okinawa day trip

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Okinawa Travel Guide: 1 to 5-day Okinawa Itinerary without a car for first time visitors

Before going to Okinawa, I had no idea what to do or see in Naha and other parts of the main island. And as I was researching all the best attractions in Okinawa, I thought I would need a car to see all the sites.

But after spending over a month on Okinawa Main Island, I can confidently say that you can see many parts of the island on your own and without a car. Plus, you can see the best of Okinawa in only 5 days.

I compiled a solo Okinawa itinerary for independent travellers going to Okinawa for one to five days. If this is your first time going to Okinawa, keep reading and find out how you can travel in Okinawa without a car and see all the best attractions on your own.

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Okinawa travel guide: what you need to know

Before you start your solo trip to Okinawa, take a look at some of these useful travel tips for your day trip:

• Get money from ATMs at the airport or 7-Eleven
• Selected 7-Eleven or Family Mart in Naha city centre – Esim Plus tourist SIM card from ￥900 for a SIM card and top up 3, 5, 7, 14 or 30 days.
• Online – Order an eSIM from ￥1,099 for 1GB for 5 days (check if your mobile phone support eSim)
• Naha Hārī (May) – see dragon boat races, sumo tournaments and fireworks at Naha Shinto Wharf. It is Okinawa’s largest Dragon Boat festival.
• Naha Great Tug-of-war Festival (October) – see a parade and live show, and see the tug-of-war rope, recognized by Guinness World Records as the longest rope in the world.
• Naha Sakura Festival at Yogi Park
• Nago City Cherry Blossom Festival at Nago Central Park
• Yaese Cherry Blossom Festival at Yaese Park
• Motobu Yaedake Cherry Blossom at Mount Yae in Western Motobu Peninsula

How to get to Okinawa Japan

Many international and domestic flights fly into Naha Airport , which is located on the southwestern side of Okinawa Main island.

Since Naha is only 3km from the airport, the easiest and cheapest way to get to Naha city centre is by taking the monorail . I highly recommend choosing a hotel near a monorail station to get around Naha and other parts of the island easily.

How to travel around Okinawa without a car

Many travellers visiting Okinawa will explore the island with a car because Okinawa Main Island is quite big, and certain places can only be reached by car.

However, if you don’t want to bother with car rental, don’t have a driver’s license, or just don’t want to bother with driving and finding parking spots, I have some options for you.

Walking is the best way to see Naha in Okinawa. This is the best option for exploring Naha city centre and the areas around the monorail stations .

Okinawa Urban Monorail – Yui Rail

Okinawa Urban Monorail , also known as Yui Rail , is a monorail linking Naha Airport, Naha, and Urasoe on the main island of Okinawa. This is the best way to travel from the airport to central Naha.

One way ticket starts from ￥230 . Or you can use Okica or other IC Cards , a rechargeable smartcard that allows you to take public transportation. Okica cards can be purchased from the ticket vending machine. Purchase amount includes￥500 deposit.

1-day monorail pass (￥800) and 2-day monorail pass (￥1400) are also available. You may get discounts on admission fees to Shuri Castle, Tamaudun, Shikinaen Garden, Okinawa Prefectural Museum and the Former Navy Underground Headquarters.

Okinawa Bus

Okinawa Bus Ltd. has several bus companies that operate different routes throughout the island. Many of these routes start at Naha Bus Terminal next to Asahibashi Station .

Travelling within central Naha costs ￥240 per ride. And if you travel further, the fare is based on the distance travelled .

When you get on the bus, get a ticket. And when you are near your destination, watch the screen with your corresponding number; it will indicate your fee. The fee is paid when you alight. Pay exact change as change is not given.

Alternatively, you can use Okica or other IC Cards . Just tap when you get on the bus and tap out when you alight.

Moreover, 1-day bus pass (￥2,500) and 3-day bus pass (￥5,000) are available. These options are excellent for taking day trips around the island.

High-speed boat or ferry

A high-speed boat or ferry is an excellent way to see nearby islands. Both options are available for visiting Tokashiki Island , Zamami Island and other islands near Naha.

And you can also travel to other parts of Okinawa Main Island, like Motobu . The Jinbei Marine (Takuma 3) high-speed boat starts from Tomari Port dock 7C in Naha and goes to Nago, then Motobu .

Where to stay in Naha Okinawa as a solo traveller

If you are visiting Naha Okinawa for the first time, stay somewhere central and close to a monorail station so you can get around Okinawa easily.

I highly recommend staying near  Asahibashi Station  or  Miebashi Station  because you can take the monorail from the Naha Airport to the city centre and walk to your hotel.

I reviewed 6 boutique hotels in Naha and here are my top favourites:

• Check prices & reviews: Agoda

How many days in Okinawa as first time traveller

If you are wondering how many days you should spend in Okinawa, then you’ll have to see my summary below.

You can technically see all the best highlights in Naha in two days . But I highly recommend staying a few more days to explore other parts of Okinawa Main Island. And it is possible to see other parts of Okinawa island without a car.

Okinawa itinerary without car: 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 days

Here is how to use this Okinawa itinerary guide.

If you are only in Naha for one day, follow the 1 day in Okinawa itinerary.

And if you are in Naha for two days, follow the itinerary for the first two days. And continue until the fifth day.

Here is a quick summary of my 1 to 5 day Okinawa itinerary:

1 day in Okinawa: best things to do in Naha (red pins)

• Famous tourist attractions in Naha
• Naha city centre

2 days in Okinawa: things to see around Naha (purple pins)

• Attractions in Urasoe City (Urasoemaeda Station)
• Highlights around Shuri Castle (Shuri Station)
• Other attractions in Naha (Omoromachi Station)

3 days in Okinawa: day trip to Yomitan and Mihama American Village (dark blue pins)

• Yomitan Village
• Mihama American Village

4 days in Okinawa: day trip to Motobu (turquoise pins)

• Ocean Expo Park – Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
• Emerald Beach and Bise Village

5 days in Okinawa: day trips around Naha (burgundy pins)

• Tokashiki Island
• Zamami Island
• Organized day tours from Naha 

1 Day in Okinawa: best things to do in Naha

Naha is the perfect city to start your Okinawa trip. It was the political and economic center during the Ryukyu Kingdom. Today, the capital city of Okinawa is the biggest and most populous city on the island.

On your first day in Naha, see all the best attractions around the city centre.

1. Famous tourist attractions in Naha

Walk northwest towards the water and some of the famous tourist attractions on day 1 of your Okinawa trip. There is a lovely manicured garden, shrine, temple, and a white sand beach with crystal blue water.

• Fukushuen Garden (9am-9pm; closed Wednesdays; ￥200) – a Chinese-style garden built using traditional techniques from Fuzhou, China.
• Naminoue Shrine (9am-5pm; free) – a Shinto shrine perched on a cliff overlooking Naminoue Beach. Boats entering Naha Port pray for a safe journey, while people visiting the shrine pray for a rich harvest.
• Naminoue Beach (24 hours; free) – the only beach in Naha. It’s next to a highway, but the water is crystal clear.

The neighbourhood of Tsuboya is synonymous with ceramics. It was once a major center of ceramic production until it was moved to Yomitan, a village 30km north of Naha.

However, you can still see traces of its ceramic past in this area. There are two old step kilns, a museum, and a historic residence.

Check out these highlights of Tsuboya:

• Tsuboya Yachimun Street – find unique Okinawan ceramics at one of many family-run shops on this cobblestone street.
• Naha Municipal Tsuboya Pottery Museum (10am-6pm; closed Mondays;￥350) – get a free audio guide and walk through the museum. Learn about the history of Okinawan pottery and various pottery techniques and see the excavated remains of Hira-gama flat kiln.
• Arakaki Residence (1-5pm Friday to Sunday; free) – learn about the history of ceramic production in Tsuboya and see an old step kiln.

2. Naha city centre

Naha City Center is centred around Kokusai Dori , the city’s main street and all the covered shopping streets and attractions in the surrounding area.

Several stations serve central Naha on the Okinawa Urban Monorail, and it is the best place to eat dinner and buy souvenirs.

Look for these highlights while you are meandering the shopping streets:

• Kokusai Dori Shopping Street – 1.6km long street with souvenir shops, restaurants and bars. On Sundays, the street is for pedestrians only.
• Heiwadori Shopping Arcade – covered shopping street with souvenir and second-hand shops.
• Tsuboya Ufu Shisa – it is said that the shisa came to Okinawa from China in the 15th century. The mythical creature inspired by the lion, is a guardian deity and an important part of the Okinawan culture. It invites good luck and blocks evil spirits. You’ll see many of these at the entrances of buildings.
• Saion Ufu Shisa – this is the brother of Tsuboya Ufu Shisa.
• Makishi Public Market (8am-10pm) – you can still see the market filled with fresh seafood, meat, produce, and restaurants at the temporary location. The original market location is in the middle of construction.

2 Days in Okinawa: things to see around Naha

On day 2 of your Okinawa trip, visit other parts of Naha and a neighbouring city called Urasoe . The best way to see all the tourist attractions is by taking the monorail to Urasoemaeda Station, Shuri Station, and Omoromachi Station .

How to get around Okinawa on Day 2: buy a 1-day monorail pass (￥800) and get unlimited use for 24 hours. Show your day pass to certain facilities (Shuri Castle, Tamaudun Mausoleum, and Okinawa Prefectural Museum) and get a discount.

1. Attractions in Urasoe City (Urasoemaeda Station)

Urasoe City is just north of Naha City and near the end of the monorail line. It was the birthplace of the Ryukyu Kingdom and still has many historical sites related to the culture today.

While there are many things to see in Urasoe, focus on these two attractions in Urasoe Park so you can have time for other sites later.

• Urasoe Castle Ruins (24 hours; free) – see what’s remaining of Urasoe Castle from the 13th century. Also, look for Stone paved Road ; it was part of the path of King ShōNei Historic Road from Shuri Castle to Urasoe Castle.
• Urasoe Yodore (9am-6pm; free) – the tombs of King Eiso (west crypt) and King ShōNei (east crypt) are found in the hillside caves where stone coffins were put in the crypts. However, the crypts are closed with a masonry wall but are still cool to see.

2. Highlights around Shuri Castle (Shuri Station)

Hop on the monorail, take it to Shuri Station, and explore the area. There are several sites in the Shuri area that you do not want to miss.

• Sairaiin (Daruma Temple) (7am-6pm; free) – walk through a series of bright red torii gates and see the daruma dolls (round Japanese traditional dolls aka a lucky talisman) at this Buddhist temple.
• Shurijo Castle (8:30am-6pm; ￥400) – the former royal palace was one of the best attractions in Naha. But unfortunately, many areas, including the main hall, burnt down on October 31, 2019. But you can still go up to the observation deck for a panoramic view of the area. Registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Tamaudun (9am-6pm; ￥300) – the Royal Mausoleum built in 1501 for King Sho En and 19 Ryukyu kings who ruled between 1470 and 1879. The tomb has three crypts, but they are not accessible. There is also a small museum, but everything is written in Japanese. Registered as a World Heritage Site.
• Kinjo-cho Stone Paved Path (24 hours; free) – built in the 16th century during the Ryukyu Kingdom, the ancient cobblestone path connects Shuri Castle to other districts. Today, you can see traditional Okinawan houses and several springs along the path.

3. Other attractions in Naha (Omoromachi Station)

And finally, get back on the monorail and take it to Omoromachi Station in Naha City’s new downtown area. This is a relatively new commercial area in Okinawa. You can enjoy a bit of culture and do some major shopping!

• Okinawa Prefectural Museum (9am-6pm; closed Mondays; ￥530 General, ￥400 Art Museum, ￥800 temporary exhibition) – learn about Okinawa’s Ryukyu culture through its permanent collection which has over 100,000 artifacts.
• T Galleria Okinawa by DFS – enjoy duty-free shopping with over 140 brand-name stores at this upscale mall.
• San-A Naha Main Place – local shopping mall with a department store, grocery shop, restaurants and a movie theatre.

3 Days in Okinawa: day trip to Yomitan and Mihama American Village

During the late 1970s, Okinawa’s ceramic production moved from Tsuboya in Naha to Yomitan Village , 30km north of Naha. The area thrived as the population grew. Today, it is one of the best attractions on Okinawa Main Island.

Yomitan has other highlights, including a lighthouse at the northern tip of Yomitan and many beaches dotting the pristine coast. For this itinerary, we’ll focus on the area around Yomitan Village.

How to get around Okinawa on day 3: get a 1-day bus day pass (￥2,500) at the tourist information centre or Naha Bus Terminal. FYI – it costs ￥1,100 from Naha to Yomitan, ￥630 from Yomitan to American Village and ￥740 from American Village to Naha. Buying the day pass is about the same same amount but you may end up taking more bus rides and it will save the hassle.

1. Yomitan Village

Yomitan pottery village (yochimun no sato).

Yomitan Pottery Village is the heart of the ceramic scene and has over 50 artisanal potters. Each pottery workshop sells its creations and operates at different times. If there is a specific shop you want to visit, check the hours of operation before you go.

See the large step kiln in the centre of the village and nearby coffee shops. And if you are visiting in November, check out Yomitan Yachimun Pottery Market . It is Okinawa’s largest pottery market, and it only happens once a year.

Zakimi Castle

During the early 15th century, Zakimi Castle was built to protect from invaders from the north. It was built with several innovative masonry techniques to create a solid stonewall and a strong foundation for the castle.

However, only the wavelike stone walls remain today. But this is still worth visiting since Zakimi Castle is one of the best-preserved examples of an Okinawan castle defensive design. And it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is free to visit the castle. But there’s a fee for Yuntanza Museum (9am-6pm; ￥500) at the entrance. It has exhibits showcasing the history of the castle and the area’s craft heritage.

How to get to Yomitan : from anywhere in Naha, take bus 20, 28, 29 or 120 ( see route for bus 20 and 120 from Naha Bus Terminal to Yomitan Pottery Village ). Alight at Oyashi Iriguchi bus stop and walk 14 minutes .

2. Mihama American Village

Located in Chatan, a town in central Okinawa, Mihama American Village is a large entertainment complex and an outdoor shopping centre with a theme-park-type atmosphere .

Mihama American Village got its name because over 50% of Chatan is covered by US military bases. This is the area where you can find everything Americana, from food and shopping to everything else.

Here are some things to check out:

• Shop and eat at Depot Island , a large entertainment and shopping complex
• Visit Christmas Land , a store filled with all things Christmas
• Visit nearby beaches like Sunset Beach and Araha Beach
• See large-scale woodblock prints at Bokunen Art Museum
• Watch the sunset at the Sunset Walk promenade
• Eat American or Mexican food (Tacos Cafe Taco Loco is really good!)

How to get to Mihama American Village : walk 14 minutes to Uza Kominkan bus stop from Zakimi Castle and take bus 28 or 29 ( see the route for bus 28 & 29 from Zakimi Castle to Mihama American Village ). Then, walk 4 minutes towards the harbour.

How to get back to Naha : take bus 20, 28, 29 or 120 at Mihama American Village Iriguchi bus stop ( see the route for bus 28 & 29 from Mihama American Village to Naha Bus Terminal ).

4 Days in Okinawa: day trip to Motobu

Motobu is a small town on the northwestern Okinawan Main Island, 85km north of Naha. The Motobu Peninsula is known for several attractions, including Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium at Ocean Expo Park, Nakijin Castle Ruins and cherry blossoms in Yaedake Sakuranomori Park .

Because of the accessibility and timing of the high-speed boat, day 4 of your Okinawa itinerary will focus mainly on around Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium and the surrounding area.

How to get to Motobu: Take Jinbei Marine (Takuma 3) to Motobu Toguchi Port from Tomari Port in Naha. The high-speed boat departs from port 7C at 8:30am, taking 2 hours. Then take a cab to the aquarium . On the way back, take a cab to the port and hop on the 4pm boat . Buy tickets at the ticket offices at Tomari Port and Toguchi Port. It costs ￥1,000 each way.

1. Ocean Expo Park – Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Ocean Expo Park is a state-run park in the western Motobu Peninsula region that originated from Expo 75, a World’s Fair held at the exact spot in 1975.

While most exhibits were removed, many new ones have been added to the park, including the most popular attraction: Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium.

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is the most popular attraction at Ocean Expo Park. It has the world’s largest aquarium , with a tank capacity of about 10,000 tons .

The highlight has to be seeing the whale sharks and manta rays at the Kuroshio Sea tank . Besides the giant tank, you can see other tropical fish and other sea creatures in the coral, deep sea, and other fish tanks.

When leaving the aquarium, ensure you don’t miss several attractions outside. You can see the Manatee pool, sea turtle pool and dolphin lagoon .

It costs ￥2,180 when you buy a ticket at the aquarium and ￥1,950 at Umichurara (souvenir store on Kokusai Dori) or the tourist information centre. The aquarium is open from 8:30am-6:30pm.

Native Okinawan Village

If you have time after the aquarium, see traditional Okinawan life in a reconstructed village from the Ryukyu Kingdom era at the Native Okinawan Village . Also, see the Omoro Arboretum with native Okinawan plants. The entrance is free.

2. Emerald Beach and Bise Village

For the remainder of the day trip, spend some time around Emerald Beach at the far northeast corner of Ocean Expo Park and Bis Village .

Emerald Beach

The Y-shaped white sand Emerald Beach is one of the 6 Michelin Guide’s top beaches in Okinawa, and it is the only Michelin-starred beach on the main island (I didn’t know beaches could have Michelin stars – who knew?!)

See the white sand and crystal aqua water around this famed beach. You can swim and rent equipment from April to October. But you can still visit the beach during other months.

Bise Village

Just north of Emerald Beach is Bise Village , a coastal village known for its many Fukugi Trees (garcinia trees) that protect the village from natural causes, including typhoons.

You can walk around the village and see rows of Fukugi Trees, Sea Almond Trees, cultural properties, unusual stone walls made from poritid corals and more.

If you rent a bicycle, you can cycle all the way to Bisezaki , the northern tip of the peninsula. The water there is shallow and blue.

5 Days in Okinawa: day trips around Naha

On day 5 of your Naha trip, take an excursion to one of the nearby islands or join an organized trip with fun activities around the waters of Okinawa.

Here are some options for day trips around Naha.

1. Tokashiki Island

Only 35 minutes from Naha, Tokashiki Island is the largest of the Kerama Islands , which is part of Keramashoto National Park . The tropical island is known for its white sand beaches, crystal “Kerama blue” water and magnificent viewpoints.

Here is a 1-day itinerary for exploring Tokashiki Island on your own:

• After arriving at Tokashiki Port, take the local bus (￥400) to the end at Aharen Enchi . There are several lookout points.
• Walk to Aharen Beach , a white sand beach and enjoy some water activities.
• Follow Sondo Aharen Road to Tokashiku Beach and snorkel with sea turtles.
• Hike back to the port via Sondo Otani Road . Along the way, see Taiwanese cherry blossom trees , West and East Lookouts, and the Site of Mass Suicide .
• Continue on Sondo Seinen no le Road back to Tokashiki Port.
• Browse around Tokashiki Village before getting the ferry back to Naha.

How to get to Tokashiki Island: take either Marine Liner Tokashiki high-speed boat or a regular ferry from Tomari Port to Tokashiki Island . Choose the high-speed boat (￥2,630 one-way and ￥4,910 roundtrip; 35 minutes) because it is faster than the ferry (￥1,790 one-way and￥3,210 roundtrip; 70 minutes). High-speed boat leaves Tomari Port at 9am at dock 7B and returns at 5pm at Tokashiki Port . Reserve a ticket in advance between May to October or buy one at the counter at Tomari Port.

2. Zamami Island

Zamami Island is known for its white sand beaches, “Kerama blue” water and a gorgeous sunset. It is also part of the Kerama islands, and it’s reachable by a 50-minute high-speed ferry ride from Naha.

When you spend a day on Zamami Island, here is what you can do:

• Visit Furuzamami Beach and rent equipment to snorkel, scuba dive, or standup paddle board .
• Hike up to Takatsukiyama Observation Deck and see a panoramic view of the Kerama archipelago.
• See humpback whales return to warm Zamami during the winter season.
• Rent a bicycle and cycle around the hilly island.
• Take a local boat to Aka Island .

How to get to Zamami Island: take the Queen Zamami high-speed ferry (￥3,200 one-way and￥6,080 roundtrip; 50 minutes) from Tomari Port to Zamami Port . The high-speed boat leaves Tomari Port at 9am at dock 7A and returns at 4:50pm at Zamami Port . Reserve a ticket in advance between May to October, or buy one at the counter at Tomari Port.

3. Organized day tours from Naha

If you are not keen on self-guided day trips, there are many organized day tours that you can join while you are in Naha.

Many of them can be booked locally, but if you are going during high season (i.e. summer), you might want to secure a spot on a tour so you don’t miss out on a fantastic trip.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Snorkelling around Kerama Islands – see tropical fish and coral reefs in the crystal-clear waters of Kerama Islands National Park from April to October.
• Diving trip around Kerama Islands – learn how to dive on this full-day excursion in Kerama Islands National Park.

