Nirai Kanai Bridge

The Nirai and Kanai Bridges offer one of the widest openings onto the sea of any road in Nanjo. Descending from the Tsukishiro area toward National Route 331, the road sweeps around in a great arc — and beyond it spread the Pacific, Cape Chinen, and the direction of Kudaka Island. It is a liberating stretch of road, one that feels like a descent straight toward the sea.

This view is meant to be enjoyed from the car window. Stopping or parking on the bridges or on the roadway is not permitted. Do not pull over suddenly for a photograph — drivers should stay focused on driving, and let passengers receive the scenery through the window. A designated observation deck, set apart from the road, is provided for taking in the view. Availability of the deck and its parking can change, so follow the signage on site.

As for how to enjoy it: we recommend taking this road at the start of your Nanjo journey. Descend it before heading to Chinen Misaki Park or Sefa-utaki, and your heart naturally settles into the rhythm of the sea. Take it in the uphill direction at the end of your trip, and it leaves a lingering sense of returning from the sea to the hills.

Nirai Kanai is the name given to an ideal land said to lie far beyond the sea. On this road, resist the urge to explain too much in words — simply savor the sea itself as it opens up before you.