Looking for a peaceful nature escape without leaving the city? Tucked away in the heart of Naha, Sueyoshi Park is a hidden gem that locals often call “Naha’s Yanbaru” — a reference to Okinawa’s lush northern forests.
As a former local, I used to visit this park often, and every walk felt like a mini-retreat from everyday life. In this post, I’ll show you why Sueyoshi Park is the perfect spot for a nature walk, cultural discovery, or just a relaxing break during your time in Okinawa.
▲ Nature in the city – Sueyoshi Park (Image: Google Maps)
A Nature Oasis in Urban Naha
Sueyoshi Park is one of the largest green spaces in Naha City. It’s filled with tropical plants like hibiscus and palm trees, and the walking trails wind through dense greenery where you’ll hear birdsong and flowing streams.
It’s hard to believe you’re just minutes away from busy city streets. Locals come here for morning walks, family picnics, or simply to unwind with their dogs. It’s also popular among joggers and nature lovers.
▲ Walking through the lush trails (Image: Google Maps)
Seasonal Beauty: Cherry Blossoms, Fireflies, and More
Did you know that Japan’s earliest cherry blossoms bloom right here? In January, the kanhi-zakura (cold-weather cherry blossoms) bring a splash of pink to the forest — weeks before Tokyo’s famous sakura season.
In summer, the park becomes home to sagaribana, an exotic flower that blooms at night and falls by morning. It’s rare and fleeting, often called the “phantom flower.”
And from spring through summer, you might spot fireflies dancing near the streams — a magical sight at dusk that kids and adults alike can enjoy.
▲ Fireflies & sagaribana in early summer (Image: Google Maps)
Visit a Hidden Shrine: Sueyoshi-gu
Deeper inside the park, you’ll find Sueyoshi-gu Shrine, one of Okinawa’s historic “Ryukyu Eight Shrines.” Once protected by the Ryukyu royal family, this sacred site is now part of a UNESCO World Heritage group of cultural sites.
The shrine is especially beautiful and quiet — and the path to it is lined with stone steps and mossy torii gates. From the top, you can catch a lovely panoramic view of Naha City.
▲ Torii gate at Sueyoshi Shrine (Image: Google Maps)
Getting There
- Location: Naha, Okinawa (Sueyoshi Park, Gibo area)
- Nearest Station: Yui Rail – Gibo Station (about 10 minutes walk)
- Parking: Free parking available (limited spaces)
Final Thoughts
If you’re visiting Okinawa and want a taste of its natural beauty without traveling far, Sueyoshi Park is a perfect hidden spot to explore. Whether you’re into nature walks, photography, local culture, or just need a moment of calm — this park offers it all.
Take a deep breath, listen to the sounds of the forest, and enjoy your stroll through Naha’s hidden “mini-yanbaru”🌳
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