The best places to see the first sunrise of the year in Okinawa! A complete guide to stunning spots and recommended experiences
This time
Okinawa
First sunrise of the year
Focus on!
Popular spots to see the first sunrise of the year, including Cape Chinen, Mid-Sea Road, and Cape Hedo
We will introduce them all at once.
Kayaking
While, etc.
A unique first sunrise experience
It is also currently being published.
Why not change things up and start the year in a warm tropical climate?
table of contents
- 1 What is the appeal of seeing the first sunrise of the year in Okinawa?
- 2 Where to see the first sunrise of the year in Okinawa | Northern Area (Around Kunigami and Nago)
- 3 Where to see the first sunrise of the year in Okinawa | Chubu Area (Around Uruma and Nakagusuku)
- 4 Where to see the first sunrise in Okinawa | Southern Area (Around Nanjo City and Itoman)
- 5 Enjoy the first sunrise of the year even more! Introducing recommended experiences and tours
- 6 Make the New Year a special memory by watching the first sunrise of the year in Okinawa!
- 7 Feature articles recommended by the editorial department
What is the appeal of seeing the first sunrise of the year in Okinawa?
The first sunrise of the year is often associated with a cold weather, Warmer than Honshu Okinawa Then you can enjoy it in a cooler environment. !
Welcome the New Year with the sunrise on a southern island and you'll feel very special.
Being surrounded by the sea, there are plenty of spots where you can beautifully watch the sun rise over the horizon, which is also an attraction.
is!
It's also recommended for creating memories with family, couples, and friends, as a surprise, and for enjoying photos that will look great on social media.
Where to see the first sunrise of the year in Okinawa | Northern Area (Around Kunigami and Nago)
In the following,
Okinawa main island
Spots to see the first sunrise of the year in the northern area
Introducing.
If you use a car,
Naha
It is also easily accessible from here!
Cape Hedo
Cape Hedo
teeth,
Okinawa main island
This is the northernmost cape!
Enjoy the first sunrise of the year in a great location overlooking the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean.
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The waves crashing against the cliffs are so powerful that they send spray flying everywhere!
As the north wind blows, wind and cold protection measures are essential.
is.
Feel the power of Okinawa's ocean with your whole body as you welcome the start of the new year.
Address: 973-5 Hedo, Kunigami Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture
In the northern part of Okinawa Island, where Cape Hedo is located, Tours to enjoy Yanbaru's natural beauty are popular is!
Below, Bus Tour ・ Motorbike rental ・ diving We have picked up plans from a wide range of genres, including:
[Recommended Points] ▼Registered as a World Natural Heritage Site▼Enjoy the abundant nature of Yanbaru, which spreads across the two Yanbaru villages of Kunigami Village and Ogimi Village! Admission fees are included at all stops♪ Let's head to Yanbaru! A course to enjoy the nature of Yanbaru National Park, touring the Rail Forest and Mount Daisekirin.★A must-visit! Efficient and easy sightseeing in Yanbaru, the northernmost point of Okinawa's main island♪★<神秘的な穴
This plan does not support English.
The fee is for 4 hours, and a helmet and smartphone holder are included in the price. We currently have 4 50cc bikes. For 2-4 people, there is a discount of 550 yen per person. [Morning] 9:00 - 13:00 [Afternoon] 14:00 - 18:00 ① Outside business hours 8:00-9:00, 18:00
1 person OK [Okinawa, Cape Hedo] Equipment transfer included Cape Hedo Fun Diving
This is a fun diving tour to Cape Hedo, the northernmost point of Okinawa's main island. It will be held for one person or more. Boats in the Cape Hedo area have fewer boarding slots than boats in the Kerama area. Therefore, we will check the availability of the boat when we receive your reservation request. Please select your desired date from the calendar and submit your request. Areas where pick-up and drop-off is available
Asumui Hikes (formerly: Daisekirinzan)
A spot where you can stroll through the northernmost forest on Okinawa's main island with an audio guide. Asmuyhikes " .
In this ancient forest, known as the land of creation in Ryukyu mythology, you can enjoy the rich nature typical of Yanbaru and the mysterious scenery created by the strange rock formations!
The facility is open all year round, but opens at 7:00 AM on New Year's Day.
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Why not enjoy your first trek of the new year while watching the sunrise at this sacred site?
