Ou Island

Ou Island is a small island you can reach by bridge from the main island. There are no big tourist facilities here. The feel of the harbor, the sea breeze, the Okinawan tempura lined up at shopfronts, and the unhurried time it takes to wander the island — these are what lend a Nanjo journey the warmth of everyday life.

One of the island's great pleasures is Okinawan tempura. Buy tempura made with distinctly Okinawan ingredients — fish, squid, mozuku seaweed, aasa sea lettuce — and take a short break gazing out at the sea. That alone becomes a travel memory. Popular shops can get crowded; please make sure that queues, parking, and passing traffic do not get in the way of the people who live on the island.

Ou Island is a place where residents live their lives, and a fishing-port island. Do not casually photograph homes, the fishing port, or people at work. Walk slowly along the narrow lanes, and park where your car will not block the way. It is also important not to feed the cats or other animals irresponsibly. Enjoy your visit in a way that leaves the island's daily life undisturbed.

As for how to spend your time here: rather than a long stay, we recommend slipping it into a Nanjo drive as a gentle detour. Combine it with Hyakuna and Mibaru Beaches, the Tamagusuku Castle ruins, the Itokazu Castle ruins, or the Okinawa World area, and your day finds a fine rhythm of sea, culture, and food.