10 Recommended Sightseeing Spots on Ie Island! Learn How to Enjoy a Day Trip by Ferry and Discover Sample Walking Routes
You can enjoy a day trip to Ie Island!
The Charms of Exploring by Ferry and Local Transportation
Ie Island is accessible from Motobu Port in the northern part of the main island of Okinawa,About 30 minutes by ferryA remote island known for its natural beauty and history, accessible via [...].
In this article, we’ll introduce 10 recommended sightseeing spots on Ie Island, along with how to get there by ferry, how to get around the island, and a suggested itinerary for a day trip.
We’ve provided easy-to-understand explanations even for first-time visitors to Iejima, so please use this as a reference when planning your trip!
◆For those thinking of taking a day trip to Ie Island
◆For those who want to learn about Ie Island’s tourist spots, from the classics to the hidden gems
◆For those who want to know how to get to Ie Island by ferry and how long the trip takes
Click here for popular tours on Iejima Island↓
Ie Island Tour
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How to Get to Ie Island
To get to Ie Island, you can take the ferry from the Motobu Peninsula, which is located on theTake the ferry from Motobu PortThat's the basic way to access it.
Be sure to check in advance how long it takes to travel from Naha to Motobu Port, as well as how to get around to the various tourist attractions once you arrive at Ie Port.
About the Ferry to Minna Island ↓
It takes about 30 minutes by ferry from Motobu Port to Ie Island.
To get to Iejima, from Motobu PortAbout 30 minutes after boarding the ferryThe hotel arrives at the
Although there are several ferry departures, schedules and the number of departures may change depending on the season, so it's important to check the latest schedule before your trip.
If you're taking a day trip, it's a good idea to check the ferry departure time for your return trip before making your sightseeing plans.
| stool | Departing from Honbu Port | Arrival at Ie Port |
|---|---|---|
| Flight 1 | 9:00 | 9:30 |
| Flight 2 | 11:00 | 11:30 |
| Flight 3 | 13:30 | 14:00 |
| Flight 4 | 15:30 | 16:00 |
| Flight 5 | 17:30 | 18:00 |
*The above are the operating hours during the summer vacation period (July 21–August 31).
*Ferry schedules are subject to change or cancellation due to weather, sea conditions, and other factors. Before departure,Ie Village Official WebsitePlease check the latest flight information here.
Click here for popular day trips to Minna Island ↓
Directions from Naha to Motobu Port
From Naha Airport to Motobu Port,Approximately 2 hours by car...is a rough guide.
There are routes that use the highway, but travel time varies depending on traffic conditions and the time of day you leave.
If you don't rent a car, you can also take public transportation, such as express buses or local buses, to get to Motobu Port.
About the outlying islands accessible from the main island of Okinawa ↓
Transportation from Ie Port to Tourist Attractions
After arriving on Iejima,rent-a-cycleand ... andPublic Bus, ,cabWe recommend using these and other options to visit tourist attractions!
Since Ie Island is about 8.4 km from east to west and about 3 km from north to south, it takes quite a while to visit all the major attractions on the island on foot.
If you want to make the most of your sightseeing on a day trip, be sure to make good use of rental bikes, taxis, and other transportation options to coordinate with your ferry schedule.
Click here for information on sightseeing on Ie Island↓
10 Must-See Attractions on Ie Island
Ie Island offers a variety of attractions, including Shiroyama—known as the island’s symbol—as well as breathtaking views of sheer cliffs, beautiful beaches, and historic sites.
Here are some must-see spots when sightseeing on Ie Island10 Carefully Selected Recommended SpotsSo, let me introduce it!
Click here for popular tours on Iejima Island↓
Ie Island Tour
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Shiroyama (Iejima Tatchu)
Shiroyama, known as the symbol of Ie Island, isA rocky mountain with an elevation of 172 metersThe following is a list of the most common problems with the
Because of its distinctive silhouette towering near the center of the island, it is known as “Ie Island TatchuIt is affectionately known as “” and is one of the iconic tourist spots on Ie Island.
From the mountaintop, you can take in a panoramic view of the island and the surrounding sea, so if you want to enjoy the breathtaking scenery unique to Ie Island, be sure to pay a visit!
