Nirai Kanai Bridge spans Chinen, Nanjo City in southern Okinawa Prefecture.
Nirai Kanai Bridge is a combination of Nirai Bridge and Kanai Bridge and is called Nirai Kanai Bridge.
Nirai Kanai means “an ideal world believed to be beyond the sea or at the bottom of the ocean” in Okinawa. The bridge is named Nirai Kanai because one can see beyond the sea, where Nirai Kanai is said to be located. From the bridge, you can see Kutaka Island, which is called “God’s Island.
Recommended time to visit Niraikanai Bridge
Niraikanai Bridge has a tunnel and an observation deck near the top of the bridge after winding your way through the bridge at different elevations.
The direction of the ocean from the observation deck is east, so there is strong shining sunlight in the morning. In that case, you may not be able to see the blue sea because it is backlit and the surface of the sea glistens with the reflection of the sun light. I like the sparkling sea surface, but if you want to enjoy the blue of the Okinawan sea, I recommend the time from before noon to after lunch.
There is no parking at the observatory, so many people park their cars on the side and walk there.
There are no restrooms or vending machines, so I would rather recommend enjoying the breeze and the spectacular view from inside your car.
A must-see! The best first sunrise of the year
Nirai Kanai Bridge is famous among Okinawans as a spot for sunrise on the first day of the year!
The sunrise from beyond the horizon, where Nirai Kanai is said to be located, is truly spectacular. Many people visit Nirai Kanai Bridge and nearby Chinen Cape Park to see this spectacular view.
I have a good memory that it was extremely cold when I was waiting in the car to see the sunrise at Chinen Cape Park near Nirai Kanai Bridge, so please bring warm clothes and blankets along the coast where the sea wind is strong, even though it is tropical Okinawa.
The Niraikanai Bridge area is about to become a popular area
Near Niraikanai Bridge, fashionable cafes and general stores are opening one after another.
The area around Nanjo City is full of nature, so it is a great place to spend a relaxing time, and is a recommended driving area for tourists.
The area is expected to continue to develop and become even more popular. When you go sightseeing from Naha Airport to the southern area, please enjoy driving on Nirai Kanai Bridge along with visiting cafes in the area.
