Chigunu Beach
Discover Chigunu Beach on Kouri Island, Okinawa, a hidden gem with breathtaking emerald waters and a serene atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
To see the clear waters
Chigunu Beach
Best Time
To see the clear waters
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Chigunu Beach on Kouri Island, Okinawa, a hidden gem with breathtaking emerald waters and a serene atmosphere.
"Very beautiful, and the water is so clean."
🚗 Parking Hassles
Limited parking; use the local tourist center and walk uphill. Watch for cars! :car:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Great spot for photos, especially with the clear water and cave. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Emerald Green Waters
Experience the stunning, clear emerald waters that make this beach a tropical paradise. Perfect for photos and relaxation.
Chigunu Cave
A small, picturesque cave offering a unique viewpoint and a sense of discovery.
Hermit Crab Spotting
Keep an eye out for the numerous purple hermit crabs that inhabit the rocky areas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Chigunu Beach
Best Time for Crystal Waters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Hassles
Limited parking; use the local tourist center and walk uphill. Watch for cars! :car:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Great spot for photos, especially with the clear water and cave. :camerawithflash:
🦀 Hermit Crab Watch
Look for purple hermit crabs in the rocks for a unique wildlife encounter. :crab:
🚶♀️ Uphill Walk
Be prepared for a short, uphill walk from the parking area to the beach. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Hassles
Limited parking; use the local tourist center and walk uphill. Watch for cars! :car:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Great spot for photos, especially with the clear water and cave. :camerawithflash:
🦀 Hermit Crab Watch
Look for purple hermit crabs in the rocks for a unique wildlife encounter. :crab:
🚶♀️ Uphill Walk
Be prepared for a short, uphill walk from the parking area to the beach. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Chigunu Beach for its stunningly beautiful and clean emerald waters, making it a picturesque spot for photos. While some appreciate its quiet, retreat-like atmosphere, the lack of dedicated parking and the uphill walk from the nearest parking area are noted drawbacks.
"Very beautiful, and the water is so clean"
Ka Yu CHAN
"Nice spot for photo. Not much parking except side of road."
KK
"Quiet retreat for travelers. No parking available at the site. Park your car at the local tourist center and walk uphill along the road for 5 minutes. Be careful and look out for passing cars as there is no pavement for pedantries. It is safe as most Japanese drive safe and slow and the cars are small"
Zhu Bang Li (Paul)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chigunu Beach is located on Kouri Island. While direct parking at the beach is scarce, visitors often park at the local tourist center and take a short, uphill walk. Be cautious of traffic on the road as there are no dedicated sidewalks.
Parking is very limited directly at Chigunu Beach. It's recommended to utilize the parking available at the local tourist center and then walk to the beach.
Kouri Island is accessible by car via the Kouri Bridge. Many visitors rent a car on Okinawa's main island to explore at their own pace.
Public transport to Kouri Island is limited. Renting a car or taking a taxi from Okinawa's main island is generally the most convenient option.
The walk from the parking area to Chigunu Beach is uphill and along the road. Japanese drivers are generally cautious, but it's important to stay alert for passing vehicles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Chigunu Beach is a natural beach and typically does not have an entrance fee. Access is generally free for visitors.
As a natural beach, Chigunu Beach is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended to fully enjoy the scenery and water clarity.
No advance booking is required for Chigunu Beach as it is a public beach.
There are generally no specific restrictions, but visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and practice leave-no-trace principles.
Yes, Chigunu Beach is a great spot for a quick photo stop or a brief moment of relaxation due to its picturesque nature.
📸 📸 Photography
The clear emerald waters, the small cave, and the rocky areas with hermit crabs offer excellent photo opportunities. The overall scenic beauty of Kouri Island also contributes to great shots.
Early mornings or late afternoons provide softer lighting, ideal for capturing the beauty of the beach without harsh shadows.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and guidelines before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
While Chigunu Beach itself is a highlight, Kouri Island is known for its heart-shaped rock formations at Teenu Hama (Tiinu Hama), which are popular photo spots.
A camera capable of capturing vibrant colors and clear water is ideal. Waterproof cameras or phone cases are useful if you plan to get close to the water.
🎫 🦀 Wildlife & Nature
Chigunu Beach is known for its abundance of purple hermit crabs, which can be found in the rocky areas. The clear waters also suggest a healthy marine ecosystem.
The exceptionally clear waters make it a potentially good spot for snorkeling. Divers also appreciate the visibility in Okinawa's waters.
The pristine condition of the East China Sea and the natural environment of Kouri Island contribute to the exceptional clarity and emerald hue of the water.
The beach features a small cave, adding a unique element to the landscape. The surrounding rocky areas are also notable.
Observe the hermit crabs gently in their natural habitat. Avoid disturbing them or their environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Kouri Island's Charm
+1Beyond Chigunu Beach, Kouri Island offers other notable attractions. The Kouri Ocean Tower provides panoramic views of the island and the surrounding turquoise sea. For those interested in local legends, the Heart Rock formations at Teenu Hama (Tiinu Hama) are a must-see, believed to be a place for wishes related to love and prosperity. The island's relaxed pace makes it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
When visiting Kouri Island, consider renting a car for the most flexible exploration. The scenic drive across the Kouri Bridge itself is an experience. While Chigunu Beach offers a more secluded feel, other beaches like Kouri Beach are also popular for their beauty and amenities.
The Allure of Okinawa's Beaches
Many visitors to Okinawa seek out beaches that offer a sense of peace and natural beauty. Chigunu Beach, with its relatively quiet atmosphere and unique features like the small cave and hermit crabs, appeals to those looking for a more serene experience compared to more developed tourist spots. The East China Sea provides a backdrop of unparalleled beauty, making any beach visit a memorable one.
When exploring Okinawa's coastline, remember to respect the delicate marine ecosystem. Activities like snorkeling and diving are popular, allowing visitors to witness the vibrant underwater world. The consistent beauty of these beaches makes them a primary draw for tourism in the prefecture.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit