Guide
Nandakari Hijā is a natural spring located in the Tamaki district of southern Nanjo City, Okinawa. Locally, it is referred to as "Ufuga." This site is renowned for being the only place in the prefecture to feature a Goemon-buro—a traditional heating system where water is warmed using a large iron pot over a wood fire. Due to its immense historical and cultural value, it was designated as a National Important Cultural Property in 1995.
The area surrounding Nandakari has long been a center for traditional local rituals. Even today, ancient traditions such as We-daungan, Hama-uri, and Ami-shinu-ugan (including traditional rope-pulling ceremonies) are passed down through generations. The area also holds deep spiritual significance, with sites like the Mintong-suku (private lands) associated with the legendary figure Amamikiyo. For centuries, this spring has served as a vital water resource deeply integrated into the daily lives of the local community.
The most striking feature is the stone-paved slope that leads from the village down to the spring. Walking this path allows visitors to feel as though they have stepped back in time. Additionally, the presence of the Goemon-buro structure makes this spring a truly rare sight within Okinawa. The sight of the spring emerging from the natural landscape, surrounded by its historical structures, creates a unique and serene atmosphere found nowhere else.
Nandakari Hijā is accessible 24 hours a day, allowing you to enjoy the scenery at your own pace. Whether you visit during the lush greenery of summer or the milder temperatures of other seasons, the stone-paved paths and the steady flow of the spring remain a constant, beautiful sight.
Visitors can experience a walk through history along the traditional stone-paved paths and observe the unique architectural structure of the spring. It is an excellent opportunity to observe and appreciate the traditional landscape and the cultural heritage of the Nanjo region.
Nandakari is situated in the Tamaki district of Nanjo City. The surrounding area is dotted with various sites that host traditional local ceremonies and hold significant cultural and spiritual importance.
As this is a historical site located in a natural environment, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please respect the local environment and follow all local manners to help preserve this precious cultural property.