Lily Festival on Ie Island

Have ever witnessed a sight so spectacular that you transcend time and space and lose yourself in that moment? The tropical island on which we live provides us with many of those opportunities, and only a ferry boat ride away lies another paradise—le Island. On Saturday, April 26 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., MCCS Tours+ will take you to that paradise.

Each year, le Island blooms a blanket of teppoyuri, or Easter lilies, during which locals celebrate the Yuri Matsuri (Lily Festival). “This is a famous festival that many people come from around Japan to see," says Heather Allen of Tours+. “People should not miss the chance to go see this festival while living right here on Okinawa.”

Board a ferry to le Island, and spend the day enjoying the awesome view at Lily Field Park, which is filled with more than a million of these lilies in full bloom. Also enjoy a variety of local entertainment, including drum shows, Japanese music, and Ryukyu dance.

There’s something for everyone to enjoy. "For children, there is the petting zoo," Allen says. “There will also be lots of good food and games. It is a terrific time to meet new people and experience one of the more famous festivals of Okinawa." Bring yen for food and spending money. Tour prices are $32 for adults, $18 for children ages 6 to 11, $11 for children ages 3 to 4, and $5 for children ages 2 and under.

For more information, call Foster Tours+ at 646-3502 or Hansen Tours+ at 623-6344.