Area Guide
Explore Northern Okinawa
Our local guide to the best beaches, restaurants, and hidden spots near our villas
Kouri Beach
古宇利ビーチ
20 min from pono 118 / 25 min from pono 02
Crystal-clear water and white sand at the foot of the iconic Kouri Bridge. Shallow and calm — perfect for families with small children. Free parking available nearby.
View on MapOkinawa Soba
沖縄そば
15 min from pono 118 / 10 min from pono 02
Inside Ocean Expo Park, next to Churaumi Aquarium. Lifeguards on duty, showers, and changing rooms. One of the few beaches with full facilities on the Motobu peninsula.
View on MapTokei Beach
トケイ浜
25 min from pono 118 / 30 min from pono 02
A hidden cove on the north side of Kouri Island. Dramatic rock formations and turquoise water, far from the tourist crowds. A local favorite for its unspoiled beauty.
View on MapOkuma Beach
オクマビーチ
40 min from pono 118 / 45 min from pono 02
A long, sweeping stretch of sand on the west coast of Kunigami. Less crowded than southern beaches and spectacular at sunset. Worth the drive for a quieter beach day.
View on MapCaptain Kangaroo
キャプテンカンガルー
5 min from pono 118 / 15 min from pono 02
Legendary local burger joint with massive portions and ocean views. Their signature "Shrimp Burger" is a must-try. Expect a line on weekends, but it moves fast.
View on MapKajinhou
花人逢
15 min from pono 118 / 10 min from pono 02
A hilltop cafe with panoramic ocean views, famous for its crispy pizza. The view alone is worth the visit — arrive early to avoid long waits. Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
View on MapManmi
満味
10 min from pono 118 / 20 min from pono 02
An Okinawan dining experience in a traditional wooden house surrounded by jungle. Fresh river shrimp and local dishes served in an unforgettable setting. Reservations recommended.
View on MapNakijin Soba
今帰仁そば
20 min from pono 118 / 15 min from pono 02
Hand-made Okinawa soba noodles in a charming restored house with a garden terrace. A local institution — simple, authentic, and deeply satisfying. Kids love it too.
View on MapChuraumi Aquarium
美ら海水族館
15 min from pono 118 / 10 min from pono 02
One of the world's largest aquariums, home to whale sharks and manta rays. The massive Kuroshio Sea tank is breathtaking. Discounted tickets available after 4 PM.
View on MapJUNGLIA Theme Park
ジャングリア
20 min from pono 118 / 15 min from pono 02
A new nature-immersive theme park opening in northern Okinawa. Combining Yanbaru's subtropical forest with world-class attractions. Check their website for the latest schedule.
View on MapKouri Island
古宇利島
20 min from pono 118 / 25 min from pono 02
A small island connected by a stunning bridge, known as "Love Island." Drive across, explore the beaches, visit the Ocean Tower, and grab fresh sea urchin rice bowls from roadside shops.
View on MapBise Fukugi Tree Road
備瀬のフクギ並木
15 min from pono 118 / 10 min from pono 02
A magical tunnel of 20,000 Fukugi trees that have sheltered the village for centuries. Walk, cycle, or take a water buffalo cart through this serene natural corridor.
View on MapMt. Katsuu
嘉津宇岳
10 min from pono 118 / 20 min from pono 02
A short but rewarding hike with 360-degree views of the Yanbaru mountains and ocean. Only 30 minutes to the summit — a great morning activity before the beach.
View on MapMt. Yaedake
八重岳
15 min from pono 118 / 10 min from pono 02
Famous for Japan's earliest cherry blossoms in January-February. The winding road to the summit is lined with thousands of Kanhizakura trees. Beautiful views year-round.
View on MapTa Falls
ター滝
20 min from pono 118 / 25 min from pono 02
A refreshing river hike through the subtropical jungle leading to a stunning waterfall. You'll wade through the stream, so bring water shoes. An unforgettable Yanbaru adventure.
View on MapMt. Nago
名護岳
10 min from pono 118 / 20 min from pono 02
A moderate hike through dense Yanbaru forest. The trail is well-maintained and shaded, making it comfortable even in summer. A great introduction to Okinawa's natural side.
View on MapAEON Nago
イオン名護店
5 min from pono 118 / 15 min from pono 02
Large supermarket and shopping center with everything you need. Fresh local produce, BBQ supplies, household essentials, and a food court. Open late.
View on MapSan-A Tamemata City
サンエー為又シティ
5 min from pono 118 / 15 min from pono 02
A local shopping mall with a well-stocked supermarket, 100-yen shop, drugstore, and clothing stores. Great for stocking up on snacks and beach gear.
View on MapKanehide Nago Bay Market
かねひで なご湾市場
5 min from pono 118 / 15 min from pono 02
A newer, modern supermarket right in Nago. Great selection of local Okinawan ingredients, fresh seafood, and ready-to-eat bento boxes for easy dinners.
View on MapKanehide Motobu Churaumi Market
かねひで もとぶ美ら海市場
15 min from pono 118 / 5 min from pono 02
The closest supermarket to pono 02, located near Churaumi Aquarium. Pick up everything from charcoal for BBQ to fresh Motobu tuna and local Orion beer.
View on MapTravel Tips
Tips for Your Yanbaru Stay
How do I get to Churaumi Aquarium?
About 10 minutes by car from pono 02 (Motobu) and 15 minutes from pono 118 (Nago). Entry after 4 PM is discounted, so an afternoon visit works well.
What about JUNGLIA theme park?
Located in the hills of Nakijin village — about 20 minutes from pono 118 and 15 minutes from pono 02. A nature-immersive theme park with dinosaur and jungle attractions. We recommend buying tickets online in advance.
Where can I buy groceries?
Near pono 118: AEON Nago (5 min), San-A Tamemata City (10 min), and Kanehide Nago Bay Market (5 min). Near pono 02: Kanehide Motobu Churaumi Market (5 min) has great fresh seafood.
Any good hiking trails nearby?
Mt. Nago (345m, about 2 hours round trip) is great for beginners. In summer, the river trek to Ta Falls is popular — you can swim in the pool below the waterfall. In January–February, Mt. Yaedake has Japan's earliest cherry blossoms.
When is the best time to visit?
Swimming season runs from April to October — late June through September is peak beach weather after the rainy season. Winter (December–February) averages around 17°C and is ideal for sightseeing and food. Cherry blossom season is January–February.
How long is the drive from Naha Airport?
About 90 minutes via the expressway. A rental car is essential for getting around Yanbaru. After exiting at Kyoda IC, it's about 5 minutes to Nago and 20 minutes to Motobu.
Any local hidden gems?
Nago Public Market is a local favorite for fresh seafood and Okinawan ingredients. The Izumi area in Motobu has charming cafés and pottery studios scattered through the hills. Kyoda Roadside Station is the go-to for souvenirs and freshly fried sata andagi. We'll share our full recommendations list at check-in.
Stay With Us
Ready to Explore?
Book your stay at one of our private villas and discover the real northern Okinawa.
Check Availability