Gangala Valley

In Nanjo City, in the southern part of the main island of Okinawa, Gangala Valley is a mystical valley where a subtropical forest spreads over a limestone cave that collapsed hundreds of thousands of years ago. The area is said to be a place where the oldest humans of Okinawa, the Minatogawa people, may have lived, a sacred space that evokes the flow of eternal time. It can be walked only with a specialist guide, and power spots full of vitality are scattered about, including the Inagu cave of women and the Ikiga cave of men, said to bless fertility and safe childbirth, and the Ufushu banyan tree about 150 years old.

Highlights

- Inagu and Ikiga Caves: Mystical limestone caves long revered as places of prayer for fertility, safe childbirth, and matchmaking. - Ufushu Banyan: A giant banyan rooted atop the forest, an overwhelming sacred tree said to grant long life and wisdom. - Cave Cafe: A cafe set within a limestone cave, where you can take a break before or after the tour. - Primeval Subtropical Forest: A forest filled with dappled light and spring water that heals body and mind just by walking through it.

Enjoying the Seasons

Because subtropical Okinawa is green year-round, you can enjoy a forest walk in any season. Summer offers the cool of the shade, and winter lets you wander slowly in a comfortable climate. The tour is by reservation, so once your visit date is set, booking early is reassuring. The roughly 80-minute guided tour lets you touch the sacred site culture of Okinawa along with the story of the forest.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: 202 Maekawa, Tamagusuku, Nanjo City, Okinawa - Access: About 30 minutes by car from Naha Airport (across from Okinawa World) - How to Visit: Reservation-only guided tours (about 80 minutes) - Admission: A tour fee is required (check the official website)

A Quick Tip

As you walk through the forest, comfortable shoes are recommended. The tour is by reservation with limited capacity, so apply early once your itinerary is set. It is especially popular with those praying for fertility and safe childbirth. Touring it together with nearby Okinawa World (Gyokusendo cave) lets you fully enjoy the underground world and sacred forest of Okinawa in one day.