Mount Yonaha

The trail to Mt. Yonaha

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Mount Yonaha (Yonaha-dake)

     GPS*

Latitude	Longitude
N 26 43.919	E 128 12.545

       

       *GPS to parking area



Mount Yonaha, Kunigami Village

The highest mountain on the Okinawa main island is in Kunigami Village. It is Mt. Yonaha (Yonaha-dake) standing at 503 meters above sea level.(1)(i) The hike is about a 2 to 2 1/2 hour trip to the top. The trail is well beaten down with a mild grade towards the peak. It is a very easy climb for those who wish to bring their children. The scenic view at the top, however, is essentially non-existent since dense vegetation surrounds the entire peak as well as much of the trail along the way.

The Highest Point. As of November 21, 2013 there was no official sign designating the highest point of the mountain (503 meters). There was, however, a sign marking 498 meters (near the top). With recent amenities added (improved parking area, a toilet facility, new signs etc.), there is indication in the near future that the Kunigami Village Office may officially mark the highest point for tourism purposes.

So Where is the Highest Point? It is believed that the 503 meter point is the hill just before you reach the 498 meter marker. In fact you pass it without realizing it. As of November 21, 2013 there was a small tree right along the trail with three rings of red tape around it and the number 503 marked on it. The GPS of that location does seem to match the Google terrain map as the highest point, but this still remains unofficial till the Kunigami Village Office formally places the marker.

Summary of Information.
Name: Mt Yonaha, Yonaha-dake (与那覇岳)
Elevation of Highest Point: 503 Meters (1650.26 ft)
GPS Highest Point (503 Meters): N26 43.029 E128 13.118 (unconfirmed)
GPS 498 Meter Point: N26 42.974 E128 13.085
GPS Starting Point: N26 43.925 E128 12.546
Parking Area: 100 meters from the trail starting point
Estimated Time of Completion: Round Trip 4-5 hours
GPS Recommended Emergency Rendezvous Point: Same as parking area
Difficulty Level: Very Low.
Parking and Toilet Facility: Available near the trail starting point
Cellphone Reception. Signal received at the top (Au phone)

Recommended Guidelines. (PLEASE READ!!!)
1. Age. Climbing is suitable for young adults as well as children. The path is well beaten but there are areas where you can trip on tree roots and cut yourself on low lying branches, particularly broken bamboo. You may also find areas where trees have fallen along the path that you may have to negotiate. Parents must use their discretion on the ability of their children. Children must avoid running or playing along the trail. A good trip and you'll risk a good cut to the facial area.
2. Wear shoes or boots that have good traction. Tennis shoes should be okay.
3. IMPORTANT!!! Bring plenty of water. This is about a 4-5 hour excursion. Recommend bringing snacks or a light lunch. Pack out what you pack in.
4. Tuck in all loose straps to include shoe laces to prevent getting snagged and tripping.
5. Highly recommend hiking gloves of some kind. You may be required to climb using your hands in some areas to include fallen trees.
6. Base your clothing on the time of year and comfort level.
7. Bug repellent. Bring per your discretion. Mosquitoes are more prevalent in the hotter months.
8. Let someone know where you are going, and recommend a climbing buddy.
9. This is a wildlife protected area. Please do not take anything out of the forest; this includes plant life.

Notes.
i. The highest mountain in Okinawa Prefecture is Mt. Omote in Ishigaki Island at 526 meters(2)

References.
1. Mt. Yonaha, Highest Mountain on Okinawa main island, www.okinawastory.jp
2. Mt. Omote, the highest in mountain in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan National Tourism Organization

Directions. Take Highway 58 north to Kunigami Village. There will be a sign directing you to Hiji Falls (near the Family Mart). Take this same road. About 250 meters you will then turn left on the second paved road. You may see this sign on the left-hand sign. About 250 meters you will run into a main road (this sign will be to your front). Going left takes you to an elementary school. You will want to go right. Immediately, you will be moving up hill. Follow this road straight. About 5km (3 miles) later you will run into a T-intersection. You will see a Peace Pole to your front and a parking area to the right. You will also see a explanation sign about Mt. Yonoha. The beginning of the trail is about another 150 meters to the east. The vehicle route to the parking area is marked in blue in the map above.

