Okinawa’s Three National Parks

Kabira Bay, the most popular Ishigakijima scenic spot. (Courtesy OCVB)

A cruise on the Nakama River beside the mangrove forest. (Courtesy OCVB)

Nagura Anparu tidal flat, a stopping point for migrating birds located on Ishigakijima. (Courtesy OCVB)

Barasu Island, formed from pieces of coral, is a popular attraction for snorkelers. (Courtesy OCVB)

The Iriomote cat, which is only found on Iriomotejima. (Courtesy OCVB)

The settlement on Taketomijima, which preserves traditional Ryūkyū culture. (Courtesy OCVB)

The beautiful ocean near the village of Zamami on Zamamijima. (Courtesy OCVB)

Furuzamami Beach on Zamamijima. (Courtesy OCVB)

Nishibama Beach on Akajima. (Courtesy OCVB)

From the observatories located on the islands, visitors can view hunchback whales. (Courtesy Ministry of the Environment)

On the grounds of the National Okinawa Youth Friendship Center, housed in facilities once used by the US Army, is the Akamayama Observatory, the most scenic spot on Tokashikijima. (Courtesy Ministry of the Environment)

At the southern tip of Tokashikijima is Aharen Observatory, offering magnificent views of the ocean and cliffs. (Courtesy Ministry of the Environment)

The Takara residence on Zamamijima, once inhabited by the captain of a ship that conducted trade with the Qing Dynasty. (Courtesy Ministry of the Environment)

A view of the expansive Yanbaru National Park on the main island of Okinawa. (Courtesy OCVB)

Cape Hedo, the northernmost point of the main island of Okinawa, has views of splendid sea cliffs. (Courtesy OCVB)

The spectacular view of the sea and ocean from the observatory on the Kayauchi-banta cliff. (Courtesy OCVB)

The Okinawa rail, a flightless bird is found in the national park. (Courtesy Ministry of the Environment)

A beginner’s trekking course winds through the forest of Mount Daisekirin, which includes strange rock formations and giant rocks. (Courtesy OCVB)

Visitors can enjoy the view from kayaks of trees in the Hirugi Forest, about a kilometer from Gesashi Bay. (Courtesy OCVB)

In the water underneath the 10-meter Tātaki waterfall. (Courtesy OCVB)

The Ungami (sea god) festival in Shioya Bay; the festival is to pray for a good harvest and no disease or disasters. (Courtesy Ministry of the Environment)