Wansaka Oura Park

Wansaka Oura Park sits on the eastern coast of Nago City in northern Okinawa, serving as a gateway to one of the most ecologically significant mangrove forests remaining on the island. The park reopened in April 2024 as a direct sales center operated cooperatively by 10 local villages, combining local commerce with environmental conservation. Oura Township was founded sometime in the 1600s during the Ryukyu Kingdom era, and historical artifacts from that period, including stone-built artesian wells, can still be found in the surrounding village.

The centerpiece of the park is the Oura Mangrove Forest, designated as a natural monument by Nago City. This ecosystem represents one of the largest and best-preserved mangrove areas in Okinawa, thriving where the Oura River meets Oura Bay in a mix of fresh and saltwater. The east coast of Okinawa used to be lined with mangroves, but because of coastal development, few areas remain, making this site particularly valuable for conservation and education. The forest supports biodiversity, with 262 of the 5,806 species of living creatures inhabiting the bay being endangered.

A 726-meter boardwalk winds through the mangrove forest, offering visitors close observation of subtropical plants and wildlife including crabs, mudskippers, and diverse bird species. The wheelchair-accessible wooden path takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes to complete and features sections with handrails on sloped areas.

Visitors can also participate in guided kayak tours through the mangrove channels and opt for glass boat excursions to view Oura Bay's marine life, including the world's largest known blue coral colony measuring 13 meters high, 30 meters wide, and 50 meters long. The park complex includes a direct sales market featuring locally grown produce, crafts, and regional specialties, alongside a restaurant serving Okinawan cuisine and a children's playground.

The park is accessible from Route 331, approximately 18 minutes from Ginoza IC or 15 minutes from Kyoda IC on the Okinawa Expressway. From Naha, the drive takes roughly 90 minutes heading north, while the park sits about 50 minutes south of the Churaumi Aquarium. Note that pets and bicycles are not permitted within the park. Admission to the mangrove boardwalk costs ¥360 for adults and ¥210 for elementary and middle school students, with free entry for preschool children.