Cape Hedo, located at the northernmost tip of the main island, is about 120km from Naha city. Considering the distance, you might be tempted to rule it out as a tourist destination in Okinawa, but wait a minute! At the end of this drive to the northernmost point, one of Okinawa's most spectacular views awaits you, where you can fully experience the magnificent nature of Yanbaru.

It would be a shame to miss it! We'll introduce you to the highlights of the dynamic scenery and recommended spots in the surrounding area, so please use this as a reference.

Table of Contents
1. What kind of place is Cape Hedo?
2. Tourist attractions around Cape Hedo
3. Restaurants around Cape Hedo
4. Accommodation near Cape Hedo
5. How to get to Cape Hedo
Summary

1. What kind of place is Cape Hedo?

Located at the northernmost tip of Okinawa Island, Cape Hedo is about a 2.5-hour drive from Naha Airport. The main attraction is undoubtedly the panoramic view of the deep blue ocean of the Pacific and East China Sea from the cliffs formed by uplifted coral reefs. On a clear day, you can even see Yoron Island and Okinoerabu Island in the distance across the vast ocean.

Standing at the center of the cape is the "Monument to the Struggle for Okinawa's Return to Japan." Erected in 1972, it serves as a testament to Okinawa's return to Japan after being under American rule, and its subsequent establishment as Okinawa Prefecture. During the period of American rule, ceremonies were held where signal fires were lit to pray for Okinawa's return to Japan. Cape Hedo was also a place to pray for peace.

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Cape Hedo is designated as part of the Okinawa Coast National Park, and the well-maintained walking paths make it safe for the elderly, those with strollers, and those in wheelchairs. However, do not approach the rocky areas that do not have railings. If you want to see the beautiful ocean where you can see all the way to the bottom, it is best to go around noon on a calm, sunny day.

2. Tourist attractions around Cape Hedo

Part 1: Oishirinzan

These mountains, characterized by massive rocks and subtropical nature, are reminiscent of Ryukyuan mythology. Considered a sacred place since ancient times, they are also famous as a power spot.

To allow visitors to experience a variety of natural landscapes, walking courses have been established, including the "Giant Rock and Stone Forest Course," the "Beautiful Sea Observation Deck Course," and the "Subtropical Natural Forest Course."

Furthermore, there are wheelchair-accessible courses available, so even those who are not confident in their physical abilities can enjoy the experience with peace of mind. You'll be able to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the landscape.

Image courtesy of:Free Stock Photos by Hoshino
Kongo-iwa Eboshi on the "Churaumi Observatory Course." This impressive landscape was formed when limestone 200 million years ago was dissolved by rainwater containing carbon dioxide.

Image courtesy of:Free Stock Photos by Hoshino
The giant banyan tree on the "Subtropical Natural Forest Course" is one of the largest in Japan. It is said to be a mystical place, with many sightings of the banyan tree fairy, known as the Kijimuna.

Dashilinshan
Address: 1241 Ginama, Kunigami Village
TEL: 0980-41-8117
Opening hours: April to September / 9:00 AM to 17:00 PM
October - March / 9:00 - 16:00
Closed: Open all year round

Part 2. Okinawa Rail Observation Deck

It's located a short distance down the coastline from the Usahama Ruins, near the entrance to Cape Hedo. This observation deck is modeled after a giant Okinawa Rail, and its massive 11.5-meter-tall body is much larger and more realistic than you might imagine. You might be a little surprised the first time you see it. Climbing the stairs inside the Okinawa Rail, you can reach an observation deck built around its chest, where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the coastline around Cape Hedo.

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Okinawa Rail Observation Deck
Address: Hendo, Kunigami Village
TEL: 0980-41-2101 (Kunigami Village Office)

Part 3. Kayauchi Banta

This sheer cliff, reaching a height of 70 meters, is located above the Ginama Tunnel. It is said to have gotten its name from the fact that bundles of thatch thrown from the cliff would be torn apart by the wind. In front of it lies a beautiful, deep blue sea, and on clear, sunny days, you can see small fish swimming around.

