Ie Island Lily Festival (Photo courtesy of photoAC)
It’s time to embark on a spring getaway to enjoy some stunning lilies on Okinawa.
From April 26 through May 5, the remote island of Ie is hosting its annual lily festival.
Enjoy one million Easter lilies and 100 other lily varieties in a 21-acre field at the Ie Lily Festival.
The island is just about nine kilometers west of Motobu Peninsula and is easily accessible via a 30-minute ferry ride. It may be a remote island, but Ie Island makes for a great day trip destination when you head out on the first ferry out of Motobu Port at 8 a.m., then return on the last ferry at 4 p.m.
If your schedule allows, Gusukuyama, a mountain reaching 172 meters and considered the symbol of Ie, is a must-visit. The mountain is often affectionately called “Iejima-Tacchuu,” or pointed figure of Iejima. Nearby, the Wajee lookout point on the northern coast offers a breathtaking ocean view you can’t miss.
Another option is taking a tour with MCCS Tours+ and Kadena ITT to enjoy the stunning blooms of spring on Ie.
Make time for a great day on Ie Island!
Motobu Island Lily Festival
Date: April 26 – May 5
Venue: Ie Island Lily Field Park (N 26.737027, E 127.810003)
A ferry ride from Motobu Port (N 26.641743, E 127.880665) to Ie Island costs 730 yen (approx. $5.13) for 12-year-olds and above (370 yen for ages between 6 and 11). A round trip costs 1,390 yen and 710 yen respectively.
Tours by MCCS Tours+: https://www.okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/dining-entertainment/tours/on-island-tours
Tours by Kadena ITT: https://kadenafss.com/itt/