What to eat in Naha Okinawa

Okinawan cuisine differs from  typical Japanese cuisine  due to its unique geographical location and influences from China, South East Asia and the US. So even if you typically eat Japanese food, you must try the local food in Okinawa and see what the fuss is about because it is so good!

I have a food guide to eating in Okinawa , but here is a quick summary of food you must try in Naha:

• Okinawa Soba  – Okinawan noodle soup made with wheat noodles, fish cakes and pork belly
• Taco Rice  – Tex-Mex ingredients (ground beef, lettuce, cheese, tomato) on top of rice
• Goya Champuru  – Okinawan stir-fry with bitter gourd/melon
• Okinawa Agu Pork  – primary pork breed in Okinawa
• Okinawa Onigiri  – spam and egg Japanese rice ball
• Beni imo  – purple sweet potato
• Umibudo  – a type of edible seaweed aka “sea grapes”
• Okinawa ice cream  – try local flavours like  Okinawan salt cookies ,  Shikuwasa sherbet ,  Beni imo , and  Ryukyu Royal Milk Tea

Where to eat in Naha Okinawa

Traditional Okinawan food in Naha is served in local diners, izakaya restaurants and other food places. Just make sure to check the hours of operation  before you go. Noodle shops and some restaurants open between 10am-3pm while many izakaya restaurants only open after 5pm and stay open until late.

If you want to watch a show during dinner, some touristy izakaya restaurants have live singing performances during dinner service . Typically, there are two rounds of performances each night. Look for signs at the entrance of izakaya restaurants like the one below.

If you only have a few days in Naha, try one of these places. They are some of my favourite places to eat in Naha.

• Okinawa Soba Eibun  – a very popular noodle shop serving Okinawa soba
• Shuri Soba  – go early and try Okinawa soba with noodles or without
• Nuchigafu  – instagrammable set lunches and dinners serving Okinawan cuisine
• Yunangi  – homey izakaya restaurant that is open for lunch and dinner
• Dachibin  – best izakaya restaurant in a renovated Japanese-style house. Surcharge is applicable
• Pork Tamago Onigiri  – they sell spam and egg onigiri and variations of this classic Okinawan snack
• Blue Seal  – Okinawa’s most popular ice cream brand. Find one of many shops in Naha

Are you going to follow this itinerary for Okinawa?

I certainly hope so! I put a lot of thought into creating the best Okinawa itinerary for anyone travelling in Okinawa without a car.

You can see the best highlights in two days, but I highly recommend staying for 5 days to get a feel for the rest of the island.

Let me know in the comments below if you like this itinerary or have any suggestions to make it better.

Thank you for reading my solo Okinawa itinerary

You might also like these other posts on solo travel in Japan:

Introduction to Japan

• Things I wish I knew before going to Japan
• Solo Travel to Japan: 17 best cities for solo travellers
• 11 Off-the-beaten-path places in Japan
• Japanese Food Culture: 11 must-try food
• One month in Japan: from Tokyo to Hiroshima

Kyushu region

• Okinawa food guide: 26 best food
• 6 best boutique hotels in Naha Okinawa
• 10-day Kyushu Island itinerary
• 25 Best things to do in Fukuoka Japan
• Day trip to Dazaifu from Fukuoka
• Kumamoto City in one day
• Day trip to Mount Aso from Kumamoto
• 11 Top things to do in Kagoshima Japan

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queenie mak

Hi, my name is Queenie, and I've been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!

Further Reading...

Japan Solo Travel Itinerary: One month in Japan from Tokyo and Hiroshima

Kyushu Itinerary: 10 days Exploring Kyushu Island on a Budget

Nakasendo Trail Guide: 1 to 3-Day Itinerary for Hiking Nakasendo Trail On Your Own

17 comments.

Awesome! Simply amazing. I will follow your itinerary. Going to Okinawa on 1 Feb 2024.

Thanks so much for sharing, Queenie

Hi Ming, thanks for your comment. I went around the same time this year and saw cherry blossoms. And the weather was quite nice – not too cold and many sunny days. I also have a post on trying Okinawan food if you are interested in trying their cuisine (pretty different from typical Japanese food). Enjoy your time in Okinawa!

Thank for for this really great post!

We are staying in Naha for 4 days at the end of March 2024 and this has been so incredibly useful for our planning! Looking forward to trying as much of the foods you mentioned in your other post!

Hi Peter, Thank you for your comment. I went in January and February and it was cold but got warmer. I bet it will be super nice at the end of March. And I hope you can eat many of the Okinawa food – so different from traditional Japanese food and it’s so good! Enjoy your trip!

This is perfect! I am spending a few days in Okinawa later this month, and I’m also planning to travel without a car, so your guide is perfect!

Hi Sharita, I was in Okinawa last year in January and February – it was a bit cold at first but it got warmer. Stay warm and hope you will have a good time! Happy travels!

Hi Queenie Mak,

i will be spend on Okinawa in Feb… without car. Good transportation… But did you walk or take a bus to Zakimi Castle Ruin from Yomitan Pottery Village (Yochimun no Sato)?

Hi Ng Bee Hwa, Yes I walked between Zakimi Castle and Yomitan Village. It is a 30-minute walk but leisurely. There is also a bus but I just checked on Google Maps that it comes every 2 hours. It’s not frequent so walking might be a better option. Hope this helps! happy travels!

Thank you for this to-the-point informative guide! I’ll be going mid-Feb 2024 with my family, including 10 and 13 year old. I hope they will enjoy trying the bucketlist of foods to try from your post!

Hi Lian, Thanks so much for your comment! I was in Okinawa in Janunuary and February – really good time to be there. I hope you will have fun in Okinawa with your family. I think your kids will really like Okinawa onigiri and all the ice cream at Blue Seal! Happy travels!

Hi Queenie, I am from Poland and would like to come on June/July with my husband and son (14) to Okinawa. I am very very grateful that you wrote all these tips – GREAT JOB!!! VERY HELPFUL! I wonder if there is any transportation to stay for a week near one of the beaches like Manza or Zampa Beach to have the possibility to spend some time on the beach after coming back from the trips. Is there any transportation there? Thatnks a lot in advance for your answer!

Hi Barbara, Aw thanks so much! From Okinawabus website, there are limousine buses to both places. For Manza Beach, the limo bus goes to ANA Intercontinental Manza Beach Resort. For Zampa Beach, the limo bus goes to Grand Mercure Hotel. When you are in Naha, go to the info centre at Naha Bus Terminal and confirm. They are very helpful and speak English. Enjoy your trip!

Thanks for great sightseeing plan! I’ve done first 2 days in 1, except museums 🙂 One note, it doesn’t make sense to go to Kokusai Dori shopping street before 11am, because most of stuff is then closed.

Hi Stan, Thank you so much! And I appreciate your feedback because I’m not a big shopper so I don’t realize that not all shops are open in the morning. I think the main area of Naha is so amazing that everyone should see it first. Perhaps it’s better at the end of the day so you can bring all your purchases home and not carry it around the whole day. Thanks for the input – I’ll adjust my itinerary!

One more update, 1 day bus pass is now 2500 yen.

And best bus to go to Yomitan is 120 🙂

Hi Stan, prices has certainly gone up since last year. Thanks for the update. Really appreciate it!

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Day trip from Okinawa main island OK! Recommended remote island tours & sightseeing spots accessible by ferry and car

• Marine sports (sea activities)
• Okinawa (remote island)
• Tourist attractions
• Okinawa Trip

Recommended remote island tours that you can go on a day trip from the main island of Okinawa featured.

Okinawa has about 160 large and small isolated islands, but this time Okinawa remote island tour easily accessible by ferry or car from the main island of Okinawa I'd like to introduce!

each Okinawa remote island characteristics and attractions of Okinawa remote island special feature Please check Depending on the tour, the contents such as departure from Naha and local meeting are different, so please check the details!

table of contents

• 1 Okinawa remote island accessible by car from main island 1: Kouri Island
• 2 Okinawa remote islands accessible by car from the main island of Okinawa 2: Sesoko Island
• 3 Okinawa remote island that can be reached by tour from the main island of Okinawa 1: Minna Island
• 4 Okinawa remote islands that can be reached on a tour from Naha on the main island of Okinawa 2: Chibishi Islands
• 5 Okinawa Remote Islands Accessible by Ferry from Okinawa Main Island 1: Tokashiki Island
• 6 Okinawa Remote Islands Accessible by Ferry from Okinawa Main Island 2: Zamami Island
• 7 Okinawa Remote Islands Accessible by Ferry from Okinawa Main Island 3: Aka Island
• 8 Okinawa Remote Islands Accessible by Ferry from Okinawa Main Island 4: Ie Island
• 9 You can go on a day trip from the main island of Okinawa! Let's stop by on the remote islands of Okinawa
• 10 Editorial department recommended feature articles

Okinawa remote island accessible by car from main island 1: Kouri Island

2005 (Heisei 17) , between the neighboring Yagaji Island Kouri Bridge is opened. henceforth Kouri Island teeth A popular spot visited by many tourists since it became accessible by car from the main island of Okinawa became.

Okinawa main island When crossing the Kouri Bridge from emerald green sea welcomes you.

Okinawans are amazed by the high transparency and beautiful sea! Because you can enjoy the superb view, Recommended for drive date . Located in the northern part of Kouri Island At Tinu Beach, heart lock ”, a power spot for love fulfillment is.

Kouri Island area Activities where you can fully enjoy the emerald green sea are popular! If you want to fully enjoy the beauty of the sea, Snorkeling Tours or SUP experience , boat cruising Join us.

[Okinawa Kouri Island] Experience with a private charter for each group! Let's find clownfish and turtles Snorkel tour 60 minutes ♪

• (26 reviews and experiences)

An impressive snorkeling point discovered by COCONUTS CLUB. A tour that goes around randomly from the many snorkeling points on Kouri Island, depending on the weather and sea conditions of the day. You can enjoy marine activities (banana boat, marble, jet) to Junokel Point while you are on the move.

[Okinawa, Kouri Island, SUP] Experience a safe, private experience for one group! Experience a new sensation of SUP! Paddle SUP rental for 60 minutes♪

• (2 reviews and testimonials)

Let's go on the water with a paddle SUP! If you want to enjoy it to the fullest, we recommend the 60-minute plan. It is a water activity where you can enjoy surfing the waves and walking on the sea while paddling. Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) is said to have an exercise effect because it trains your core strength, and it is a popular sport among women.

[Okinawa, Kouri Island] Cafe attraction that's a hot topic on social media! Beryl The Ride Boat ride through the spectacular emerald scenery! Enjoy the Warumi Strait

Take a boat tour of the Warumi Strait, which runs from the Haneji Inland Sea, a quasi-national park, to Kouri Island! The tour takes about 20 minutes! The emerald green sea and islands, as well as the untouched nature of the Warumi Strait, are a spectacular sight! ◎ Depart from a cafe that's a hot topic on social media! An attraction at FIFI PARLOR, a cafe in Nago, Okinawa, famous for its swings! Enjoy cafe fun

can see in the sea clear kayak tour I also recommend it!

[Northern Okinawa/Nakijin] Clear kayak course (90 minutes) [With photos of playing in the sea near Churaumi Aquarium and Kouri Island !!]

• (4 reviews and testimonials)

Play in the sea with a popular clear kayak! ! Since the entire kayak is transparent, you can see colorful tropical fish without entering the sea. A wide range of people, from families with small children to elderly people, girls and couples, can participate comfortably. For those who are not good at snorkeling or even in the cold winter, let's go see the fish casually~♪

Okinawa remote islands accessible by car from the main island of Okinawa 2: Sesoko Island

Completed in 1985 (Showa 60) with a total length of 762m Sesoko Bridge is completed, Okinawa main island tied with

Sesoko Island In the west of Sesoko Beach is one of the best scenic spots in Okinawa . The gradation of the sea that changes from blue to emerald green, beautiful white sand, coral reefs, and many other highlights!

Sesoko Island Area Then Parasailing + marine sports set tour to see the beautiful sea from the sky, SUP experience , clear kayak ・ Canoe experience is a popular activity .

[Okinawa Sesoko Island] Parasail course [Parasailing & banana boat 10 minutes set]

• (5 reviews and testimonials)

The sky of Okinawa only for you... While feeling the wind on your skin, you can overlook Sesoko Island and Minna Island. There is no doubt that you will be impressed by the feeling of flying in the sky and the crystal clear sea! It is profitable by making it a set with a banana boat ♪

[Okinawa Motobu Sesoko Island] 60 minutes course with plenty of SUP experience

• (3 reviews and testimonials)

A full 60-minute SUP experience at Anchi Beach on Sesoko Island, which is rich in nature! If you want to enjoy the feeling of walking on the beautiful sea, this menu is for you♪ There is also a briefing by friendly staff beforehand, so even beginners can rest assured!

[Okinawa Motobu Sesoko Island] Glass canoe sightseeing tour 60 minutes course

• (6 reviews and testimonials)

At Sesokojima Anchi Beach, which boasts one of the most beautiful seas on the main island of Okinawa, let's take a leisurely sightseeing tour on a glass canoe with an all-clear roof! While taking pictures and chatting with everyone, you can see coral and fish up close at your feet. The menu is led by a guide, so it can be used by a wide range of ages. I'd love to,

If you want to have some fun, Marine sports set tour Join us!

[Okinawa, Motobu, Sesoko Island] Great value with BBQ included! E Course (3 types of marine activities: banana boat, tube, jet)

• (1 review and testimonial)

This is a great value plan that allows you to enjoy 3 types of marine activities: banana boat, towing tube, and jet ski. This is a recommended activity that you can enjoy with your family or friends and deepen your friendships. The barbecue while watching the blue sea and blue sky is exceptional! This is a great value plan that includes a BBQ.

Okinawa remote island that can be reached by tour from the main island of Okinawa 1: Minna Island

Minna Island (Minnajima) teeth Okinawa Main Island/Northern Area island in It is also called "Croissant Island" because of its similar shape.

note that, Ishigaki Island and Miyakojima Please note that it is different from Minnajima, which is roughly in the middle of .

Minna Island It is located about 15 minutes by high-speed boat from Toguchi Port in the northern part of Okinawa's main island. Day trip possible .

The appeal of Minna Island is its easy access and the beauty of the sea. Okinawa main island It is easily accessible, just 15 minutes by high-speed boat from, and the water is so clear that you can see the ocean floor.

Minnajima area Then Skin diving or snorkeling Etc. Easy to participate even for beginners Marine sports tour Full of!

[Okinawa/remote islands] Beginners welcome! Minnajima skin diving (skin diving) 2 sets

• (11 reviews and testimonials)

It is a Minnajima experience diving of marine shop twins! Minnajima is a remote island located in northern Okinawa. Even though it is a remote island, it takes about 10 minutes from the port, so it is recommended for those who get sick easily. Skin diving is skin diving without wearing a life jacket. Recently, it has become a very popular course, especially from women! men of course

[Departing from the north and landing on remote islands] Minna Island Exciting boat snorkeling and one-day beach tour ★Free downloadable tour photos and round-trip boarding ticket included★

• (48 reviews and experiences)

★★★ Full of benefits ★★★ [During your stay on Minna Island] [1] Free rental of one beach umbrella per group (basically one umbrella for every four people) (If there are four or less people applying for the same group, we will only allow one umbrella) [2] Free photo download service [3] 20% discount on beach rental equipment [4] Up to 25% discount on additional local marine activities [5]

[Okinawa Headquarters, Minna Island or Sesoko Island or Gorilla Chop] Spring sale in progress! Boat snorkeling for beginners! Free photo data shoot gift☆

• (7 reviews and testimonials)

Thank you for visiting the diving shop TI.OCEAN. We offer tours for beginners to experience snorkeling in the waters off the coast of Motobu, Sesoko Island, and Minna Island. Croissant Island on Minna Island has beautiful white sand, a bright blue sea, and excellent transparency.

Set tour where you can enjoy parasailing + snorkeling and diving There is also!

Okinawa, Minnajima [Plan A: Parasailing, Boat Snorkeling, and Day Trip to the Beach] Includes a round-trip boat ticket to Minnajima, lunch, one parasol, and a photo shoot!

A must-try on the Michelin one-star remote island "Minnajima" - "Minnajima Snorkeling" and "Minnajima Parasailing" - a luxurious and popular No. 1 plan! No need to arrange boarding tickets or prepare meals. Snorkeling at a spot that can only be reached by boat. Parasailing with a spectacular view that can only be experienced on Okinawa's remote islands.

[Okinawa Headquarters, Minna Island or Sesoko Island or Gorilla Chop] Beginner-friendly boat experience, diving and snorkeling, free GoPro photo data shoot gift ⭐︎

Thank you for visiting the diving shop TI.OCEAN. We offer diving tours and snorkeling for beginners in the waters off the coast of Motobu, Sesoko Island, and Minna Island. Croissant Island on Minna Island has beautiful white sand, a beautiful coral reef, and a vivid blue sea with excellent transparency.

Okinawa remote islands that can be reached on a tour from Naha on the main island of Okinawa 2: Chibishi Islands

Chibishi Islands are three uninhabited islands, Nagannu Kuef Kamiyama Island Generic name. Chibishi Atoll , Keiise Island Also called

Chibishi Islands (Nagannu, Kuefu, Kamiyama Island) is an uninhabited island and there are no scheduled services. It is common to go on a tour from Naha .

High chance in the Chibishi Islands Colorful tropical fish and sea turtle to meet the Popular as a snorkeling and diving spot is.

Half-day from Naha [Kerama sea snorkeling course by boat with slides, jumps, and ocean swings] Guaranteed to satisfy both children and adults★

• (22 reviews and testimonials)

☆★☆★☆★☆★ Benefits ☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★ [1] Unlimited water slide! [2] Unlimited play on the ocean swing [3] About 4m, unlimited jumping on the jumping platform [4] Free drinks and snorkel equipment rental [5] Reliable snorkel lecture service available ☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆ ★☆★☆★☆★ [Reasons for choosing OPG]

Kerama Chibishi Islands "Experience" Boat Diving From 2 dives | Experience the impressive Kerama Blue

The Chibishi Islands is a general term for three uninhabited islands (Kamiyama Island, Nagannu Island, and Quefu Island) made of coral reefs located at the eastern end of the Kerama Islands. It takes about 20 minutes by boat from Naha. Coral reefs are lined up in the pure white sand, and you can enjoy the natural art created by colorful corals.

For those who want to relax Cruiser Charter Plan We also recommend the following!

[Okinawa, Ginowan, Kerama Chibishi coast] I want to go to the sea right now! Cruiser charter! Half-day 4-hour plan

The moment you arrive in Okinawa, the weather is perfect for the beach... You want to go swimming right away! We have prepared a half-day plan for beach fun that is perfect for such occasions! Conditions are key when it comes to swimming! The first day you arrive in Okinawa is perfect for the beach! But you don't have plans to go swimming... The last day of your flight is perfect for the beach... "I still haven't had enough fun..." We can answer such requests!! Usually within 40 minutes from Naha Airport! Ginowan Marie

Okinawa Remote Islands Accessible by Ferry from Okinawa Main Island 1: Tokashiki Island

Tokashiki Island teeth Kerama Islands One of. Mountains over 200m above sea level, wild cliffs, etc. Characterized by dynamic terrain rich in variety is.

For those who want to enjoy the beautiful sea, experience diving or kayak tour is recommended. Tokashiki Island For those who want to enjoy the superb view of Cycling tour led by a local guide Join us.

[Okinawa/Tokashiki Island] Experience boat diving to enjoy the Kerama Blue ★ Safe even if you're alone!

★Before booking★ We will suggest a tour time based on the ship's schedule! If you would like to go in the morning, please make a reservation from 8:00, if you would like to go in the afternoon, please make a reservation from 13:00! When you make a reservation, we will send you a message from Activity Japan to let you know the meeting time, so please be sure to check it! If you have other plans or would like to ask for advice, please feel free to send us a message when you make a reservation.

[Departing from Naha Tomari Port] Go by ferry! Meet the spectacular Kerama Blue! One-day diving experience on Tokashiki Island

Outstanding transparency! A very popular day trip to encounter the beautiful nature of the world's best Kerama Blue! On March 5, 2014, Tokashiki Island, located to the east of the Kerama Islands, was designated as Kerama Islands National Park. We will guide you to a beautiful beach on the island with a white sandy beach that stretches for about 800 meters! If you come to Tokashiki Island, you have to dive! It's easy even for those who don't have a license.

[Okinawa Tokashiki Island] Aim for uninhabited island, Tokashiki Island's only guided kayak half-day tour!

