One of Okinawa’s Most Scenic Drives
Kouri Bridge opened in 2005. At the time of its opening, it was the longest toll-free bridge connecting an outlying island in Japan.
Today, it is the second-longest toll-free bridge in Okinawa Prefecture, after Irabu Bridge, which connects Miyako Island and Irabu Island.
The road across the bridge is particularly impressive because the sea is visible on both sides almost continuously. The combination of the straight roadway, brilliant blue sky, and vivid emerald-green water makes the bridge one of northern Okinawa’s most memorable scenic drives.
Kouri Beach and Local Island Attractions
Immediately after crossing onto Kouri Island, visitors will find Kouri Beach and Kouri Fureai Hiroba on the left. The area is a convenient place to take a break, enjoy the beach, and discover local specialties and products.
The bridge and its surrounding scenery have become popular with visitors and have also appeared in television dramas, films, and other productions since shortly after the bridge opened.
A View from the Southern Observation Point
On the Yagaji Island side, the Southern Bridge Observation Point offers a beautiful view back toward Kouri Bridge. From the coast, visitors can see the bridge stretching toward Kouri Island, with the brilliant blue sea and a small green islet known as Kaeru Island adding to the scenery.
The viewpoint provides an excellent opportunity to appreciate the full scale of the bridge and the remarkable clarity of the surrounding waters.
The Bridge’s “Male” and “Female” Pillars
Another distinctive feature of Kouri Bridge is the design of its main entrance pillars. The two pillars are traditionally associated with male and female figures, inspired by the legend of human origins handed down on Kouri Island.
This connection to the island’s traditional mythology gives the bridge more than just practical significance. It also serves as a modern symbol linked to the cultural identity and romantic image of Kouri Island.
Magical Illumination After Dark
Kouri Bridge takes on a completely different atmosphere at night. Green lighting embedded in the openings of the bridge’s male pillar creates a mysterious glow after dark.
Although the bridge is best known for its daytime panoramic views, the illuminated structure provides another memorable perspective and adds a distinctive nighttime atmosphere to the surrounding landscape.
Strong Winds Can Affect Access
Because the bridge crosses open water, weather conditions can affect traffic. When winds exceed approximately 20 meters per second, the gates at the ends of the bridge may be closed and traffic restrictions may be imposed for safety.
Travelers planning to visit during periods of strong winds should therefore pay attention to local weather and road conditions.
A Gateway to the “Island of Love”
Kouri Bridge is more than a convenient connection between two islands. It has become one of the iconic landscapes of northern Okinawa, offering travelers the rare experience of driving across a long road surrounded almost entirely by tropical sea.
From the emerald waters beneath the bridge to the traditional legends associated with Kouri Island, the journey across Kouri Bridge is an experience that combines spectacular scenery, island culture, and the freedom of a scenic road trip.
Enjoy the Open Sea from Behind the Wheel
For travelers exploring northern Okinawa by car, crossing Kouri Bridge is a highlight in its own right. Take your time to enjoy the changing views of the ocean, stop at one of the nearby viewpoints, and continue onto Kouri Island to discover its beaches and distinctive island atmosphere.
Kouri Bridge offers one of the most exhilarating drives in Okinawa—a road where the sea seems to stretch endlessly beneath and around you.