A 5-kilometer road in the middle of the ocean connects four islands.
About an hour’s drive from Naha Airport, the underwater road is located in Uruma City and connects four surrounding islands (Hamahika, Heianza, Miyagi, and Ikejima) over a distance of about 5 km. Although the road is underwater, it does not run through water. It is a road built on top of the sea, and the road is built on a shallow part of the sea by building a causeway. Therefore, the road is surrounded by 360 degrees of the ocean! The road runs through the middle of the ocean, giving it a great sense of openness. The road is free of charge, as it is a road used by the local people. The road is also popular as a driving course, and visitors can enjoy the spectacular view just by driving on it. The islands you can stop by along the underwater road are all unique and offer scenery unique to Okinawa.
Point 1: The ocean stretches as soon as you get out of your car.
In the central part of the underwater road, there is a road park that can be used as a rest stop for driving and cycling. If you are tired of driving, take a break here and enjoy the cobalt blue ocean stretching out before you. The pedestrian bridge at the road park offers a view of the ocean, and you can also go straight down to the beach. It is wonderful to see the ocean as soon as you get off the road, isn’t it? Marine activities are also available around the underwater road: you can take a walk under the sea by SUP, enjoy the sea from the sky by parasailing, or for a more exhilarating experience, you can ride a bicycle along the road.
Point 2: Roadside Station Ayahashikan is a perfect stopover spot
The Road Park is home to the Road Station Ayahashikan. On the first floor, you will find a variety of Okinawan specialties and local products only available in Uruma City. Blue Seal ice cream is also sold here, and it is a special treat to enjoy it while taking in the spectacular view. On the second floor, there is a marine culture museum, where a model of a maritime ship is displayed, and materials on shipbuilding technology, such as wooden ships, can be seen. Also on the second floor is the museum of HY, the singer who is the tourism ambassador of Uruma City, and it is a must-see spot for his fans.
Point 3: The surrounding islands are also attractive!
After proceeding along the underwater road, you will first arrive at Heian-za Island (Henza-jima). Half of the island is used as an oil terminal, giving the island a unique atmosphere. Next is Hama Higa Island, which is said to be the island where the gods live, and there are many power spots on the island. Miyagi Island, just beyond, has a spectacular view called Kafu Banta. From the top of the cliff, you can see the beautiful sea, and since “Kafu” means “happiness,” it is also called “Cape Happiness,” which brings happiness to those who go there. The last island, Ikejima, has several crystal clear beaches and is known as a paradise for tropical fish.
