Kaichu-doro A 4.7km Scenic Drive Over the Sea.

Connecting the Okinawa Mainland to Offshore Islands A 4.7km Panorama Over the Sea.

Kaichu-doro (Sea Road) is a road stretching approximately 4.7 km over the sea, located in Uruma. This road connects the Yokatsu Peninsula on the east coast of the Okinawa mainland with offshore islands including Henza Island, Miyagi Island, and Ikei Island. Known as one of Okinawa's premier drive spots, it offers an overwhelming sense of openness where the highly transparent sea and sky on both sides of the road merge into one. On clear days, the East China Sea and the Uruma coast spread out on both sides of the road, giving the sensation of flying over the sea.

The name Kaichu-doro derives from the fact that this location was once a shallow area (a path through the sea) that could only be crossed on foot at low tide. The road was developed in its current form in 1972, and since then has established itself both as a vital road for island residents and as a scenic spot for tourists. In the middle of the road sits "Umi-no-Eki Ayahashi-kan" (Sea Station Ayahashi), featuring a restaurant where you can enjoy seafood and traditional Okinawan cuisine, along with shops carrying Uruma's marine products and local specialties. Stopping by during your drive to take a break while gazing at the sea is a classic way to enjoy the area.

From Naha to Kaichu-doro takes approximately 45 minutes via the expressway. The east coast area of Okinawa's main island is still relatively free of tourists, offering a chance to enjoy the quiet natural beauty of Okinawa, distinct from the west coast resorts. The east coast course, featuring distinctive spots such as the World Heritage "Katsuren Castle Ruins" (Uruma), "Hamahiga Island" known as the island of mythology, and the power spot "Kahobanta," is the ideal area for efficiently touring with SUI TAXI.

Clear sea stretching out on both sides of the road. On sunny days, an overwhelming sense of openness with views to the horizon.

Highlights Around Kaichu-doro and East Coast Travel

Beyond Kaichu-doro lie Henza Island, Miyagi Island, and Ikei Island in succession, each with its own unique appeal. On Miyagi Island, you will find the "Nuchimasu Tourist Salt Factory," where you can observe the process of making salt from seawater while enjoying a 360-degree panorama from the island's hilltop. Ikei Island is the most remote island beyond additional bridges from Kaichu-doro, featuring beautiful beaches with unspoiled natural beauty. The calm inlets and white sandy beaches have a private beach atmosphere, and in summer they are lively with tourists enjoying swimming and snorkeling.

The World Heritage "Katsuren Castle Ruins," located before Kaichu-doro, is a 14th-15th century Ryukyu castle site built on a hill approximately 100 meters above sea level, with stunning views of the Uruma sea below. It is only about 10 minutes by car from Kaichu-doro, making a combined visit highly recommended. Hamahiga Island is also known as a sacred site of Ryukyu mythology, home to the sacred sites of the deities "Shirumichuu" and "Amamichuu." The "East Coast Course," where you can experience the rich nature and historical culture of eastern Uruma in a sacred atmosphere, is especially recommended for those seeking new discoveries in their sightseeing.

"Umi-no-Eki Ayahashi-kan" in the middle of the road. Enjoy seafood dining and local specialty shopping.

Kaichu-doro at sunrise. The sun rising over the eastern sea casts its light across the water, creating a refreshing start to the day.

East Coast Scenic Course by SUI TAXI

From Naha to Kaichu-doro takes approximately 45 minutes via the Okinawa Expressway. SUI TAXI's "East Coast Course (5-6 hours) from ¥31,000" includes driving along Kaichu-doro with a stop at "Umi-no-Eki Ayahashi-kan," combined with the World Heritage "Katsuren Castle Ruins" and the mythological "Hamahiga Island" for a fulfilling itinerary. The east coast area is one of the least accessible areas of the Okinawa mainland by public transport, so touring by charter taxi allows you to leisurely enjoy each spot without the burden of transportation.

Kaichu-doro is toll-free and open around the clock. The color of the sea changes constantly with the weather—emerald green on cloudy days and deep cobalt blue on sunny days—offering a different expression each time you visit. SUI TAXI drives at a leisurely pace so you can fully enjoy Okinawa's sea views from the car windows.

Best Time of Year to Visit

Kaichu-doro can be enjoyed throughout the year, but the colors of the sea and the atmosphere change significantly with the seasons. Late spring to early summer (April–June) offers the most stable weather and the deepest emerald tones, with comfortable temperatures of around 22–28°C — ideal for combining the drive with beach time on Ikei Island. Midsummer (July–August) brings the brightest sunlight and the strongest contrast between sea and sky, though afternoon showers and occasional typhoons should be considered when planning. Autumn (October–November) is one of the most underrated seasons, with calm seas, fewer tourists, and beautiful golden-hour lighting in the late afternoon. Even in winter (December–February), mild temperatures of 15–20°C and clear, dry air often make for surprisingly photogenic conditions.

Photography Tips

Kaichu-doro is one of Okinawa's most photographed locations, and a few small tips can dramatically improve your shots. The midpoint near Umi-no-Eki Ayahashi-kan offers a designated viewpoint where you can safely step out of the vehicle to take wide-angle photos of the road disappearing into the horizon. A polarizing filter helps cut glare and deepen the blue of the water, especially around midday. For drone-like aerial perspectives without a drone, the rooftop observation deck at Ayahashi-kan provides a 360-degree view at no charge. Your SUI TAXI driver knows the best pull-over points along the route and can time stops to avoid traffic and crowds.

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