• (15 reviews and testimonials)

Take a sea kayak and go to an uninhabited island. Experience uninhabited island exploration and shookeling in front of the uninhabited island. Since it is a course for beginners, even families who are new to kayaking and snorkeling can enjoy it. ~ Flow of the day ~ ① Explanation of precautions on the beach and explanation of today's schedule, practice of how to row a kayak 20 minutes ② Unmanned on a kayak

[Okinawa Tokashiki Island] A nature guide cycle tour with plenty of history, culture and nature, even over mountains with an electric assist bicycle!

Nature guides registered with the Japan Cycling Guides Association (JCGA) (certified class Trainee-3) will guide you through Tokashiki Island on electric assisted bicycles. Since we traveled by electric assist bicycle, there was nothing wrong with crossing the mountains of Tokashiki Island. We will guide you through the island while explaining the nature and history of the mountains and sea of Tokashiki Island. On the way, there is a tea time at a place with a good view (click here

Okinawa main island If you would like to participate from Tokashiki Island Landing Tour from Naha fart. Experience from January to March whale watching It's a good deal because it also includes

[2023/12/23 - 2024/4/04 only] Includes a landing walk on Tokashiki Island ♪ Whale watching ¥6,500 → ¥5,200 ♪

★ 20% discount monitor campaign ★ <Adults ¥6,500 → Monitor price ¥5,200> <Children ¥5,500 → Monitor price ¥4,400> <Infant ¥2,000 → Monitor price ¥1,600> Answer the survey after the tour and participate in the discount ♪ [ 20% off just by answering the questionnaire after participating] Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism/Tourism Agency Regional integrated tourism

Okinawa Remote Islands Accessible by Ferry from Okinawa Main Island 2: Zamami Island

Zamami Island There is Kerama Islands about the center of

Popular sightseeing spots in travel guidebooks for foreign visitors to Japan Awarded two stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan bottom" Furuzamami Beach ”. You will be captivated by the white sand and the Kerama blue sea.

Zamami Island Area We recommend the Snorkeling experience . Boat/Beach Entry You can choose

[Okinawa, Kerama Islands, Zamami Island] Day trip, empty-handed! We will guide you to the best sea of ​​Zamami! boat snorkel tour

It will be a tour to swim with colorful fish and coral reefs in the Kerama Blue Sea. Since it is a boat entry, we will guide you to the best snorkel point at that time of the day! Even those who are not good at swimming can participate! We are doing it with safety and security first. We will also rent snorkel equipment for free here, so you can come empty-handed.

[Okinawa, Kerama Islands, Zamami Island] Let's swim with sea turtles! Participate empty-handed! Beach entry means no worries for those who don't like boats. Small children are also welcome!

It will be a tour where you can swim with sea turtles, coral reefs, and colorful fish in the Kerama Blue Sea. This tour will be an entry from the beach, so even those who are worried about seasickness can participate with confidence. We will guide you to a snorkeling point where you can encounter sea turtles with a high probability! If you haven't swam with sea turtles yet,

For those who want to explore the world of the sea diving of.

[Zamami ☆ Trial Diving] Suitable for beginners ♪ No license required, empty-handed day trip OK!

Hello * This is Diving Shop Peace on Zamami Island, Okinawa Prefecture ☆ We offer trial diving tours. * If you would like to participate with 4 or more people, please contact us by message or phone * If you have never experienced diving, please come and visit Peace once ♪ Forget about time and relax in the sea as a memory of your trip

explain rare creatures Guided tour recommended for families with children!

[Kerama Islands/Zamami Island] Nature observation guided tour. There are many rare creatures on the southern island. Head to Takatsukiyama Observatory and take a leisurely guide.

It travels 1.4 km one way from Zamami Port to the Takatsukiyama Observatory at an altitude of 131m, but also goes around the promenade (unpaved) around the observatory. While talking about plants, insects, wild birds, geology, history, etc. If you wish, you can make a flute out of grass or make a bow and arrow along the way. From March to April, you can also stroll while eating fruits such as Ryukyu rose strawberries and bayberry.

[Zamami Island, Okinawa] Mountain walker (Yamaacchi) "Less-walked courses" especially during hot seasons

The reasons I moved to Zamami Island were the humpback whales, coral reefs, food, people, and climate, but when I actually started living on the island in 1994, I was surprised by something. I had never seen before, and that was the number of swallowtail butterflies! I had just started taking photos to photograph whales, so whenever I pointed my camera, I saw cool butterflies one after another! After that, I started to get interested in insects.

Experience from winter to spring whale watching tour is a must-see with great power!

[Okinawa Zamami Island] 0 years old ~! No seasickness! Whale watching from the mountains! "Tsubocchi" who has been guiding WW since 1995 and ✌

I'd like to see a whale, but I'm still Yamayama. . I'm seasick! ? This is a tour that started for those who say. It is also recommended for pregnant women, those with babies, those who are worried about their legs, and those who want to observe the whales around Zamami from a bird's-eye view. Once we start talking about whales, 2 nights and 3 days is not enough, but we are aiming for a fun tour of about 2 hours.

Okinawa Remote Islands Accessible by Ferry from Okinawa Main Island 3: Aka Island

Aka Island teeth Kerama Islands One of. There are no convenience stores or traffic lights, An island with old-fashioned villages, beautiful seas and coral reefs is.

In 1998 (Heisei 10) Aka Ohashi Bridge was opened and connected to Geruma Island. Aka Ohashi Bridge was recognized for its beautiful proportions and design, Japan Society of Civil Engineers Design Award 2001 ” won the Excellence Award.

Aka Island area Popular activities in You can observe coral reefs underwater snorkeling or Diving experience .

[Okinawa, Zamami Village, Aka Island, 90 minutes] Sea turtle snorkel in the Kerama Islands [The sea where the world falls in love] ☆ Beach entry ☆ Photo data & rental free

The Kerama Islands, designated as a national park, are so transparent that they are said to be the sea that the world falls in love with, and the blue color is called "Kerama Blue". There are many corals and creatures, and there is no shortage of interest ☆ Sea turtle encounter rate is over 90% ☆ Sea turtles do not surprise people, so you may be able to swim with them ☆ Beach snorkel and colorful corals and tropical fish

[From Okinawa, Kerama, Akajima] Day trip OK, experience diving tour (with photos)

Experience diving tour recommended for diving beginners! Even those who are diving for the first time can rest assured with the generous support of up to 2 people per instructor! Staff with more than 20 years of diving instructor history will guide you carefully. To the "genuine Kerama" point that cannot be reached by large ships from Naha. Let's make special memories

One of Aka Island's most popular spots Kitahama etc. Aka Island Stroll + Guided Tour Also recommended is.

If you want to know about Aka Island's little-known spots, why not join us?

[Holding in Kerama and Aka Island about 90 minutes] Aka Island village tour, history and culture Stroll around the island with a leisurely walk to the superb view

◇The Kerama Islands were designated as a national park in 2014. They are divided into three islands, "Tokashiki Island", "Zamami Island", and "Aka Island Akajima". The location will be this Aka Island. The atmosphere of the village is relaxing, and although there are no convenience stores, the atmosphere is comfortable without making you feel inconvenient ☆ Time on the island flows slowly.

Okinawa Remote Islands Accessible by Ferry from Okinawa Main Island 4: Ie Island

Ie Island teeth Okinawa main island ・About 30 minutes by ferry from Motobu Port It is an island located in.

172m above sea level, shaped like an eboshi " Gusukuyama / Tatchu " is the symbol of Ie Island It has been popular as a landmark for sailing.

Iejima area Recommended activities in snorkeling or diving , skin diving , experience diving .

[Okinawa Prefecture/Motobu Town] Safe for first-timers and children! Snorkeling at Ie Island in the northern part of the main island!

Let's enjoy snorkeling in the sea of Ie Island, the largest remote island in the northern part of Okinawa main island ♪ We will firmly support beginners and children! Please rest assured that we will give you a kind and polite lecture! We can provide you with a wealth of points, so please let us know if you have any requests. Ie Island in the northern part of the main island of Okinawa, where untouched nature remains. You can see fish and corals up close!

[Okinawa Ie Island] Skin diving on Ie Island, which boasts outstanding transparency! Singles, couples, groups and families welcome!

Leave skin diving at [Iejima] to our shop! Outstanding transparency and colorful coral reefs, skin diving with colorful fish! Free feeding service! Free gift of photos and videos taken on that day on LINE! Please leave a good photo too! Come on! Here we go! To the apnea underwater world!

[Okinawa Ie Island] Perfect for terrain divers! Fun diving at dynamic terrain points!

Leave the diving at [Ie Island] to us! Outstanding transparency, colorful coral reefs, and dynamic topography! Perfect for terrain divers! Free gift of photos and videos taken on that day on LINE!

You can go on a day trip from the main island of Okinawa! Let's stop by on the remote islands of Okinawa

A remote island that can be reached on a day trip from the main island of Okinawa introduced.

Many people must have thought, "It's surprisingly easy to go." If you go to Okinawa main island, Please join the tour and stop by the remote islands of Okinawa. .

Okinawa main island different from Okinawa remote island You should be able to enjoy the unique charm!

*The content of this article is current as of April 2024.

Editorial department recommended feature articles

We would like to express our sincere gratitude for your continued patronage.

At our company, in order for many customers to enjoy various activities all over Japan safely and with peace of mind, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's " Basic Policy for Countermeasures against Coronavirus Infectious Diseases " and " Let's Avoid the Three Cs "・ Based on the " new lifestyle ", we recommend the following infectious disease countermeasures to the operator.

• Instructors and participants keep a sufficient distance
• Use masks as much as possible while participating
• Ventilate frequently, avoiding closed spaces
• Thorough hand washing and disinfection
• Thorough disinfection of equipment
• Health management of customers and employees, etc.

For infection prevention measures of the operating company, please refer to [Appeal points for safety] or [Notes on participating in the course ] of each operating company information at the bottom of the plan reservation page, and for details, please contact each operating company directly. Please contact us.

You can also check the following page for information on the efforts of activity companies in each region!

How to enjoy new activities in the after / with corona era

Even if you are a customer, when you continue to go out, in addition to avoiding so-called [three secrets], cough etiquette, thorough hand washing and alcohol disinfection, etc., on June 19, 2020 (Friday), Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, sightseeing Please be aware of the [new travel etiquette ] announced by the Japan Tourism Agency, take actions to avoid the risk of infectious diseases, and enjoy activities and leisure activities safely.

Even now, there are tourist facilities and activity operators whose business hours and dates have changed. Please check the calendar status at the time of application and check the latest information with each operator even after the reservation is completed. Please check with each operator regarding whether or not there is a cancellation fee due to sudden closure of the facility, cancellation of the activity experience, etc.

In addition, Activity Japan also offers an "online experience" service where you can enjoy various activities!

[Online experience] New experience online anywhere

The "online experience" service is digital content that can be expected to create a new community by connecting customers with local and tourism businesses on a daily basis. Those who have difficulty going out due to circumstances, those who want to try but are uneasy about having a real experience suddenly, those who want to collect local information to plan future trips and stay plans, etc. Feel free to meet local instructors and guides online and enjoy a conversation while experiencing a simulated experience!

Please use it together.

Find experiences nationwide

• Okinawa at a Glance
• World Heritage
• Traditional Culture
• Food & Longevity
• Wonderful Nature
• Beach information
• Okinawa Main Island
• Kume Island
• Kerama Islands
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• A 3-Day Journey Through Okinawa’s Main Island

You do not have to leave the main island to experience the seaside beauty, natural wonder, enduring history and culture, and luxury offered in Okinawa

Okinawa offers nearly endless opportunities to explore the gorgeous landscapes, diverse nature, and unique island culture that sets it apart from other places in Japan. This three-day trip around Okinawa’s Main Island gives visitors the chance to experience its many charms at your own pace, stopping by the sights that interest you the most. Regardless of which places you add to your itinerary, you are sure to have an unforgettable time immersing yourself in the slower-paced Okinawan way of life.

*Driving times may change due to traffic, road conditions, and other factors.

Day 1: Seaside sightseeing fun for the whole family

Day 2: make the most of nature with unforgettable outdoor experiences, day 3: a deep dive into the history, culture, and sights of naha, naha airport.

Day 1 starts in Naha Airport, the gateway to the islands of Okinawa. Okinawa’s Main Island has plenty of public transportation options, but renting a car offers the most convenience and freedom for exploring all the island has to offer. Along this driving course, there are many attractive points that represent the magnificent scenery of Okinawa.

• Useful information
• Rental vehicles

Chatan Mihama American Village

Chatan is one of the most vibrant and cosmopolitan towns in Okinawa. It represents champuru culture, meaning diverse foreign cultures mixed together in Okinawa. In its diverse seaside resort area, American Village, you can find a variety of shops, restaurants, and activities. Surrounded by the colorful town and beautiful ocean, its unique scenery attracts many people, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Watching the sunset from the boardwalk is a must.

Lunch Options

Blue ocean steak.

Enjoy seaside views accompanied by high-quality Okinawan wagyu beef cooked to mouth-watering perfection. Succulent seafood and a kids’ menu is also available.

Taco Rice Cafe Kijimuna

Taco rice is a classic Okinawan comfort food that embodies the islands’ champuru culture, mixing Mexican taco meat with Japanese rice culture. Try the omutaco , taco rice topped with a fluffy Japanese-style omelet.

This restaurant is perfect for those who want something to grab and go. Sample authentic Okinawan onigiri rice balls with ingredients like egg, pork luncheon meat, spicy cod roe, and more.

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Part of the massive 70-hectare Ocean Expo Park complex, Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is a family-friendly, must-visit aquarium with a variety of marine life on display across its three floors. It is best known for its Kuroshio Tank, a massive water tank home to giant whale sharks, manta rays, and other striking aquatic creatures. Other highlights include daily feedings, dolphin shows, shark tanks, a manatee pool, and more!

Sightseeing Options

Tropical dream center.

Located within Ocean Expo Park, the Tropical Dream Center has five greenhouses full of beautiful plant life, including over 2,000 orchids, both tropical and subtropical flowers, and fruit trees.

Oceanic Culture Museum & Planetarium

The Oceanic Culture Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the maritime people in the Pacific including Okinawa. It contains over 750 maritime items, and the planetarium shows you the beautiful starry sky of Okinawa.

Bise Fukugi Tree Avenue

Rent a bicycle and cruise along the Bise Fukugi Tree Avenue, a kilometer-long cycling path that leads to Cape Bise under a canopy of evergreen fukugi trees. Rental cycles are a convenient and pleasant way to explore Okinawa’s beautiful landscapes.

Nakijin-jo Site

The Nakijin-jo Site is part of the Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Ryukyu Kingdom, which were designated Cultural World Heritage in 2000. Here you can view traditional construction methods that used ancient Ryukyu limestone.

Neo Park Okinawa

Neo Park Okinawa is a family-friendly facility dedicated to the concept of humans coexisting with plants and animals. With over 100 species of wildlife, the facility offers the opportunity to get up close to rare and beautiful animals from around the world.

Accommodation

Surrounded by beautiful greenery and sparkling blue seas, you can enjoy unparalleled rest and relaxation at the luxurious Kanucha Resort. Host to many activities and events, relaxation options like early morning yoga, an 18-hole golf course, seven different restaurants, and more, this expansive resort offers an unforgettable stay for couples, families, and groups.

Accommodation Options

Hilton okinawa sesoko resort.

Beachfront resort next to pristine Sesoko Beach. Enjoy access to marine sports, kayaking and trekking in nature-rich Yambaru National Park. UNESCO World Heritage Nakijin-jo Site is about 20 minutes away by car.

Hotel Orion Motobu Resort & Spa

The Hotel Orion Motobu Resort & Spa Located in the Motobu Peninsula, facing the spectacular East China Sea. The magnificent Emerald Beach, selected as one of the 100 best beaches in Japan, is right at our doorstep. Visit the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium and the Bise fukugi tree-lined path to the beach, which is reminiscent of traditional Okinawan scenery.

Kanucha Resort Okinawa

Higashi-son fureai hirugi park.

Higashi-son Fureai Hirugi Park is the gateway to the Yanbaru region in the northern part of the main island. Here, visitors can explore the rare ecosystems, unique wildlife, and beautiful landscapes found in Yambaru National Park. Journey through lush hirugi mangrove forests, a designated National Monument that gives the park its name. Enjoy a guided kayak tour down the Gesashi River, or a stroll along a trail of elevated boardwalks around Gesashi Bay.

Yanbaru Eco Field SHIMAKAZI

Yanbaru Eco Field SHIMAKAZI also offers exciting outdoor adventures exploring the mangrove forests of the Yanbaru area. Their three-hour kayaking tour takes visitors downriver, all the way to the sea. Tour groups meet in Higashi-son Fureai Hirugi Park.

Yanbaru Adventure Field

Yanbaru Adventure Field offers a wealth of fun activities such as ziplining, a coffee garden tour, a buggy tour, and outdoor barbecue. It even has a lodge for those who want to stay overnight.

Nago Agri Park

Nago Agri Park delivers health, beauty, and longevity from Okinawa. Visit a café “Cookhal,” serving vegetable lunch plates with local harvested fresh ingredients. Try some pickles they made as well, and a shop selling local goods and produce. it is the perfect pit stop in between sightseeing.

Chura Hana offers slow-cooked Okinawan dishes like rafute stewed pork, boneless ribs, and the classic goya champuru , a traditional stir fry dish with bitter melon.

Matayoshi Tourist Farm Restaurant

Matayoshi Tourist Farm Restaurant is a family restaurant that uses farm-fresh ingredients in classic dishes, like Agu pork curry, wagyu hamburg steak, Okinawan soba, and more.

THE BUSENA TERRACE Cafe Terrace "La Tida"

Enjoy a seasonal buffet and delicious a-la-carte menus at this open-air restaurant overlooking the beautiful Okinawan seaside.

Busena Marine Park

Busena Marine Park is a place where visitors can explore the mysterious world beneath the waves along the coast near Nago. Beyond its beautiful beach, pools, and terraces, Busena Marine Park also has glass-bottom boat cruises where you can witness tropical fish swimming among beautiful coral, and an underwater observatory. The only facility of its kind in Okinawa, this tower offers a 360-degree view of the sea five meters deep.

Cape Manzamo

Cape Manzamo is one of the most beautiful spots along the Onna Coast. Stroll along the grassy fields atop a rugged seaside cliff to soak in views of the beautiful blue Okinawan sea.

Onna no Eki Nakayukui Market

Onna no Eki Nakayukui Market is a great place to make a pit stop, pick up some snacks or enjoy a meal, and shop for local produce and Okinawan souvenirs.

This beautiful beachside resort overlooks the East China Sea. In addition to its luxurious ocean-view rooms, the resort offers a wide variety of marine activities, dolphin programs, and traditional Okinawan performing arts. With restaurants featuring anything you might crave, from sushi to barbecue, traditional Okinawa cuisine, and French fusion, you won’t have to leave the premises.

Hotel Nikko Alivila Yomitan Resort Okinawa

This resort offers a sensory stay along the sea in Yomitan. Beyond the spacious, sea-view rooms, Hotel Nikko Alivila offers a host of outdoor experiences that take full advantage of Okinawa’s nature. Dine at your choice of four restaurants.

Renaissance Okinawa Resort

Shurijo castle park.

Tama-udun mausoleum

Tama-udun mausoleum is the final resting place for the royal family of the Ryukyu Kingdom’s second Sho Dynasty. This National Treasure is an enduring example of traditional Ryukyuan architecture, and the heritage of ancient Okinawa.

Shikinaen Royal Garden

Shikinaen Royal Garden is a garden fit for royalty. It was originally constructed as a villa for the Sho Dynasty, and contains many unique architectural elements, as well as beautiful seasonal plants like apricot and cherry trees.

Kokusai Street

The bustling Kokusai Street is a 1.6-kilometer-long stretch of shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, and more in downtown Naha. Strolling around can easily take several hours if you take your time. Thanks to its central location, it is a good place to grab some lunch before heading to some of the city’s other sights, or making your way to the airport. You can access the area from either the Prefectural Office Station, or Makishi Station.

Tubarama serves traditional dishes like roasted or stewed Agu pork, umibudo (literally “sea grapes”) seaweed, goya champuru stir fry, and more, accompanied by performances of the sanshin , Okinawa’s traditional stringed instrument.

First Makishi Public Market

First Makishi Public Market is your one-stop-shop for fresh and delicious Okinawan food. The second story of the market has several restaurants with dining options sure to satisfy any craving.

Sam’s Sailor Inn

Sam’s is an Okinawan restaurant group serving different types of cuisine across the main island. The Sailor Inn is a nautical-themed teppanyaki restaurant serving seafood and steak, with a delicious menu matched only by its fun atmosphere.

Tsuboya Yachimun Street

Tsuboya Yachimun Street is the perfect place to immerse yourself in Okinawa’s unique pottery tradition with shops selling authentic yachimun wares, a museum to experience its history, and studios offering pottery workshops.

Naha City Traditional Arts and Crafts Center

The Naha City Traditional Arts and Crafts Center is a short walk from Kokusai Street. It offers hands-on experiences with many of the islands’ most enduring artforms. Try traditional weaving, pottery making, glass blowing, and more.

