💎 Kouri Ocean Tower: A Gem Above the Sea

Visiting Kouri Ocean Tower on Kouri Island was absolutely unforgettable. Nestled on a hillside overlooking the iconic Kouri Bridge and the sparkling turquoise waters of “Kouri Blue,” the tower offers stunning 360° ocean views from its indoor and rooftop observation decks.

The journey began with a scenic electric cart ride through a subtropical garden, complete with breezy commentary on the island’s history. It was a relaxing and immersive way to kick off the visit.

At the base of the tower, we explored a Shell Museum housing over 10,000 shells from around the world—surprisingly captivating for both kids and adults. The Kouri Island Museum was also informative and thoughtfully curated.

For lunch, we visited the Ocean Cafe which serves Neapolitan pizzas baked in a 500°C oven, with seating that offers views of the sea. The food was delicious and reasonably priced, and the overall ambience added to the experience.

Afterwards, we spent some time in the souvenir shop filled with island-themed crafts, sweets, and shells. Finally, the climb to the rooftop deck was the highlight—standing 82 meters above sea level with a panoramic view of the bridge and coastline. The “Bell of Happiness” up top made for a sweet photo moment too.

Pros:
• Breathtaking panoramic views
• Fun electric cart ride
• Engaging museums (Shell & Island)
• Delicious food with ocean views
• Barrier-free and family-friendly

Cons:
• Only accessible by car (but parking is free)
• Best enjoyed in 1–2 hours (not a full-day activity)

Overall, Kouri Ocean Tower is a peaceful and enriching stop in northern Okinawa. Perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting to take in some unforgettable island views.

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