Kudaka Island Okinawa
A sacred 'Island of the Gods' in Okinawa, offering serene beaches, ancient sites, and breathtaking ocean vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Kudaka Island Okinawa
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sacred 'Island of the Gods' in Okinawa, offering serene beaches, ancient sites, and breathtaking ocean vistas.
"Small and peaceful island. Highly recommended for a day trip to enjoy the views."
🚲 Rent a Bike
Explore the island easily by renting a bike near the ferry pier.
🙏 Respect Sacred Sites
Be aware of restricted areas and local customs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sacred Island Vistas
Experience the spiritual aura of Kudaka Island, known as 'God's Island,' with breathtaking ocean views.
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Coastal Exploration
Cycle or walk along the 'Romance Road' for stunning views of the Okinawan coastline and vibrant coral reefs.
Ancient Water Wells
Discover ancient water wells along the north coast, offering unique historical insights and beautiful ocean panoramas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respect Sacred Ground
+1Island Access & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Rent a Bike
Explore the island easily by renting a bike near the ferry pier.
🙏 Respect Sacred Sites
Be aware of restricted areas and local customs.
⏰ Check Ferry Schedules
Ferries can be infrequent; plan your visit accordingly.
🌊 Enjoy the Sea Views
The island offers stunning coastal scenery and clear blue waters.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Rent a Bike
Explore the island easily by renting a bike near the ferry pier.
🙏 Respect Sacred Sites
Be aware of restricted areas and local customs.
⏰ Check Ferry Schedules
Ferries can be infrequent; plan your visit accordingly.
🌊 Enjoy the Sea Views
The island offers stunning coastal scenery and clear blue waters.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kudaka Island is praised for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning, clear blue sea views, making it a worthwhile day trip for many. However, some visitors find it less captivating compared to other Okinawan islands and note the inconvenience of accessing the ferry port.
"Small and peaceful island. From the ferry station to the other end of the island 45 minutes walk if you don't stop on the way of course to enjoy the views. I walked around the island stopping alone the way to enjoy the view of the sea on different locations in about 3 hours. Highly recommended."
Dima Abramov
"Island hopping in Okinawa is our favorite thing to do and Kudaka was awesome but if I have to rate it against the other islands I've been to, Zamami, Aka, Ie, Kume, Yoron, and Tsuken, it's the lowest on that list for me. It's an island I'm glad we did, and we had fun but one that I probably wouldn't visit again."
David Wells
"Small coral island, about 2 sq km, pop 300, 25 min ferry ride from Nanjo Town, Azama port. Highest point is about 3 m over sea level. Access to/from the ferry on the Okinawa side is fairly inconvenient with infrequent bus service to/from Nanjo city hall and no taxi stand at the port. Taxi can be called at Azama but availability can be limited, forcing a wait for the city bus. There are two ferries, the fast boat (passengers only) and a small car ferry. Fast boat takes 15 min to cross, car ferry 25 min. Tickets can be purchased at both ends, the fast boat is 90 yen supplement each way to the ordinary passenger fare of 1,300 round trip. Most visitors are day tripping to ride rental bikes around the island. Bike rental is cheap from a choice of 3 shops just above the ferry pier. The entire island can be walked in 3 hours, biked in 2 hours depending on how much time sightseeing. The North side of the island has a few ancient water wells along the coast with access from improved stairs that lead to beautiful ocean views. “Romance Road” on the north side has a nice view of Okinawa and is worth visiting. The northern most point, Cape Kaberu has incredible vistas of the off shore reef with lots of sharp coral. The south shore has sandy coral beaches, protected by an off shore reef. There are a few places to eat and drink and vending machines located in the village. Overall worth a visit for a nice day on a remote island. But not too remote."
John Durkin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Kudaka Island by ferry from Azama Port in Nanjo City, Okinawa. There are two ferry options: a fast boat (15 minutes) and a smaller car ferry (25 minutes). The fast boat has a small supplement fee.
Access to Azama Port can be inconvenient. Bus service to Nanjo City Hall is infrequent, and there's no taxi stand at the port. You may need to call a taxi, and availability can be limited.