Naha Airport is easy to access from Kokusai Street. If you still have some time before your flight, there are still plenty of exciting sightseeing and shopping opportunities near the airport!

Senagajima Umikaji Terrace

With about 40 shops and restaurants, it is a great place to grab a bite to eat and do some last minute souvenir shopping before your return flight.

DMM Kariyushi Aquarium

DMM Kariyushi Aquarium is Okinawa’s second largest aquarium, full of family-friendly fun and educational exhibits. Discover this new entertainment aquarium that combines the latest visual expression and spatial representation.

Okinawa Outlet Mall Ashibinaa

Another great place to do some sightseeing and shopping before a return flight, Ashibinaa is an enormous outlet mall selling over 100 well-known Japanese and global brands at discount prices.

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Home » Asia » Japan » Okinawa

17 DELIGHTFUL Things to Do in Okinawa, Japan

Okinawa is one of the Eastern Hemisphere’s hidden paradises. When it comes to adventures such as snorkeling, water buffalo tours, and sunsets from the beach, there are not many tropical getaways in the South China Sea better than here!

Commonly known as the “Okinawa Prefecture”, this archipelago is made up of over 160 islands. Due to this, outdoor activities are in no short supply, and you can guarantee a scenic trip.

Some of the most unmissable things to do in Okinawa come from island-hopping. Whether its visits to the Ishigaki and Zamami islands or exploring the many smaller, uninhabited islands, Okinawa, Japan, is diverse, to say the least.

Come with us as we take you from island to island, showing you the variety of Okinawa activities on offer here. From romantic strolls on the beach to night-time adventures and everything in-between.

Book your flights, pack your bags, and get ready to have a tropical holiday unlike any other! Here are some of the most popular and unique things to do in Okinawa Prefecture, to get you amped!

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Top Things to Do in Okinawa

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From snorkeling to spelunking, get ready for a lot of outdoor fun! Here are some of the most essential things to do in Okinawa.

1. Dive at Okinawa’s Number One Snorkeling Spot

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Snorkeling at the Blue Cave is one of the most fun things to do in Okinawa, hands down! The Blue Cave itself is situated on the main island of Okinawa and is the most famous snorkeling spot in the area.

For those who have never experienced snorkeling before, not to worry! You’ll be well trained and educated in the art of diving after a visit here.

Before any snorkeling is done, you’re briefed on the tides, how to use a snorkel, and safety measures to follow at all times. Safety is number one at the Blue Cave, followed closely by some spectacular photos of indigenous fish, the large cavern, and its crystalline water.

2. Take a Visit to Naha’s Colorful Shuri Castle

A visit to Shuri Castle is one of the most popular things to do in Okinawa! It boasts a history that goes back to the Ryukyu Kingdom of Ancient Feudal Japan, as well as more modern history during WWII.

After the Battle of Okinawa, the castle was almost destroyed. It was only in 1992 when the outer exterior was finally restored. Today, it’s the sight of the University of the Ryukyus, as well as being a UNESCO World Heritage site.

A walk around its grounds will give you a great sense of Japan’s history. From its involvement during WWII, the ancient history of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Well worth it if you’re interested in Ancient Okinawan heritage.

Nago is a city located in the northern part of the main Okinawa island. It is a popular destination for visitors to the archipelago and a great place to stay for your first visit to Okinawa.

• Encounter tropical marine life at the Busena Marine Park
• Take the kids out to see wildlife at the Neo Park Zoo
• Discover pineapples under a new angle at the Pineapple Park

For more Places to Stay, check out our full Okinawa Neighborhood Guide!

3. Get Wet at the Popular Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Churaumi Aquarium is one of the unmissable things to do in Okinawa, Japan. One of the best family activities in the area, this aquarium sees hundreds of thousands of visitors every day.

Its emphasis on conservation and the reintegration of endangered sea creatures makes it increasingly attractive and supported. Here you’ll find manta rays, dolphins and the huge whale shark!

Throughout the day there are shows and exhibits available for your viewing. The aquatic shows and exhibits come thick and fast, with the Ocean Expo Park boasts a wide variety of talented and interesting creatures.

It also has the first-ever successfully bread Manta Alfredi!

4. Take a Boat and Visit Taketomi Island

Next to mainland Okinawa, Taketomi is one of the best places to visit in the Okinawa Prefecture. Known as one of the prime resort locations in this archipelago, Taketomi is a tropical paradise!

As we mentioned above, inter-island travel is very common within a cluster of islands, and next to Okinawa Island, Taketomi is the next most frequented spot. With its beautiful beaches and healthy marine life, it’s not hard to see why!

Culture and tradition abound here, with their famous Water Buffalo Carts and Local Markets selling the same products since the start of the decade!

With the best beaches in Prefecture, it’s no wonder it’s one of the best spots around.

5. Tour the Islands via Water Buffalo Cart

In the Okinawa Prefecture, ancient Japanese culture has remained relatively untouched, due to its detachment from the mainland. To experience this still active culture through observing the locals and their daily practices is an honor and privilege.

One of the must-try cultural activities in the area is to travel the islands via Water Buffalo Cart. These ancient, mythical beasts are very close to Japanese heritage and lore!

They have grazed in the fields and labored with the locals for years, whether it be pulling plows or carts. To go on a buffalo cart is to travel as the locals have since their early days. A must for any traveler looking to get that authentic local experience.

6. Go Whale Watching off the Coast of the Kerama Islands

Due to its location within the East China Sea, as well as the Greater Pacific Ocean, the Okinawa Prefecture sits directly in the path of some whale migratory patterns!

The most common whale for watchers to site during their expeditions are the humpback whales, however, it’s not uncommon for a variety of these “elephants of the sea” to be seen. Peak migration is between January and March, so book wisely! Whale watching is a great addition to any Okinawa itinerary.

If you’re looking to refine your options regarding where to launch from, the Kerama Islands are probably your best bet. They have a great track record of seeing some incredible sightings out on the great blue.

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As Okinawa things to do go, almost every things are in some way unusual. However, we’ve found the most unique things to do in Okinawa just for you!

7. Visit the Former Japanese Navy Headquarters

In 1944, during the height of WWII to the retaliation of the Allied forces, Okinawa was one of the primary naval operations sectors across Japan. This tunnel network was built as a fortification against that retaliation.

Half a mile long, this network of tunnels was once designed to withstand heavy bombardment from naval assault. Today, it stands as a memorial for those who lost their lives during the war, and as an advocate for peace!

Now, the walls that are lined with reinforced steel are also lined with pictures of some of the acting officers who died here. There are memoirs and exhibits throughout the network, making for an informative and appreciative walk.

8. Rent a Canoe and Catch the Okinawan Sunrise

In paradise, you can imagine that sunrises and sunsets are some of the most beautiful sights you’ll see. And, you’re not wrong!

So, why not hire out a standing canoe, make your way into the reef-protected bay, and catch a spectacular Okinawan sunrise on the still water. Sounds like tropical heaven, right?

You’ll be met with the early morning chorus of the indigenous birds along with the gentle lapping of waves upon the shore, and you’ll feel like you’re in a book. If experiencing this tropical paradise in its most unfiltered state your goal, then this is a must-do in Okinawa for you.

9. Explore the Local Okinawan Cuisine

Common knowledge usually tells us that Japanese cuisine is best appreciated on the mainland. However, Okinawa boasts some of the most unique foods across all of Japan, not found anywhere else!

Make an effort to go try noodles on Yaeyama Island. As unique items go, Yaeyama offers a “soba” not found on any of the other islands (made of white wheat).

Another great spot, if you’re interested, is the Makishi Markethuri. Located in Okinawa City, this market holds the nickname of “The Kitchen of Okinawa”. The market is as old as WWII and offers some seriously unique dining options. Try the preserved sea snakes, if you dare!

Safety in Okinawa

Things to do in Okinawa alone are made more preferable and enjoyable by the fact that the Prefecture is as safe, if not more so than mainland Japan.

Violent and petty crimes are at near-zero levels. Locals are more than happy to leave their properties unlocked and open due to this. Although it’s always wise to keep vigilant in populated areas such as Naha, Okinawa is as safe as safe can be!

Check out our roundup of the best travel insurance .

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With its vibrant tropical attractions, it’s no surprise that Okinawa’s nightlife is just as vibrant. Here are a couple of things for you to do after the sun sets!

10. Walk the Ishigaki Beaches at Night

One of the most unique things to do in Okinawa is to catch an evening boat to the island of Ishigaki and go nighttime creature spotting. The island hosts a bunch of tropical creatures not seen at all on the mainland!

Ishigaki is home to some of Okinawa’s best natural experiences. As the sunsets, you can make your way onto its shores and begin your exploration, in search of the iconic Coconut Crab!

However, searching for crabs is not the only attraction here. Once a couple of hours have passed, turn your torch off, and peep the light show. Behold, the Milky Way Galaxy with its millions upon millions of stars, unlike you’ve ever seen them before!

11. Have Fun Bar Hopping in Naha

Naha is the capital city of Okinawa and in turn, is also its hub for all things nightlife. Although not as bright as Tokyo’s, Naha’s nightlife is still as vibrant and attractive as you could want.

The city is split into groups of suburbs that make for varied festivities and socializing. It all depends on what you’re looking for!

Kokusai Dori is Naha’s main tourist street, with lots of shops, restaurants, and bars. Great for if you want to be where other internationals are. In comparison, the Sakurazaka and Matsuyama areas are good for a more local scene.

Sakurazaka is good for those looking to frequent a more bar-centric, with lots of izakayas , where Matsuyama is more focused on clubs.

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Okinawa.

Best Hostel in Okinawa – Seawall Hostel

Seawall Hostel is located on Okinawa’s main island and offers budget accommodation next to the beautiful sea. The hostel offers both private rooms with a shared bathroom and bunk beds in dorm rooms. The beds have their own reading light and a dark curtain for privacy. Free wifi and a free parking are available for guests.

If you love hostels, you should check out our list of the coolest hostels in Okinawa!

Best Airbnb in Okinawa – Delightful Bright Room in Nago

Just minutes from this beach is this little apartment that is absolutely THE spot you want to stay for the first time visiting the city! Lounge around the leather couches or get cozy with a cup of matcha overlooking the little town of Nago! Don’t miss the beautiful sunsets from this place located in the heart of the city.

Best Budget Hotel in Okinawa – Hotel Stork Naha

Hotel Stork Naha offers simple but comfortable rooms in the capital of Okinawa, Naha. The rooms feature a loft bed, a private bathroom, air conditioning and a desk area. The hotel also provides a free wifi connection and guests can use a shared kitchen at their convenience. Soft drinks can also be consumed for free.

As a tropical resort, you can’t get much more romantic than sunsets on the beach! Here are a few more romantic things to do in Okinawa for couples.

12. Take a Stroll Through the Southeast Botanical Gardens

This is most likely the most beautiful natural spots on all of Okinawa Island! As nature reserves go, you probably won’t find many as unique as the Southeast Botanical Gardens, with its unique Dragon Blood trees dominating the area.

There are over 1,300 types of plants here, from the mighty Baobab to the ever-present lotus flowers. Bring your loved one here for a memorable stroll and admire the local foliage that makes for a scenic walk.

With its petting zoo and onsite activities to keep you busy if you get bored, you’ll most likely find that the iconic Alexander palm trees and unruffled birdlife make for the perfect afternoon in paradise!

13. Catch a Cruise to Zamami Island

Only fifty minutes from mainland Okinawa via express ferry, Zamami Island holds the disputed title as having the “most beautiful beach in the world”. The whole island is a designated national park, including the surrounding ocean, and is thus in pristine condition.

Known as the “Kerama Blue”, you can enjoy a perfect day away from the popular sites with your significant other, and explore the fresh terrain of both land and sea. Furuzamami is the beach in question and has to be your first stop for a moment of appreciation as it’s one of the best beaches in Okinawa.

From there, the island is your playground! Snorkel in the ultra-clear waters, get a view of the land on Mt. Takatsukiyama or watch the island’s celebrated sunset from Marilyn’s Statue.

The nice thing about visiting Okinawa is that it has a natural beauty that doesn’t cost a cent to see! Here are some of the best things to do in Okinawa on a budget.

14. Fukushu-En Park

Also known as the “Shikina-En Garden”, Fukushu-en Park was built in 1992 to celebrate the strong alliance Naha City and China’s Fuzhou City had maintained for 70 years.

The park boasts a large area with repurposed subsections. Today you can find there two be four sections of the park, each representing a different season. All centered around the beautiful koi ponds with their large inhabitants of turtles.

The gardens are immaculately maintained, with two large koi ponds being kept pristine. The peaceful alliance that brought this garden into existence, today reflects the same peace. A walk here is perfect should you wish to experience the “zen” the Japanese often refer to!

15. Okinawa Peace Memorial Park

Finally, it would not be a proper Okinawa to-do list without a mention of its revered memorial park. Okinawa has a scarred history of conflict, especially during WWII and the Battle for the Pacific.

Today, sitting atop the Mabuni Hill, above the rest of the city, sits the Okinawa Peace Memorial Park. Here, where the last battle in Okinawa took place, now stands erected “Cornerstones of Peace”.

On each of the 32 memorial stones are written the names of those who lost their lives during the battle here. Although today it is a memorial park, families will come here on weekends to enjoy the gorgeous surroundings, as well as pay their respects to the fallen.

Books to Read in Okinawa

Lonely Planet Japan Travel Guide – It’s always worth having a Lonely Planet packed away, plenty of useful info on routes and where to go.

A Geek in Japan: Discovering the Land of Manga, Anime, ZEN, and the Tea Ceremony  – Comprehensive and well informed, the book covers a wide array of topics with numerous photographs, providing a lively digest of the society and the unusual culture of Japan.

Kaffka on the Shore  – When you talk about Japanese literature, Murakami is the first name that comes to mind. A master craftsman of words, this guy is one of the coolest writers in the genre of magical realism. This book is an elegant and dreamlike masterpiece.

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Okinawa tourist attractions don’t only revolve around beach resorts and long walks. There are also some great activities for both you and your kids to enjoy!

16. Take a Visit to the Popular Okinawa World

Okinawa World is one of the best spots in the area for kiddies and adults to go to, to appreciate the Okinawan culture. As theme parks go, it balances the events and activities with the exhibits very well, with its good mixture of things to see in Okinawa, as well as things to do.

One of its main attractions is its 300,000-year-old limestone cave. Discovered in 1967, Gyokusendo Cave stretches three miles underground , from end to end. Its filled with thousands upon thousands of stalagmites and stalactites, and makes for an eye-opener!

Alongside this, the theme park’s Kingdom Village, with its craft-making, and Habu Park, with its snake museum, are great for keeping your little one entertained!

17. Drive Around the Unique Nago Pineapple Park

Picture this: fields and fields of pineapples, blossoming out of the ground, with a bright yellow Pineapple cart cutting through them, with a mock pineapple on its roof!

This is what awaits you at the famous Nago Pineapple Park. This theme park is pineapple wild! Everything here is pineapples, from its pineapple fields with their freshly grown pineapples to the pineapple foods and pineapple-themes rides .

Nago park may sound eccentric (and it is), but it’s also uniquely Okinawan and makes for a great time with the kids. You’ll be surprised what you can make with pineapples!

If you’re spending more than 3 days in Okinawa, you’re going to need a few more activities to add to your 3 day Okinawa itinerary. Here are our favorite day-trips from Okinawa, that we’re sure you’ll love.

Full-Day UNESCO and Historical Sites Day-Trip from Okinawa

While this tour takes place on Japan’s mainland, it’s an important tour that will help you understand Japan a whole lot better!

This 9-hour tour excludes the time you’ll spend traveling from Okinawa. You’ll get the chance to see some incredible historical landmarks, indulge in a tasty Japanese style lunch and explore some of Japan’s most mystical temples.

Be sure to take your camera along for the day-trip as you’ll see some stunning views along the way. You’ll also get the chance to stop off at any location you feel drawn to, to snap you few photos before continuing on your tour.

Mt Fuji and Hakone Cruise and Bus Tour

This day trip also takes place on Japan mainland, but it’s well worth the trip!

You’ll start your trip with a visit to Mt Fuji and experience its splendor . You’ll stop at the entrance to climb the mountain and make your way up the path. You’ll have access to one of the mountains most epic viewing points to stop and take photos before heading to a buffet lunch with breathtaking mountain views.

You’ll then head out on a cruise on Lake Ashi, which also offers spectacular views and incredible photo opportunities.

Temples Tour to Kamakura

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll have to visit Japan’s mainland to explore some of the many religious temples in the country.

You’ll visit Japan’s ancient capital – Kamakura, and visit the cities most iconic Buddha statue. As well as a variety of old temples and sacred buildings.

Along the way, you’ll visit many traditional buildings and learn about the history of the samurai. You’ll also get the chance to stop off for lunch at one of Japans best seaside restaurants and enjoy incredible ocean views.

You’ll then get the chance to undergo a kimono makeover and walk away from the tour with your very own traditional kimono. It really is a day trip not to be missed.

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Day 1 – Explore Mainland Okinawa

Your first day in Okinawa Prefecture should undoubtedly be spent exploring the main island, and more specifically Naha, the capital city of Okinawa. There are many sites across the city, but visits to Shuri Castle and some of Okinawa’s many WWII memorial sites and parks.

A stroll through the city is the best way to become accustomed to the locals and their culture. You’ll find many small shops selling traditional wares and merchandise. Okinawa is a highly traditional society, and thus you can expect a rich cultural experience.

For the evening take a visit to the famous Makishi Public Market, and get a taste of the unique Okinawan cuisine!

Day 2 – See the Greater Okinawan Mainland

On day two of your Okinawa expedition, you should take a look at getting up the Okinawan mainland, towards Nago. Whether it be catching one of the local buses or trains, the hour and a half ride north will give you the chance to see what Okinawa has to offer.

From its stunning beaches to its rural, Japanese towns, you’ll see a more authentic side to Okinawa. Stops at Kouri Island and Warumi Bridge are a must on your way!

In Nago, a visit to the Churaumi Aquarium will be the highlight of your stay, and most likely take up most of your midday.

For the afternoon, finish your day natural wonders with a stop at Cape Manza and it’s beautiful rock formations. Try to stay for the sunset!

The trip back to Naha will give you a much-needed chance to rest after a busy day out and about!

Day 3 – Time for Island Hopping

Your final day will be spent exploring the “Great Blue” surrounding Okinawa mainland, and learning why they call it an archipelago.

Catch one of the many express ferries out of Nago and make your way to the Kerama Islands. Here, you’ll find Zamami Island, the “Eden of Japan”.

You could rent a one-speed bike to explore the small island or walk its tropical terrain. Either way, you should make your way Ama beach. Host to the most concentrated selection of sea turtles, this beach offers a great opportunity to snorkel.

Once you’ve been saturated by the locals and their small fishing village, you can test your walking skills to visit one of the best beaches in the world, Furuzamami Beach. We can honestly say, you won’t believe your eyes when you see it!

Swim in the tropical water, take as many pictures as you want, and catch a boat ride out to beyond the reef for whale watching and boat dives. This last day is for you to experience paradise in Japan’s tropical getaway!

Don’t forget your travel insurance for Okinawa

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here are some quick answers to common questions about what to do and see in Okinawa.

What is there to do in Okinawa for free?

Take a relaxing stroll around Fukushu-en Park with its pristine gardens, koi ponds and zen atmosphere.

What are some fun things to do in Okinawa?

One of the most fun experiences in Okinawa has to be snorkelling at the Blue Cave . This stunning location is famous for its clear blue waters and spectacular sea life. It’s ideal for beginners too.

What are the best things to do in Okinawa at night?

Catch a boat to the island of Ishigaki and begin your nighttime search for the iconic Coconut Crab. It’s also the perfect place to see the Milky Way as light pollution is very low.

What are some unique things to do in Okinawa?

Explore the surreal Nago Pineapple Park , where literally everything from food to rides and everything in-between is either made of pineapples or looks like one!! Wild!

Okinawa is becoming increasingly popular with internationals. This can be attributed to either its relatively unknown yet highly attractive tropical attributes or rather the recent spike in popularity to visit Japan.

Either way, Okinawa has turned into a must-see when looking for tropical getaways. With its immaculate beaches, pristine coastline, and magnificent cultural heritage, you can find some of the most adventurous things to do in Okinawa Island!

There are so many attractions you can choose from when considering what to do in Okinawa, but too many choices isn’t necessarily a bad thing in this case! So, when it comes to looking for Okinawa points of interest, we hope we’ve given you some great starting suggestions.

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The Shuri Castle looks like a beautiful location to visit. My wife and I want to take a trip to Japan next year. I think it would be a good idea to get a tour guide in order to make sure we get to see the best places.

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Okinawa Itinerary: Best Way To Spend 3-5 Days in Okinawa

Last Updated on March 16, 2024

When travelers consider visiting Japan, mainland hotspots like Kyoto, Tokyo, or Nara come way before an Okinawa itinerary.