Other Hiking Trails on Okinawa. Awa-dake, Katsuu-dake, Furushi-dake, Motobu Fuji.

Other Places of Interest Nearby. The Yanbaru Forest Toy Museum.

"Katsuu-dake"

The peak of Mt. Katsuu

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Katsuyama

     GPS*

Latitude	Longitude
N 26 37.855	E 127 56.346

       *GPS to starting point



Katsuu-dake

Katsuu-dake, or Katsuu-yama, is one of the 'three sisters' of visible mountains that dominant the southeastern region of the Motobu Peninsula. The other being Yae-dake and Awa-dake; Katsuu being in the middle in regards to elevation. A forth, but less noticeable is Furushi-dake, which blends in just below Mt. Katsuu when viewed from a distance. Like many mountain ranges here on Okinawa, limestone dating back to the Mesozoic Era can be seen scattered throughout the terrain(1). The trail leading to the top of Mt. Katsuu is a relaxing 45 minute to an hour hike. If you love the outdoors and a place to enjoy the quiet serenity of nature, Mt. Katsuu will not disappoint you.

Katsuu Highlights.
-10 meter vertical cave-like drop midway along the trail. Roped off to mark danger area.
-Visible regions from the peak: Nago Bay, Yae-dake, Awa-dake, Furushi-dake, northwestern side of the Okinawan coastline.

Summary Information.
Name: Katsuu-dake (Katsuu-yama, Mt. Katsuu).
Elevation. 452 meters (1482.94 feet)(2)
Peak GPS Coordinate: N26 37.862 E127 56.105
Starting Point GPS Coordinate: GPS N26 37.855 E127 56.346
Estimated Time to Peak: 45minutes – 1 hour (one way)
Parking Area Area: Same as starting point.
Recommended Emergency Rendezvous Point: Same as starting point.

Recommended Guidelines (PLEASE READ!!!).
1. Age. Climbing is suitable for children (parental discretion on age) and adults who have good agility, mental awareness, and are physically fit.
2. Greatest dangers are tripping and falling. Wear shoes or boots that have good traction. Tennis shoes may be too slippery on some rock surfaces.
3. Tuck in all loose straps to include shoe laces to prevent getting snagged and tripping.
4. Highly recommend hiking gloves of some kind. You may be required to climb using your hands in some areas.
5. Base your clothing on the time of year and comfort level. For this particular trail there are no specifics for attire.
6. Bring plenty of water and nourishments.
7. Recommend a good hat for shade or cover up with a moist towel.
8. Bug repellent. Bring per your discretion.
9. Let someone know where you are going, and recommend a climbing buddy.

Notes/Source of Information
1. Limestone origin provided by a Nago City sign board.
2. Elevation taken from a Nago City sign board.

Directions/Parking. Take Highway 58 North and turn on to Highway 449 goings towards Motobu Town. About another 10 minutes later look for large street signs in English directing you to Mt. Katsuu. Parking will be at the very end of the route identified by the Green Thumbtack in the map.

Other Hiking Trails on Okinawa. Awa-dake, Furushi-dake, Motobu Fuji, Yonaha-dake.

"Awa-dake"

On the far left is Awa's 1st peak and near left of middle is Awa's summit. Yae is in the middle, with Katsuu and Furushi to the right.

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Awa-dake

     GPS

Latitude	Longitude
N 26 37.247	E 127 56.184

        *GPS to Parking Area




Awa-dake

Across from Yae and Katsuu sits their smaller sister Awa, which is only about 20 meters shy of both her siblings – Yae-dake being the tallest at 454 meters and Katsuu at 452 meters. But the climb to the top of Awa is what sets her apart from her sisters. It takes about 5-6 hours to complete the entire Awa loop which is composed of two prominent peaks that define the Awa-dake mountain range. This time window includes a little exploring that you will be doing mid-way as you search out some of the caves along the way. Because the length of time it takes to complete the Awa trail please read the entire post. There are some safety considerations that must be taken into account.

