Kaichu Road (Okinawa)

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Kaichu Road (Okinawa)

A refreshing drive over the sea—this iconic Okinawan road stretches out toward the islands.

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Connecting the Katsuren Peninsula on Okinawa’s main island to Henza Island, Kaichu Road is a roughly 5-kilometer toll-free roadway that offers one of the most exhilarating drives in Okinawa. Despite its name, which means “undersea road,” the route is actually built atop a causeway through shallow coastal waters. With stunning views of the cobalt-blue sea stretching out on either side, the drive is a refreshing and unforgettable experience.
From Henza Island, bridges extend further to other nearby islands such as Miyagi Island, Hamahiga Island, and Ikei Island—making it a popular scenic driving route.

At the midway point of the road lies Umi no Eki Ayahashikan, a rest stop with a restaurant, restrooms, and a souvenir shop featuring local specialties from Uruma City and around Okinawa. The second floor houses a maritime culture museum, showcasing wooden ship models and historical materials related to traditional boat-building and trade.
The beaches around the roadside park are a hub of activity on weekends, where visitors enjoy marine sports like windsurfing or gather for beachside BBQs.

For those on foot, a pedestrian bridge spans the road and offers panoramic views of the sea and surrounding nature—perfect for a peaceful break. At night, the Henza Mid-Sea Bridge is beautifully illuminated, casting a dreamlike glow over the waters—a must-see nighttime spectacle.

Highlights

  • A road connecting Yokatsu Peninsula on Okinawa’s main island to Henza Island.
  • Though it runs over the sea, it’s not a bridge but a causeway built on shallow seabed.
  • A roadside park with a restaurant and restrooms sits at the midpoint of the road.
  • The nearby beaches are popular spots for windsurfing and other marine activities.
  • At night, the Henza Mid-Sea Bridge along the road is beautifully lit up.

Photos

  • Driving along this road that cuts through cobalt-blue waters is an unforgettable experience

    Driving along this road that cuts through cobalt-blue waters is an unforgettable experience

  • The illuminated Henza Mid-Sea Bridge is a popular night-viewing spot

    The illuminated Henza Mid-Sea Bridge is a popular night-viewing spot

  • At the roadside park, you can stop your car and enjoy sweeping views of the islands and sea

    At the roadside park, you can stop your car and enjoy sweeping views of the islands and sea

  • Located in the center of Kaichu Road is Umi no Eki Ayahashikan

    Located in the center of Kaichu Road is Umi no Eki Ayahashikan

  • The second floor houses the Maritime Culture Museum, showcasing traditional Okinawan trade ships

    The second floor houses the Maritime Culture Museum, showcasing traditional Okinawan trade ships

  • On the first floor, local specialties from Uruma City and across Okinawa are available for purchase

    On the first floor, local specialties from Uruma City and across Okinawa are available for purchase

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Are there any pamphlets or signs available in foreign languages? (If so, which languages?)

A

Yes. Foreign language pamphlets are available at the Churashima Kaidō Tourist Information Center in English, Korean, Traditional Chinese, and Simplified Chinese.

Q

Can I travel the road by bicycle?

A

Yes, bicycles are allowed.

Reviews

Details

Name in Japanese
海中道路
Postal Code
904-2427
Address
Yonashiroyahira, Uruma City, Okinawa
Telephone
098-989-1148(Uruma City Tourism & Products Association)
Closed
Open every day
Business Hours
Open for passage anytime
Admission
Roadway is free
Access
About 50 minutes by car from Naha Airport.
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)