Cape Manzamo in Okinawa

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  • Cape Manzamo Okinawa Prefecture

    Cape Manzamo Okinawa Prefecture

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Facts & Figures

Cape Manzamo, also called Cape Manza, is one of the most popular tourist spots on Okinawa Island. The word Manazamou can be translated as - A field where 10000 people can sit. The scenic 20-meter high limestone cliff with its elephant trunk-like shape is a must-see on your island round-trip. Cape Manzamo is an elevated coral reef and was formed by centuries of ocean erosion. It is also a fantastic place to enjoy a beautiful sunset. Japan Rail Pass Buy now and Save >
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The spectacular view was often referred to in ancient Okinawan literature and songs. In the far distance, the islands of Ie with the Tatchu mountain (172 m), Minna, and Sesoko are visible. A 10-minute walking trail along the cliff and the clear blue ocean should be part of your visit. Be aware it can get really crowded and you have to wait a bit for your perfect photo opportunity. An early morning visit would be the best compromise.

  • Cape Manzamo:
  • Opening Hours - every day 24hrs
  • Admission Fee - free
  • Shops Opening Hours - 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

My tips for local activities

How about exploring the famous landmarks of Okinawa like Cape Manzamo, Kouri Island and Churaumi Aquarium with a local guide. The tour will take 11 hours. Check out this page > for more details.

History

Ryukyuan king Sho Kei (1700–1752) visited this place in 1726 and realized that there was enough space on top of the cliff to gather 10000 people. Based on his input the kanjis were formed to create this word (10000 means Man in Japanese, Za - to sit/seat, and Mo - field).

Location

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Cape Manzamo is located near Onna Village (Kunigami District) and faces the East China Sea on the Western side of Okinawa Island.
Address: Onna, Onna-son Kunigami-gun, Okinawa, 904-0411

How to get to Cape Manzamo?

  • appr. 1,5 hrs from Naha Bus Terminal to Onna Village served by bus 20 or 120

Sightseeing spots

nearby:

The Toilet Bowl - Near the cliff is a very popular scuba-diving spot with this name.

Uduigama - the Cave of Dances is a small seaside cave

Monument - It is a monument with a poem written by the well-known Ryukyuan poet Onna Nabe to welcome the king Sho Kei.

Nabee Beach and Manza Beach - Enjoy the scenery of white beaches and some marine activities there like banana boat riding, surfing, snorkeling, and swimming.

Grassy Plain - The grassy plain with rare plants like Heliotropium foertherianum, and Zoysia pacifica grass near the Cape Manzamo is a magnificent sight. Those plants/vegetation along the cliff got the status of a Natural Monument of Okinawa Prefecture.

Souvenir Shops - People love shopping and here you can find Okinawa souvenirs like shell decorations, colorful T-shirts, Okinawa muumuu dresses, and much more.

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

July

Unna Festival (19th till 20th)
The annual festival is held in Onna Village at the venue Manza Beach and offers musical performances, the biggest beach soccer tournament in Okinawa, a children’s karaoke contest, a fish gripping game, and much more. The end of the festival will be celebrated with a huge spectacular firework.

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