Kouri Island

In the northern part of the main island of Okinawa, Kouri Island, part of Nakijin Village, is known as the island of love where a myth of human creation survives. Long ago, a man and woman who descended from the heavens are said to have lived on this island and left descendants, an Okinawan version of the Adam and Eve legend, making it popular as a power spot for love and matchmaking. The heart-shaped Heart Rock floating in the clear emerald-green sea is nationally famous as a sacred spot for lovers. As an island easily reached by crossing the roughly 1,960-meter Kouri Bridge, it can be enjoyed along with a stunning drive.

Highlights

• Heart Rock: Two rocks shaped into a heart by wave erosion on Tinu Beach in the north of the island, a photo spot symbolizing the fulfillment of love.
• Kouri Bridge: A stunning bridge stretching straight about 1,960 meters over the blue sea. Opened in 2005, it is the highlight of the drive.
• Clear Sea and Beach: The shallow beach spreading at the foot of the bridge boasts some of the finest clarity in Okinawa.
• Legend of the Creation Myth: The myth of being the birthplace of humankind adds a mystical air to the whole island.

Enjoying the Seasons

In summer the blue of the sea is at its most vivid, and you can enjoy swimming and marine activities. Spring and autumn see calmer crowds, a season to savor the stunning views at leisure. The Heart Rock can be seen up close on foot at low tide, so checking the tide table before visiting is recommended. The view of the sea and bridge at dusk is also exceptional.

Access and Basic Information

• Location: Kouri, Nakijin Village, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa
• Access: About 1 hour 40 minutes by car from Naha Airport (via Kouri Bridge from Yagaji Island)
• Hours: Anytime (low tide is recommended for the Heart Rock)
• Admission: Free to visit (parking may be paid)

Practical Travel Notes

• The Way to Heart Rock: The Heart Rock is on Tinu Beach in the north of the island; from the parking area you descend to the beach and walk over rocks and sand. Sandals that can get wet or comfortable shoes are reassuring.
• Check the Tide Times: Aiming for low tide lets you approach and view the two rocks. Check the tide table in advance.
• Parking: There is parking at the foot of the bridge and near the Heart Rock, which may be paid. Follow the signs and attendants guidance.
• Nearby: The Churaumi Aquarium and Nakijin Castle ruins are within driving distance, so working it into a touring course of northern Okinawa makes for a full day.

A Quick Tip

As you walk over rocks and beach to the Heart Rock, sandals that can get wet or comfortable shoes are recommended. Aiming for low tide lets you see the two rocks up close. The Churaumi Aquarium and Nakijin Castle ruins are also nearby, so working it into a touring course of northern Okinawa makes for a full day.

📚 Sources

This article draws on tourism guidance from Nakijin Village, published information on Kouri Island Heart Rock, Tinu Beach, and the Kouri Bridge, and guidance on the nearby Churaumi Aquarium and Nakijin Castle Ruins. Descriptions of the human-creation myth and the island reputation as an island of love follow on-site guidance. Tide tables and parking conditions change by season, so please confirm details on the official Nakijin Village and facility sources before visiting.

Visitor Checklist

• The way to Heart Rock: Heart Rock is at Tinu Beach in the north of the island; walk down from the parking to the beach and over the rocks and sand. Sandals that can get wet or comfortable shoes are safest.
• Check the tide: Aim for low tide to walk closer to the two rocks; check the tide table in advance.
• Parking: There are lots at the ends of the bridge and around Heart Rock, sometimes paid; follow the signs and attendants.
• Getting around: The island is easily reached by crossing the roughly 1,960-meter Kouri Bridge; the sea and bridge at dusk are especially fine.
• Combine with: The Churaumi Aquarium and Nakijin Castle Ruins are within driving distance, making a full day when built into a northern Okinawa touring route.