Welcome to Iheya Island, Okinawa's northernmost hidden island
Located about 40km north of Okinawa's main island, about an 80-minute ferry ride from Unten Port, is Iheya Island, Okinawa's northernmost inhabited island. With a population of about 1,200 and an area of approximately 21 square kilometers, the island has been affectionately nicknamed "Terushinoshima" (Terushima) by locals.
Here you can find Okinawa as it is, untouched by tourism.
What makes Iheya Island special?
1. Untouched natural beauty
The coastline of Iheya Island is dotted with tranquil beaches that are never overrun with tourists. The emerald green ocean, white sand, and rich coral reefs surround the island. There are also beaches where sea turtles come to lay their eggs, and if you're lucky, you might even be able to witness this mystical moment.
The island's interior is covered with subtropical forests, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including endemic species.At night, the sky is filled with stars, free of light pollution, and you can enjoy the luxurious experience of clearly seeing the Milky Way.
2. Traditional Culture of the Island of the Gods
Iheya Island is an island with a deep history of faith that dates back to the Ryukyu Kingdom era. A sacred ritual facility called "Kami Ashagi" remains on the island, and rituals are still performed by priestesses (Noro) today.
Particularly famous is the Nentohiramatsu. This gigantic Ryukyu pine, estimated to be about 300 years old, is designated as a national natural monument, with branches stretching 26 meters east to west and 24 meters north to south. Its majestic appearance overwhelms visitors as a symbol of the island's spirituality.
Traditional events are held throughout the year, and the islanders continue to cherish and preserve the culture passed down from their ancestors.
3. The Mystery of Kumaya Cave
Kumaya Cave is an essential part of any discussion of Iheya Island. Located halfway up a cliff in the northern part of the island, this cave is a sacred place where legend has it that the descendants of Tenson, the founders of the Ryukyu Kingdom, hid and lived here.
The cave is about 60 meters deep, and the stalactites create a mysterious space. From the cave, you can see the blue ocean and horizon, and the view is like the entrance to another world.
To access it, you need to go at low tide and it requires some adventure walking over rocky areas, but the feeling of accomplishment when you reach it is all the more impressive.
How to spend your time on Iheya Island
Switch to Island Time
It takes about 80 minutes by ferry from Unten Port. As you watch the island gradually come closer, you can feel like you are leaving the hustle and bustle of the city behind.
Once you arrive, take a short drive around the island. Rent a car or bicycle and get a feel for the island's atmosphere. The view of the sun setting over the East China Sea from the observation point is so beautiful it will leave you speechless.
Explore the sacred Kumaya Caves
Kumaya Cave, located halfway up a cliff in the northern part of the island, is a mysterious place where legend has it that the descendants of the Tenson clan hid. Be sure to check the low tide times in advance and wear comfortable clothing and shoes that you don't mind getting wet. You can safely experience the mysteries of the cave by joining a guided tour. From the cave, you can see the blue sea and horizon in full view, and the view is like a gateway to another world.
Reflecting on history at Nento Hiramatsu
This gigantic Ryukyu pine is approximately 300 years old and has been designated a national natural monument. Its branches stretch approximately 26 meters east to west and 24 meters north to south. Standing beneath the giant tree and reflecting on its hundreds of years of history is a luxury you can only experience on an island trip.
Gaze at the starry sky
The night sky of Iheya Island, which is free of light pollution, is filled with shining stars and the Milky Way is clearly visible. Ask the people at guesthouses or lodgings for spots where you can get a good view of the stars. Lying down and looking up at the starry sky is sure to be a memory you'll cherish forever.
Enjoy interacting with the islanders
Take a stroll through the local shops and villages and enjoy conversations with the islanders. The people of Iheya Island are warm and welcoming to visitors. The warmth you feel from casual conversations will become an unforgettable memory of your trip.
Relax on a quiet beach
Relax to your heart's content on this quiet beach that is not overflowing with tourists. There are also snorkeling spots where you can observe colorful tropical fish and coral reefs. Spending some quiet time surrounded by the sound of the waves will truly soothe your soul.
Experience sacred ritual culture
The island is home to a ritual facility called "Kami Ashagi" and a traditional ritual culture performed by priestesses (Noro). Come and experience the deep history of faith that has continued since the Ryukyu Kingdom era with a sense of quiet and respect.
Access information
・Departure point: Unten Port (Nakijin Village), northern part of Okinawa main island ・Transportation: Ferry "Iheya III" ・Duration: Approximately 80 minutes ・Operation: Two departures per day (varies depending on the season) ・Fare: Approximately 2,500 yen for adults one way
It takes about 100 minutes by car from Naha Airport to Unten Port, so renting a car is convenient.
*Please note that some rental car companies may prohibit you from taking your car on the ferry, so please check beforehand.
About accommodation
There are no large resort hotels on Iheya Island. Most of the accommodation is in private lodgings and guesthouses, creating a homely atmosphere where you can enjoy interacting with the islanders.
・Minshuku: 1 night with 2 meals from 7,000 yen ・Room only: from 5,000 yen
The meal plan includes home-cooked meals made with fresh island seafood and local ingredients.
Advance reservations are required. We recommend making reservations early during peak periods (Golden Week, summer vacation, New Year's holidays).
Island Manners and Requests
Iheya Island is not a tourist destination, but a place where local islanders live. Please be mindful of the following points when visiting.
・Be quiet and respectful at sacred places (Kamiashagi, Utaki, etc.) ・Always take your trash with you ・Do not harm nature (do not step on coral, do not pick plants, etc.) ・Be considerate of local people when taking photos ・Avoid noise and maintain a quiet environment
In order to preserve the island's nature and culture for the future, consideration from each and every visitor is important.
Gifts from the Island
Your time on Iheya Island will bring you more than just sightseeing.
Away from digital devices, it's time to surrender yourself to the rhythm of nature: the sound of the waves, the feel of the wind, and the starry sky. You'll feel the warmth of casual conversations with the islanders. And it's quiet time to reflect on yourself.
Island time flows slowly, the complete opposite of efficiency and convenience. This is the greatest gift Iheya Island can give to its visitors.
Why not discover true relaxation on your next vacation on Okinawa's hidden northernmost island?
Iheya Island is quietly waiting for you.
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