Summary Information.
Name: Awa-dake
Elevation of the Highest Point. 432 meters (1417 feet)(1)
First Peak Coordinate: GPS N26 37.507 E127 55.798
Second Peak (Highest) Coordinate: GPS N26 37.768 E127 55.719
Starting Point Coordinate: GPS N 26 37.248 E 127 56.195 (Katsuyama Community Center)
Estimated Time for Completion: 5– 6 hours (to complete the entire trail loop, this includes exploring midway).
Parking Area Area: Same as starting point
Recommended Emergency Rendezvous Point: Same as starting point
Trail. Trail is marked off by colored tape.
Trail Map: 8.5 x 11 inch PDF (Full Color, Reduced Color), JPG (Full Color, Reduced Color).

Safety and Planning Considerations (Must Read!!!).

Time of year. Hiking any hilltop or mountain range in Okinawa will be challenging during the summer season. The most enjoyable time is during the colder months. If you do climb Awa during the warm/hot season it is guaranteed that your body will lose tremendous amounts of water....guaranteed. This is especially true during the first hour of the hike as you will trapped along with the heat contained by the forest jungle partway. Recommend you hydrate the day before and bring at least 4 liters of water with you, along with some nourishments to replenish the electrolytes in your body. Though Awa is nothing like climbing Mount Fuji in Japan, the heat will rip you apart. And because you have to bring large amounts of water and nourishments, this will add to the weight of your pack further wearing you down. You will probably know within the first hour of the hike if you think you can finish the entire loop. If at anytime you feel like that you cannot complete the entire loop, then turn back and try again at another time. Do not take this hike lightly.

Hours in the day. Because this entire loop takes about 5-6 hours, you have to make sure you leave yourself enough time to come back before dark. Departing in the morning is the best time.

Awa-dake Hiking Sequence. Please read the following hiking sequence. Part of this trail is shared by the trail that takes you to Furushi-dake. You can also print an 8.5 x 11 inch PDF/JPG trail map above to get an idea of the trail layout as you review the hiking sequence.

1. Parking. Park your car at the Katsuyama Community Center (Green Thumbtack above). This is important. Do not park near the trail's main entrance. This will make it difficult for farmers to bring in their equipment to attend their crops.
2. From the community center, you have to walk towards the main trail entrance that is designated  by this sign (see also trail map and the map above).
3. From the main entrance, you will be walking almost due north about 500 meters till you reach a juncture in the trail. Along this stretch, you will pass through orchards on both sides and then the trail slowly creeps into the jungle forest.
4. The trail juncture. Towards the end of the 500 meter stretch, you will be inside the forest jungle. You have to keep your eyes open for color tape tied around tree branches on both sides of the trail. There may be small wood signs directing you the way, but this may not always be the case. The trail juncture splits into three separate trails. The trail to the left takes you clockwise to Awa-dake, the trail in the middle takes you counter-clockwise to Awa-dake, and the trail to the right takes you to Furushi-dake.  As a personal recommendation, taking the Awa-trail clockwise will be more enjoyable.
5. The First Cave. You will run into the first cave within the hour if you take the trail clockwise. There is a wood sign next to it and says that it was used by the Japanese soldiers during World War II. The cave is actually a three level cave. You have to be very careful inside since the outer walls are very loose, and with all the ruble, there is potential of tripping and falling.
6. The Second Cave. Before you reach the first peak you may see a small wooden sign that points you to the second cave. This sign is small. Keep your eyes open for colored tape along the trail that deviates from the main trail. According to the Katsuyama district guide pamphlet this is the story behind the second cave:

Long ago, men who had once worked for the Shuri King came to live in the Katsuyama area. At first, the village people had welcomed them. Initially, the men from Shuri worked with the villagers, but later they became distraught and lazy. They had lost all motivation with their new life, and so they started pillaging from the people and even kidnapped some of the village women. They would hide up in this cave on the Awa mountain side and use it as a base to conduct their sinister activities. As a result, the villagers then concocted a plan that would scare off the bandits forever. In the dark of night, a great number of villagers had set flags on fire mimicking soldiers coming from the south. Out of fear, the bandits fled never to return. These bandits where known as the Sanzoku bandits and their leader was a man that went by the name Kochi Satonoshi (2).

