A remote island that can be reached by car. A village where slow time flows.
About an hour north of Naha City. Hamahika Island is located on the right side of Okinawa.
There are other islands scattered around the island, some of which can be reached by car.
Hamahika Island is one of them.
The village, with its rows of red-tile-roofed houses, is filled with the sounds of Uchinatime, the sanshin (Okinawan guitar), the ocean, and the smell of the sea breeze, stimulating all five senses.
Although a splendid hotel has been built on high ground, the island still retains its old scenery.
There are gourmet foods that can only be found here, and power spots that many people come to see for themselves.
Point 1: Drive on the sea! Underwater road.
There is a road that passes over the sea before going to Hamahika Island. It is about 5 km long.
The emerald ocean glistens on both the left and right sides of the road. The road is crowded with people parasailing, tide-pooling, and SUPing.
Along the way, you will find “Umi no Eki,” which means “station of the sea” in Japanese.
There is a café with an ocean view and a lineup of Okinawan specialties and other unusual items.
It is best to use the restroom here.
Passing this scenic road before going to Hamahika Island will make you feel at your best.
Please be sure to drive with the windows fully open and feel the sea breeze.
Point 2: You can enjoy freshly made tempura at a tempura restaurant with many regular customers.
Okinawan tempura is characterized by its thick batter and strong seasoning.
Here on Hamahika Island, there is a store that sells a different kind of tempura. It is called “Maruyoshi Shokuhin.
The “crab Mozuku tempura,” which is a little pricier than standard tempura such as fish tempura, squid tempura, and Mozuku tempura, allows you to eat everything except the crab’s scapes.
Shanghai crab is opened, stuffed with Mozuku seaweed and vegetables, and deep fried. One bite and you will enjoy the crispy and savory taste of the shell, combined with the fluffy and hot Mozuku seaweed and vegetables.
Many celebrity autographs are displayed in front of the restaurant, indicating its popularity.
Point 3: Sacred spots that still remain.
There are various information boards on Hamahika Island.
Shirumichu
Amamichu
Agarigar, etc…
They may sound like incantations, but they actually refer to spots that have been there since ancient times, such as toads and graves.
Among them, “Shirmichu” and “Amamichu” are especially famous and are said to bring blessings for children.
As you can see, Hamahika Island is a very sacred place.
Please be careful to clean up after your trash and behave yourself on the island, and enjoy sightseeing without causing any inconvenience to the residents.
