Maeda Highlands (Hakuso Ridge)

Maeda Highlands, also known as Hakuso Ridge, is a dramatic clifftop landmark located in Onna Village on Okinawa's western coast. This elevated coral limestone plateau rises approximately 60 meters above the East China Sea, offering unobstructed panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastline. The site's Japanese name "Maeda" refers to the Maeda Cape area, while "Hakuso" translates to "white grass," describing the pale vegetation that once covered these windswept bluffs.

The highlands hold profound historical significance as the site of intense combat during the Battle of Okinawa in 1945. The escarpment served as a strategic defensive position, and remnants of the war including cave shelters and military fortifications can still be observed throughout the area. Today, the site functions as both a natural attraction and a place of remembrance, with several memorials honoring those who lost their lives during the Pacific War's final land battle.

Visitors to Maeda Highlands can explore well-maintained walking paths that traverse the plateau, leading to multiple observation points along the cliff edge. The location is particularly popular among diving enthusiasts, as the Maeda Point dive site at the base of the cliffs is considered one of Okinawa's premier shore diving locations, featuring diverse marine life and underwater caves. The dramatic limestone formations and crashing waves below create striking photographic opportunities, especially during sunset hours when the light illuminates the coastline.

The site is accessible by car and is located approximately 20 kilometers north of Naha Airport, roughly a 40-minute drive via Route 58. Limited parking is available near the observation areas. There is no admission fee to access the highlands and surrounding walking paths. The exposed clifftop location can experience strong winds, so appropriate clothing is recommended. Basic facilities including restrooms are available on-site, though dining options are limited to nearby villages.