The southern area of ​​Okinawa Prefecture is less developed than Naha City and the central area, and its simple atmosphere is its charm.
In particular, along National Route 331, which stretches through the southern part of the main island, there are many unique cafes and tourist spots, and Nirai Kanai Bridge is one of them.

What kind of place is the Nirai Kanai Bridge, which is said to be one of the best viewpoints?
Let's take a look at the southern area, which is easily accessible from Naha City.

<Table of Contents>

[1] What kind of places are Nirai Bridge and Kanai Bridge?
[2] Cafes and restaurants around Nirai Bridge and Kanai Bridge
Part 1. Cafe Kurukuma
Part 2. Café Yabusachi
Part 3. Cafe Fuju
[3] Recommended driving route to Nirai Bridge and Kanai Bridge

Final thoughts

[1] What kind of place is Nirai Kanai Bridge?

The Nirai Kanai Bridge in Nanjo City is a 1,200-meter-long bridge that spans a U-shape from Prefectural Road 86 to National Route 331.
The bridge is divided in the middle; the bridge in the foreground of the photo is the Nirai Bridge, and the one in the background, towards the sea, is the Kanai Bridge.

There are various theories about what "Nirai Kanai" means in Okinawa, but it is said to mean fertility, the source of life, and the island where the gods reside.

As you drive along the winding bridge with its varying elevations, you'll come across a tunnel near the top of the bridge. Looking out towards the sea from the top of that tunnel...
What unfolds before your eyes is the sparkling southern sea and the blue sky!

If the weather is clear, you can sometimes see Kudaka Island in the distance.
You'll encounter breathtaking scenery that truly resembles Nirai Kanai, the very dwelling place of the gods, a paradise in itself.

To fully enjoy the spectacular view, it's recommended to go through the tunnel from the top of the hill and descend across the bridge.

Also, there's an observation deck at the top of the tunnel, so if you want to take your time and enjoy the scenery, it's a good idea to get out of your car and take a look.
Enjoy the endless blue ocean and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean!

[2] Cafes and restaurants around Nirai Bridge and Kanai Bridge

Part 1. Cafe Kurukuma

Located on a hill, this popular restaurant is known for its great location and the beautiful view it offers from its wooden terrace.
It's also a pleasure to see the different expressions of the sea depending on the time of day, such as the dazzling sea bathed in sunlight or the sea dyed in the colors of the setting sun.

The menu features herbs and vegetables grown on our own farm without pesticides or chemical fertilizers, prepared by our Thai chefs.
The most popular item is the "Kurukuma Special," which allows you to enjoy three different types of curry.

In addition, you can enjoy authentic Asian food such as Pad Thai (Thai fried noodles) and Tom Yum Goong.
The refreshing mango desserts and Okinawan zenzai (sweet red bean soup) are also delicious!

[Cafe Kurukuma]
Address: 1190 Chinen, Chinen, Nanjo City
TEL：098-949-1189
Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 19:00 PM (until 18:00 PM in autumn and winter, until 17:00 PM on Tuesdays)
Closed: Open all year round
URL:http://www.nakazen.co.jp/cafe/

Part 2. Café Yabusachi

This cafe boasts a spectacular view overlooking Hyakuna Beach. Be sure to enjoy the emerald green ocean stretching out before you from the terrace seating.

The restaurant, based on the concept of "nature, culture, and health," offers a menu based on French and Italian cuisine, with abundant use of Okinawan ingredients.
The restaurant is popular for its one-plate lunches featuring carefully selected meats and fish from its French-trained head chef, as well as its drinks made with local specialties.

【Café Yabusachi】
Address: 646-1 Hyakuna, Tamagusuku, Nanjo City
TEL：098-949-1410
Opening hours: 11:00am - sunset
Closed: Wednesday
URL:http://www.yabusachi.com/

Part 3. Cafe Fuju

The open-plan interior has a log cabin-like design that gives off a warm, woody feel.
On the second floor, where you take off your shoes before entering, you'll find a tatami room where you can relax and a terrace where you can enjoy a view of the sea at eye level.

You can choose your seat and enjoy a variety of dishes, including Western-style cuisine made with diverse ingredients, as well as Okinawan specialties such as taco rice and teriyaki chicken made with locally sourced chicken.

[Cafe Fuju]
Address: 8-1 Tamagusuku Kakihana, Nanjo City
TEL：098-948-1800
Business hours: 11: 30-17: 00
Closed: Tuesday
URL:http://www.yabusachi.com/

[3] Recommended driving route to Nirai Kanai Bridge

Naha Airport → Crossing Nirai Kanai Bridge → Seifa Utaki → Chinen Cape Park → Hamabe no Chaya

The southern area, surrounded by the cobalt blue sea, boasts numerous spots where you can enjoy stunning ocean views.
Driving is the perfect way to enjoy breathtaking scenery! So, here are some refreshing driving routes in the easily accessible southern area.
We'll also visit some of Okinawa's most powerful spiritual spots.

スタート
Naha Airport

Access to the southern area isn't very good, and the number of bus services is limited, so renting a car is definitely the best option.
You can either arrange it in advance, or ask at the rental car information desk located at the arrivals area on the first floor of the airport.
↓
↓ (approximately 50 minutes)
↓
Nirai Kanai Bridge

The first scenic viewpoint! You'll find it on the mountain side as you drive along National Route 331.
The bridge has an S-shape, and from the train window, you can enjoy a perfect view of the beautifully curved bridge and the magnificent Pacific Ocean.
↓
↓ (approximately 5 minutes)
↓
Sefa Utaki

Okinawa has many sacred sites called "Utaki," and Seifa Utaki is considered to be the most prestigious among them.
It is said to be one of the seven sacred sites created by Amamikiyo, the goddess of Ryukyu's creation, at the beginning of the country, and is also famous as a World Cultural Heritage site.
Surrounded by lush, overgrown greenery, this space is mystical; experience the power of the Ryukyu gods.
↓
↓ (approximately 5 minutes)
↓
Cape Chinen Park

Located on the eastern tip of the Chinen Peninsula, which juts out into the sea, this park boasts spectacular views from its cape.
The park features walking paths and gazebos, offering stunning views of the ocean stretching out before you, as well as nearby Kudaka Island and Komaka Island.
↓
↓ (approximately 15 minutes)
↓
hamamome no tea house

This pioneering Okinawan seaside cafe is built right on the edge of Shinbara Beach.
At high tide, the waves reach right up to the edge of the shop, giving you the feeling of floating on the sea.
Take a break with our original blend and feel the sea breeze.

[Teahouse on the beach]
Address: 2-1 Tamagusuku, Tamagusuku, Nanjo City
TEL：098-948-2073
Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 19:30 PM (Mondays from 14:00 PM)
Closed: Open all year round
URL:http://hamabenochaya.com/

<Recommended Menu>
• Original charcoal-roasted coffee: 500 yen
• Okinawa fruit and vegetable country bread sandwich: 550 yen
↓
↓ (approximately 50 minutes)
↓
goal
Naha Airport
(Total time: Approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes *Time spent at each location = Approximately 30 minutes *Rental car rental time not included)

Finally

How did you enjoy your trip around the southern area?
It's also appealing to be able to escape the city and feel the Ryukyu breeze on your skin amidst the sea and lush greenery.

Take a detour to a cafe overlooking the sea and create some unforgettable memories of the breathtaking scenery!

Please make your hotel reservation here.

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