Tokashikijima Island Nature Scenic Drive and Walk

Drive across Tokashikijima and enjoy views from the Teruyama and Mihanabaru observatories

This driving and walking course starts from Tokashiki Port. Along the way, stop for walks along the Teruyama Garden Nature Trail and the Mihanabaru Nature Trail to enjoy native Okinawan flora and fauna and coastal vistas. In winter, you may be able to spot humpback whales if you are lucky.

There are two 20-minute hiking legs to the two observatories along this course—Teruyama and Mihanabaru—from their respective parking lots. Mihanabaru Nature Trail takes you through a wide spectrum of vegetation, including a variety of Indian hawthorn and a local species of juniper. Azaleas bloom between January and March. The Teruyama Observatory gives you a 360-degree panoramic view of Tokashikijima Island and the surrounding seas. The observatory is also a popular spot to watch the annual humpback whale migration, which begins in late December and runs until early April.

Highlights

The Teruyama Garden Trail

Flora and fauna on the Teruyama Garden Trail

While there are a few uphill sections along the way, the scenery and abundant nature on the Teruyama Garden Trail make the hike enjoyable from beginning to end. The trail comes alive with vibrant azalea blossoms from January to March.

The Kerama Channel, as seen from Teruyama Oberservatory

The islands of the Kerama Channel

From the hilltop Teruyama Observatory, you can look over the beaches of Tokashiku and Aharen. Farther out are islands of Zamamijima, Akajima and Gerumajima. Dusk is a popular time of day at the observatory when visitors come to watch the sun sinking into the ocean. Humpback whales migrate through the waters between late December and early April—you may be able to see the whales from the observatory with binoculars.

A glimpse of Okinawa’s main island from the Mihanabaru Nature Trail

Sightseeing on the Mihanabaru Nature Trail

The Mihanabaru Nature Trail begins from the parking lot just off Kubiribaru Forest Road. Ryukyu Island pine trees shelter this white, sandy trail from the strong winds blowing off the ocean. You'll have scenic views of the surrounding sea and islands, with two hilltop arbors along the way affording the chance to rest and enjoy the local environment. You will be rewarded with gorgeous views from the observatory at the top of the trail, situated on a seaside cliff.

Route Map

Tokashikijima Island Nature Scenic Drive and Walk

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