Address: 1241 Ginama, Kunigami Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture
Higashi Village Residents' Forest Azalea Eco Park
" Higashison Villagers' Forest Azalea Eco Park " is an outdoor spot surrounded by the forests of Yanbaru, and is rich in nature!
The vast grounds are packed with spots where you can experience the Yanbaru forests and rivers up close.
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Located on a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean, you can enjoy the first sunrise of the year from within the park without having to travel all the way to the seaside!
Bungalows and campsites are available, so you can stay the night there to see the first sunrise of the year. is.
Address: 766-1 Taira, Higashimura, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture
Below, Outdoor tours you can enjoy around Higashi Village Azalea Eco Park Now posted!
Please book the plan that best suits your schedule for the day.
<Okinawa Yanbaru Higashi Village> Selectable Photo Tour in Northern Premium - Combine with Drone
90 minutes and up 1 group (1-5 people) ¥40,000 Drone photography + ¥25,000 * Kayak ¥7,000 per person Sightseeing boat ¥1,200 Additional location ¥10,000 Please check the website and Instagram for drone videos * There are some places where drone photography is not permitted * As it is inevitably affected by the weather, there is no cancellation fee and changes
This plan does not support English.
[Kayaking experience in the largest mangrove on Okinawa's main island!!] You can experience exploring the jungle in the Gesashi River, which is said to be the most pristine on the main island. Especially in the summer (March to early December), you can see many creatures, so if you're lucky, you might encounter a giant mangrove crab or a giant clam!!! [The instructor was raised locally and
The rainy season is here! You can have fun even in the rain! This is the original Okinawa buggy, so it's safe and secure. The buggy tour was featured on a popular TV program on New Year's Day. You can enjoy it any time of the year♪ You can have fun even on rainy days☆ This is a super authentic, classic buggy tour! Even beginners can feel at ease♪ We'll practice thoroughly in the spacious field! Participants from 4 years old are welcome! It's a very popular activity with families☆★ Recommended for the following people
Enjoy the summer in Okinawa!! Super refreshing!! Fly through the Yanbaru forest on a zip line!! You can fly on five zip lines in the breathtaking scenery of Yanbaru, which was registered as a World Natural Heritage Site in July 2021. The higher you fly, the more exciting and thrilling it gets. ★About 1 minute by car from Gesashi Mangrove★ Close to the popular Gesashi Mangrove Kayaking area! Travel
Igei SA (upbound)
Okinawa Expressway service area is!
It takes about 50 minutes by car from Naha to Igei SA.
From the observation deck within the facility, you can enjoy a spectacular view of Kin Bay and the Yokatsu Islands.
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Enjoy the beautiful ocean view and first sunrise of the year.
Address: 1261 Igei, Kin Town, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture
In the area around Kin Town, where the Igei Service Area is located, Experience tours held at nature spots in central and northern Okinawa is being held.
After enjoying the first sunrise of the year, why not try some of the first activities of the new year before heading out to the tourist spots?
This plan does not support English.
★A high-quality kayaking tour with a focus on safety, guided by a certified kayaking guide from the Okinawa Kayak and Canoe Association. ★A tour for kayaking debutants, suitable for ages 3 and up, suitable for three generations. ★Full-featured tour from mangroves to the sea to beach landing. ★All kayaks come standard with backrests, minimizing strain on the lower back. ★Free rental of winter clothing.
This plan does not support English.
Held on the Okukubi side of Kin Town on the east coast of Okinawa's main island. This eco-tour allows you to enjoy a leisurely trip through the mangrove forest by kayak. It is less affected by waves and wind, so even first-timers can enjoy it with peace of mind. Mangroves live where seawater and freshwater mix, and the various creatures that live there... you can experience the jungle atmosphere unique to the subtropics. The tour time varies depending on the day.
This plan does not support English.
☆Five features of the plan☆ 1) Includes professional high-definition camera photography 2) Participants are anyone from 3 to 70 years old (those confident in their physical strength) 3) Free pick-up and drop-off from nearby hotels 4) The only place on Okinawa Island where you can see all four types of mangroves 5) Over 4,000 people participated last year!
Recommended Feature Articles
Where to see the first sunrise of the year in Okinawa | Chubu Area (Around Uruma and Nakagusuku)
In the following,
Okinawa main island
Spots in the Chubu area where you can see the first sunrise of the year
Introducing.
