Iejima Island

Iejima, also written Ie Island, is a small island in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, located off the northwest coast of Okinawa Island and noted for a distinctive conical volcanic peak, Mount Gusuku.

The island offers sandy beaches, coastal villages and outdoor activities such as walking and short hikes. A climb of Mount Gusuku (Tatchuu), which rises to about 172 meters, is a common excursion for panoramic views.

Iejima was the scene of military activity during World War II and postwar periods; an airfield on the island was used by Allied and later U.S. forces before returning to civilian control. The island’s economy is based on fishing, agriculture and small-scale tourism.

Located off the northwest shore of Okinawa’s main island, the island is reached by ferry from ports on Okinawa and is part of the Ryukyu island chain.

• Mount height: The island’s most prominent natural feature is a conical volcanic peak often called Tatchuu or Mount Gusuku, which rises to about 172 meters.
• Access: Accessible by scheduled ferry services from Okinawa’s main island; local transport links provide access from the ferry terminal to villages and trails.

What to See#

• Mount Gusuku (Tatchuu): A distinct volcanic cone rising above the island that is a short, steep climb and provides panoramic views of surrounding sea and lowlands.
• Villages and beaches: Coastal villages, sandy beaches and agricultural land concentrated in low-lying areas around the island’s shore.

Iejima (Ie Island) is reached by ferry from Motobu Port on Okinawa’s main island (the Motobu/Nago area). Ferries and high‑speed boats run the crossing and the ferry trip is about 30 minutes; check the local Motobu-Ie Island timetable for current sailings.

By car from Naha it’s roughly a 60-90 minute drive (about 65-80 km) north via the Okinawa Expressway and Route 58 to Motobu; once on Ie Island the ferry port is a short walk from the main village and onward destinations are reached by local taxi or rental bicycle.

• Take the morning ferry from Motobu (check the current timetable before you travel) to maximize your time on Iejima-ferry frequency is limited, so plan outbound and return sailings in advance.
• Climb Mount Gusuku (Tatchuu) early in the day for cooler conditions and the clearest views back toward Okinawa; the trail is short but steep, and the summit panorama is the island's signature viewpoint.
• Rent a bicycle or small vehicle at the port but be prepared for few ATMs and limited services on the island-bring sufficient cash for rural transport, small shops and any attraction fees.