Kouri Island Beach – Complete Travel Guide - Japan Travel Sights

Just across the Kouri Bridge in Nakijin Village, northern Okinawa, lies a small island known as Kouri Island.

Though compact with a circumference of only about 8 km, its beauty ranks among the finest in Okinawa. Imagine emerald-blue waters where the sky and sea melt into one another, white sandy beaches glittering under the sun, and a seascape that changes dramatically with the tide.

It is a paradise that captivates visitors at first sight.

Kouri Island is often called “the Island of Love” and is steeped in legend, home to the Okinawan version of the Adam and Eve creation myth. Its beaches each hold unique charms: the romantic Heart Rock beloved by couples, the lively Kouri Beach popular with families, and quiet local spots frequented by residents.

In this guide, we’ll introduce the six representative beaches of Kouri Island in detail. You’ll find information on entrance fees, available facilities, how to get there, the best seasons to visit, and even nearby food and sightseeing spots. With this guide, even first-time visitors can fully enjoy the island without worry.

Getting to Kouri Island

Kouri Island is a rare “remote island” you can access directly by car from Okinawa’s main island. Crossing the 2 km-long Kouri Bridge brings you straight to the island, making it possible to visit even on a day trip from Naha.

On both sides of the bridge, the emerald-blue sea stretches endlessly—a breathtaking highlight of any Okinawa drive.

🚗 By Car from Naha Airport

• Travel time: approx. 1.5 to 2 hours
• Example route: Naha Airport → Okinawa Expressway (enter at Naha IC or Tomigusuku IC) → Exit at Kyoda IC → Drive north along Route 58 → Take Prefectural Route 110 → Cross Kouri Bridge.
• Tip: Using the expressway makes the trip smooth. Stopping at roadside stations or Nago City along the way is also recommended.

※ Several paid parking lots are available on Kouri Island (approx. 300–500 yen per use), especially near Kouri Beach and Tinu Beach (Heart Rock). During summer and holidays, lots get crowded, so arriving in the morning is best.

🚌 By Public Transportation

Unfortunately, there is no direct bus service to Kouri Island, making it less convenient.

1. Take a highway bus from Naha Airport to Nago Bus Terminal (about 1 hour 45 minutes).
2. From there, transfer to a local bus heading toward Nakijin Village (about 30–40 minutes).
3. Get off near Kouri Bridge, then walk onto the island.

⚠️ Notes:

• Bus frequency is very limited, making day trips impractical.
• If you have luggage or want to explore efficiently, renting a car or joining a guided tour is highly recommended.

🚙 Rental Car or Guided Tour

Renting a car is the most common and convenient way to explore Okinawa. Since Kouri Island is small (approx. 8 km around), it’s easy to drive around the island and visit all the beaches.

For those less comfortable driving, sightseeing tours combining Kouri Island with Nago or the Churaumi Aquarium are also available.

🌅 The Charm of the Drive

Crossing Kouri Bridge is an unforgettable moment: endless sea and sky stretch out on both sides. At sunset, the view becomes even more magical as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sea in golden hues.

Visiting Kouri Island is not just about the destination—the journey across the bridge is itself one of the highlights of the trip.

The 5 Beaches of Kouri Island

1. Kouri Beach

• Entrance Fee: Free
• Facilities: Toilets, showers (from 100 yen), changing rooms, rentals (snorkels, parasols, floats, etc.)
• Features:
  Located right at the foot of Kouri Bridge, this is the island’s main beach. Its calm, shallow waters are safe for families and beginners, making it the busiest and most accessible beach. It’s also the base for many marine activities.
• Tips: Gets very crowded during summer holidays—visit early in the day.
• Best for: Swimming, banana boats, snorkeling, and taking iconic photos with Kouri Bridge in the background.

2. Tokei Beach (Pot Hole)

• Entrance Fee: Free
• Facilities: Natural beach. Showers, toilets, and rentals available at nearby private facilities (100–300 yen).
• Features:
  A series of natural coves create a mystical atmosphere. Coral reefs still remain here, and the crystal-clear waters are home to colorful tropical fish. Great for snorkeling except at low tide. Frequently used as a filming location for movies and TV dramas.
• Tips: Beyond the reef, the water drops off suddenly—extra caution needed for children and beginners.
• Best for: Snorkeling, photography, and quietly enjoying nature.

3. Peace Beach

• Entrance Fee: Free
• Facilities: None
• Features:
  Located next to Tokei Beach, but much quieter. Accessed through a lush green path, it feels like a hidden, secret beach.
• Tips: No facilities—bring your own drinks and towels.
• Best for: Relaxation, reading, and enjoying peace and solitude.

4. Tinu Beach (Heart Rock)

• Entrance Fee: Free
• Facilities: Paid parking (approx. 300–500 yen), small shops available.
• Features:
  One of Kouri Island’s most iconic spots. Two rocks jutting out of the sea form a heart shape, earning it the name “Heart Rock.” A romantic destination popular with couples and a favorite for social media photos.
• Tips: The appearance of the rocks changes with the tide—visit at low tide for the best view. Arrive in the morning to avoid crowds.
• Best for: Romantic photos and memorable moments with loved ones.

5. Chigunu Beach

• Entrance Fee: Free
• Facilities: None
• Features:
  Associated with the Okinawan creation myth of Adam and Eve (Uminchu and Amamichu). A cave linked to this legend remains by the shore. Unlike tourist beaches, locals often use it for swimming or fishing.
• Tips: The sea is deep, so not ideal for swimming. The main attraction is exploring the cave and its mystical atmosphere.
• Best for: Strolling and enjoying local folklore.

Best Seasons to Enjoy Kouri’s Beaches

• Summer (June–September): Best for swimming and marine activities. The sea’s clarity and vibrancy are at their peak.
• Spring & Autumn (March–May / October–November): Pleasant weather, fewer crowds. Ideal for sightseeing and relaxed beach walks.
• Winter (December–February): Too cold for swimming, but with fewer tourists, you can enjoy the tranquility and stunning bridge drives.

Nearby Attractions & Food

• Kouri Ocean Tower (Admission: ¥1,000 adults)
  An observatory with panoramic views of Kouri Bridge and the surrounding sea.
• Island Cafés
  Trendy cafés offering Kouri Island burgers, tropical smoothies, and mango desserts, many with ocean-view terraces.
• Nearby Sightseeing Spots
  • Churaumi Aquarium (approx. 30 minutes by car)
  • Nakijin Castle Ruins (World Heritage Site)
  • Bise Fukugi Tree Road, perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Summary

All of Kouri Island’s beaches are free to enter. Some, like Kouri Beach and Tokei Beach, charge small fees for facilities such as showers or parking. Others, like Chigunu Beach, are entirely natural with no amenities—so be prepared.

Adding Kouri Island to your Okinawa itinerary offers not only pristine beaches but also legends, local culture, and breathtaking scenery.

On your next trip, discover your own favorite beach and create unforgettable memories on this romantic island.