Kadena: Nature, Culture, and Festivals

When looking for a hotel in Kadena, your travel interests may help you decide: nature observation, environmental education, sports facilities, and local culture offer different reasons to visit. Recurring festivals also add their own highlights. The locations and dates vary considerably—from a riverside park to events at the fishing port.

Nature and History on the Hija River

On the grounds of Yara Castle is a park that incorporates the former residence of Okawa Aji as a green recreational space. The park is connected to the riverside area of the Hija River. Visitors can watch birds and plants and learn about nature and history. Those interested in both topics will find a shared point of interest here.

The Hija River Nature Experience Center promotes nature experiences and environmental education by making use of the natural, cultural, traditional, and economic resources of Kadena Town. There is an exhibition room on the first floor, and the center invites visitors to use it. The exhibition room complements the center’s nature and environmental education programs by providing a space for exhibitions.

The Hija Bridge is located in the Kadena area. Built in 1867, the stone bridge has five consecutive arches and has been described as a scenic spot and one of Okinawa’s Eight Views. It is a distinct historical landmark alongside the nature and learning opportunities in the park and at the center.

Sports Facilities and the Water Garden

Kenku Seaside Park includes a Water Garden, a multipurpose field, softball and general sports facilities with night lighting, tennis courts, and a gymnasium. The same park therefore brings together water and sports facilities with different focuses.

The Water Garden was established to help children in Kadena Town come into contact with water and become accustomed to it. The facility began operating on April 28, 2012. Before visiting, check its seasonal operating schedule and the current availability of individual park facilities.

Local Culture and Events

Chihara Eisa is an intangible folk cultural asset designated by Kadena Town. The tradition is preserved and passed down in local districts.

At the Hija River Koinobori Festa, carp streamers are hung at the community center and Kadena fishing port in late April. There are 400 streamers above the river mouth; the festival promotes the healthy growth of children. The program also includes sightseeing boat trips, canoeing, and jet-ski activities.

Kadena Haarii is held at Kadena fishing port on the Sunday immediately following the fourth day of the fifth month according to the old calendar. The program includes Haarii races for fishermen, competitions between occupational groups, and a children’s Haarii. The Noguni Soukan Festival features a sweet potato digging competition for children.

YOU・遊・比謝川 takes place in mid-July in the park on the grounds of Yara Castle. It includes a raft race and other riverside events. The events take place at different times: the Koinobori Festa is held in late April, YOU・遊・比謝川 in mid-July, and Kadena Haarii follows the old calendar. Dates and programs may change; check the latest information if you want to plan your trip around a festival.

Views and Insights into Kadena

The Kadena roadside station has a learning and exhibition room on the third floor about the history of Kadena Town and Kadena Air Base. A covered observation deck offers a view of the air base; the roadside station also sells local specialty products. Facilities and offerings may change, so it is advisable to check the latest information before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Kitanakagusuku, Chatan.

Return to the main travel overview: Nakagami District.