Bise Fukugi Tree Line (Motobu Town, Okinawa Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Bise's Fukugi Avenue is a long avenue that stretches across the Bise district of Motobu Town in the northern part of Okinawa's main island. Fukugi trees (evergreen trees similar to banyan trees) were planted around houses as windbreaks and tidebreaks, protecting the village from typhoons and sea breezes. Carefully maintained by local residents over many years, the deep green tunnel created by the trees blocks the strong summer sun and gives a unique sense of tranquility and coolness. The combination of the old-fashioned red roofing tiles and rows of Ryukyu houses with the forest is beautiful, and it is also a popular photo spot.

Highlights

• A green tunnel of camphor trees: Just walking along the tree-lined path will cool you down and you can enjoy the sunlight filtering through the trees and the expressions on the trunks.
• Old houses and village landscape: You can feel the scent of Okinawa's traditional houses and stone walls remaining among the tree-lined streets, and the atmosphere of daily life.
• Bise Sea (near Cape Bise): Once you pass through the tree-lined street, you will come to a beach where you can see the crystal clear waters and coral reefs.
• Walking trails and cycling: Of course, it's fun to explore the area at your own pace on foot, but it's also nice to get around by bicycle (bicycle rentals are available in the area).
• Photo spot: The soft light in the morning and the calm atmosphere in the evening are particularly beautiful.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Railroad: There are no railroads in the northern part of Okinawa Island. There is no nearest train station.
• By car: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by car from Naha Airport via the expressway (depending on road conditions). There are parking lots scattered around the Bise area, but they can get crowded during the tourist season.
• Bus: Direct express buses from Naha Airport are limited, so you can take a local bus from Naha to Nago or Motobu and get off near Motobu or Bise. Routes and frequency change depending on the season, so we recommend checking in advance.
• Nearby landmarks: It is about a 10-minute drive from the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, making it convenient for combining sightseeing with other attractions.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Round-trip stroll along the tree-lined street: 30-60 minutes
• Walking along the tree-lined streets + staying at Bise Beach and using the cafe: 1.5 to 3 hours
• Day trips combining with nearby attractions such as the Churaumi Aquarium: Half a day to a full day

Nearby spots

• Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium (approximately 10 minutes by car) — A large, world-famous aquarium.
• Bise Sea/Bisezaki Beach — A crystal clear beach just past the tree line.
• Sesoko Island, Sesoko Beach (accessible by car across the bridge) — A remote island beach within driving distance.
• Nakijin Castle Ruins (approximately 30 minutes by car) — A World Heritage Site.
• Nago City (Shopping and Dining) - Find local cuisine and souvenirs.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Crowds: During the tourist season (summer vacation and long weekends), both the parking lot and the tree-lined streets are crowded. Visiting early in the morning or in the evening is less crowded and makes for better photos.
• Manners: Fukugi trees are a local asset, so please be considerate and do not damage the roots or trunks, break branches, or take fallen leaves home. As the tree-lined path passes through a settlement, please be considerate of private property and the living space of local residents and act quietly.
• Footing and Accessibility: Some areas of the road are uneven and gravel. It may be difficult to access with strollers or wheelchairs, so we recommend checking in advance.
• Weather and seasons: Summer in Okinawa is hot, humid, and has strong UV rays, so be sure to stay hydrated and take measures to avoid sunburn. During typhoon season (mainly summer to autumn), there is a risk of strong winds and heavy rain, so be sure to pay close attention to the weather information. Even in winter, there are many warm days, but the sea breeze can make it feel chilly.
• Insect repellent: There may be mosquitoes and small insects in the forest. If you are planning a long walk, it is a good idea to bring insect repellent.

Bise's Fukugi Tree Avenue is a peaceful tourist spot where you can experience the greenery and sea of Okinawa, as well as the local lifestyle. You can make your stay even more fulfilling by planning your visit along with the surrounding facilities.