It’s often so far down the list that it doesn’t make the roster for consideration, but this little island rimmed with turquoise blue water blends the charming culture of Japan with the natural beauty of the Hawaiian Islands, and that cultural biosphere alone should render an excuse to visit.

There’s something about being able to order vending machine ramen after leisuring on a powdery white sand beach that is so… Correct. “ If that’s wrong, I don’t ever want to be right ” type of thing. 

My sister lived in Okinawa for over 6 years. I’ve visited her twice now, the first time was my very first trip out of the country. I’m a sucker for something sentimental, but despite that, Okinawa is in the top ten places I’ve traveled to over the years.

And because I feel that way, I’ve spent hours compiling all the information and destinations I’ve explored across multiple visits to create this perfect Okinawa itinerary. This article is filled with the best things to do in Okinawa and insider tips to help you plan your ideal trip to Japan’s southernmost prefecture. 

Please note that some links on my blog are affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. When What Do You Sea is supported in this way, you are helping me remain an independent travel blog where I can continue to create free and detailed guides. Read my full disclosure for more information.

Things To Know Before Visiting Okinawa

Check the current exchange rate. Rates are always changing. Right now the US dollar has a fantastic exchange rate for yen, which is reflected in this post. So be sure to compare before your trip so you don’t have any surprises.

You don’t have to have a car, but it’s highly recommended. There are Okinawa itineraries you can follow without a car, but having a car in Okinawa will make your trip 1000x better for the freedom it gives. Public transport is great on the island, but it will only get you so far.

Have change. The further north you travel, the less likely they are to accept cards. While you’re in Naha, make sure to grab paper yen from an ATM and convert it to smaller bills for ease of travel.

Know key Japanese phrases. No worries if you don’t know a lick of Japanese, but at least have some basics in your back pocket.

“Konnichiwa” (ko-ni-chi-wa) = hello

“Arigatou gozaimasu” (ah-ri-ga-to go-zai-mas) = thank you

“Sumimasen” (soo-me-ma-sen) = i’m sorry/excuse me

“Hai” (hi) = yes

“Iie” (ee-ye) = no

Pack plenty of sunscreen. The UV index is no joke here.

Beware the habu . This is a venomous pit viper endemic to the Ryukyu Islands of Japan. It makes hiking and late-night ground travel particularly dangerous. They’re typically 5 feet long and marked with bold, dark green blotches. If you’re bitten, seek medical attention immediately. 

Okinawa Itinerary

This Okinawa itinerary focuses on these main areas of the island: Naha, Nago, Yanbaru National Park, and Kerama Islands National Park.

The days are divided by region so that there is minimal backtracking. For these 3-5 days in Okinawa, you’ll visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, immerse yourself in Okinawa’s own unique culture, hike to the island’s most stunning viewpoints, swim in some of the world’s clearest waters, and so much more.

I have advice and tips to cater to the amount of time you have to spend in Okinawa. It’s straightforward. If you’re in Okinawa for 3 days, follow days 1-3 of this itinerary. If you’re in Okinawa for 4 days follow the itinerary to the fourth day. Same for the fifth.

Who this itinerary is for | I recommend this itinerary for adventurous travelers who enjoy the outdoors and want to maximize their time on the island. It’s mainly outdoor-based with a sprinkle of shopping and fun dining experiences along the way. It covers some main tourist attractions as well as gems that are more off the beaten path. At the end of this post, I have an additional list of things to do in Okinawa if you want to tweak some things.

Use this map to help you navigate this Okinawa itinerary! For best use, download this map to your smartphone so you can use it offline ( instructions here ).

Okinawa Itinerary: Day 1

The first day of this Okinawa itinerary begins in the southern half of the island near Naha and Yomitan. You’ll start the day shopping along the world-famous Kokusai Street. Then, spend the rest of the day exploring Shuri Castle, Cape Zanpa, Zanpa Beach, and the Yomitan Pottery Village.

Kokusai-Dori

Kokusai Street (its name meaning: “International Road) is one of the most famous tourist spots in Okinawa. 

The 0.9-mile (1.6 km) diagonal street runs right through the heart of Naha and is filled with just about anything you can think of. It is catered to tourists, but enough interesting things are going on that you definitely won’t be bored as you browse. I saw a real frog coin purse once, and it still wasn’t the most interesting thing I saw that day. 

THINGS TO DO ALONG KOKUSAI STREET

/ / Taste the famous purple potato . Okinawa is known for Beni imo, a vibrant purple potato. You can try it a bunch of different ways, but it’s popular baked into tarts and pastries or made into ice cream. It’s dotted in plenty of spots along Kokusai-dori, but Okashigoten Kokusai Street Matsuo Branch is a great place to start your hunt.

/ / Visit the Makishi Public Market . This local market is nicknamed the “Kitchen of Okinawa” as it is a place full of the island’s culinary wonders. There are two floors, one with a predominantly seafood wet market and another with a ton of different restaurants serving local dishes. If you buy something from first floor, you can take it upstairs and have them prepare it for you for a small fee. 

– While you’re at the market, I highly recommend booking Taste of Okinawa’s cooking class and historic market tour . You’ll learn about local ingredients and hand-select everything for the recipes you’ll be making at the market. After touring the market, you’ll make 3-4 local dishes: an appetizer, soup, main, and dessert. Afterwards, you feast! 

/ / Try habushu . This is a traditional Okinawa rice liquor that boasts a fang-bearing pit viper at the bottom of the bottle. It’s said to strengthen the body and boost stamina.

/ / Peruse and meander . The shops and stalls are a melting pot, so going in with a plan is slightly ludicrous because you’re going to be pulled in many different directions. From fresh sashimi to questionable English translations printed on t-shirts. The market is your oyster.

Address:   Google Maps  |  Cost: varies

Shuri Castle (optional)

Shuri Castle was the palace of the ancient Ryukyu Kingdom and is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

While stunning, it’s been through the wringer in the last century as it’s been destroyed and rebuilt many times. In 1945, during the Battle of Okinawa, almost all of it was destroyed and then rebuilt decades later. Then, in October of 2019, the main courtyard structures were destroyed in another fire.

Right now, there are ongoing renovations said to be finished in 2026. That’s why this is an optional activity since you’ll essentially be walking through a bunch of construction. However, the history is still there. Get updates here .

Address:   Google Maps  |  Cost: ¥400 ($2.66), adults. ¥300 ($1.99), high school students.

Yachimun no Sato (Yomitan Pottery Village)

Pottery in Okinawa has a history that dates back over six thousand years. Their traditional “yachimun” style of earthenware was influenced by trade with Japan and other countries across Asia.

It has evolved over the centuries, resulting in unique handmade ceramics. The Yomitan Pottery Village has ceramic shops, traditional  noborigama (literally “climbing kiln”), and pottery workshops.

You can browse around the studios and find a special travel souvenir. They have tea cups, kettles, plates, bowls, and a ton of other incredible crafts. You’ll need some self-restraint here because you’ll want to buy everything. Bring plenty of cash!

Address:   Google Maps  |  Cost: varies | Hours : 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Cape Zanpa is the westernmost point of Okinawa and the last place the sun sets over the island. 

A massive lighthouse and dramatic sea cliffs overlook the vibrant East China Sea. For a small fee (¥200/$1.33), you can climb the lighthouse for an even better view of the area. It’s a picturesque location, sunset or not. 

It played a massive role during WWII when US troops landed on the shores south of the cape and officially initiated the Battle of Okinawa.

Nearby is Zanpa Beach , one of the best beaches in Okinawa. If you have the bandwidth, it’s an ideal spot to wind down for the rest of the day as there are lockers, bathrooms, water activities, and other rentals available. 

Address:   Google Maps  |  Cost: Free

Okinawa Itinerary: Day 2

The second day of this Okinawa itinerary is probably one of my favorite days of the whole trip. The morning takes you north to hike the highest point in Okinawa, Mt. Katsuudake. From there, you’ll enjoy a scenic lunch at Pizza in the Sky, visit the Churami Aquarium, Nakjin Castle Ruins, and finish the day on Kouri Island.

Hike Mt. Katsuudake

Katsuudake , also known as Mt. Katsuu, is the highest mountain in Okinawa and boasts panoramic views of the coast north of Nago. While those credentials make this hike sound daunting, know that the hike out and back is only a mile.

Some areas of the trail are pretty steep, so you will experience some thigh-burning, but it’s brief and the views are worth the sweat. You’ll want to wear proper shoes and have all the day hiking essentials with you.

At the trailhead, there are bathrooms and walking sticks. The walking sticks will help you out a ton on this trail, especially on the descent, so don’t forget one before you head out. The trail is well marked, but always bring an offline map with you. My ole reliable is the GAIA App .

Address:   Google Maps  |  Cost: Free 

Pizza in the sky

Pizza in the Sky is one of my must-eat spots while you’re in Okinawa.

This little restaurant is perched on a hill with even more memorable views over the island. They serve pizza, either small or medium size with a few different topping options, and salad.

While the food options on the menu are limited, a lot is going on in the drink section. You need to try the acerola juice made nearby in Motobu. Otherwise, they have other fruit juices, soda, tea, and beer.

Address:   Google Maps  |  Cost: $

Okinawa Churami Aquarium

The Okinawa Churami Aquarium is the second-largest aquarium in the world and is considered the best in Japan.

It’s plotted within the Ocean Expo Park, where there’s a ton of different things to see and do. I’m normally not one to include an aquarium on my itinerary, but even as an adult, this place was epic. One of the major highlights here is a massive tank that holds three whale sharks.

They do a ton of conservation and research efforts, plus a ton of educational exhibits to help protect the oceans. All of that I can get behind. Although, after seeing whale sharks in the Philippines , I’m not sure I’d go back again.

It’s always important to do your research when considering experiences like this. After you walk through the aquarium, check out the Omoro Botanical Gardens , Okinawa Village , and the observatory if they suit your fancy.

Address:   Google Maps  |  Cost: ¥2180 ($14.50), adults. ¥1440 ($9.57), high school students.

Nakjin Castle Ruins

Nakjin is an ancient castle from the Ryukyu Kingdom that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It was built in the late 1200s. During the Sanzan Period (1322-1429), Okinawa Honto (the main island) was divided into three separate kingdoms: Hokuzan in the north; Chuzan in the middle; and Nanzan in the south. The Hokuzan King reigned over Nakjin Castle until it was overtaken by the Chuzan to unify the island and create the Ryukyu Kingdom. 

Near the castle is a cultural center where you can learn about the Nakjin village history and look at artifacts dug up on the castle grounds like Chinese pottery, coins, and documents from various eras.

Tip: If you’re here during Okinawa’s cherry blossom season, typically January or early February, this is an excellent spot to see the sakura.

Address:   Google Maps  |  Cost: ¥600 ($3.99), adults. ¥450 ($2.99), junior and high school students.

Kouri Island

Okinawans refer to Kouri Island as ‘Love Island’ from their ancient folklore. 

It was said that at the birth of mankind, two lovers lived inside a sea cave on this island. The two famous heart-shaped rocks at Tinu Beach only add to the romance.

It’s small and circular, and only takes about 15 minutes to drive around, so it’s the perfect last stop before heading back to your accommodation. There are a handful of cafes you can grab a bite at, otherwise, there are great options back in Nago.

Things to do on Kouri Island

/ / Snap a photo of the Heart Rock : These iconic coral rock formations are the poster child of Kouri Island.

/ / Take in the views at the Kouri Ocean Tower : This observation deck has the best views of the island up at 269 feet (82 m). Grab a ticket in advance.

/ / Relax on Kouri Beach : A small beach next to the main bridge that is unspoiled and relaxing.

Okinawa Itinerary: Day 3

The third day of this Okinawa itinerary is dedicated to getting out in nature in Yanbaru National Park. The morning starts at the picturesque and historic Cape Hedo. Then, you’ll spend the afternoon hiking in the National Park before choosing your adventure for the evening.

This is the northernmost point of Okinawa, one of the most beautiful locations in Japan. It’s a cape that juts out into two oceans: the East China Sea in the west and the Pacific Ocean in the east. 

At the vista, there is a small monument that was erected to commemorate the end of the US occupation of Okinawa and its return to Japanese sovereignty. Another, a small white bird, honors the friendship between Kunigami Village and Yoronjima.

It’s stunning any time of day, but sunrise and sunset are particularly beautiful. This day, aim to make it out for sunrise if you can as warm golden light illuminates the cape.

Yanbaru National Park

This nature area makes up the majority of Northern Okinawa with subtropical rainforests, mangroves, dramatic cliffs, and rare plants and animals. It’s a full-on nature playground if you love the outdoors. Waterfall hikes, canoeing, kayaking, secluded beach excursions, and wildlife watching are all at your fingertips here.

Best Hikes in Yanbaru National Park

/ /  Hiji Otaki Falls Trail (1.7 miles, moderate, out-and-back): This hike takes you to the biggest waterfall in Okinawa. It’s a well-maintained trail, but there are a lot of stairs to take you up to the falls. 

/ /  Tataki Falls Trail (1.3 miles, moderate, out-and-back): This is the perfect hike for a hot day in Okinawa. It follows a stream up to a small waterfall encased in lush green foliage. Don’t forget water shoes, your swimsuit, and a dry bag .

/ /  Ogimi Shioyawan Loop (4.7 miles, moderate, loop): Picturesque and panoramic, this trail takes you along limestone mountains with views over Shioya Bay. Ogimi , the village the hike is in, is the longest-lived village in Japan.

/ / Jawbone Ridge Loop (6.8 miles, difficult, loop): This loop also runs through Ogimi with similar views as the one above, but is better suited for experienced hikers who want more of a challenge.

Want the view but not the sweat? Drive to the Ogimi Village Observation Deck and enjoy.

Tours in Yanbaru National Park

/ /  Jungle River Trek: Private Tour of Yanbaru National Park : If you’re more comfortable hiking with a guide or in a group setting, this is a great tour to consider. They can cater and customize it to your fitness abilities, so the trek can vary from a gentle, dry path stroll for water and tea to more rigorous routes, navigating rocks and boulders and visiting two or more waterfalls.

The rest of the day will depend on how you feel from hiking. Here are some suggestions for things to do:

If you did light hiking, Ibu Beach is a great landing point for an afternoon of relaxing. 

It’s perfect if you want to be off the beaten path as it’s secluded with a small parking area.  Other great beaches in Okinawa are Emerald Beach , Araha Beach , or Manza Beach depending on where you’re based.

Japanese Dining Experience

Japan has honed the art of fun dining experiences, especially if you’re traveling with a larger group. If you’ve done some rigorous hiking during the day, your appetite will be primed for these dining experiences Japan is known for.

/ / Izakaya | Informal Japanese bar with drinks and snacks. Casual dining.

– Where to go : Koryori Dining Midori , Shima Robata Fuji , or Inakamono .

/ / Yakiniku | “grilled meat”- You cook the meat and food yourself on a grill in the center of the table. Casual dining.

– Where to go : Yakiniku Ryukyunoushi Onnabekkan , Usi no ibukuro , or Ryukyu No Ushi .

/ / Omakase | Meaning, “respectfully leaving it to the chef to decide what’s best”. It’s typically a multi-course sushi dinner. The setting is on the nicer side of things and reservations should be made in advance.

– Where to go : Izumi , Sushi Isuke , or Sushi Sumeshi-yu .

Cape Manzamo

Cape Manzamo is another famous sunset spot on Okinawa. 

The oceanfront rock is shaped like an elephant’s truck, which is why it’s so popular. It lands on the more touristy side of things, but if it’s close to your accommodation for the night, it still makes for a gorgeous sunset.

Address : Google Maps | Cost : ¥100 ($0.67)

Okinawa Itinerary: Day 4 & 5

Kerama Islands National Park is a cluster of islands off the southern coast of Okinawa. The main island is called Tokashiki, so I’ll be using those two names interchangeably in the next two sections.

The main three islands in the park are Tokashiki, Aka, and Zamami. All three have ferries to and from Naha and between one another.

That said, there are endless ways you can spend the days in this National Park. All three offer pristine white beaches, crystal clear water, and unspoiled nature so you really cannot go wrong with whatever you choose.

If you want to relax, I’d say spend both days on Tokashiki to reduce transit (that’s what I’ve written about). If you’re eager to explore, go with the other two islands. Or all three. The ocean is your oyster.

Kerama Islands National Park

The Kerama Islands are all about slowing down, relaxing, and soaking up the sun- the absolute perfect way to end this Okinawa itinerary. 

Spend these next few days immersed in some of the world’s clearest waters. These are some of the highlights of Tokashiki Island:

Things to do on Tokashiki Island

/ / Snorkel with sea turtles along Tokashiku Beach . This pristine beach is a playground for sea turtles. Know you cannot snorkel without a life vest at this beach, so be sure to rent one of those with your snorkel gear. It can be purchased at the beach. There’s not much around, so pack snacks.

/ / Relax on Aharen Beach . This is the most popular beach on Tokashiki Island. Its stunning crescent moon-shape is lined with lush tropical rainforests.

/ / Take in the views on the Mt. Teruyama Observation Deck . One of the best viewpoints on the island overlooking Aharen Beach.

/ / Jet ski, paddle board, or kayak over the famous ‘Kerama Blue’ water . Water so blue it has its own name. Multiple dive shops around the island rent all the items you need for a fun day on the water.

/ / Take a paddle tour from Aharen Beach to Hanari Island . 800 m (0.5 miles) offshore of Aharen Beach is a stunning, uninhabited island. Book your paddle tour or browse more top-rated tours below.

Tokashiki Island Guided Tours

/ / From Aharen Beach: 2-Hour Sea Turtle Snorkel Tour : On this tour, you’ll board a yacht directly from the beach to an offshore snorkeling spot with many coral reefs, tropical fish, and green sea turtles. A major plus is that the tour boat doesn’t hold a ton of people so the waters won’t be crowded.

/ / 2-Hour Sea Kayak To Hanari Island From Aharen Beach : This 2-hour kayaking tour takes you to an uninhabited island right off the coast of Aharen Beach. You’ll paddle through a cave and explore the island on foot before returning to Tokashiki Island. This is a great option if you have limited time due to a day trip or if the waters are too cold for swimming.

/ /  3-Hour Sea Kayak & Snorkel Tour To Hanari Island From Aharen Beach : This 3-hour tour takes you to the deserted Hanari, also called Shibugaki Island, right off the coast of Aharen Beach. Depending on the tide height, you’ll paddle through a cave and scenic rocky areas before arriving leisurely at the island. Once you’re there, the guides will take you up the mountains while telling local stories of the area. After coming back down to the beach, you’ll finish the tour with snorkeling off the coast before heading back to Aharen Beach. This is a great tour for day trippers and those who want to fully immerse themselves in Tokashiki Island.

If you only have a day to spare for island hopping, these are some excellent, top-rated tours:

/ / From Naha: Full-Day Snorkeling Experience : During this full-day tour, snorkel beneath the surface of Japan’s famous blue waters to see beautiful fish, majestic sea turtles, and coral formations. Abroad one of the fastest dive boats in Okinawa, you’ll visit two snorkel sites and enjoy a local Japanese lunch against a picturesque view of the Keramas.

/ / From Naha: Kerama Island Diving Experience : If you have your PADI, this is an excellent introductory, refresher, or leisurely diving tour. You’ll plunge into world-class visibility, swim alongside sea turtles and schools of fish, and savor a local Japanese lunch with the Kerama Islands as your backdrop.

How To Get To Tokashiki Island

The only way to get to Tokashiki Island is via ferry from this terminal at the Tomari Port in Naha.

The Tokashiki Ferry departs for the Tokashiki Port twice daily. You can buy tickets up to 30 minutes in advance and board the ferry up to 10 minutes before departure. One-way tickets typically cost around ¥2700 ($18).

I recommend purchasing tickets in advance since ferries fill fast, especially during the summer months. Also, keep in mind that ferries can be canceled in poor weather.

How to Get To Aka and Zamami Islands from Tokashiki

You can get to Aka and Zamami Islands from the Aharen Port on Tokashiki.

The little boat is called ‘Ferry Mistushima’ and you have to make your reservation a day before you want to depart. To make a reservation you need to call the office: Zamami Village Office 098-987-2614. They take reservations until 5 p.m. the day before you want to depart.

The ferry leaves only twice a day from both ports: From Aharen Port : at 9:05 AM and 4:05 PM. From Zamami Port : at 8:30 AM and 3:30 PM. View the full timetable here .

One-way tickets are ¥700 ($4.66). 

Okinawa Itinerary Overview

Here is an overview of what you’ll be exploring over your Okinawa itinerary. Be sure to download the free map at the top of this blog post to help you map directions up to everything.

