What is "Kudaka jima, the Island of Gods"? Culture and Charms Passed Down Since Ancient Mythology

Basic Information about Kudaka Island

Why is Kudaka Island called the "Island of Gods"?

Kudaka Island, located off the eastern coast of Nanjo City in the southern part of Okinawa Island, is said to be the birthplace of the Ryukyuan people. According to the creation mythology of the Ryukyu Kingdom, the island is where the ancestor Amamikiyo descended from Nirai Kanai (the realm of gods), marking the beginning of Ryukyuan history. With its significant historical sites, such as Utaki (sacred sites) used for rituals in Ryukyuan Shinto, and the preservation of ancient cultural heritage, Kudaka Island continues to be referred to as the "Island of Gods" and holds a special meaning among the islands of Okinawa. It is also known as a pilgrimage site for successive kings during the Ryukyu Kingdom era, and Sefa Utaki on Okinawa Island, renowned as a sacred place, is said to have been established for prayers to Kudaka Island.

Essential Information and Important Etiquette for Visiting Kudaka Island

Kudaka Island is a small, elongated island with a circumference of about 8 kilometers. It has a population of approximately 220 people, mostly elderly residents. There are no hotels on the island, but accommodations are available at three guesthouses and the Kudaka Island Lodging and Exchange Center. While there are dining establishments and shops, there are no large supermarkets or convenience stores. It is recommended to make advance reservations for accommodations and tours, so it's advisable to plan ahead. The island's residents maintain their traditional customs and way of life passed down from their ancestors. Certain places, such as Utaki (sacred sites) and Uganju (worship halls), are off-limits to visitors, and taking away animals, plants, or natural objects (such as stones or sand) from the island is prohibited. When visiting, it is important to learn about Kudaka Island's unique culture and customs and respect the rules while enjoying your sightseeing.

For detailed information, please read the "Rules on the Island" section on the Kudaka Island Tourism and Exchange website.

Access to Kudaka Island

Regular ferries and high-speed boats operate six round trips per day from Anza Port in Chinen, Nanjo City to Tokujin Port on Kudaka Island, allowing for day trips from Naha. Please note that Kudaka Island ferry services may be partially or fully canceled due to typhoons, weather conditions, or sea conditions. It is recommended to check the operating status on the official website on the day of use.

Travel time from Anza Port to Tokujin Port:

• Ferry: Approximately 25 minutes (one way)
• High-speed boat: Approximately 15 minutes (one way)

Travel time from Naha to Anza Port:

• By car: Approximately 50 minutes (one way)
• By bus: Approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes (one way)

Take the Toyo Bus No. 38 from "Naha Bus Terminal" to "Anza Sun Sun Beach Entrance" for about 1 hour, then a 5-minute walk to the ferry terminal after getting off the bus.

Main Tourist Spots and Attractions on Kudaka Island

Habyan (Kaberu Cape)

Located at the northernmost tip of Kudaka Island, Kaberu Cape is considered a sacred place where Amamikiyo, the ancestor from the creation mythology of the Ryukyu Kingdom, descended or landed. The locals refer to it as Habyan. By following a white path surrounded by plants from the central part of the island, you will reach the cape. Once you arrive, you'll be greeted by transparent waters and a vast sky stretching over the rocky shore eroded by the force of the waves. This cape remains an important place of worship for the island's inhabitants, and the surrounding plant communities are designated as natural monuments of Okinawa Prefecture. Take your time to reflect on the mythical era and enjoy a peaceful sightseeing experience.

Ishiki Beach

Ishiki Beach is located in the central part of the eastern coast, about a 15-minute walk from the port and beyond the village. It is known as the "Beach of Grain Origins" due to the legend that containers filled with the seeds of wheat and millet drifted ashore here, marking the beginning of agriculture in the Ryukyu Kingdom and Okinawa. This beach is still an important site for festivals, and occasionally, it may be closed to non-resident tourists during certain events. It's recommended to check for event information before visiting.

Please note that swimming is prohibited at all beaches on Kudaka Island, including Ishiki Beach, as they are considered sacred places. Megi Beach, located on the north side of Tokujin Port, is the only beach where swimming is allowed, so please keep this in mind.

Yagurga

Yagurga, located in the central part of the western coast of Kudaka Island, is a sacred well where it is believed that people would purify themselves before picking up the containers of grains at Ishiki Beach. It is also a place where shrine maidens perform rituals before ceremonies.

