photo was provided by @___ayb827

Amidst the rural landscape of southern Okinawa, a field of cacti suddenly appears. Recently, it has become a popular spot for Instagram photos, attracting an increasing number of visitors, especially young people.
This time, we'll introduce the location of this popular cactus field, tips for visiting, and recommended spots in the surrounding area!

<Table of Contents>
1. Location of the cactus field
2. Parking lot in the cactus field
3. How to take stunning photos of a cactus field
4. Is there a specific season for cactus fields?
5. Things to be careful of in a cactus field
6. Spots you can visit along with the cactus fields.
7. summary

1. Location of the cactus field

The cactus field is located in Nanjo City, in the southern part of Okinawa Island, about a 30-minute drive from Naha Airport.
The cactus field isn't a tourist attraction; it's located in a corner of an ordinary field, so it's highly likely that it won't show up if you search for "cactus field" on your car's navigation system.
If you're using a car navigation system, you can get there by entering the address (161 Funakoshi, Tamagusuku, Nanjo City, Okinawa Prefecture) or by searching for "Nanjo Cactus Fields" on Google Maps. Across the road is "Funakoshi Okawa" (a historical site and ancient water source).

2. Parking lot in the cactus field

Photo provided by @aya.mo

The cactus field is not a tourist attraction but a private field, so there is no parking lot or space to park your car. You will have to park on the street next to the cactus field.
Remember to be considerate of those around you, and when it's crowded, don't linger too long; be considerate of others.

3. How to take stunning photos of a cactus field

Photo provided by @aya.mo

To take atmospheric photos, try to avoid including the surrounding scenery as much as possible. Ideally, you should aim for photos that only show "people and cacti."
Try taking the photo from a low angle, looking up at the sky, or find an angle that doesn't include any unwanted elements!

4. Is there a specific season for cactus fields?

Cacti are said to be hardy and low-maintenance plants, and you can enjoy cactus fields all year round.
While it's fine to visit all year round, the best time is during the daytime on a sunny day. In the morning or evening, the sun may shine directly on the subject, creating backlighting.

5. Things to be careful of in a cactus field

The cactus field is not a tourist attraction. It is privately owned land, so trespassing is prohibited. Please be mindful of proper etiquette while sightseeing.

6. Spots you can visit along with the cactus fields.

6-1. Azamasansan Beach

photo was provided by @fuku9o4

Located about 20 minutes from the cactus fields, this beautiful beach boasts shallow waters. It's a well-maintained artificial beach where you can enjoy water sports and barbecues. Furthermore, it features the famous "Heart Bell," a popular Instagrammable spot, making it a must-see destination when visiting southern Okinawa.

6-2. Kudaka Island

©OCVB

Kudaka Island is said to be the place where Amamikiyo, the goddess who created modern Okinawa, landed. The island is about a 20-minute ferry ride from Azama Port, which is adjacent to Azama Sansan Beach. It is one of the remote islands that can be easily visited on a day trip. It is a sacred place known as the "Island of the Gods," and there are still areas that are off-limits. When traveling to the island, be sure to check the island's rules in advance.

6-3. Cafe with a spectacular view

Nanjo City, home to cactus fields, boasts many hills overlooking the sea, and numerous cafes offering stunning views. "Kurukuma" and "Hamabe no Chaya" are particularly well-known. Some popular cafes require reservations, so be sure to check their locations in advance.

6-4. Okinawa World Gangara Valley

Right next to the cactus fields is "Okinawa World," where you can enjoy Okinawan experiences such as Eisa dance shows, snake shows, and glassblowing. The beautifully lit Gyokusendo Cave and the unspoiled subtropical jungle of Gangara Valley are also highly recommended.

6-5. Nirai Kanai Bridge

After driving for about 15 minutes along Prefectural Road 86 from the cactus field, you'll cross the Nirai Kanai Bridge. It's famous as one of the most scenic driving routes on Okinawa Island. While this bridge offers stunning ocean views, it's actually better to view it from the observation deck rather than driving across it. You can capture a photograph of the entire bridge as it curves dramatically towards the sea.

6-6. Seifa Utaki

Seifa Utaki is the "highest sacred site of the Ryukyu Kingdom," where national rituals were performed during the Ryukyu Kingdom era. Its status as a sacred site remains unchanged today, and it has been designated a World Cultural Heritage site. It is not a tourist destination, but a "place of prayer" for the people of Okinawa, so please be sure to understand its history and background before visiting. It can be reached in about 20 minutes by car from the cactus fields.

6-7. Chinen Cape

©OCVB

Chinen Cape is located at the tip of the Chinen Peninsula, right next to Seifa Utaki. It's a spectacular viewpoint offering a panoramic view of the deep blue sea. One of its highlights is that you can enjoy both the sunrise and sunset. There are also walking paths and gazebos, making it a great place for a leisurely stroll.

Summary

This time, we introduced a cactus field that's become a hot topic on Instagram. The cactus field is privately owned, so please enjoy it while respecting the rules. Also, there are plenty of other recommended tourist spots around the cactus field! It's also close to the airport, so be sure to visit it when you travel to Okinawa.

Please make your hotel reservation here.

• Rakuten Travel
• Jalan net