Shuri Castle

Yomitan Pottery Village

Hike Mt. Katsuu

Pizza in the Sky

Okinawa Churami Aqaurium

Your Choice (Ibu Beach, Japanese dining experience, or Cape Manzamo)

Day 4 & 5

Tokashiki, Aka, and Zamami Islands

More Things To Do In Okinawa

On this Okinawa itinerary are all of the best things to do in Okinawa in every season, but there are some activities you can only do in certain seasons, such as seeing early-season cherry blossoms in winter or the Naha Tug-of-War. Depending on when you’re visiting, it could make sense for you to swap some things out. Read my guide on the best time to visit Okinawa for seasonal activities to add to this itinerary.

/ /  Nago Pineapple Park | Theme park dedicated to the pineapple with tours, tastings, cafes, and gift shops.

/ /  Peace Memorial Park | A massive memorial honoring those who fought in the Battle of Okinawa during WWII.

/ /  Neo Park Okinawa | Botanical park and zoo with over 100 animals roaming freely without boundaries.

/ /  Orion Brewery | Fancy a foamy pour? This is the headquarters for the beloved Japanese beer, Orion. You can see the beer-making process and join a tasting session.

/ /  Blue Cave | This is a scuba diving and snorkeling cave striking blue water just north of Yomitan. Book the best tour .

/ /  Ishigaki Island | Another lush isle perfect for relaxing and stunning blue waters. Can be a great alternative to the Keramas.

How Many Days Is Enough For Okinawa?

If you’re only planning on visiting mainland Okinawa, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to see the main sights and also get off the beaten path. I recommend staying for at least a week if you plan on island hopping in the Kerama or Yaeyama Islands.

photo by Treeful Treehouse

Where To Stay in Okinawa

There are a lot of different areas you can stay in Okinawa, but the more central the better. I have a recommendation below for this itinerary. Otherwise, look at properties in Onna, Nago, or Yomitan. 

/ /  MAMBO HOSTEL | This hostel is top-rated if you’re traveling to Okinawa on a budget. They have mixed and female dorms available. Each room has a terrace with a mountain view, shared bathroom, and free Wifi. They also have a shared lounge, garden, and free parking onsite. It’s a stone’s throw from the Churami Aquarium and other spots in the Nago area. Other great hostels worth considering are the Seawall Hostel for something more central and the Yanbaru Hostel for something further north.

/ /  AKACHICHI GUESTHOUSE | This fantastic mid-range stay is right in the middle of Okinawa- prime for exploring north or south. It’s a bed and breakfast surrounded by sugarcane fields. There’s a turquoise beach within walking distance (that alone would sell me lol). The property has a garden, terrace, air-con, free Wifi, and breakfast available. Another huge plus is you can book tours and classes directly through them. This is where I recommend staying for this itinerary.

/ /  TREEFUL TREEHOUSE | This 5-star sustainable hotel is one of the most beautiful accommodation options on Okinawa. It’s located outside of Nago and is ideal for getting into nature for pure relaxation before exploring the northern part of the island. It’s definitely a splurge, though. Each suite has free wifi, air-con, a fridge, oven, coffee machine, bidet, free toiletries, and a desk.  There’s also a garden, free parking, terrace, and restaurant on site.

How To Get To Okinawa

There are a variety of different ways to get to Okinawa. You’ll need to leave from either Osaka, Tokyo, or Sapporo since these are the only cities with flights to Okinawa. From there, the island is a flight, or train and ferry away.

The fastest and cheapest way to get to Okinawa is by plane. It’s a 3-hour flight from Tokyo, 2 hour flight from Osaka, and 4 hours from Sapporo. The major airports in each city (Haneda, Narita, Osaka International, and New Chitose) all have a handful of direct flights leaving for Okinawa daily. Flying is affordable and will set you back around $100 outside of major holidays.

If you don’t want to fly, the other option is to take a bullet train south to Kagoshima, and then take a ferry across the South China Sea. This is the most expensive option and also takes the longest. Unless you want the scenic route, I don’t recommend doing this.

How To Get Around Okinawa

Okinawa is chalked full of transport options, so even if you’re tackling an Okinawa itinerary without a car, you don’t need to worry about how you’re going to get around. These are the most popular options for getting around the mainland and other islands.

The best way to get around Okinawa is by far with a rental car so you can travel on your schedule and have total freedom. It’s affordable and straightforward, but do note that driving is on the left side of the road and an International Driving Permit (IDP) is legally required to rent a car. You’ll want to brush up on common road signs in Japan before you arrive.

When you’re booking, be sure to add car insurance to your rental car as well as an ETC card for the tollways. If your travel credit card offers car insurance, double-check the policy to see if it will work for your trip to save money while you travel. With the ETC card, you’ll save money and time every time you enter and exit an expressway.

Also good to know: the roads in Okinawa are well-maintained, so you won’t need anything crazy like high clearance or 4×4.

If you’re on a budget Okinawa itinerary, the Yui Rail is an affordable way to get around. It connects 19 stations in just under 40 minutes between the Naha Airport and the Tedako-Uranishi Station.

It makes the most sense to use it if you’re on a city break and staying within Naha. Otherwise, it doesn’t connect to major areas around the island, in which you’d need a bus to access.

There are a few different ticket options depending on your trip type. 1 & 2-day tickets are the most popular for travelers.

/ / QR 1-Day (￥800): unlimited rides

/ /  QR 2-Day (￥1,400): unlimited rides

/ /  Okinawa IC Card (￥1000-10000): prepaid card

They can all be purchased at ticket vending machines inside the rail stations.

Buses are a budget-friendly way to get around the main island. There are local buses, tourist buses, and airport services that run all around the island, from Naha to Nago.

Paying by the ride is cash only. You can use ¥1,000 bills and all coins except ¥1 and ¥5 coins. Also, ¥5,000 and ¥10,000 bills aren’t accepted on buses, so have smaller bills and change before boarding.

The prepaid OKICA IC Card (the same one you can use for the Yui Rail) is the other option if you’ll be using the bus frequently. You can buy them at the monorail stations, bus stations, and certain Family Mart locations around Okinawa.

Learn how to ride the bus and get more information on the routes on the bus website .

If you’re traveling short distances, taxis can be useful for getting around. They’re not typically budget-friendly though. The GO App is useful for hailing taxis. Uber is another good option since all the drivers are registered taxi drivers.

Rental Bikes

Okinawa CHURA CHARI is a bike share service similar to Lime here in the US. It’s a streamlined service where you rent and pay for a bike through the app and return it at your destination.

They’re only available in Naha, a bit further south in Itoman, and around Yomitan. With the app you can see nearby bike stations and other availability.

Express Ferry

If you’re going island hopping in Okinawa, which you should do, there is a massive network of ferries to the surrounding islands. There is the option to fly to some of the larger islands like Ishigaki and Miyako, but for smaller ones, the only way to access them is by boat.

Ferries will always be cheaper than flights, so keep that in mind. Japan Airlines hosts most of the flights, but you can view all the options by searching with Kiwi . It’s a third-party site, but when you search with it you can see all your options in one search. Once you find your flight on there, book it directly with whatever airline.

Flights to major islands typically cost a touch under $100, but it depends on where you’re going and what season it is. The best tool for knowing how to get to each island is Rome2Rio . You put in two destinations and it tells you every way you can get between them. There are a lot of islands to consider when looking at ferry services, so this website will give you transit times, prices, and links for tickets.

Best Time To Visit Okinawa

The best time to visit Okinawa depends on where you’re going and what you want to do. Generally, I recommend spring or fall: April, October, and November. For specific advice and a full breakdown of Okinawa by season, read my guide to the best time to visit Okinawa .

If you’re planning a trip to Okinawa, feel free to reach out for additional advice and travel tips while you’re there. Otherwise, browse my other useful guides to help you plan your trip:

Okinawa Packing List

Things To Do In Okinawa (coming soon)

Where to Stay In Okinawa (coming soon)

Hiking Mt. Katsuudake: Okinawa’s Panoramic View

I hope you enjoyed my guide to this epic Okinawa itinerary. If you found it useful, save the pins below to Pinterest so you can reference it for your trip.

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Our Okinawa Itinerary – 5 Days In Absolute Paradise

Photo by Xie lipton on Unsplash

Planning a trip to Okinawa and looking for an itinerary to follow? We have got you covered with this perfect Okinawa Itinerary! 

Okinawa is an archipelago of tiny Japanese island that my husband and I recently visited for our honeymoon and fell in love with. It has the perfect fusion of gorgeous beaches, rich heritage, and delectable cuisine . And we’re excited about sharing our experience with you and offer advice on the ideal itinerary for your own visit to Okinawa. 

The archipelago of Okinawa, which is the most southern prefecture of Japan , is well-known for its crystal-clear oceans, coral reefs, and warm weather. While being a part of Japan, Okinawa differs from the main island of Japan in terms of its culture and history. Before Japan annexed the island in the late 19th century, it was a sovereign state known as the Ryukyu Kingdom. Okinawa thus has its own unique traditions and customs that are influenced by Southeast Asian and Chinese civilizations. 

This article will outline our ideal itinerary for exploring Okinawa and highlight the must-see sights and things to do. Everything will be covered, including visiting historical sites, sunbathing on gorgeous beaches, and enjoying the local cuisine. Our itinerary is perfect for anybody looking to experience the finest of Okinawa, whether you’re travelling as a couple, family, or solitarily. 

Personally, we have a special connection to Okinawa because it was where we celebrated our honeymoon. The island exceeded our expectations and left us with unforgettable memories. We hope that by sharing our itinerary, we can help you create your own unforgettable experience in Okinawa. 

So, without further ado, let’s dive into our perfect itinerary for Okinawa!

A VERY QUICK OVERVIEW OF OUR 7 dAY OKINAWA ITINERARY 

Are you in a rush? Do you need just a basic outline for an Okinawa Itinerary and aren’t interested about reading the detailed information? Then check out the brief outline of our one week in Okinawa Itinerary below:

DAY 0 – ARRIVE IN NAHA

DAY 1 TO 3 – EXPLORE NAHA,

DAY 2 – GO ISLAND HOPPING TO ZAMAMI ISLAND

DAY 3 – GO ON A ROAD TRIP OKINAWA HONTO

DAY 4 – FLY OUT TO AND EXPLORE ISHIGAKI ISLAND

DAY 5 TO 6 – GO ISLAND HOPPING TO TAKETOMI ISLAND AND IRIOMOTE ISLAND

DAY 7 – RETURN HOME OR TO YOUR NEXT DESTINATION

Leaving already? We would highly recommend that you have a read through the rest of our Okinawa Itinerary, where you will find great information based on our own experience on how to get to the various islands, what to do in each location and detailed broken down itineraries for each day.

WHY SHOULD YOU VISIT OKINAWA 

We fell in love with Okinawa for a variety of reasons, and we wholeheartedly recommend it as a travel destination . Listed below are just a few of the top reasons you should add Okinawa to your travel bucket list: 

• The beaches: Okinawa is home to some of the world’s most stunning beaches. You’ll think you’re in paradise with the fine, white sand and the pure, blue sea. We lounged on the beach for hours, went swimming in the sea, and used snorkelling equipment to see the undersea world. I would definitely have gone diving too, but Gary doesn’t have his diving license. 
• The culture: As we mentioned earlier, Okinawa has a unique culture and history that sets it apart from the rest of Japan. The locals are incredibly friendly and welcoming, and we learned so much about the Ryukyu Kingdom’s history by visiting historic sites such as Shuri Castle. 
• The culture: As we already mentioned, Okinawa is different from the rest of Japan because of its distinctive culture and history.  
• The people: the Okinawan people are incredibly kind and welcoming, and we learned so much about the Ryukyu Kingdom’s past by touring historical sites like Shuri Castle. The cuisine is highly flavourful and delicious, with influences from Southeast Asia, China, the USA and Japan. We strongly recommend that you try at least taco rice, goya champuru, and Okinawa soba. 
• The nature: From lush jungles to spectacular waterfalls, Okinawa is a place of magnificent natural beauty. We took a climb up Mount Yae to get a bird’s-eye view of the island and then went to the Hiji waterfall for a nice bath. 
• The quiet: Although having a large number of tourist attractions , Okinawa nonetheless maintains a calmer pace of life than mainland Japan. We were grateful for the opportunity to unwind and rest outside of hectic cities. 

Overall, we strongly believe that Okinawa is the ideal location for anyone seeking a distinctive cultural experience, outstanding natural beauty, and mouth-watering cuisine . It’s a location where you may unwind, appreciate life’s simple pleasures, and make priceless memories. 

SHOULD YOU TRAVEL INDEPENDENTLY OR BOOK A TOUR OFF OKINAWA

It can be difficult to choose whether to travel solo or join a tour; ultimately, your travel interests and style will determine your choice. We realise that both approaches have advantages when it comes to travelling around Okinawa. 

You’ll have more freedom and flexibility to plan your own itinerary and explore at your own speed if you choose to travel independently. This is especially the case if you wish to venture off the beaten road and find undiscovered treasures that might not be included in a tour package. We personally relish the freedom to make our own plans and spend as much time as we want at each location without feeling hurried. 

On the other hand, booking a tour can also have its advantages. For example, if you’re short on time or want a hassle-free experience, a tour can take care of all the logistics and planning for you. Additionally, some tours may offer exclusive access to certain attractions or experiences that may be difficult to arrange independently. 

We opted for a mix of both options during our trip to Okinawa. We booked a couple of tours for a day trip to Zamami Island and Taketomi Island, which allowed us to snorkel in some of the best spots and explore the island without worrying about transportation. For the rest of our trip, we rented a car and explored independently, which gave us the freedom to go where we wanted and take our time at each destination. 

Ultimately, whether you choose to travel independently or book a tour comes down to your personal preferences and travel style. We recommend doing some research beforehand to see what options are available and what will best fit your needs. Either way, we’re sure you’ll have an incredible time exploring Okinawa! 

If you do want to plan your own itinerary, make sure to check out our step by step guide on how to do so.

YOUR PERFECT 6 DAYS IN OKINAWA ITINERARY 

DAY 1 IN NAHA 

Why should you visit naha .

When touring the archipelago, Naha (the capital of Okinawa) deserves to be at the top of your list of places to see. We certainly prefer it as a base, even over Okinawa City. Here are some of the reasons we thought Naha was fantastic and that you should include it on your itinerary of Okinawa: 

• The history and culture: Okinawa has a rich history and culture that you can experience through Naha’s historic sites and museums. 
• The food: Okinawa is known for its delicious cuisine, which blends Japanese and Okinawan flavours, and Naha with its many restaurants and Kokusai-dori street is a great place to taste the local food . 
• The shopping: Naha offers a wide range of shopping opportunities if you enjoy this. Those interested in purchasing local products should definitely visit the Makishi Public Market, while the Kokusai-dori strip is home to both traditional Okinawan crafts and contemporary fashion businesses. 
• The nightlife: There are several bars, clubs, and live music venues in Naha, which enjoys a thriving nightlife. We enjoyed trying local beers and cocktails while listening to traditional Okinawan music at one of the many izakayas (Japanese-style pubs) in the city. 
• The accessibility: With an international airport and a major port that connects to other islands in the region, Naha serves as Okinawa’s transportation hub. This makes it an ideal starting point for travelling around the remainder of the island, nearby islands, and its many attractions without a car. 

Overall, we believe Naha to be a must-see city for everyone travelling around Okinawa. It is a wonderful place to stay for a few days or longer because of its distinctive combination of history, culture, gastronomy, shopping, and nightlife. 

HOW MANY DAYS SHOULD YOU SPEND IN NAHA 

Deciding how long to stay in Naha depends on your personal interests and itinerary for the rest of your trip. However, we would recommend spending at least 2-3 full days in Naha to fully experience all that the city has to offer. 

During our honeymoon, we spent three and a half days in Naha and found that it was the perfect amount of time to explore the city and take some day trips on Okinawa Honto and to Zamami Island. We spent one full day in Naha itself visiting the historic sites, museums and markets and experiencing the nightlife. We ended the day by trying some of the local cuisine and enjoying the city’s nightlife. 

If you have more time, you could also consider taking additional day trips from Naha to other parts of the island. For example, you could visit the nearby Okinawa World theme park to learn more about Okinawan culture and history, or head south to explore the beaches and nature of the Nanjo area. 

On the other hand, if you have a more packed itinerary and are short on time, you could still get a taste of Naha in just one day.  

Ultimately, the length of your stay in Naha will depend on your preferences and schedule, but we highly recommend dedicating some time to explore this vibrant and historic city. 

HOW TO GET TO NAHA

Getting to Naha is relatively easy, with a range of options available depending on your budget and preferences. During our honeymoon, we opted to fly to Naha from Singapore, which took around 8 hours with a stop in Taiwan and provided us with stunning views of the Okinawan archipelago from above. 

If you’re already in Japan, you can fly to Naha from most major cities, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka. There are also direct flights from some international destinations, such as Hong Kong, Taipei, and Seoul. 

You can take a ferry from the Japanese mainland to Naha if you’d like to travel by boat. Regular ferries leave from Tokyo, Osaka, and Kobe. Depending on the route, travel periods range from 24 to 48 hours. 

You can take a cab, bus, or monorail into the city centre after landing at Naha Airport. If your accommodation is close to a station, we suggest using the monorail since taxis can be pricey. The monorail is effective, reasonably priced, and offers fantastic city views as you travel. But you might not want to drag your suitcases behind you for too long in the tropical climate. 

Overall, getting to Naha is a straightforward process with a range of options available to suit different travel styles and budgets. Whether you choose to fly or take a ferry, we’re sure that you’ll be rewarded with stunning views and a warm welcome to this fascinating corner of Japan. 

HOW TO GET AROUND NAHA 

Naha’s well-developed public transportation system makes getting about the city easy and reasonably priced. During our honeymoon, we discovered that the best way to see the city and its surroundings was by pairing the monorail with walking. 

The Yui Rail, commonly known as the Okinawa Monorail, is a fantastic method to travel swiftly and cheaply throughout Naha. Along the journey, the monorail makes stops at significant tourist destinations and shopping areas as it travels from Naha Airport to Shuri Castle. The trains are spotless and up-to-date, and they provide breath-taking city views as you travel. 

If you prefer to travel by bus, there are several bus companies operating in Naha, including Okinawa Bus and Ryukyu Bus. Buses are an affordable way to get around the city and its suburbs, and many routes operate late into the night. 

Taxis are also readily available in Naha, but they can be expensive, especially for longer journeys. We would suggest that using taxis sparingly and opting for public transportation whenever possible is the most cost-effective way to explore the city. 

Overall, getting around Naha is easy and affordable, with a range of public transportation options available to suit different travel styles and budgets. Whether you choose to ride the monorail, hop on a bus, or flag down a taxi, we’re sure that you’ll enjoy the convenience and efficiency of getting around this vibrant city. 

WHAT SHOULD YOU SEE AND DO IN NAHA 

From its interesting history and culture to its breathtaking natural surroundings and cutting-edge attractions, Naha has a lot to offer holidaymakers. We explored the city for one whole day on our honeymoon, taking in everything it has to offer. Here are a handful of the top Naha attractions and activities to add to your itinerary : 

• Visit Shuri Castle: The most popular attraction in Naha and a must-see for all tourists is Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle, which served as the Ryukyu kings’ home for many years, is now a museum that showcases the history and culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom to visitors. 
• Stroll through Kokusai Dori: This lively street in the centre of Naha is dotted with stores, restaurants, and bars, making it the ideal location to take in the lively ambiance of the city. We enjoyed perusing the gift stores and sampling some of the regional cuisine and beverages. 
• Take a gander through the Tsuboya Pottery District: It is home to a large number of traditional pottery stores and studios, and it is only a short stroll from Kokusai Dori. For for over 400 years, the locals have been making pottery here, and they are renowned for their unique designs and techniques. We enjoyed exploring the narrow streets and marveling in at the exquisite ceramics that were on show. You could even participate in a pottery-making class, and don’t forget to bring some of these distinctive creations home with you as souvenirs. 
• Shop at the Makishi Public Market: Fresh produce, seafood, and regional delicacies can all be found at this bustling market. We enjoyed perusing the stalls and tasting some of the scrumptious food on offer. We highly recommend trying the Okinawan soba noodles and the local goya (bitter melon) dishes. You can even sample some of the exotic delicacies, like sea urchin or enormous clams, if you’re feeling very daring. 
• Discover the history of Okinawa at the Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum: Anybody interested in the history and culture of Okinawa should definitely stop by this complex of museums. Displays on Okinawan history, art, and traditional crafts are housed in the museum. 
• Take a day trip to a nearby island:   Naha is surrounded by several beautiful islands that are perfect for a day trip. We highly recommend visiting Zamami Island, which is known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. 
• Explore the natural beauty of the city: Naha has several parks and gardens that are perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic. One of our favourites was Fukushu-en Garden, which features a traditional Chinese-style garden and a tea house. 

These are just a few of the many things to see and do in Naha. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. 

DAY-TRIPS FROM NAHA 

Day trips from Naha are a great way to explore more of Okinawa’s beauty and culture. We went on two fantastic day trips during our stay – one exploring Okinawa Honto and another to Zamami Island.  And we would highly recommend both of them. 