7. The First Peak. The first peak takes about an hour and half to get to. This includes water and rest breaks along the way and the time you will spend exploring the caves.
8. The Second Peak. This is Awa-dake's summit. It is about another hour from the first peak.
9. The Return Trail. The trail continues past the second peak. The trail is not as distinct on this end, and you must keep your eyes open for color tape that marks the path back. It takes about another 1 and half hour to return to the starting point.

Recommended Guidelines (PLEASE READ!!!).
1. Age. Climbing is suitable for young adults who have good agility, mental awareness, and are physically fit. Parents must use their discretion on the ability of their children.
2. Wear shoes or boots that have good traction. Tennis shoes highly not recommended. 3. Snakes. Snakes, including habus, have been seen in this area. Be vigilant.
3. IMPORTANT!!! Bring plenty of water that will help you complete the 5-6 hour excursion. Recommend at least 4 liters of water and nourishments to replenish your electrolytes.
4. Tuck in all loose straps to include shoe laces to prevent getting snagged and tripping.
5. Highly recommend hiking gloves of some kind. You may be required to climb using your hands in some areas.
6. Base your clothing on the time of year and comfort level. It will get windy and cold on the top of the mountain during the colder months. Consider bring a light jacket.
7. Recommend a good hat for shade or cover up with a moist towel.
8. Bug repellent. Bring per your discretion.
9. Let someone know where you are going, and recommend a climbing buddy.

Notes/Source of Information.
1. Elevation was obtained from a Nago City sign board.
2. It is not sure what date this incident with the bandits had taken place, or why they had left Shuri Castle to begin with. Dates and reasons where not given. The name Kochi Satonishi may be incorrect due the translation and variation of the Kanji.

Directions/Parking. Take Highway 58 North and turn on to Highway 449 goings towards Motobu Town. About another 10 minutes later look for large street signs in English directing you to Mt. Katsuu (the Katsuyama Community Center is along this route). Look for the Katsuyama Community Center on the left. This is where you want to park. It will be across a white sign directing you to Mt. Katsuu. See map above for landmarks. Parking location is at GPS N 37.247 E 127 56.184.

Other Hiking Trails on Okinawa. Katsuu-dake, Furushi-dake, Motobu Fuji, Yonaha-dake.

"Furushi-dake"

The Rock Face at Furushi-dake

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Furushi-dake

     GPS

Latitude	Longitude
N 26 37.247	E 127 56.184

        *GPS to Parking Area



Furushi-dake

Just below Katsuu-dake (Mt. Katsuu) is its smaller sister, Furushi, whose summit blends in among the Katsuu landscape when viewed from a distance. The summit of Furushi-dake is more of a rounded hilltop than a pointy peak, and it's not her best feature — it's her rock face. This is what separates Furushi among her sister mountains in Okinawa. You will be on its edge..literally. The picture you see above (courtesy of Mikesryukyugallery.com) is of Mr. Map It! himself taking a little break near the rock's edge. If you love exploring and hiking, this area in Nago City is a great place for it. Part of the trail to Furushi is also shared by the trail that takes you up to Awa-dake, which sits across Furushi. Awa is an impressive mountain as well, taking about 5 hours to complete the entire Awa loop (next week's post will be on Awa-dake). See below for hiking instructions for Furushi-dake.

Summary Information.
Name: Furushi-dake
Elevation. 375 meters (1233 feet)(1)
Peak GPS Coordinate: GPS N26 37.711 E127 56.121
Rock Face GPS Coordinate: GPS N26 37.668 E127 56.070
Starting Point GPS Coordinate: GPS N 26 37.248 E 127 56.195 (Katsuyama Community Center)
Estimated Time to Peak: 1 – 2 hours (one way, includes visiting the Rock Face).
Parking Area Area: Same as starting point.
Recommended Emergency Rendezvous Point: Same as starting point.
Trail. Trail is marked off by colored tape.
Trail Map: 8.5 x 11 inch PDF (Full Color, Reduced Color), JPG (Full Color, Reduced Color).