We've picked out the most classic of classics!
Mid-Sea Road
The "Katsuren Peninsula and Henza Island"
Mid-Sea Road
"teeth,
A popular driving spot with beautiful ocean on both sides of the road
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The road looks as if it is floating on the sea, and the great view makes it a popular spot to watch the first sunrise of the year.
On that day, Mid-Sea Road Road Park We recommend using the parking lot at " Ayahashi Sea Station " is also available.
Address: Uruma City, Okinawa Prefecture
In Uruma City, where the underwater road is located, An experience tour where you can actively enjoy the ocean of Okinawa is popular.
Find a plan that interests you from the link below and join us after experiencing the spectacular first sunrise of the year!
This plan does not support English.
*If you are late for the meeting time, you may not be able to board the boat. Please be sure to check your reservation confirmation email for details. *Those with chronic illnesses such as epilepsy, panic disorder, or seizures (including those with past illnesses) cannot participate. The first on the east coast of central Japan, the one and only Shisa parasailing in the world! It's sure to be a great photo spot for Instagram.
This plan does not support English.
*Please gather 30 minutes before your reservation time. If you are late, your play time will be reduced. Please be sure to check your reservation confirmation email for details. A tourist attraction! In the blue waters of Uruma City's Undersea Road, you can enjoy unlimited play on six types of play equipment, including flyboards, wakeboards, and banana boats, for 120 minutes. Flyboards are considered difficult, but the success rate is almost 100%.
Katsuren Castle Ruins
" Katsuren Castle Ruins "teeth A popular historical spot in the central Okinawa area that is registered as a World Heritage Site is!
The castle was built taking advantage of the natural terrain and is located at an altitude of approximately 60 to 98 meters.
From the first enclosure at the top,
You can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view from the mountains in the north of Okinawa to the Chinen Peninsula in the south.
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The facility is open on New Year's Day, In the past, there have been special events where admission was free only during the first sunrise of the year. It was done.
Be sure to check the event schedule regularly to enjoy the first sunrise of the year from this World Heritage Site at a great price!
Address: 3807-2 Katsuren Haebaru, Uruma City, Okinawa Prefecture
In Uruma City, where the Katsuren Castle ruins are located, Marine Activity Tours You can participate.
Check out the details in the link below and plan your sightseeing schedule after enjoying the first sunrise of the year!
[Departing from Uruma City, the Scenic Underwater Road, and Hamahiga Island] Very popular with women and families! Choose 3 out of 4 marine activities with this "Little Play Plan"! Ages 4 and up are welcome to participate! Enjoy with your children! Choose 3 out of 4 popular marine activities: banana boat, big marble, thriller, and jet ski experience! Duration
[Departing from Uruma City, the Scenic Underwater Road, and Hamahiga Island] 3 hours of custom-made marine sports. Everyone has their own desires. "Packages aren't enough!" We offer a marine sports menu just for you. A marine menu that reflects your desires. We can create an original marine menu tailored to each individual. *Mori
[Departing from Uruma City, the Scenic Underwater Road, and Hamahiga Island] 2 hours of custom-made marine sports. Everyone has their own desires. "Packages aren't enough!" We offer a marine sports menu just for you. A marine menu that reflects your desires. We can create an original marine menu tailored to each individual. *Mori
Recommended Feature Articles
Where to see the first sunrise in Okinawa | Southern Area (Around Nanjo City and Itoman)
In the following, Okinawa main island A spot in the southern area where you can see the first sunrise of the year We will introduce the following.
Cape Chinen Park
A spectacular spot located at the eastern end of Chinen Peninsula
is!
You can enjoy a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean while strolling along the promenade lined with green grass and trees.
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The location has no obstructions to the view, making it the perfect place to enjoy the first sunrise of the year!
Not only can you admire the magnificent sunrise, but you can also take photos with the red-tiled roof gazebo set up in the park. You can also try incorporating Okinawan elements to create something that will look great for the New Year. is.
Address: Chinen Kutegae, Nanjo City, Okinawa Prefecture
In the area around Cape Chinen, Activities that allow you to fully enjoy the Okinawan sea There is an abundance of!
Check out the links below to find tours you can join over the New Year holidays.