Exploring Okinawa Honto – the main island of the archipelago – was a fantastic experience. We hired a car and drove along the scenic route to see the famous Churaumi Aquarium, which is home to a vast variety of sea creatures, including whale sharks, manta rays, and more. We also visited the stunning Cape Manzamo, which offers breathtaking views of the clear blue ocean below. We also visited the Nakijin Castle ruins, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer a glimpse into the island’s fascinating history. 

Our day trip to Zamami Island was another highlight of our Okianwa trip. This island is a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. The island is also home to some stunning beaches, and we spent the day swimming, snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters and soaking up the sun., or Ama, who are famous for collecting pearls without the use of scuba gear. 

Overall, taking day trips from Naha allowed us to see more of what Okinawa has to offer and explore beyond the city limits. It’s definitely worth considering when planning your itinerary .  

A BRIEF SUGGESTED OKINAWA ITINERARY FOR NAHA 

Here is a brief overview of the itinerary we followed whilst staying in Naha:

DAY 0 – ARRIVAL IN NAHA  

6.45 PM – Arrival at Naha Airport 

8.30 PM – Check-in at Hotel 

9.30 PM – Dinner at Kokusai Food Street Village 

DAY 1 – EXPLORE NAHA  

9.30 AM – Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum    

1.30 PM – Lunch at Shuri Soba 

2.30 PM – Sairaiin (Daruma Temple) 

3.00 PM – Shurijo Castle 

6.00 PM – Tsuboya Pottery District 

6.30 PM – Dinner in Makishi Market 

DAY 2 – DAY TRIP TO ZAMAMI ISLAND (read more below) 

DAY 3 – EXPLORE OKINAWA HONTO BY CAR (read more below)

DAY 4 – DEPARTURE FROM NAHA  

11.30 AM – Fukushu-en garden 

2.45 PM – Flight to Ishigaki 

WHERE SHOULD YOU STAY IN NAHA 

There are plenty of choices for every budget range and taste when it comes to selecting the perfect location to stay in Naha. My husband and I chose to book the Naha Terrace for our honeymoon, and we couldn’t be more pleased with our decision. 

The Naha Terrace is a luxury hotel with a prime location in Naha that offers generously sized, exquisitely furnished rooms, first-rate amenities, and unmatched service. The hotel’s convenient location near Naha’s main shopping street, Kokusai Dori, and its close proximity to the monorail station make it a great starting point for exploring the city. For anyone seeking a relaxing and comfortable stay in Naha, we wholeheartedly suggest this hotel. 

Generally, we would recommend choosing a hotel or guesthouse located in the city center. This way, you can easily explore the area by foot and minimize your reliance on public transport. The convenience of being close to downtown means that you can easily access all the shops, restaurants, and attractions that Naha has to offer. 

But if you’re on a tight budget , there are still plenty of great options on the outskirts of Naha. The monorail system is an efficient and reliable way to get around the city, so don’t hesitate to consider accommodation further out if you’re looking to save money. Just be prepared to spend a little more time on commuting. 

DAY 2 DAY-TRIP TO ZAMAMI ISLAND  

Why you should visit zamami island .

Zamami Island should be on your list if you’re searching for a spot to unwind and relax amidst the nature’s splendour. It is a tiny island that can be reached from Naha in about an hour by high-speed ferry. This island is ideal for honeymooners because of its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. 

The fact that it is less crowded than other popular tourist destinations in Okinawa, is one of the things we like about Zamami Island. You will have plenty of time to appreciate the island’s natural beauty in peace as a result. 

Furthermore, the island is surrounded by coral reefs, making it a fantastic location for diving and snorkelling. We had a terrific day touring the island’s different beaches, including Furuzamami Beach, which is considered to be among Okinawa’s best.  

You can also follow one of the hiking trail to the top of the mountain from where you can enjoy breath-taking views of the island. 

Overall, Zamami Island is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of Naha. It is a place where you can relax and connect with nature, and we highly recommend it to anyone looking for a peaceful retreat. 

HOW MANY DAYS SHOULD YOU SPEND ON ZAMAMI ISLAND

As much as we loved the peace and beauty of Zamami Island, we soon discovered that a day trip was enough to see the best parts of the island.

The 1.5 to 2 hour ferry journey each way from Naha to Zamami Island leaves you plenty of time to experience the island’s breath-taking beaches, snorkelling, and hiking paths. A day trip allows you to experience the beauty of the island without needing to worry about accommodation or other logistics.

But, if you have more time on your hands, spending the night on Zamami Island is a brilliant option. It would allow you to experience some of the island’s activities more thoroughly and tour the island at a more leisurely pace.

One way or another, we strongly advise including a day trip or overnight stay at Zamami Island in your itinerary for Okinawa. You’ll be treated to some of the region’s most beautiful scenery and crystal-clear seas.

HOW TO GET TO ZAMAMI ISLAND

Getting to Zamami Island is relatively easy and can easily be done as a day trip from Naha.

We took a ferry from Tomari Port in Naha, which took about two hours to reach Zamami Island. The ferry ride was comfortable, and the views of the crystal clear waters and surrounding islands were breath-taking.

The ferry schedule can be found online, and it’s best to book your tickets in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel season . The ferry timings are convenient, allowing for a full day of exploration on the island before heading back to Naha.

HOW TO GET AROUND ZAMAMI ISLAND

There are several ways to get about Zamami Island, and it is very simple. Because of its size and compactness, the island is easily explored by foot.

But you can rent a bicycle or an electric scooter if you wish to cover more ground or if the weather is unsuitable for walking.

The majority of accommodations on the island offer electric scooter and bike rentals, and the rates are relatively affordable. The rental shops also provide maps of the island, so you can plan your route and explore the island’s attractions at your own pace.

There is also a shuttle bus service that runs between the main port of Zamami and popular beaches on the island. The shuttle service is convenient, and the prices are reasonable.

Overall, getting around Zamami Island is stress-free and enjoyable, and it is one of the highlights of the island experience.

WHAT SHOULD YOU SEE AND DO ON ZAMAMI ISLAND

One of the top things to do on Zamami Island is to go snorkelling or diving. The island has several dive shops that offer rental equipment, as well as guided tours for both beginners and experienced divers. The coral reefs around the island are teeming with colourful fish, sea turtles, and other marine life, making for an unforgettable underwater experience.

Another must-visit spot on the island is Furuzamami Beach. This beach has been consistently ranked as one of the best in Japan, with its pristine white sand and crystal-clear water. We spent hours lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the scenic views of the surrounding islands.

For those who enjoy hiking, Mount Takatsuki is a great option. The hike to the summit takes around an hour and provides spectacular panoramic views of the island and its surroundings. The trail is well-marked and not too difficult, making it accessible for most fitness levels.

Visiting the statue of Marilyn the dog is a must-do when on Zamami Island in our opinion. The statue is located near the port and is also a popular spot to watch the sunset. The statue is a testament to a local story of pure love between Marilyn and another dog named Shiro, who swam three kilometres daily from Aka Island to visit her. Marilyn’s statue faces towards Aka Island, where a statue of Shiro is also located.

Finally, we highly recommend taking a stroll through Zamami Village, the island’s main town. The village has several quaint shops selling local handicrafts, as well as restaurants serving up delicious Okinawan cuisine . The village also has a small museum dedicated to the island’s history and culture, which is worth a visit to learn more about the island’s unique heritage.

A BRIEF SUGGESTED ITINERARY FOR ZAMAMI ISLAND

Here is a brief overview of the itinerary we followed to explore Zamami Island:

09.45 AM – Take the ferry to Zamami Island

12.00 AM – Arrive at Zamami Port

12.15 AM – Explore Zamami Village and have lunch

1.00 PM – Marilyn the Dog

1.15 PM – Ama Beach

3.00 PM – Return to Naha on ferry

5.15 PM – Arrive back in Naha

WHERE SHOULD YOU STAY ON ZAMAMI ISLAND

If you plan to stay on the island for a few days, we suggest staying in one of the small guesthouses located close to the beach. They offer a unique and more intimate experience, giving you a chance to connect with the locals and their culture.

DAY 3 EXPLORING OKINAWA HONTO BY CAR

Why should you visit okinawa honto.

Okinawa Honto should certainly be on your list if you’re looking for a destination that combines culture, history, and outdoor pursuits. It has a wide range of attractions and is the biggest and most urbanized island in the Okinawa Prefecture.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shuri Castle is one of Okinawa Honto’s top attractions. This stunning castle, which served as the Ryukyu Kingdom’s royal residence, offers a fascinating glimpse into the peculiar history and culture of Okinawa. The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, one of the biggest aquariums in the world and home to a variety of marine life, including whale sharks, is another must-see location.

There is also a large variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts on Okinawa Honto. The island has beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and even offers a chance to come across rare wildlife such as the Okinawa rail, a bird native to the island. 

There is also a plethora of restaurants on Okianwa Honto where you can taste delicious local foods , such as Okinawa soba and goya champuru.

Overall, Okinawa Honto is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in learning about Okinawan culture and history while also enjoying the island’s natural beauty.

HOW MANY DAYS SHOULD YOU SPEND ON OKINAWA HONTO

If you plan to visit Okinawa Honto, we recommend staying for at least three to four days to fully appreciate the island’s culture, food, and natural beauty. This will give you enough time to explore Naha, the island’s capital city, as well as visit some of its historical sites and relax on its beautiful beaches.

Personally, we stayed for 3 days, as you might have spotted in our suggested itinerary for Naha.

If you have more time, however, we recommend extending your stay to up to a week to truly appreciate everything Okinawa Honto has to offer. There are many hidden gems waiting to be discovered, from scenic drives along the coastline to hidden waterfalls and charming villages.

HOW TO GET TO OKINAWA HONTO

It is simple to get to Okinawa Honto. The majority of visitors arrive at Naha Airport, which has direct flights from many major Japanese cities as well as several international destinations.

If you are already in Okinawa and want to visit Okinawa Honto, you can take a ferry from one of the neighbouring islands, such as Ishigaki or Miyako. These ferries are usually available daily and provide a scenic way to travel to the mainland.

HOW TO GET AROUND OKINAWA HONTO

Getting around Okinawa Honto is not too difficult, thanks to its well-connected bus network. This makes it fairly easy to explore all of its hidden gems even without a car.

However, the most convenient way to get around the island has got to be by car. This is the option we chose in order to prefectures main island.

Renting a car in Okinawa is relatively affordable, and the roads are well-maintained, making it easy to navigate.

Driving also provides the freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path locations and venture into more remote areas that may not be accessible by public transportation.

For those who prefer not to drive, buses are a reliable option. Okinawa has an extensive bus network, with frequent services that connect most major destinations on the island. The buses are comfortable and air-conditioned, making them an excellent choice for those who want to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery.

Taxis are also available on the island, and they can be an efficient and convenient way to get around, especially for shorter trips. However, they can be quite expensive, so it’s worth checking prices beforehand and budgeting accordingly.

Overall, getting around Okinawa Honto is straightforward, with plenty of options available to suit every budget and travel style.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IN OKINAWA HONTO

There are numerous things to do on Okinawa Honto , making it a must-see during your visit to Okinawa.

One of the biggest highlights of our trip to Okinawa was visiting the Churaumi Aquarium, home to one of the largest tanks in the world and a wide variety of marine life, including whale sharks and manta rays. We were amazed by the beauty and diversity of the creatures we saw and loved learning about the efforts being made to protect the ocean and its inhabitants.

There are many beautiful beaches on Okinawa Honto if you want to relax and soak up some sun. Naminoue Beach, which is conveniently located in Naha city, is one of the most popular. This beach has clear water and beautiful views of the nearby Naminoue Shrine.

Another must-visit destination outside of Naha is the Ryukyu Mura, a cultural theme park that offers visitors a glimpse of traditional Okinawan culture. Here, you can learn about local customs and see traditional performances, including eisa dancing and karate demonstrations. You can also participate in various workshops such as pottery making, weaving, and dyeing, and try Okinawan delicacies like sata andagi, a type of fried doughnut.

The Okinawa Peace Memorial Park and Museum is a significant attraction that showcases the impact of the Battle of Okinawa during World War II. The museum is located in the southern part of Okinawa Honto and features exhibits and artifacts, including personal belongings and photographs, to illustrate the devastating effects of the war on the people of Okinawa.

The museum is accessible to visitors from all over the world as the information is presented in both Japanese and English. In addition to the indoor exhibits, the museum also has a beautiful outdoor area with a park and memorial monuments, such as the “Cornerstone of Peace” which lists the names of those who lost their lives in the battle. A visit to the museum is a humbling and emotional experience that highlights the importance of peace and the resilience of the people of Okinawa.

Another popular attraction is the Nago Pineapple Park, located in the northern part of the island. As the name suggests, the park is dedicated to pineapples and offers visitors a chance to learn about the history and cultivation of this tropical fruit. You can take a tour of the park on a pineapple-shaped vehicle, taste different pineapple-based products, and even try your hand at picking pineapples in the fields. Don’t forget to try their famous pineapple ice cream before you leave!

Another brilliant location to visit on Okinawa Honto is Mazamo Bay, located on the east coast of the island. This stunning bay boasts crystal clear water and white sandy beaches, making it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkelling. There are also various water activities available, such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

Finally, the Nakijin Castle Ruins are yet another must-see attraction on Okinawa Honto. This UNESCO World Heritage site was once the residence of a powerful Ryukyu dynasty king, and visitors can now explore the ruins of the castle walls and gates, as well as take in the staggeringly beautiful views of the surrounding coastline.

Overall, Okinawa Honto has something for everyone and is definitely worth spending at least a few days exploring. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just soaking up the beauty and culture of the island, Okinawa Honto is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

DAY-TRIPS FROM OKINAWA HONTO

Aside from the many attractions on the island of Okinawa Honto, there are also several other islands that can be easily reached by ferry and visited within a day.

One such island is Zamami, which we already mentioned earlier as a great place for snorkelling and diving. However, even if you’re not interested in those activities, the island is still worth a visit for its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere. You can catch a ferry from Tomari Port in Naha, and the journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Another option is to visit Tokashiki Island, which is known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. The island is also home to several hiking trails if you’re looking for a more active day trip. Ferries run from Tomari Port and take around 35 minutes to 1 hour to reach Tokashiki Island.

Finally, if you’re looking for a quirky and fun day trip, consider visiting Kouri Island, which is known for its heart-shaped rock and picturesque bridge. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll across the bridge, visit the nearby beach, or sample local seafood .

No matter which island you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable day trip from Okinawa Honto.

A BRIEF ITINERARY SUGGESTION FOR A ROADTRIP OF OKINAWA HONTO

Here is a brief overview of the itinerary we followed to explore Okianawa Honto by car:

7.30 AM – Get a Spam Onigiri for breakfast at

8.00 AM – Pick up the rental car

9.30 AM – Visit Churaumi Aquarium

12.30 PM – Lunch at Pizza in the Sky

1.30 PM – Manzamo Bay

2.30 PM – Ryuku Mura

5.00 PM – Zakimi Castle Ruins

6.00 PM – Go shopping and have dinner at American Village

WHERE SHOULD YOU STAY ON OKINAWA HONTO

When it comes to choosing where to stay on Okinawa Honto, there are several areas worth considering based on your preferences and interests.

Naha is the capital city of Okinawa Prefecture and the largest city on the island. It’s a bustling urban center with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as historical and cultural sites like Shuri Castle and the Okinawa Prefectural Museum. If you want to stay in the heart of the action, Naha is a great choice.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, consider the towns of Onna or Chatan. Onna is located on the western coast of the island and is known for its beautiful beaches and resorts. It’s a great choice if you want to relax and unwind in a picturesque setting. Chatan, on the other hand, is a popular tourist area with a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as a lively nightlife scene.

For a more rural and traditional experience, consider staying in the northern part of the island. The towns of Nakijin and Motobu are located in this area and offer a glimpse into the local way of life. You can visit the Nakijin Castle ruins, Churaumi Aquarium, and several scenic spots like Cape Hedo and Sesoko Beach.

No matter where you choose to stay on Okinawa Honto, there are plenty of accommodations available to suit all budgets and preferences, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses .

DAY 4 ON ISHIGAKI ISLAND

Why should you visit ishigaki island.

If you’re planning a trip to Okinawa, make sure to add Ishigaki to your itinerary .

Ishigaki is the third-largest island in the Okinawa archipelago, known for its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and stunning coral reefs. This island is home to some of the best beaches and snorkelling spots in all of Japan.

Ishigaki is also known for its delicious local cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional Okinawan dishes. We highly recommend trying the local Ishigaki beef, which is known for its tender texture and unique flavour.

If you’re looking for some adventure, Ishigaki offers plenty of activities like scuba diving, hiking, kayaking, ziplining and even island hopping.

Overall, Ishigaki is a beautiful and unique destination that should not be missed on your trip to Okinawa. We loved every moment of our time there and cannot wait to go back.

HOW MANY DAYS SHOULD YOU SPEND IN ISHIGAKI ISLAND

If you’re planning a trip to Okinawa, make sure to add Ishigaki to your itinerary.

Be sure to include Ishigaki in your itinerary if you’re travelling to Okinawa.

The third-largest island in the Okinawa archipelago, Ishigaki, is renowned for its pristine beaches, clean waters, and breath-taking coral reefs. Some of Japan’s top beaches and snorkelling locations can be found on this island.

Moreover, Ishigaki is acclaimed for its delightful regional cuisine , which features local ingredients such as fresh fish and tropical fruits to create traditional Okinawan dishes. We highly recommend trying the local Ishigaki beef, which is known for its tender texture and unique flavour.

HOW TO GET TO ISHIGAKI ISLAND

Ishigaki has its own airport with daily flights from major Japanese cities including Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka, making travel there very simple. It was a brief 45-minute flight for us as we took off from Naha. Note that you must first take a flight to one of the main Japanese cities if you are flying internationally before continuing on to Ishigaki.

Taking a ferry departing from Naha is an alternative option. The ferry travels for around 4 hours and it is a wonderful way to view Okinawa’s stunning coastline. However, if you’re pressed for time, we advise booking a flight to Ishigaki since it will cut down your journey time significantly.

HOW TO GET AROUND ISHIGAKI ISLAND

Once you arrive in Ishigaki, you can easily rent a car or take a taxi to get around the island. We would recommend renting a car if you are planning to stay several days, as it is the most convenient way to explore all the sights and beaches of Ishigaki. Plus, it will give you the flexibility to make our own schedule and stop wherever you want along the way.

Since most of our time on Ishigaki was spent island hopping we didn’t personally require a car.

WHAT SHOULD YOU SEE AND DO IN ISHIGAKI ISLAND

One of the top things to do on Ishigaki Island is to visit Kabira Bay, a stunning white sand beach with crystal clear water. You can even take a glass-bottom boat tour to see the colourful marine life below the surface.

For an authentic taste of Okinawan culture, make sure to check out the Ishigaki Yaima Village, a recreated traditional village where you can see historic homes and try local dishes. We also highly recommend visiting the Yaeyama Museum, which showcases the fascinating history and culture of the Yaeyama Islands.

If you’re feeling adventurous, take a hike up to the top of Mount Nosoko for breath-taking views of the island. And don’t miss out on trying the local specialty, Ishigaki beef, which is known for its exceptional quality and flavour.

Finally, make sure to spend some time strolling through the streets of Ishigaki City, where you can find charming shops and restaurants serving up delicious Okinawan cuisine . Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation, Ishigaki Island has something for everyone.

DAY-TRIPS FROM ISHIGAKI ISLAND

Ishigaki Island offers many exciting day trip opportunities.

One of the most popular day trips is to Taketomi Island, which is just a 10-minute ferry ride away from Ishigaki Island. Taketomi is a tiny island known for its traditional Okinawan-style houses and paved streets made of coral stones. It’s a unique experience to stroll around the island, see the quaint houses, and take in the scenic beauty of the area.

Another fantastic day trip is to Iriomote Island, a natural wonderland with breath-taking beaches and dense jungle. During our honeymoon we took a ferry from Ishigaki Island to Iriomote Island and then went on a thrilling river kayaking and hiking adventure.

For those who love marine activities, a trip to the nearby Yaeyama Islands is highly recommended. The Yaeyama Islands are known for their clear blue waters and vibrant coral reefs, which are perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Kabira Bay, located on the northwestern coast of Ishigaki Island, is also an excellent place to see manta rays swimming in the wild.

Lastly, we recommend Yubu Island for a day trip. Located just off the coast of Ishigaki Island, it is known for its shallow waters and unique star-shaped sand.

A BRIEF SUGGESTED ITINERARY FOR ISHIGAKI ISLAND

Here is a brief overview of the itinerary we followed whilst staying in Ishigaki

DAY 4 AFTERNOON –  Arrival in Ishigaki

DAY 5  – Go island hopping to Taketomi island

DAY 6  – Go on a hiking and kayaking tour on Iriomote island

DAY 7  – Depart Ishigaki island

WHERE SHOULD YOU STAY ON ISHIGAKI ISLAND

We had the pleasure of staying at the Grandvrio Resort Ishigakijima on Ishigaki Island during our honeymoon in Okinawa. We couldn’t have picked a nicer place to stay. The hotel is in a great location, right on the beach and not far from popular attractions like Kabira Bay and Banna Park.

