Nago & Nakijin: Kouri Bridge and Nakijin Castle Ruins — A Seaside Drive to the Island of Love

A seaside drive along the northern part of Okinawa's main island, tracing the coast from Nago through Nakijin (今帰仁) to Kouri Island (古宇利島), the “Island of Love.” In the morning, ride the self-driving Pineapple Wagon (パイナップル号) at Nago Pineapple Park (ナゴパイナップルパーク) for a relaxed loop through pineapple fields and subtropical forest. At Nakijin Castle Ruins (今帰仁城跡), a UNESCO World Heritage site, take in a sweeping view of the East China Sea from atop the gently curving stone walls. The highlight is the roughly 2km-long Kouri Bridge (古宇利大橋) — the thrill of driving straight across the cobalt-blue sea is the essence of an Okinawa road trip. In the afternoon, look down on the full sweep of the bridge from Kouri Ocean Tower (古宇利オーシャンタワー), standing 82m above sea level, then finish at Tinu Beach (ティーヌ浜), famous for its Heart Rock (ハートロック). Enjoy a day on the Island of Love, with blue seas and breathtaking views one after another.