Furushi-dake Hiking Sequence. Because the trail is not as straight forward like that of the trail going to Mt. Katsuu please read the following hiking sequence. You can also print an 8.5 x 11 inch PDF/JPG trail map above to get an idea of the trail layout as you review the hiking sequence.

1. Parking. Park your car at the Katsuyama Community Center (Green Thumbtack above). This is important. Do not park near the trail's main entrance. This will make it difficult for farmers to bring in their equipment to attend their crops.

2. From the community center, you have to walk towards the main trail entrance that is designated  by this sign (see also trail map and the map above).
3. From the main entrance, you will be walking almost due north about 500 meters till you reach a juncture in the trail. Along this stretch, you will pass through orchards on both sides and then the trail slowly creeps into the jungle forest.
4. The trail juncture. Towards the end of the 500 meter stretch, you will be inside the forest jungle. You have to keep your eyes open for color tape tied around tree branches on both sides of the trail. There may be small wood signs directing you the way, but this may not always be the case. The trail juncture splits into three separate trails. The trail to the left takes you clockwise to Awa-dake, the trail in the middle takes you counter-clockwise to Awa-dake, and the trail to the right takes you to Furushi-dake. (Note. If you wish to climb Awa-dake, it takes about 5-6 hours to hike the entire loop. You need to bring plenty of water and nourishments, especially during the warmer months of the year. See post on Awa-dake).
5. The Furushi-dake Rock Face. As you are hiking towards the Furushi summit, you will run into a T-intersection juncture. See photo here. Going right takes you to the Rock Face. Going left takes you to the summit.
6. Warning. The Rock Face is an impressive place to see but it does get really narrow and a little dangerous. You will see a wood sign that says “きけん” It just mean 'danger', and be on guard. From here you will be skirting a narrow trail along the edge of the rock face. You will have to hunch over many places along this part. Watch out for your head.
7. Warning. The narrow ledge. There is a part along the rock face that you have to climb a little to continue further. The trail ends about 40 meters later so it is not necessary to proceed ahead. It can be little nerve-racking at this point. The view is already impressive enough before this point. It is recommended that only a few people at a time proceed ahead as the entire ledge is narrow. Please see this YouTube Video to get a preview of what to expect at this juncture. For your comfort level, you may want to bring a carabiner and a safety harness. It is also recommended that you climb on and down from the ledge on your stomach. This will keep your center of gravity low and you will have more stability on the surface.

Recommended Guidelines (PLEASE READ!!!).
1. Age. Climbing is suitable for young adults who have good agility, mental awareness, and are physically fit. Parents must use their discretion on the ability of their children. Do not recommend bringing children to the Rock Face, but that is the parent's discretion.
2. Greatest dangers are tripping and falling. Wear shoes or boots that have good traction. Tennis shoes may be too slippery on some rock surfaces.
3. Snakes. Snakes, including habus, have been seen in this area. Be vigilant.
4. For your comfort level, you may want to bring a carabiner and a safety harness (Rock Face only).
5. Tuck in all loose straps to include shoe laces to prevent getting snagged and tripping.
6. Highly recommend hiking gloves of some kind. You may be required to climb using your hands in some areas.
7. Base your clothing on the time of year and comfort level. For this particular trail there are no specifics for attire.
8. Bring plenty of water and nourishments.
9. Recommend a good hat for shade or cover up with a moist towel.
10. Bug repellent. Bring per your discretion.
11. Let someone know where you are going, and recommend a climbing buddy.

Notes/Source of Information.
1. Elevation calculated at http://www.daftlogic.com/sandbox-google-maps-find-altitude.htm. This is not an official Nago City measurement. Official measurement can not be acquired at this time.

