the way, you can stop at “Ayahashi Sea Station”, a roadside rest area, or relax at one of the beautiful beaches nearby.

There’s plenty to enjoy beyond the drive itself.

In this article, we’ll introduce the highlights of Kaichu Road, its must-see attractions, and the essential information you need before your visit.

Japanese Page

Kaichu Road: Features and Highlights

What Is Kaichu Road? A Scenic Drive Connecting Four Islands

Kaichu Road is a road about 5 km (3.1 miles) long. It connects Okinawa Main Island with Henza Island in Uruma City.

Many people think the road goes under the sea because of its name. However, it was actually built on reclaimed land across the sea.

Beautiful Emerald-Green Water stretches out on both sides of the road. As you drive, you will feel like you are driving across the sea.

From Henza Island, bridges connect to Hamahiga Island, Miyagi Island, and Ikei Island. This makes it easy to visit all four islands in one trip.

Kaichu Road is popular for scenic drives, motorcycle tours, and cycling.

Highlight 1: A Spectacular Drive Through Emerald-Green Seas

The best thing about Kaichu Road is the Beautiful View of the Sea.

At low tide, the shallow coral reefs appear, and you can see the sea change from blue to green.

On sunny days, the sky and the sea seem to become one. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery that Okinawa is famous for.

There are places along the road where you can park your car. They are great spots for taking photos.

In the morning, you can enjoy fresh and clear views. In the evening, the sea and sky glow with the colors of the sunset. The scenery changes depending on the time of day.

Highlight 2: “Ayahashi Sea Station” – Souvenirs and Local Cuisine

“Ayahashi Sea Station” is a popular stop near the middle of Kaichu Road. It is a great place to take a break and get travel information.

Inside, you will find a shop that sells local products and souvenirs. You can also find many special products from Uruma City.

The snack corner serves local Okinawan food. There is also an observation area where you can enjoy a great view of Kaichu Road and the beautiful sea.

It is a perfect place to rest during your drive. It is also a good place to start your trip around the nearby islands.

Marine Culture Museum: Learn About Okinawa’s Sea and Island Life

Inside Ayahashi Sea Station, you will also find the “Marine Culture Museum.”

The museum shows the history of Okinawa’s fishing, sea culture, and traditional way of life. Models and displays make everything easy to understand.

You can learn how people have lived with the sea for many years. Both adults and children can enjoy the museum while learning about Okinawa’s history and culture.

It is a great place to enjoy not only the beautiful views but also Okinawa’s rich culture.

Highlight 3: “Kaichu Road Beach” – A Popular Spot for Marine

“Kaichu Road Beach” is an artificial beach near Ayahashi Sea Station.

The water is shallow and the waves are calm. Rather than swimming, many people come here to enjoy clam digging at low tide and the beautiful sea views.

Water activities like SUP and kayaking are also popular.

There is a large grassy area and covered picnic shelters, so families and groups can relax and enjoy their time together.

It is also a great place to take a walk by the sea during your drive.

Highlight 4: Explore the Nearby Islands (Hamahiga Island, Miyagi Island, and Ikei Island)

One of the best things about Kaichu Road is visiting the islands beyond it.

The islands are connected by bridges, so you can easily drive to them without taking a ferry.

Each island has its own charm. You can visit sacred historical sites, enjoy beautiful views, and relax at beaches surrounded by nature.

If you have enough time, try visiting more than one island. You can enjoy a slower and more peaceful island life that is different from Okinawa Main Island.

Hamahiga Island : Popular Spots

“Hamahiga Island” is known as the “Island of the Gods.” It is a sacred island where Okinawa’s creation stories have been passed down for many years.

Popular places to visit include “Shirumichu” and “Amamichu’s Tomb“, which are known as power spots.

The island also has beautiful beaches and quiet villages with a traditional Okinawan atmosphere.

“Hamahiga Beach” is another popular spot on the island. It has the feel of a resort beach and is a great place for swimming and camping.

Life moves slowly on the island, making it a perfect place for a relaxing walk.

Miyagi Island : Popular Spots

“Miyagi Island” is famous for its beautiful views from high cliffs.

One of the best places to visit is “Kafu Banta“, a famous viewpoint where you can enjoy a wide view of the Emerald-Green Sea.

At the “Nuchima-su Salt Factory“, you can also learn how Okinawan sea salt is made.

Ikei Island : Popular Spots

“Ikei Island” is a popular island with beautiful natural beaches.

At “Ikei Beach” and “Odomari Beach,” you can enjoy clear blue water.

The island is also home to sugarcane fields and peaceful countryside, making it a great place for a relaxing drive and to enjoy Okinawa’s natural beauty.

It is the perfect place to end your trip along Kaichu Road.

You can also visit the “Nakabaru Ruins“, a prehistoric site from the Jomon period. It is a great place for people who enjoy history.

Kaichu Road: Basic Info, Fees, Parking, and Access

Basic Information

Name	Kaichu Road
Photo
Address	Uruma-City, Okinawa
Official Website	Uruma City Tourism and Products Association Official Website
Tel	-
Hours	*Kaichu Road: Open 24 hours (Free to drive) *Ayahashi Station: Open 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Closed	-
Fee	*Kaichu Road: Free to drive *Marine Culture Museum: Free *The facilities on the surrounding islands are mostly free to visit, although some beaches may charge an admission or parking fee.
Parking	Kaichu Road Parking: Free
Access	*About 1 hour 15 minutes by car from Naha Airport *About 30 minutes by car from the Okinawa Kita IC on the Okinawa Expressway
Description	A Spectacular Drive Through Emerald-Green Seas

Fees

Kaichu Road, Kaichu Road Beach, and Ayahashi Sea Station are free to visit.

Most places on the nearby islands are also free. However, some beaches may charge a facility fee.

Please see the table below for more information.

Kaichu Road

Place	Fee
Kaichu Road	Free (No toll)
Kaichu Road Beach	Free
Parking	Free
Marine Culture Museum	Free
Kaichu Road Observation Deck	Free

Hamahiga Island

Place	Fee
Hamahiga Beach	Free
Amamichu’s Tomb	Free
Shirumichu	Free

Miyagi Island

Place	Fee
Kafu Banta	Free
Nuchima-su Salt Factory	Factory Tour: Free

Ikei Island

Place	Fee
Ikei Beach	Adults: 600 yen, Children: 400 yen
Odomari Beach	Adults: 500 yen, Children 300 yen
Nakabaru Ruins	Free

Parking

There are large free parking lots near Kaichu Road Beach and Ayahashi Sea Station.

You can use them for free.

Estimated Time Required

Kaichu Road is not very long, so you can drive across it in just a few minutes.

Near the middle of the road, you will find a large parking lot, Kaichu Road Beach, and Ayahashi Sea Station.

If you stop to enjoy the views and look around the souvenir shops, plan to spend about 1 hour.

If you also visit the nearby islands beyond Kaichu Road, it is best to allow about half a day (3 to 4 hours).

Access