SUI TAXI · NORTHERN OKINAWA
Maeda Cape Dive into the Blue Cave and the Azure Sea.
Onna Village ｜ Blue Cave Entrance ｜ Diving & Snorkeling
The Holy Land of Diving, The Azure World of Maeda Cape.
Maeda Cape is a promontory located in Onna Village, Okinawa Prefecture, known worldwide as a mecca for diving and snorkeling. From the tip of the cape, a breathtakingly transparent cobalt blue sea spreads out below. It is conveniently located approximately 50-60 minutes from central Naha via expressway, and is a must-visit spot for northern Okinawa sightseeing, attracting many travelers.
What gives Maeda Cape its worldwide fame is the "Blue Cave," a sea-eroded cavern beneath the cape's cliffs. When sunlight penetrates the water during certain times of the day and you enter the cave, the water's surface is enveloped in a mystical blue light, creating a fantastical experience as if you have wandered into another world. Often compared to the Blue Grotto on Italy's Capri Island, diving and snorkeling tours are offered year-round.
Admission to the cape is free, and maintained stairs lead directly to the sea for water entry. Several diving shops are clustered in the area, offering tours for beginners to advanced divers. Even without a diving license, you can enjoy the Blue Cave through introductory diving or snorkeling tours. The observation deck at the cape's tip also offers sweeping views of the Onna Village coastline and the East China Sea, so there is plenty to enjoy even without participating in marine activities.
The "Blue Cave" beneath the cape's cliffs. Sunlight dyes the water surface a mystical blue.
Maeda Cape Highlights & How to Enjoy
The greatest appeal of Maeda Cape is undoubtedly the Blue Cave experience. The cave is located along the cape's cliffs, and can be safely entered by joining a tour operated by professional diving shops. Pricing ranges widely, including introductory diving (approx. 1-2 hours, from ¥15,000) and snorkeling tours (approx. 1 hour, from ¥5,000), with courses available for young children as well.
The cape itself is also worth exploring. Walking along maintained promenades, you can reach a viewpoint overlooking the East China Sea from atop the cliffs. On clear days, you can sometimes see as far as Kume Island, truly grasping the endless expanse of Okinawa's sea. The water transparency around the cape is exceptional—tropical fish swimming among the rocks can be seen with the naked eye.
Congestion levels vary significantly by season. Summer (July-September) is especially crowded with tourists, so early morning visits are recommended. Also, advance reservations at diving shops are essential, so don't forget to arrange before your trip. SUI TAXI provides not only transfers to your preferred shop but also flexibly arranges sightseeing tours during the waiting time.
Sweeping views of the Onna Village coastline from the observation deck.
The water around the cape is among the clearest in Okinawa. Tropical fish can be seen with the naked eye.
Maeda Cape & Onna Village Course by Taxi
The estimated fare for a round-trip charter from Naha to Maeda Cape (4 hours) starts from ¥28,000 (tax included, expressway tolls separate). The "Onna Village Course (5 hours)" combined with Manzamo starts from approximately ¥35,000. Since diving and snorkeling often take 2-3 hours, half-day to full-day courses including waiting time are especially popular.
After diving and snorkeling, changing and resting are needed, making the Alphard's spacious interior and luggage space highly appreciated. Wetsuits and equipment can also be accommodated. If you let us know your preferred diving shop transfer when booking, we can arrange everything smoothly.
— Mornings Are Best for the Blue Cave: Due to the angle of sunlight, the blue light inside the cave is most beautiful between approximately 10:00 AM and noon. We recommend an early departure.
— Advance Booking is Essential: Blue Cave diving and snorkeling tours are extremely popular, and especially in summer, last-minute bookings may be unavailable. We recommend booking in advance during the trip planning stage.
Maeda Cape Tour Fares
| Plan | Fare | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Round-trip charter from Naha (4 hours) | ¥28,000〜 | Up to 5 guests per vehicle. From ¥5,600 per person. Expressway tolls and parking charged separately |
| Onna course (5 hours, with Manzamo) | ¥35,000〜 | Up to 5 guests per vehicle. From ¥7,000 per person. Expressway tolls, parking and admission charged separately |
| Naha Airport → hotels near Maeda Cape (transfer) | ¥21,000〜 | Up to 5 guests per vehicle. From ¥4,200 per person. Expressway tolls included |
| hotels near Maeda Cape → Naha Airport (transfer) | ¥21,000〜 | Up to 5 guests per vehicle. From ¥4,200 per person. Expressway tolls included |
Charter fares are time-based at ¥7,000 per hour (¥3,500 per additional 30 minutes booked in advance). Extensions made after departure are ¥4,200 per 30 minutes. Admission, expressway tolls and parking are charged at cost. For charters of 6 hours or more we take a 30% deposit when you book, and the balance is paid on the day. Minimum booking times depend on where you start: from 3 hours in the south and central area, 4 hours in Onna Village and 6 hours in the north, and 8 hours for trips that cross between the south and the north. Where a long transfer is involved, the transfer fare for that stretch is the floor for the price.
Address
469-1 Maeda, Onna Village, Kunigami, Okinawa
Hours
Cape access: 7:30-18:00 (varies by season)
Admission
Cape access: Free (diving/snorkeling fees separate)
From Naha
Approx. 50-60 min via expressway
Access Information
| Location | 469-1 Maeda, Onna Village, Kunigami, Okinawa |
| Cape Hours | 7:30-18:00 (varies by season) |
| Cape Admission | Free (parking fee applies) |
| From Naha | Approx. 50-60 min via expressway |
| Recommended Course | Onna Village course with Manzamo and Forest Adventure |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a taxi from Naha to Maeda Cape cost?
A round-trip charter of 4 hours starts from ¥28,000. That is the price for one Alphard carrying up to five guests, so with five people it works out from ¥5,600 each. Entry to the cape is free; expressway tolls and parking are charged separately.
How long do we need for a Blue Cave tour?
From check-in and changing to getting back out of the water is around two hours. With the drive both ways, five hours is comfortable. Tell us your tour time and we will set the departure around it.
Can we get in wearing wet swimwear?
Yes. A towel over your shoulders helps. Wet gear goes in the luggage space, so you can get straight in.
Is it worth going just for the view?
Looking down at the water from the top of the steps is worth the trip on its own and takes about 30 minutes. In summer the car park fills with divers, so mornings are easier.
Can we visit Manzamo on the same day?
Yes, about 15 minutes away. The two together make a five-hour Onna course from ¥35,000.
Ready to book?
Recommended Combination Courses
Manzamo
Dramatic cliff scenic spot in Onna Village. About 15 min by car from Maeda Cape.
Stay 30–60 min
Forest Adventure Onna
Zip-line and aerial adventure in Okinawa's forest.
Stay 90 min+
Busena Marine Park
Experience Okinawa's underwater world without getting wet at the undersea observatory in Nago.
Stay 30 min+