Kouri Bridge
A picturesque 1,960m bridge connecting islands, offering stunning views of Okinawa's vibrant turquoise sea.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Kouri Bridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque 1,960m bridge connecting islands, offering stunning views of Okinawa's vibrant turquoise sea.
"The drive across Kouri Bridge is spectacular, with unbelievably blue and clear water."
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring Okinawa's north, including Kouri Bridge.
📸 Best Photos from Island Side
Capture the most stunning bridge and water shots from the Kouri Island side.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kouri Bridge Drive
Connecting Kouri Island and Yagaji Island
Experience the iconic drive over the 1,960-meter bridge, surrounded by emerald green waters.
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Kouri Ocean Tower
Kouri Island
Enjoy panoramic views of the bridge and the turquoise sea from this observation tower.
Kouri Beach
Kouri Island
Relax on the soft sands and swim in the crystal-clear waters beneath the bridge.
Heart Rock
Kouri Island
Discover the romantic 'Love Rock' formation, a popular spot for couples.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Getting There and Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring Okinawa's north, including Kouri Bridge.
📸 Best Photos from Island Side
Capture the most stunning bridge and water shots from the Kouri Island side.
🚶 Walk the Entire Bridge
Enjoy diverse perspectives and photo opportunities along the full length.
🌬️ Be Prepared for Wind
It can get quite windy, especially on the bridge.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring Okinawa's north, including Kouri Bridge.
📸 Best Photos from Island Side
Capture the most stunning bridge and water shots from the Kouri Island side.
🚶 Walk the Entire Bridge
Enjoy diverse perspectives and photo opportunities along the full length.
🌬️ Be Prepared for Wind
It can get quite windy, especially on the bridge.
💖 Visit Heart Rock
A romantic spot on Kouri Island, perfect for couples.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking beauty of Kouri Bridge and its surrounding waters, often describing the drive and views as spectacular. The island offers a tranquil escape with lovely beaches and romantic spots. However, some find it can get very crowded, especially during peak times, and recommend visiting on weekdays for a more peaceful experience.
"Bridge viewpoint was beautiful but the best pictures are from the other side of the bridge on the island. You will see a beach to the left (there is a pier on that side) if you go to that point you can better pictures and the water is so blue and clear! Recommend walking the whole bridge to get pics of everything along the way."
Lissy “LuLu” Webber
"Pleasant viewpoint of the bridge with crystal clear water. There is a small inlet with a beach under the bridge. Plenty of parking."
Life's Abroad
"A nice driver stop.
The view is beautiful. The water's colour is so nice.
If you want pictures with just yourself, be patient. The place is filled with people."
Ekkaparb Charoensuk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way is to rent a car and drive north on the main island of Okinawa. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Public transport is possible but very time-consuming.
While possible, it's not recommended due to infrequent bus services and long travel times. Renting a car is highly advised for flexibility.
There are parking areas available on both sides of the bridge, particularly near the viewpoints and Kouri Beach.
Yes, you can walk across the entire 1,960-meter bridge, offering great views and photo opportunities.
The bridge itself is generally accessible, but specific accessibility at viewpoints and surrounding areas may vary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, crossing Kouri Bridge is free of charge. There are no tolls.
Kouri Beach is generally free to access, though some facilities like restrooms or showers might have small fees.
Kouri Ocean Tower typically opens around 9:00 AM and closes around 6:00 PM, but it's best to check their official website for the most current hours.
Yes, there is an admission fee to enter Kouri Ocean Tower, which offers panoramic views.
Kouri Bridge is the primary access point to Kouri Island from the main island of Okinawa.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon, especially during the golden hour before sunset, provides beautiful lighting. Weekday mornings can also offer fewer crowds for clearer shots.
The most iconic views are often captured from the Kouri Island side, looking back at the bridge. There are also viewpoints on the mainland side.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the bridge and ocean. A polarizing filter can enhance the blue hues of the water.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, be mindful of private property and other visitors when taking photos.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas or times. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Besides enjoying the bridge views, you can relax on Kouri Beach, visit the Kouri Ocean Tower, explore Heart Rock, and try water sports like snorkeling.
Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants on Kouri Island offering local Okinawan cuisine and stunning sea views.
Yes, Kouri Island offers beautiful beaches for swimming and playing, and the Kouri Ocean Tower is an engaging attraction for all ages.
Kouri Island is known as the 'Island of Love' due to romantic spots like Heart Rock and the Love Bell, attracting many couples.
Yes, Kouri Beach has clear, shallow waters perfect for swimming and enjoying the Okinawan sea.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Kouri Ocean Tower provides an exciting experience with its panoramic views, and kids often enjoy spotting the bridge from above. Consider the TRUE BLUE workshop for a fun and educational activity where children can learn about recycling by upcycling ocean plastic into crafts. Remember to bring plenty of sunscreen, hats, and water, as it can get hot. While renting a car is the easiest way to get here, be prepared for potential crowds during peak seasons. The drive across the bridge itself is an adventure for kids, with the vast blue ocean surrounding them.
💖 Couples and Romantic Getaways
Driving across the Kouri Bridge with its stunning ocean views is also incredibly romantic, especially during sunset. Consider staying at a beachfront hotel like Hotel Lalamare for a truly immersive experience, where you can enjoy the tranquil sea and the sound of the waves.
The island's serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery make it an ideal spot for a honeymoon or a romantic escape.📸 Photographers and Content Creators
+1 Aim for the golden hour before sunset for dramatic lighting and rich colors. The Kouri Ocean Tower offers unique aerial perspectives of the bridge and the coastline, perfect for sweeping landscape shots. Don't forget to explore Kouri Beach for close-up shots of the clear water and the bridge in the background.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Kouri Bridge
+2Constructed to enhance accessibility and tourism, the bridge has become an iconic landmark, symbolizing the beauty of northern Okinawa. Many visitors describe the experience of crossing it as serene and awe-inspiring, with the vibrant blue of the ocean stretching out in every direction. It's a place where the sky and sea seem to merge, creating a truly unforgettable visual spectacle.
+1Beyond its visual appeal, the Kouri Bridge is also a symbol of connection, linking not just two landmasses but also people to the natural beauty of Okinawa. It's a testament to how infrastructure can enhance the appreciation of natural wonders, making them accessible to a wider audience.
Exploring Kouri Island's Charms
One of the most famous spots on the island is Heart Rock, two heart-shaped rocks that have become a symbol of love and are a must-visit for couples.
The island also boasts beautiful beaches like Kouri Beach, where the water is exceptionally clear and shallow, perfect for swimming and relaxing. For those seeking elevated views, the Kouri Ocean Tower provides a stunning 360-degree panorama of the bridge, the ocean, and the island. Kouri Island is also recognized as the 'Island of Love' and is celebrated for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors often mention the feeling of peace and rejuvenation they experience here, surrounded by the vibrant blues of the ocean and the gentle sea breeze.
Sustainable Tourism on Kouri Island
This hands-on experience is not only fun and family-friendly but also serves as an educational tool about the importance of recycling and ocean conservation. It's a way for travelers to contribute positively to the local environment while creating a meaningful souvenir.
By engaging in such activities, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for Okinawa's natural beauty and understand the impact of human actions on marine ecosystems. It's a reminder that responsible tourism can help preserve these stunning locations for future generations.
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