The " Mihama Shuttle Cart " is a cart that circulates within the Mihama area of ​​Chatan Town and can accommodate up to 5 people.

This service is perfect for situations like, "I've found an interesting spot, but it's a bit too far to walk to," making travel in Mihama much more comfortable. No reservations are required; simply hop on at the bus stop, and its ease of use is a major draw.

This article will introduce the two routes and how to use the Mihama Shuttle Cart!

1. There are two routes! Coastal route & public road route

The Mihama Shuttle Cart operates on two routes within the area centered around American Village: the "Seaside Route" and the "Public Road Route." The "Seaside Route," which is open to everyone, runs along the coast as its name suggests.

There are a total of seven stops, including the departure and arrival point at Depot Island Boardwalk. The cart circulates between these seven stops at approximately 30-minute intervals. It's also recommended for those who want to enjoy the beautiful Chatan sea and the atmosphere of American Village from the cart.

Coastal route
Admission Fee: Adults (13 years and older) 500 yen / Children (6-12 years old) 250 yen / Infants (5 years and under) Free
Operating days: Daily
Operating time: 13:00～19:00
Service interval: Runs approximately every 30 minutes.
Passenger capacity: Maximum 5 people

On the other hand, the public road route crosses from Uminchu Wharf to Aeon Chatan store, passing bus stops in front of resort hotels. Unlike the coastal route, this route is only accessible to guests of the 10 hotels located within the Mihama area, including the hotels that also serve as bus stops, by presenting their room key.

Hotels in the Mihama area and the Aeon Chatan store are designated as bus stops, making it a convenient option for quick shopping trips and other activities during your stay in Chatan.

Public road route
Fee: Free (for those with a boarding pass orTarget hotel(Boarding is possible upon presentation of your room key.)
Operating days: Daily
Operating hours: 11:00-18:00
Service interval: Runs approximately every 30 minutes.
Passenger capacity: Maximum 5 people

* Please check the official website for the latest operating schedule.

2. How to ride the Mihama Shuttle Cart

The Mihama Shuttle Cart stops are easily recognizable by their distinctive crown-like shape in light blue and orange.

You can also bring your carry-on suitcase. When boarding, if you choose the coastal route, you will pay the fare (500 yen for adults (13 years and older) / 250 yen for children (6-12 years old) / free for infants (5 years and under)). If you choose the public road route, you will need to show your room key from the relevant hotel to board.

Once you board, enjoy a short drive to your destination stop, taking in the scenery of Mihama town and the sea.

Final thoughts

Up until now, the image of traveling to Okinawa has been that "the hotel is your base and you absolutely need a car if you want to do anything!" But thanks to the Mihama Shuttle Cart, I felt that the Mihama area itself, which is full of the charm of Chatan, can be a base for your trip.
Why not spend some relaxing time in Chatan, a place where you can enjoy shopping and sightseeing even without a car?