A glass-bottom boat tour in the calm waters of southern Okinawa♪ The chances of encountering Nemo, as well as sea turtles, are alarming. This plan allows you to enjoy the coral colonies off the coast of Mibaru Beach. Anyone, including small children, can board the boat. Please inform us of your disability when making your reservation. ~Experience Schedule~ 9:50 Meeting point OCEANS/Mimbaru Undersea Tourism Center Marine Reception
This plan does not support English.
Located in the southern area of Okinawa's main island! A very popular marine sport in Nanjo City! Enjoy parasailing ♪ You can also get a panoramic view of Kudaka Island, also known as the Island of the Gods! The rope is 40-50 meters long ♪ Recommended for families, friends, and couples ★ Enjoy the spectacular view of Okinawa's blue sea and blue sky! There is also a mascot dog. [Schedule for the day] ◆ Meet at Kudaka Island VIVA Parasailing
Peace Memorial Park
A war memorial and peace education facility visited by 1 million people a year
Peace Memorial Park
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It is a popular spot for viewing the first sunrise of the year among Okinawans!
The park is located on a small hill and offers a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean.
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Free parking is also a great feature!
Why not welcome the New Year in a calm atmosphere and pray for peace with the beautiful first sunrise?
Address: 444 Mabuni, Itoman City, Okinawa Prefecture
In the area around Itoman City, where the Peace Memorial Park is located, A popular tour that lets you fully experience the ocean in southern Okinawa !
Below are the Snorkeling Plan We mainly pick up on the following.
This plan does not support English.
[Notes for reservations. Please read this before making a reservation] After confirming the contents, we will send you a message from our store via message box. We apologize for the inconvenience, but please confirm and respond accordingly. If there is no response by the specified date and time, it will be treated as a temporary cancellation as it will affect other reservations. Thank you for your understanding.
This plan does not support English.
[Notes for reservations. Please read this before making a reservation] After confirming the contents, we will send you a message from our store via message box. We apologize for the inconvenience, but please confirm and respond accordingly. If there is no response by the specified date and time, it will be treated as a temporary cancellation as it will affect other reservations. Thank you for your understanding.
This plan does not support English.
[Notes for reservations. Please read this before making a reservation] After confirming the contents, we will send you a message from our store via message box. We apologize for the inconvenience, but please confirm and respond accordingly. If there is no response by the specified date and time, it will be treated as a temporary cancellation as it will affect other reservations. Thank you for your understanding.
Enjoy the first sunrise of the year even more! Introducing recommended experiences and tours
Okinawa's ocean and first sunrise Sea Kayak Tour is recommended !
You can enjoy the magnificent first sunrise of the year, which is different from that on land, and the mystical experience of cruising under the sunlight. .
Depending on the tour, Landing on a deserted island and secret beach or, Ozoni time on the beach etc. There are also some unique fun things to enjoy.
Check out the experiences in the links below and find the plan that's right for you!
[New Year's Day 2026 Only] Hamahiga Island's First Sunrise & Secret Beach Landing Kayak Tour!
This plan does not support English.
A special kayaking tour to see the first sunrise of the year, available only on January 1, 2026! This premium tour takes you through the cliffs of the sacred island of Hamahiga Island, bathed in the morning sun, before landing on a deserted secret beach. Why not watch the first sunrise of the new year from the sea? Hamahiga Island is located on the east coast of central Okinawa's main island. Half of the island's coastline is untouched and uncharted by roads.
[New Year's Special] Sunrise Kayak Tour
New Year's Day only! A sea kayaking tour to watch the sunrise from the ocean! This is an extremely rare tour limited to seven people! The first sunrise in Okinawa occurs around 7:20 AM. We'll meet at 6 AM, get ready, and then head out to sea by kayak! After watching the first sunrise, we'll return to the beach and celebrate the New Year with a mochi breakfast party!
Make the New Year a special memory by watching the first sunrise of the year in Okinawa!
This time, Okinawa The charm of seeing the first sunrise of the year and recommended spots and activities We explained about it!
Welcome the New Year by watching the first sunrise of the year in a tropical country and create unforgettable memories with your family, partner, or friends.
Please refer to this special feature. Okinawa New Year's Trip & First Sunrise Have fun!
*The content of this article is current as of December 2025.
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