Kaichu Road (Okinawa)

Connecting the Katsuren Peninsula on Okinawa’s main island to Henza Island, Kaichu Road is a roughly 5-kilometer toll-free roadway that offers one of the most exhilarating drives in Okinawa. Despite its name, which means “undersea road,” the route is actually built atop a causeway through shallow coastal waters. With stunning views of the cobalt-blue sea stretching out on either side, the drive is a refreshing and unforgettable experience.
From Henza Island, bridges extend further to other nearby islands such as Miyagi Island, Hamahiga Island, and Ikei Island—making it a popular scenic driving route.

At the midway point of the road lies Umi no Eki Ayahashikan, a rest stop with a restaurant, restrooms, and a souvenir shop featuring local specialties from Uruma City and around Okinawa. The second floor houses a maritime culture museum, showcasing wooden ship models and historical materials related to traditional boat-building and trade.
The beaches around the roadside park are a hub of activity on weekends, where visitors enjoy marine sports like windsurfing or gather for beachside BBQs.

For those on foot, a pedestrian bridge spans the road and offers panoramic views of the sea and surrounding nature—perfect for a peaceful break. At night, the Henza Mid-Sea Bridge is beautifully illuminated, casting a dreamlike glow over the waters—a must-see nighttime spectacle.