Okinawa's Kouri Island: Heart Rock, Shrimp Rice, and Mythical Caves for a Romantic Adventure!

Visiting Kouri Island during the summer weekdays is like stepping into a paradise surrounded by the mesmerizing "Kouri Blue." 💙 This small island is the perfect blend of romance and nature! A self-driving tour around the island takes only about half an hour, offering breathtaking ocean views along the way. This time, I indulged in delicious shrimp rice, explored the mythical Chigunu Beach (Origin Cave), and visited the popular Heart Rock. From food to sacred sites, every moment was truly captivating! Follow my footsteps for a dreamy journey to Kouri Island! 🏝️

📍 Location: Kouri Island
📍 Address: Japan, 〒905-0406 Okinawa Prefecture, Kunigami District, Nakijin Village, Kouri
🚗 Transportation: Self-driving is recommended, about 30 minutes from Nago City Center!
🕒 Suggested Visit Duration: 2-3 hours
💡 Tip: Weekday afternoons (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM) are less crowded, making it easier to photograph Heart Rock and the caves!

🌴 Highlights: A perfect fusion of romance, nature, and cuisine

1. Heart Rock:
Located at Ti-nu Beach, this heart-shaped rock is the romantic landmark of Kouri Island! 💕 Waves gently lap against Heart Rock, and under the sunlight, the sea sparkles with blue-green hues—every snapshot is Instagram-worthy! 📸 Parking fee is 300 yen; arriving early is recommended to avoid crowds. Wearing white or light-colored clothing complements the ocean backdrop beautifully.
📷 Photo Tip: Stand on the left side of the beach to capture the dynamic interplay of Heart Rock and the waves. Sunset adds an extra touch of romance!

2. Chigunu Beach (Origin Cave):
Hidden on the west side of Kouri Island, this secret beach is considered the birthplace of humanity in Ryukyu mythology! 🌊 Legend has it that Okinawa's version of "Adam and Eve" once lived in this cave, making it a place of mystery and spirituality. From the nearby parking lot, it's about a 10-minute walk down steep stone steps to Chigunu Beach, where you'll find crystal-clear waters and a natural cave.
⚠️ Tip: The cave may be inaccessible during high tide, so check tide schedules and wear non-slip shoes for safety!

3. Kouri Island Shrimp Rice:
Located near Kouri Bridge, Shrimp Rice is a must-try dish! 🍤 I ordered the Original Garlic Shrimp Rice (about 1,500 yen), featuring plump, sweet shrimp paired with rich garlic sauce—absolutely satisfying! The restaurant also offers ice cream, perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day! 😋
📍 Address: Okinawa Prefecture, Kunigami District, Nakijin Village, Kouri 321
🕒 Business Hours: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Reservation recommended: 0980-56-1188)
💡 Tips: Outdoor seating offers stunning views of Kouri Bridge—great for photos. Be sure to allocate time for queuing!

🏖️ Nearby Itinerary Suggestions:
• Churaumi Aquarium: A 30-minute drive to see whale sharks and dolphin shows, making for a packed day trip!

💡 Travel Tips:
1. Best Time: Weekday afternoons offer soft lighting for photographing Heart Rock and Chigunu Beach, avoiding weekend crowds.
2. Budget Reference: Heart Rock parking fee 300 yen + Shrimp Rice about 2,000 yen/person, total expenses under 3,000 yen!

🌟 Overall Rating: 9/10