◆Directions: About a 4-minute drive from Ie Port
Ie Beach
Ie Beach, located on the eastern side of the island, is,A beautiful coastline with white sand stretching for about 1 kmIt is.
One of its main attractions is the opportunity to enjoy leisure activities such as swimming, water sports, and fishing, making it the perfect spot for summer tourism on Ie Island.
There's also the Ie Village Youth Travel Village near the beach, so you can enjoy it along with your beach activities!
Access: 10 minutes by car from Ie Port
Click here for the Ie Island Snorkeling Tour↓
Snorkeling on Ie Island
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Waji
Wajii is a scenic spot located in the northwestern part of Ie Island.
Along the coast,A sheer cliff over 60 meters high...and you can enjoy the scenery created by the blue sea and the dynamic landscape.
This is a spot where you can experience the awe-inspiring natural beauty unique to Ie Island, so it’s highly recommended for anyone visiting to take in the spectacular views.
◆Directions: About a 12-minute drive from Ie Port
Nyatya Cave
Nyatiya Cave is located on Ie Island’sA natural cave in the southwestern regionIt is a place that has long been cherished as a site of worship.
Inside the cave is a stone known for its ability to grant the wish for children"Vigil Stone"...and it continues to be revered by the islanders to this day.
It also has a history of being used as an air-raid shelter during World War II, making it a spot where you can experience both the nature and history of Ie Island.
◆Directions: About a 6- to 7-minute drive from Ie Port
Click here for popular tours on Minna Island ↓
Lily Field Park
Located on the north coast of Iejima, Lily Field Park is a popular spot known for its fields of trumpet lilies that bloom in the spring.
The Ie Island Lily Festival is held around April every yearThe event will be held, where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of white lilies, the blue sky, and the ocean.
If you're visiting Ie Island during the flower season, this is a must-see tourist spot!
Access: 10 minutes by car from Ie Port
Ie Island Hibiscus Garden
The Iejima Hibiscus Garden is,Approximately 1,800 varietiesA botanical garden where hibiscus is grown.
Ie Island is home to the Japan Hibiscus Association, and new varieties unique to the island are developed here.
Since there is an all-weather exhibition hall,Sightseeing on Rainy DaysI recommend it for you, too!
Access: 10 minutes by car from Ie Port
Click here for popular tours on Minna Island ↓
GI Beach
GI Beach is located on the west side of Ie IslandHoley beachIt is.
It got its name because it was once a beach reserved exclusively for U.S. military officers, and its unspoiled natural scenery is its main attraction!
Since there are no attendants or restrooms on site, please be mindful of your safety when visiting.
Access: 10 minutes by car from Ie Port
Click here for the Ie Island Snorkeling Tour↓
Snorkeling on Ie Island
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Ghehez Cave
Gohezu Cave is named after Mount Gohezu, located west of Ie Island Airport.
From inside the cave,Paleolithic human bonesand ... andDeer FossilArtifacts such as these have been unearthed, and the site has been designated as a historical site by Okinawa Prefecture.
It's a special spot where you can get a sense of Ie Island's long history.
Access: 10 minutes by car from Ie Port
Ernie Pyle Memorial
The Ernie Pyle Memorial honors those who died on Ie Island during World War IIErnie Pyle, an American war correspondentIt is a place associated with [name].
Ie Island is home to many sites that bear witness to its wartime history, and this monument is one of the key spots for learning about the island’s history.
It will not only be a sightseeing experience but also an opportunity to reflect on the history of Ie Island.
◆Directions: About a 2-minute drive from Ie Port
Click here for popular tours on Minna Island ↓
Shimamuraya Tourist Park
Shimamuraya Tourist Park is one of Okinawa’s three great tragedies"Iejima Handu Elementary School"A park located on the site of the mansion that served as the setting for the story.
The park features a bronze statue of Handu Elementary School, a folk museum, and a snake garden, among other attractions.
If you'd like to experience the culture and history of Ie Island, why not stop by?
Access: 10 minutes by car from Ie Port
Sample Day Trip Itinerary for Ie Island
Since Ie Island is easily accessible—it’s about a 30-minute ferry ride from Motobu Port—Day TripIt's also perfect for that!
However, since there are several tourist attractions on the island and it’s difficult to visit them all on foot, we recommend using rental bikes, buses, or taxis.
