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- Okinawa
Ie Island
Ie Island: The island of flowers and a romantic sunset
Located a 30-minute ferry ride away from Motobu Port, Ie is a remote island in northern Okinawa known for its symbolic Mount Gusuku that rises in the center of the island. Easily accessible, Ie Island is a perfect destination as the first remote island experience. Peanuts and “shima rakkyo (Okinawan shallots)” are some of the local specialties of the island, but Ie is also famous as the island of flowers. The Lily Field Park with approximately one million lilies blooming in late April, as well as the Hibiscus Garden where over 1,000 species of hibiscus flowers blossom in full glory, are not to be missed.
Lily Field Park where over one million lilies bloom
Lily Field Park is awash with a carpet of pure white Easter lilies as well as approximately 100 species of colorful lilies from around the world in full bloom spreading through the vast fields. Japan’s earliest lily festival is held every year from mid-April through the Golden Week holidays (early May), enveloping the whole island in a sweet aroma. The park can be easily accessed by a free shuttle bus service from the Ie Port. The lilies are beautiful in the daytime, but make sure to also check out the evening illuminations. There are also fireworks at night, providing a different atmosphere from the daytime.
Mount Gusuku: The symbol of Ie Island surrounded by blue sea waters
Mount Gusuku, the symbol of Ie Island that rises up 172 meters is also nicknamed "Tacchu," which comes from its sharp tip. Formed by a unique offscape phenomenon that is rare throughout the world, Mount Gusuku has a distinctive conical shape which has served as a nautical landmark for ships sailing in the nearby waters since ancient times. There are stairs surrounded by greenery taking 15 to 20 minutes to reach the top of the mountain so that anyone can easily enjoy climbing. The spectacular 360-degree view from the summit is worth seeing. You can get an unobstructed panoramic view of the entire island such as fields and villages as well as the nearby islands floating on clear blue sea waters.
Ie Beach with white sands and shimmering blue waters
Ie Beach is known for its white sands that create a beautiful contrast with the blue sky and ocean. There are a beach volleyball court, shops and shower facilities on the white sandy beach stretching one kilometer along the crystal-clear waters that exude a tropical feel. The swing made of natural wood on the beach with the blue sea in the background is a perfect Instagrammable spot. Open for swimming from May to the end of November, Ie Beach is a family-friendly choice that can be enjoyed by everyone.
Location
| Name | Ie Island |
|---|---|
| Website | https://www.visitokinawa.jp/destinations/islands-near-the-okinawa-main-island/ie |
| Address | 552 Higashieue, Ie-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa |
| Access | Approximately 30 minutes by ferry from Motobu Port |
| Inquiries | TEL: 0980-49-2906 (Ie Village Tourism Section) |
| Admission | Ferry fares for passengers departing from Motobu Port Round-trip Adults (12 years and older): 1,390 yen Children (6 to 11 years old): 710 yen |
| Others | Ferry timetable From Motobu Port: 9:00, 11:00, 15:00, 17:00 From Ie Port: 8:00, 10:00, 13:00, 16:00 (Ferry services may be cancelled due to adverse weather conditions.) |
