Located on Kouri Island in Nakijin Village in northern Okinawa Island, the “Kouri Ocean Tower” is a scenic landmark that awaits visitors just beyond the Kouri Bridge. Featuring an observation deck overlooking the emerald-green sea, a seashell museum, and a café inside the tower, the facility offers attractions that appeal to everyone from families to couples.
Recommended for people like this
・For those looking for tourist attractions that are fun even on rainy days
・Families who want to take it easy and sightsee with their children
The postcard-perfect Kouri Blue as seen from the observation tower
The biggest highlight of Kouri Ocean Tower is, without a doubt, the panoramic view from its observation deck. As you ride the glass-enclosed elevator straight to the top, a breathtakingly beautiful ocean spreads out before your eyes. The view is especially spectacular on sunny days, and it’s a popular photo spot offering a panoramic view of the Kouri Bridge.
At the “Shell Museum,” known for its impressive shell exhibits, shells collected from all over the world are on display, and you’ll find yourself captivated by them. There’s also a restaurant offering views of the Kouri Bridge. Time passes at a leisurely pace, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing and soothing experience.
Great for families! Full of interactive features that parents and kids can enjoy together
The ride on the automatic cart up the tower is a huge hit with kids. The thrill of climbing the gentle slope makes even just the ride itself a special memory. The entire facility is designed to be barrier-free, so you can feel at ease even with a stroller. With restrooms and diaper-changing stations available, I think families with young children will find it a comfortable place to visit.
Inside the Shell Museum, there are many colorful shells—ranging from large to small—and the exhibits are sure to captivate both children and adults alike.
Cross the Kouri Bridge and Enter a World Beyond the Ordinary
It’s easiest to get there by car; it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Naha Airport. From downtown Nago, it’s about a 40-minute drive. The view as you cross the Kouri Bridge is sure to impress both the driver and the passenger.
If you are using public transportation, take a bus bound for Nakijin from the Nago Bus Terminal, get off at the “Kouri Island Entrance” bus stop, and then continue on foot or by taxi.
A comfort that makes you want to come back again and again
The day we visited was absolutely beautiful and sunny! We arrived around 11:30 a.m., just as the ocean was starting to look blue! We were blown away by the beauty of the ocean as we looked down from the observation deck.
To be honest, I thought the Shell Museum might be a bit “dull,” but it turned out to be more interesting than I expected. Since we had plans to eat at another place this time, we didn’t eat at the restaurant there, but I’d definitely like to try it next time♪
The entire tower was beautifully maintained, and when we visited, there were people of all ages, from children to the elderly. Personally, I’ll definitely be going back!
Nearby Tourist Attractions (within a 30-minute drive)
Tinu Beach (Heart Rock)... About a 5-minute drive
DRIVE IN Rikari Kawarumi... About a 10-minute drive
Yagaji Beach... About a 15-minute drive
Churaumi Aquarium... About a 30-minute drive
Spot Information
| Attraction Name | Kouri Ocean Tower |
| Genre | Observation Decks, Museums, and Restaurants |
| Business Hours | 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. (Last admission at 5:30 p.m.) The restaurant is open from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
| Closed Days | Open Every Day of the Year |
| Admission Fee | Ages 16 and older: 1,000 yen; ages 6–15: 500 yen; under 6: free |
| Parking Lot | 200 units (No. 1, No. 2, No. 3) *There are 10 parking spaces reserved for buses. |
| Address | 538 Kouri, Nakijin Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture 905-0406 |
*This information is current as of the article's last update. Be sure to check in advance before you go!