About the suggested day-trip itinerary for Minna Island ↓
Ie Island Tour
Click here for the Popular Plans Ranking
In the morning, enjoy the views of Shiroyama and the island
Once you arrive on Iejima, the first thing to see is the island’s symbol,Shiroyama (Tachuu)Let's go check it out!
If you plan to reach the summit, it’s important to wear comfortable walking shoes and climb at a pace that doesn’t overexert you.
After that, we traveled around the island, visiting scenic spots such as hot springs and other attractions,Enjoy the Unique Nature of Iejimais also recommended.
In the afternoon, we'll visit beaches and historical sites.
In the afternoon, we visited Ie Beach, Nyatya Cave, and other places,Places Where You Can Experience Nature and HistoryLet's take a look around.
If you're visiting in the springLily Field ParkWe also recommend adding it to your course.
Be sure to check the return ferry schedule in advance, and make your way back to Ie Port with plenty of time to spare so you don’t miss the ferry.
Using a bike-sharing service is efficient
If you're planning a day trip to Ie Island, renting a bike is a great optionefficientlyYou can explore the island.
One of the appeals of cycling is that you can travel at your own pace and explore the island while enjoying the coastal scenery.
However,The sun gets stronger during the summerSo, be sure to bring a hat, something to drink, and other essentials, and enjoy sightseeing at a comfortable pace.
For Parents with Children and Beginners
Things to Keep in Mind When Sightseeing on Ie Island
If you're visiting Ie Island for the first time or traveling with children, it's important to make a flexible itinerary that takes travel time and weather conditions into account.
Especially if you're on a day trip, be sure to plan your sightseeing around the ferry schedule!
Includes round-trip ferry tickets!
Click here for Minna Island Activity Tours ↓
Allow plenty of time for sightseeing
Although you can visit Ie Island on a day trip, it’s not realistic to see all the sights on the island on foot.
rent-a-cycleand ... andbus, ,cabIt’s best to plan your transportation options in advance and narrow down the places you want to visit to ensure a smooth trip.
Also, the ferry'sLast FlightBe sure to allow plenty of time for your return trip so you can make it back on time.
Don't forget to wear comfortable clothing and take precautions against the heat.
If you're visiting Shiroyama,Comfortable walking shoesIt's a good idea to have one on hand.
Also, since there are many days with strong sunshine in Okinawa,Hatand ... andsunscreen, ,DrinksLet's get these things ready.
If you're traveling with children, please enjoy sightseeing at a comfortable pace while keeping an eye on your children's well-being and the heat.
What to Pack for a Trip to Minna Island ↓
Check the latest ferry information
Ferries to Iejima vary depending on the season and operating conditions, etc.Changes to schedules and flight frequenciesThis may occur.
Especially on day trips, ferry schedules can significantly affect your sightseeing itinerary, so before you leave,Latest Flight InformationIt's important to check the rates and how to make a reservation.
If you plan to load your car onto a ferry, be sure to check the vehicle transport procedures in advance.
About Tourism on Ie Island
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Since it’s easily accessible—just a 30-minute ferry ride from Motobu Port—you can fully enjoy sightseeing even on a day trip. If you want to visit major attractions such as Shiroyama, Yuzumi, and Ie Beach, we recommend renting a bicycle or taking a taxi to get around efficiently.
You’ll need to take a ferry from Motobu Port to Ie Island. On the island, you can use rental bicycles, public buses, and taxis; given the island’s size, rental bicycles and rental cars are particularly convenient.
There are many spots where you can have fun even with kids, such as hiking up Shiroyama and swimming at Ie Beach. If you plan a schedule with plenty of time to spare—taking travel time and heat precautions into account—you’ll be able to enjoy sightseeing with peace of mind.
summary
Ie Island is a remote island brimming with tourist attractions where visitors can experience its rich natural beauty and history, including Shiroyama (Tatchu), the natural springs, Ie Beach, and Nyatya Cave.
From Honbu PortAbout 30 minutes by ferryIt’s easy to get to, so you can enjoy the unique scenery and culture of Ie Island even on a day trip.
If you want to explore the island efficiently, we recommend making good use of rental bikes, buses, taxis, and other transportation options.
Latest Ferry Schedulesand ... andCheck Flight InformationWith that in mind, choose the mode of transportation that works best for you and enjoy your sightseeing on Ie Island!
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