03Ada District
858 Ada, Kunigami Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture
Ada, Kunigami Village, Okinawa Prefecture, is a small, quiet village located on the east coast of the northernmost part of Okinawa Island. It is about a three-hour drive from Naha City, beyond the deep forests of Yanbaru, and is known as a region rich in nature surrounded by sea and mountains.
The endangered species "Okinawa Rail" lives here, and at the "Rall Forest" ecological exhibition and learning facility for Yanbaru Rails, you can observe live Yanbaru Rails and learn about the nature and ecosystem of Yanbaru.
In addition, every year, Ada holds the traditional event "Ada no Shinugu," which prays for bountiful harvests and the safety of the village, and is designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. This is a Shinto ritual that has been passed down from generation to generation by local people, and is a valuable opportunity to experience the spiritual culture of Okinawa, which lives in harmony with nature.
Recently, as it is a depopulated area, efforts have been made to promote settlement by utilizing vacant houses, and mountain village study abroad programs are being held for those who want to raise children in Ada.
Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Ada is a place where visitors can experience nature, culture, and the warmth of the people, and it feels like a "spiritual home" to them. Be sure to come and experience another charm of Okinawa.