Directions/Parking. Take Highway 58 North and turn on to Highway 449 goings towards Motobu Town. About another 10 minutes later look for large street signs in English directing you to Mt. Katsuu (the Katsuyama Community Center is along this route). Look for the Katsuyama Community Center on the left. This is where you want to park. It will be across a white sign directing you to Mt. Katsuu. See map above for landmarks. Parking location is at GPS N 37.247 E 127 56.184.

Other Hiking Trails on Okinawa. Awa-dake, Katsuu-dake, Motobu Fuji, Yonaha-dake.

"Motobu Fuji 本部 富士"

On top of Motobu Fuji; Background, Ie Shima Island

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Motobu Fuji

     GPS

Latitude	Longitude
N 26 40.461	E 127 54.738

        *GPS for east entrance parking lot




Motobu Fuji 本部 富士

The view you see above was taken from a very large hill top in Motobu Town. The island in the background is Ie Shima and the hill top – perhaps one of the best vantage points on Okinawa to see this beautiful island. Welcome to Motobu Fuji, Okinawa's own little Mt. Fuji. From a distance, Motobu Fuji blends in with the many large hills that already lace the Motobu Peninsula making it difficult to distinguish which hill is which. Nevertheless, the view from the top is remarkable. On a clear day you can see Minna Jima, Ie Shima, Izena & Iheya islands and to the east – Mt Yaedake and even the tip of Northern Okinawa (Hedo area). Though the elevation of Motobu Fuji is roughly 218 meters (715 feet), the climb is still a challenge and even a little treacherous. Motobu Fuji, like most large hill tops on the Motobu Peninsula, are covered with large jagged rocks known as karst. About ninty-five percent (95%) of the trail to the top of Motobu Fuji is covered in karst. Climbing to the top is a wonderful, small adventure and one you are sure to enjoy. Click here or click on the photo album above for more pictures from Motobu Fuji.

The Trail. There are two entrances leading you to Motobu Fuji, There is a 'west entrance' and an 'east entrance'. Directions below take you to the 'east entrance'. There is designated parking and restrooms available near the east entrance and it is a little easier to find. The GPS coordinate above is to the parking area of the east entrance.

From the east entrance parking lot, you just have to walk up the road and you will see a set of steps to your left (LandMark icon above). From here, you will walk about another 300 meters where you will see another trail on the right. You will see a wood sign with the kanji, '本部 富士' (Motobu Fuji) pointing you the way. A few feet away you will see a guide rope to help you ascend the hill. With the exception of a small chain rope near the top, this is the only guide rope you will see along the way. Please Note. Prior to arriving at the wood sign (coming from the east entrance), you may see red spray paint markings taking you to a trail on the left. This is not the trail to Motobu Fuji. This goes in the opposite direction and its use is not quite clear at the moment.

Taking Photographs. The best time to take photos of Ie Shima from Motobu Fuji is on a clear day before noon. The sun will still be behind you and you will not be affected by the glare. 

The Climb Up. The climb going up takes about hour and 30 minutes at a reasonable safe pace. This includes rest breaks, lunch breaks, water breaks, picture breaks, etc. You are gonna want to take pictures continuously. If you just want to go straight up without stopping it can take you about an hour.

The Dangers. The greatest danger here is tripping and falling. Karst stones are jagged and can easily cut through skin. A fall will lead to a very, very bad day. The greatest danger is on your descent trip. At this point, you are little more fatigued, in a rush to get home, and your momentum is going in the most dangerous direction – down! Take your time in both directions. Please read through all the recommended guidelines below.