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There's a railing at the top of the cliff, but leaning over is extremely dangerous. There's a small observation deck, so it might be better to enjoy the view from there.

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Thatching Banta
Address: Ginama, Kunigami Village
TEL: 0980-41-2101 (Kunigami Village Office)

3. Restaurants around Cape Hedo

There aren't many places to eat, but among them, Maeda Shokudo is known as a famous Okinawan soba restaurant at the northernmost tip of the main island. It's a long-established restaurant founded in 1972, the year Okinawa was returned to Japan. The recommended dish is the beef soba. Beef and bean sprouts stir-fried with butter and garlic are piled high on top of the noodles. It's popular with a wide range of people, from tourists to locals.

Maeda Shokudo
Address: 985 Tsunami, Ogimi Village
TEL: 0980-44-2025
Hours: 11: 00 ~ 17: 00
Closed: Wednesday

4. Accommodation near Cape Hedo

Part 1: The Village of Oku-Yanbaru
Located a 10-minute drive from Cape Hedo, this accommodation is designed in the style of a traditional Okinawan farmhouse. Surrounded by the Yanbaru forest, the grounds include not only accommodation but also a museum displaying traditional Okinawan village tools and a restaurant. Kitchens and barbecue equipment are available for rent, so you can enjoy cooking your own meals if you bring your own fuel and food.

Image courtesy of:Free Stock Photos by Hoshino
The village of Okuyanbaru
Address: 1280-1 Oku, Kunigami Village
TEL: 0980-50-4141
Operating hours: Accommodation / Check-in 14:00, Check-out 10:00
Other differences may vary depending on the facility.
Closed: Open all year round

Part 2. Ada Garden Hotel Okinawa
This Asian resort hotel is located at the northernmost tip of the main island. Designed by a Vietnamese architect, its exterior is exotic, and the red roof made of Vietnamese tiles is particularly striking. Its greatest appeal is undoubtedly the magnificent nature of Yanbaru surrounding the hotel. Various eco-tour programs are available to enjoy the mountains, rivers, and sea, allowing you to experience the ecology of creatures and plants that can only be found here.

Ada Garden Hotel Okinawa
Address: 1285-95 Yasuda, Kunigami Village
TEL: 0980-41-7070
Operating hours: Check-in 15:00, Check-out 11:00

5. How to get to Cape Hedo

1. If you are going by car or rental car

First, let's consider using the expressway. From Naha Airport, take the expressway from Tomigusuku/Nakachi IC to the final stop, Kyoda IC. From there, take National Route 58 north to Cape Hedo. It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Kyoda IC.

On the other hand, if you take the regular roads, it's best to allow about three hours from Naha city. Since it's a long drive to the northernmost tip of the main island, it's recommended to take your time and take breaks along the way, such as at the roadside station Yuiyui Kunigami in Kunigami village.

Yuiyui Kunigami Image

Part 2. If you are going by public transport

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Take the bus from Naha Bus Terminal to Nago Bus Terminal, then transfer to Hentona Bus Terminal, and from Hentona Bus Terminal, take the village-operated bus route 69 to Cape Hedo. Since the village-operated bus route 69 runs three times a day (six round trips), it is possible to return in one day if you plan your schedule accordingly.

However, even the cheapest bus fare is 3,350 yen one way, so renting a car is definitely more economical and convenient.

<Click here for information about local bus routes>
Bus Navi Okinawa
https://www.busnavi-okinawa.com/top
- Kunigami Village Bus (There is a link to the timetable in the village bus section of the linked page)
http://www.vill.kunigami.okinawa.jp/access/

Summary

Cape Hedo offers a truly dynamic landscape that can only be experienced at Okinawa's northernmost point. And when you consider that just 50 years ago, there was a national border between Cape Hedo and Yoron Island, the scenery before your eyes becomes all the more poignant.

While the northern part of Okinawa has fewer tourist attractions compared to the central area, it boasts plenty of breathtaking natural beauty beyond Cape Hedo. It's definitely worth the trip, even if it means going a little out of your way.

Please make your hotel reservation here.

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