Yes, a small car ferry operates to Kudaka Island, allowing you to bring a vehicle. However, many visitors opt for rental bikes upon arrival.
The round-trip fare for the ordinary passenger ferry is approximately 1,300 yen. The fast boat has an additional supplement of 90 yen each way.
The fast boat to Kudaka Island takes about 15 minutes, while the car ferry takes around 25 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ferry tickets can be purchased at both Azama Port and upon arrival at Kudaka Island. It's advisable to check ferry schedules in advance, especially during peak seasons.
There are no specific entrance fees to visit Kudaka Island itself. The primary cost is the ferry ticket to and from the island.
Kudaka Island is accessible via ferry during daylight hours. The island itself is open to visitors, but ferry schedules dictate the times you can arrive and depart.
Yes, Kudaka Island is a sacred site. Visitors are asked to be respectful, avoid restricted areas, and refrain from taking anything from the island.
While many visitors are day-trippers, there are some accommodation options available, including private villas with ocean views.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the island by walking or renting a bicycle. Highlights include visiting ancient water wells, enjoying scenic coastal paths like 'Romance Road,' and experiencing the island's sacred atmosphere.
The island is small, about 2 sq km. You can walk around it in about 3 hours, or bike it in approximately 2 hours, depending on how often you stop to sightsee.
The south shore features sandy coral beaches protected by an offshore reef, making it suitable for enjoying the sea.
Yes, there are a few places to eat and drink within the village, and vending machines are also available.
The 'Romance Road' is a scenic path on the north side of the island offering beautiful views of Okinawa and the surrounding sea.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning ocean vistas from various points along the coast, especially from the northern 'Romance Road' and Cape Kaberu. The ancient water wells also offer unique photographic opportunities.
While generally allowed, be mindful of sacred sites and local customs. Some areas might have restrictions, so observe and respect signage.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive sea views and landscapes. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful if you plan to get close to the water.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local guidelines before flying a drone to ensure compliance and respect for the island's sacred nature.
Morning and late afternoon offer softer light for photography. Golden hour can provide beautiful, warm tones for capturing the island's scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the island is a sacred site, so it's important to educate children about respecting local customs and avoiding restricted areas. The ferry ride itself can be an adventure for kids, and the island's natural beauty provides plenty of opportunities for discovery. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as dining options are limited.
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers
+1Approach your visit with an open heart and mind. Observe the island's serene atmosphere and be mindful of its sacred status by respecting any restricted areas and local customs. The island's natural beauty enhances its spiritual aura, making it a place for quiet contemplation and reflection.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers
Walking is also a great option, with the island being easily navigable on foot. The 'Romance Road' and the coastal paths offer scenic routes for a leisurely stroll or a more brisk walk. Don't miss the chance to explore the ancient water wells and the dramatic views from Cape Kaberu.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sacred Significance of Kudaka Island
+1Visitors are encouraged to approach the island with reverence. Certain areas are considered off-limits to protect their sanctity. Understanding and respecting these traditions is crucial for a meaningful visit. The island's spiritual energy is palpable, offering a unique experience beyond typical tourist attractions.
This deep connection to tradition means that while the island is beautiful, it's also a living cultural site. The local community plays a vital role in preserving its heritage. Visitors who come with an open mind and a respectful attitude will find Kudaka Island to be a truly special destination.
Exploring Kudaka Island: Getting Around
For those who prefer to walk, the island can be circumnavigated in about three hours, allowing ample time to stop and admire the scenery. The 'Romance Road' on the north side is particularly recommended for its picturesque views.
While the island is small, it's important to be aware of the ferry schedules for your return trip. Planning your exploration around these times will ensure a smooth and enjoyable day trip.
Nature and Wildlife on Kudaka Island
The island is also home to unique flora and fauna. Notably, it is known as a habitat for the blueberry hermit crab, a species native to Okinawa and Kudaka Island.
While these crabs are sought after as pets, their presence on the island adds to its ecological diversity. Beyond the marine life and hermit crabs, the island's natural beauty is evident in its coastal paths and the vibrant ocean views. The northernmost point, Cape Kaberu, offers dramatic vistas of the offshore reef and its sharp coral formations.
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