Udunmyaa (Garden of the Royal Palace)

Udunmyaa is located in the central part of the village on Kudaka Island and serves as a venue for major annual ceremonies. It was also used for a ritual called Izaihoo, which took place every twelve years and was performed by the island's women. Izaihoo was passed down for over 600 years but ceased to be held after 1978 due to a shortage of successors.

Udunmyaa (Garden of the Royal Palace)

Udunmyaa is located in the central part of the village on Kudaka Island and serves as a venue for major annual ceremonies. It was also used for a ritual called Izaihoo, which took place every twelve years and was performed by the island's women. Izaihoo was passed down for over 600 years but ceased to be held after 1978 due to a shortage of successors.

Fukama and Upugui (Outer Chamber)

Fukama (Outer Chamber) is one of the ceremonial sites on the island and is used for major events throughout the year, including New Year celebrations. In the center of the building, there is a place called Upgui (also known as Fukama), which shares the same name as the main hall of Shuri Castle and Sefa Utaki. Upgui, meaning "grand hall" or "main seat," is considered a prestigious location for conducting formal ceremonies.

Romance Road

Romance Road is a roughly 600-meter promenade developed along the northwestern coast. It offers an excellent vantage point to appreciate the beautiful sea and nature of Kudaka Island. Along the way, you'll find benches and gazebos, providing opportunities to rest and enjoy the scenery during your leisurely walk or cycling tour.

Recommended Information for Exploring Kudaka Island and Unique Experiences

Renting a Bicycle

There are three shops near Tokunoshima Port, the gateway to Kudaka Island, where you can rent bicycles. Renting a bicycle is recommended for those who want to explore not only the village but also places like Habyan (Kabēru Cape) and the Romance Road. During peak tourist seasons, the rental bicycles may be quickly taken after the arrival of the ferry, so it's a good idea to check the locations of the shops in advance. There are restricted areas on the island due to their sacred nature, so when renting, it's advisable to confirm the rules and designated areas with the staff at the rental shop.

Kudaka Island Guided Tours

The Kudaka Island guided tours led by certified local guides from Nanjo City Tourism Association provide a valuable opportunity to learn about the island's people, their way of life, and culture firsthand, in addition to receiving sightseeing guidance. With four different courses ranging from 1 to 3 hours, these tours are suitable not only for those who want to deepen their knowledge of the island's history and legends but also for those who want to efficiently explore the island in a day trip. Reservations need to be made directly with each guide by phone or email, so it's advisable to inquire well in advance if you are interested.

Naha-based Sightseeing Tours

For those who find it overwhelming to arrange transportation, such as car rentals and ferries, as well as plan sightseeing routes and coordinate with local guides, Naha-based sightseeing tours are recommended. These tours combine visits to Kudaka Island with Sefa Utaki, which has a deep connection with Kudaka Island, and tours that include scenic spots in Nanjo City, such as the famous Chinen Cape. These day tours allow you to make the most of your limited time in Okinawa, so be sure to check them out.

Traditional Food Culture of Kudaka Island

There are three restaurants where you can have meals on the island. While Okinawan dishes like Okinawa soba and champuru are delicious, don't miss out on the unique cuisine of Kudaka Island. Particularly famous is the specialty dish called "Irabu-jiru." Irabu refers to the sea snake, a highly valued ingredient known for its nutritional benefits and promotion of blood circulation, which has been used in court cuisine since the Ryukyu Kingdom era. Kudaka Island has a long tradition of offering sea snakes as tribute to the Ryukyuan kings, which led to the preservation of the techniques for fishing and smoking them. Enjoy the taste of the island's traditions.

Relax and Forget About Time

During trips, it's easy to pack the schedule with activities. However, when visiting Kudaka Island, it's recommended to take the time to leisurely enjoy the untouched nature and scenery, forgetting about time. You can chat with the locals at the ferry waiting area or in the shops on the island, or quietly follow the cats living freely on the island. These experiences will become cherished memories of your journey. Enjoy the leisurely island time that is different from your daily life; it's an experience that can only be had here.

Let's Respect the Island's Rules and Enjoy Kudaka Island to the Fullest!

The people living on Kudaka Island, known as the "Island of Gods," cherish and uphold their inherited traditions and beliefs in their daily lives. When visiting as a tourist, it's important to remember the sense of respect for the sacred places and to observe the island's rules while quietly observing and touring.

Immerse yourself in the culture and customs that have been passed down since the Ryukyu Kingdom era, which you can only experience on Kudaka Island. Enjoy the beautiful ocean, majestic nature, and the leisurely passage of time.

*Please note that transportation, facility fees, and operating hours may change without notice. For the latest information, please check the official website.

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