Recommended Guidelines (PLEASE READ!!!).
1. Recommended climbing for young adults and above who have good agility and are physically fit.
2. Greatest dangers are tripping and falling. TAKE IT SLOW. Rocks here are not sturdy and some are very, very loose. Take nothing for granted. If you fall, you will get cut.
3. Tuck in all loose straps to include shoe laces to prevent getting snagged and tripping.
4. Keep low center of gravity (A MUST)...especially on your way down.
5. Highly recommend hiking gloves of some kind.
6. Highly recommend loose pants and long sleeves that allow for air circulation. This is to protect your skin from cuts from both the karst stones and snagging vines.
7. Snagging vines. Along the way you may run in to vines that have small thorns. These can cause you to trip and fall so you must take it very slow through some vegetated areas. Though wearing long sleeves and pants increases your chances for getting snagged by one of these vines, it is manageable.
8. Bring plenty of water and nourishments (A MUST)...particularly on a hot day.
9. Recommend a good hat for shade or cover up with a moist towel.
10. Mosquitoes. In the summer time, mosquitoes can be relentless on your way up. They can easily distract you and cause you to lose concentration as you are climbing. This can be dangerous. One wrong move and it will be more than just a minor mosquito bite that will sting. Recommend covering up as stated above and or use repellent to mitigate the distraction. You must really stay focused along the entire venture.

Summary Statistics.
Name: Motobu Fuji 本部 富士
Elevation: 218 Meters (715 feet)*.
GPS Coordinates of the Peak: N 26 40.618 E 127 54.537

Directions. The GPS coordinates, N 26 40.461 E 127 54.738, is to the 'east entrance' parking lot. Take Highway 58 to Highway 449 heading towards Motobu. Continue along 449 passing the bridge that takes you to Sesoko Island. From that point, about 1.5 km you will run into a T-intersection (Highway 449/84). Left continues on Highway 449. Right takes you on Highway 84. Take Highway 84 going east. About 2 km more go left on Highway 115 (you may see signs pointing you to Nakijin Castle). Shortly, along Highway 115 you will pass the Motobu Elementary School on your right. 

From here study the map carefully. At some point along Highway 115 you will be elevated (as if you are on a bridge). See Map Icon on the map. Once you cross over this elevated portion the road will bend to the left. Make the first left as soon as you crossover this elevated portion. This left hand turn will go down and to the left and then you have to make a right. This is the start of the blue designated route. Follow it to the 'east entrance' parking lot. It is easy to miss the parking area since it is elevated off the road. Here is a picture of what it would look like from the road. From this picture, go left and you will soon see a restroom on the right. You are there.

Other Hiking Trails on Okinawa. Awa-dake, Katsuu-dake, Furushi-dake, Yonaha-dake.

Places of interest nearby. Toto la BeBe - Hamburger.

* Elevation was computed at the following website: http://www.daftlogic.com/sandbox-google-maps-find-altitude.htm

"Scenic Panoramic View from Mount Tanodake (Nago)"

Looking North from Mount Tanodake

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Scenic Panoramic View from Mount Tanodake (Nago)

     GPS

Latitude	Longitude
N 26 35.951	E 128 02.818

Scenic Panoramic View from Mount Tanodake (Nago)

If you are into scenic views, then you may want to visit Mount Tanodake in Nago.  No hiking necessary to get to this mountain. It's an easy drive up from Highway 58. At the top you will have a good 360 view of the four cardinal directions of Okinawa. To the west you will see Yagaji and Kouri Islands. The picture you see above is from an old launch platform (facing north) used for hang gliding. I believe it is no longer in service. The view from there, however, is still amazing.

When you get there, you will also see a small resort called the Hotel Tanew Wellness Resort. I will be honest. At first I thought the building was no longer in use. I think it's a resort that most people are not aware of. But sure enough it was open. Here is their English version of their website http://www.tanew.com/international/english/. The hang gliding launch pad is behind the resort. (Note: The launch pad is blocked off for safety reasons. The picture was taken from the edge).

Getting there. You can access the main route to Mount Tanodake from Highway 58. On the map I posted a landmark of a Giant Mush Room bus stop. Near this landmark is a traffic light intersection where you turn off to go to Mount Tanodake. There is also a road sign that points to it as well. See photo album. According to the map there is another route coming from the east side. I haven't taken this route yet so I cannot vouch for it at the moment.

What to bring. Definitely a camera.

Other places of interest nearby: Makiya Dam, Haneji Dam Family Picnic Area, Scenic Route 18/Haneji Dam Nago City Bypass, Nago Green Bridge/Lower Creek Park.