The resort itself is stunning, with modern amenities and delightful decor that reflects the culture of the island. Our room was spacious, clean, and had a balcony with a stunning view of the ocean. We especially appreciated the comfortable bed and pillows, which allowed us to get a good night’s rest after a long day of hiking and kayaking.

The hotel staff were extremely pleasant and helpful. They went above and beyond to make us feel welcome, giving us recommendations for places to visit and making reservations for us at local restaurants. We also enjoyed the hotel’s on-site amenities, which included a pool, fitness centre, and restaurants serving delectable Japanese and Western fare.

Overall, we highly recommend staying at the Grandvrio Resort Ishigakijima if you’re planning a visit to Ishigaki Island. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind while enjoying the island’s natural beauty and rich culture.

DAY 5 ON TAKETOMI ISLAND

Why should you visit taketomi island.

Taketomi Island should be a top destination for anyone visiting Okinawa. The natural beauty of the island, as well as the unique cultural experiences it provided, blew us away. We felt like we had stepped back in time to a simpler way of life the moment we arrived.

Taketomi Island is a magical place that we will always remember. We would strongly recommend it to anyone visiting Okinawa, especially if you want a peaceful and authentic experience steeped in tradition and natural beauty.

HOW MANY DAYS SHOULD YOU SPEND ON TAKETOMI ISLAND

When visiting Taketomi Island, we recommend staying for at least a full day to fully appreciate the island’s unique culture and beauty. If you have more time, consider staying for a few days to truly immerse yourself in the slow-paced island lifestyle and take your time exploring everything the island has to offer.

HOW TO GET TO TAKETOMI ISLAND

We took a ferry from Ohama Port on Ishigaki Island to Taketomi Island. The ferry ride took about 15 minutes, making it an ideal day trip.

Because the ferry schedule can be subject to change, we planned our journey accordingly. To avoid last-minute stress, we strongly advise checking the ferry schedule and purchasing tickets ahead of time. You can also book a guided tour to Taketomi Island, which will arrange everything for you.

HOW TO GET AROUND TAKETOMI ISLAND

There are several options for getting around Taketomi Island. Renting a bicycle is one of the most popular options for those who want to explore the island at their own pace. The island is small enough that you can cycle around it in about an hour or two.

A water buffalo cart tour is another popular option for exploring the island in a unique and traditional way. Locals lead these tours, which take you on a leisurely ride around the island while providing commentary on the island’s history and culture.

Walking is also a possibility, as Taketomi Island  is relatively small and compact. The island’s charming streets are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and you’ll be able to take in the sights and sounds of the island at your own pace. Walking is also a great way to explore the unique architecture and traditional houses that are scattered throughout the village. We decided to explore the entire island by foot but personally would not recommend doing this, as we both almost suffered a heat stroke.

Lastly, there are shuttle buses that run regularly around the island, which is a convenient option for those who prefer not to cycle or take a water buffalo cart. These buses run on a fixed schedule, and tickets can be purchased at the island’s tourist information center.

No matter which mode of transportation you choose, getting around Taketomi Island is relatively easy and straightforward, allowing you to enjoy the island’s beauty and charm to the fullest.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO ON TAKETOMI ISLAND

One of the things we loved most about Taketomi Island was its stunning beaches. The crystal-clear water and soft white sand made for the perfect place to relax and unwind. We spent hours lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun and taking in the beautiful scenery.

But the island has much more to offer than just beautiful beaches. We also enjoyed wandering through the quaint village, which is filled with traditional Okinawan-style houses and beautiful gardens. The village has a real sense of community and history, and we loved learning about the island’s unique culture and traditions.

One of the highlights of our trip to Taketomi Island was taking a water buffalo cart tour of the village. The tour was led by a local guide who was able to give us a deeper insight into the island’s history and culture. We saw beautiful rice fields, old-style houses, and even had a chance to feed the water buffalos.

A BRIEF ITINERARY SUGGESTION FOR TAKETOMI ISLAND

Here is a brief overview of the itinerary we followed for our day trip to Taketomi Island:

9.15 AM – Take the Ferry

9.45 AM – Arrive at Taketomi island

10.00 AM – Buffalo Tour of Taketomi-Jima

10.30 AM – Tour Taketomi-Jima by foot

11.30 AM – Visit West Pier

12.00 AM – Go swimming on Kondoi Beach

2.15 PM – Walk along Kaji Beach

2.45 PM – Return to Taketomi-Jima and have a Shaved Ice

3.45 PM – Return on the ferry to Ishigaki Island

WHERE SHOULD YOU STAY ON TAKETOMI ISLAND

Although we only went on a day trip to Taketomi Island, we did some research on where to stay if we decided to spend the night.

Taketomi Island has a handful of cozy guesthouses and small hotels for visitors to choose from.

One of the most popular accommodations is the HOSHINOYA Taketomi Island, which offers traditional Okinawan-style villas, each with its own private garden and outdoor bath.

Another option is the Minshuku Taketomi, a family-run guesthouse that provides comfortable and affordable rooms, along with authentic local meals.

DAY 6 ON IRIOMOTE ISLAND

Why should you visit iriomote island.

Iriomote Island is the place to go if you’re seeking a remote destination with breath-taking natural beauty. This island is a hidden gem that is renowned for its clear rivers, spectacular waterfalls, and lush jungles. Iriomote Island provides a special experience for nature lovers and thrill seekers alike that is difficult to obtain anywhere else in Japan.

Exploring the vast mangrove forests of Iriomote Island, which are only accessible by canoe, is one of the attractions of a trip to Ishigaki.  You’ll be surrounded by an astonishing variety of wildlife and plants as you paddle through the narrow rivers, including kingfishers, mudskippers, and even monkeys. You could even be fortunate enough to see the elusive Iriomote wildcat, which is unique to this island.

Furthermore, there are many hiking options on Iriomote Island, with trails that wind through the island’s untamed landscape and lead to some of its most magnificent sites, like the Pinaisara Waterfall. The falls are a must-see landmark on Iriomote Island. They plummet down a series of rocky ledges into a crystal-clear pool below.

You can also visit one of the island’s secluded beaches if you’re looking for a more tranquil location. These beaches are among the most picturesque in Japan thanks to their fine white sand, clear waters, and numerous snorkelling and diving opportunities. You can also go on a nighttime kayak tour to view the bioluminescent plankton that light up the water. Or you can take a boat tour around the island to discover its numerous coves and bays.

In short, Iriomote Island is a paradise for nature lovers, adventurers, and anyone who wants to experience a side of Japan that is off the beaten path. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience that combines adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, then Iriomote Island is not to be missed.

HOW MANY DAYS SHOULD YOU SPEND ON IRIOMOTE ISLAND

It really depends on how much time you have and what you want to do when deciding how many days to spend on Iriomote Island.

We personally stayed on Iriomote Island for one day and it we were happy enough with this length of time. Our day trip included hiking through lush forests, kayaking in clear waters, and exploring the beautiful beaches the island has to offer. Despite the fact that we only had one day, we felt we had enough time to get acquainted with the island’s natural beauty and adventure activities .

However, it would have also been great if we had more time to explore the island and experience everything it has to offer. So, if you have the time, we suggest staying for at least two to three days to fully immerse yourself in the island’s culture and activities.

If you are looking to do some serious hiking and exploring of the island’s interior, then you might want to spend several days on the island. However, if you are just looking to relax on the beaches and take a boat tour of the surrounding islands, then two or three days should be enough.

HOW TO GET TO IRIOMOTE ISLAND

Getting to Iriomote Island from Ishigaki Island is quite easy. You can take a ferry from Ishigaki Port to Uehara Port on Iriomote Island. The ferry ride takes about 40 minutes, and the boats run several times a day.

We personally recommend taking an early morning ferry to maximize your time on Iriomote Island. You can easily book your ferry tickets online or at the ferry terminal in Ishigaki. It’s important to note that the ferry schedules may change depending on the season , so it’s best to check the ferry company’s website for the latest information.

You can also book a guided hiking tour where everything is pre-arranged for you. Nice and easy. This is what we opted to do.

HOW TO GET AROUND IRIOMOTE ISLAND

Once you have arrived at Uehara Port, you have several options for getting around Iriomote island. You can explore the place at your own pace by renting a car, taking a taxi or bus, or even by renting a bicycle.

Keep in mind though that public transportation on the island can be limited, so plan ahead and check schedules before venturing out.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO ON IRIOMOTE ISLAND

The possibilities for activities on Iriomote Island are limitless. We decided to spend our one day on the island hiking and kayaking. The dense jungle and unspoiled nature of the island are its main draws, and there are numerous hiking trails to choose from, depending on your level of fitness and experience.

The trail to Pinaisara Falls, a beautiful waterfall that cascades down from the top of the mountain, is one of the most popular hikes on Iriomote Island. Note that the trail is difficult, with steep inclines and rocky terrain, but the views are spectacular.

We went kayaking along the Nakama River before the hike, which was an unforgettable experience. The river is calm and serene, and we were able to paddle through the mangrove forest while spotting local wildlife.

There are also boat tours available to explore the Iriomote’s coastline and nearby islands, such as Hatoma Island and Barasu Island, for those who prefer a more leisurely experience. You can also go snorkelling or diving in the crystal-clear waters, which are teeming with marine life such as manta rays and sea turtles.

Overall, Iriomote Island is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With so many activities and sights to see, you’ll never run out of things to do .

If you are planning to go hiking on Ishigaki, to check out our suggested packing list for going on a day hike .

A BRIEF ITINERARY SUGGESTION FOR IRIOMOTE ISLAND

Here is a brief overview of the itinerary we followed on our guided hiking and kayaking tour of Iriomote Island:

8.45 AM – Take Ferry from Ishigaki Port

9.30 AM – Arrival at Guided Tour Centre

10.00 AM – Kayaking tour of Hinai River

11.00 AM – Start of Hike

11.45 AM – Enjoy the view from the top of the Pinaisara Falls and have

12.00 PM – Picnic Lunch (Soba Noodles)

12.30 PM – Return to Hiking Trail

1.30 PM – Arrival at the bottom of the Pinaisara Falls

2.00 PM – Kayaking Tour

2.30 PM – Return to Guided Tour Centre

3.00 PM – Return to ferry at Iriomote Port

3.45 PM – Arrival in Ishigaki

WHERE SHOULD YOU STAY ON IRIOMOTE ISLAND

If you’re planning an overnight trip to Iriomote Island, don’t forget to think about where you’ll stay. There are numerous options, ranging from hotels and resorts to guesthouses and homestays.

One popular choice among visitors is to stay in Ohara, which is the main town on the island. There are a variety of accommodations available here to suit various budgets and preferences . For a truly authentic experience, some options even provide traditional Japanese-style rooms and onsen (hot springs).

Another option is to stay closer to  the island’s natural attractions , such as the mangrove forests and beaches. There are a few guesthouses and lodges in these areas that provide a more secluded and peaceful environment. It is important to note, however, that these accommodations may have fewer amenities and services than those in Ohara.

No matter where you stay on Iriomote Island, it’s critical to book your accommodations ahead of time, especially during peak travel season . This will ensure that your stay on the island is comfortable and enjoyable.

BUDGET BREAKDOWN FOR THIS 6 DAY OKINAWA ITINERARY

Although we were on our honeymoon when we visited Okinawa, and therefore spent maybe a little more than we usually would, we were still mindful of our budget.

We wanted to make sure we could enjoy all the activities and experiences that Okinawa had to offer without breaking the bank. After our 6-day trip, we were relieved to discover that having a good time in Okinawa does not require a large budget.

Here’s a breakdown of our expenses for the trip:

• Accommodation: We stayed in two separate luxury hotels and spent an average of ¥30,000 (£185) per night for a double room.
• Food: Okinawa is known for its delicious cuisine , and we tried as many local dishes as possible. We spent an average of ¥6,000 (£37) per day for two people.
• Transportation: We rented a car on the main island, which cost us ¥8,850 (£55) for the day. For transportation to other islands, we took ferries, which ranged from ¥1,500 (£9) to ¥2,500 (£15) per person.
• Activities: Okinawa has plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, and we made sure to experience as many as we could. We spent an average of ¥4000 (£25) per day on activities, such as visiting museums, guided hiking tours, and exploring the aquariums.

Overall, our total expenses for the trip came out to approximately ¥135,000 (£840) per person for six days. Of course, this can vary depending on your accommodation choices and the activities you choose to do. But we found that with some planning and research, it is possible to have a great time in Okinawa without overspending.

We hope this breakdown helps you plan your own budget for a trip to Okinawa!

WHAT TO PACK FOR OKINAWA

When packing for a trip to Okinawa, keep in mind the various activities you’ll be participating in. Pack comfortable swimsuits, cover-ups, flip-flops, and sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun on beach days.

Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for city exploration, and comfortable walking shoes are required for any city or town adventures.

If you intend to go on a trek, bring sturdy, comfortable shoes or hiking boots, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Also, don’t forget to bring a hat to protect your head from the sun, as well as plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Pack a small daypack to carry essentials like sunscreen, water, and snacks, as well as a waterproof bag to keep valuables safe during any water activities.

Mosquitoes and other bugs can be common, especially if you plan on hiking or visiting the jungle. So bring insect repellent to avoid bites.

With stunning natural scenery and unique cultural experiences, Okinawa is a great place to capture memories. Don’t forget to pack your camera or phone to take pictures and videos.

Overall, the key is to pack light and efficiently, with versatile clothing and shoes suitable for a variety of activities . Okinawa’s climate is generally warm and humid, so packing lightweight, breathable clothing is really the most essential bit.

OTHER PRE-TRIP ESSENTIALS FOR OKINAWA

Before embarking on your trip to Okinawa, it’s essential to ensure that you have all the necessary documents and preparations in order. Here are some pre-trip essentials that you should take care of to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience:

Passports and Visas : If you’re a foreigner visiting Okinawa, you’ll need a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining. Additionally, check if you need a visa to enter Japan. Japan offers visa exemptions to many countries, including the US, Canada, UK, Australia, and most of Europe. However, it’s essential to check your eligibility and apply for a visa if necessary well in advance to avoid any last-minute complications.

International Driving License : If you plan on renting a car and driving around Okinawa, you’ll need an international driving permit. You can obtain this from your home country’s driving license authority or automobile association. It’s essential to have this sorted out before you arrive in Japan, as car rental companies will typically ask for this document when you pick up your vehicle.

Vaccinations : While Japan is generally a safe destination and there no mandatory vaccinations required to enter Japan, it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor before traveling to ensure that you are up to date on routine vaccinations such as flu shots. You may also want to consider getting vaccinated for diseases such as hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and Japanese encephalitis, especially if you plan on spending time in rural areas or interacting with animals.

Travel Insurance : Travel insurance is essential for any trip, and Okinawa is no exception. In the event of an unforeseen circumstance such as illness, injury, or trip cancellation, travel insurance can help protect you from financial loss. Be sure to choose a policy that covers all your needs, including medical expenses and emergency evacuation.

OUR FINAL THOUGHTS ABOUT THE OKINAWA ITINERARY WE HAVE SUGGESTED ABOVE

As we wrap up our unforgettable honeymoon trip to Okinawa, we can’t help but feel grateful for the incredible experiences we’ve had on this beautiful island. From exploring the vibrant city of Naha to basking in the sun on the stunning beaches, and hiking through lush forests, Okinawa fulfilled all our travel wishes.

Our day trip to Taketomi Island was a particular highlight, where we got to immerse ourselves in the island’s unique culture and beauty. We highly recommend taking a day trip to this enchanting island and experiencing its serene ambiance, rich history, and picturesque landscapes.

As we reminisce about our time in Okinawa, we feel that it’s a perfect destination for honeymooners and families who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful, laid-back vacation. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Okinawa has it all. And with the friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and scenic views, we can’t think of a better place to celebrate our love and make unforgettable memories.

We hope our itinerary and tips have been helpful in planning your own perfect trip to Okinawa. From the stunning beaches and historic sites to the natural wonders and delicious food, we’re sure you’ll fall in love with this beautiful island just as we did.

If you enjoyed this post and found it useful, don’t forget to check-out our other posts about Okinawa:

• Our awesome guides on  where to stay in Okinawa
• Our in depth look at  the best things to do in Okinawa
• Our suggestions on  what food to eat in Okinawa
• Our advice on the best time to visit Okinawa

You can  find more guides for Japan here . Or if you haven’t fully decided where to go yet, you can  find other great destinations in Asia here .

ADDITIONAL TRAVEL TIPS FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS OF OKINAWA

Here are some FAQ about travelling to Okinawa, that might help you plan your own travel itinerary .

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO GO TO OKINAWA?

The best month to visit Okinawa is between April and June, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the cherry blossoms are in bloom. September to November is also a great time to visit as the weather is mild and pleasant. Avoid visiting during the typhoon season from July to September, when the weather can be unpredictable.

IS OKINAWA SAFE FOR TOURISTS?

Yes, Okinawa is generally considered safe for tourists. The crime rate is low, and the people are friendly and helpful. However, like any other tourist destination, visitors should take basic precautions such as not leaving their belongings unattended and being aware of their surroundings.

DO YOU NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE TO VISIT OKINAWA?

While travel insurance is not mandatory to visit Okinawa, it is highly recommended. In case of any unexpected medical emergencies, accidents or trip cancellations, travel insurance can provide you with financial coverage and peace of mind.

GETTING WIFI OR A DATA SIM IN OKINAWA?

Visitors can easily rent a pocket wifi or purchase a data SIM card at the airport or from any major electronics store in Okinawa. It is highly recommended to stay connected during your trip for navigation and communication purposes.

DO I NEED A VISA TO VISIT OKINAWA?

Most visitors to Okinawa do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. However, it is important to check with the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country for specific visa requirements.

WHAT CURRENCY IS USED IN OKINAWA?

The currency used in Okinawa is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Visitors can exchange their currency at the airport, banks or exchange offices.

WHAT ARE SOME MUST-TRY DISHES IN OKINAWA?

Okinawa is famous for its unique cuisine , which is a blend of Japanese, Chinese and Southeast Asian influences. Some must-try dishes include Okinawa soba, goya champuru (stir-fried bitter melon), and taco rice (taco meat and toppings on a bed of rice).

WHAT ARE SOME POPULAR SOUVENIRS TO BUY IN OKINAWA?

Some popular souvenirs to buy in Okinawa include Shisa (lion-dog statues), Ryukyu glassware, Awamori (Okinawan liquor), and Bingata (traditional Okinawan textiles).

HOW CAN I LEARN MORE ABOUT OKINAWAN CULTURE?

Visitors can learn more about Okinawan culture by visiting the various museums and historical sites on the islands, attending cultural festivals and events, and trying out traditional activities such as sanshin (Okinawan guitar) playing and Eisa (Okinawan dance) performances. It is also recommended to interact with the locals to gain a deeper understanding of the culture and way of life in Okinawa.

Are you planning a trip to Okinawa ? Have you already been? Comment below and let us know!

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Katharina started travelling in her early teens and has explored over 4 continents, 16 countries, and 87 cities. Growing up trilingual and having graduated from an international school, she has a strong interest in other cultures. When she isn’t gallivanting around the globe or busy in her 9-to-5 job as an architect, she can be found exploring the UK (the country she currently calls home). There isn’t much Katharina, her husband and their son Finn love more than a fun family weekend getaway.

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5 Days Okinawa Itinerary

Say you have 5 days to travel in Okinawa , how would you spend these days in the best possible way for an unforgettable subtropical island holiday? Okinawa consists of more than 160 islands, so in order to minimize travel time and costs and maximize your fun time, this 5 days Okinawa itinerary is concentrated on the Main Island * and the small islands nearby. It is good to note that the itinerary below works best between April and October, because the weather and water temperature is best for swimming in the warmer months. You can, however, still travel to Okinawa between November and March and enter the ocean with a wetsuit but many people will find it too chilly. Let us present to you the perfect 5-day trip plan for Okinawa that includes various activities, culture, nature, and restaurant recommendations!

*Check out this article if you’d rather go island hopping to Okinawa’s more remote islands.

Day One: Arrival – Naha

Day two: a trip to tokashiki island, day three: yomitan – nago, day four: motobu, day five: tataki falls or yambaru – return to airport, traveling in japan, other articles you might be interested in.

There are several flights per day leaving for Naha from most major airports in mainland Japan. Of course, if you want to make the most of your time in Okinawa we recommend that you take a morning flight. If you don’t want to wake up at (or even before) the crack of dawn, staying in an airport hotel the night before is definitely a good idea. After arriving in Naha, drop off your luggage in the lobby of your chosen hotel first so you can go around Naha with your hands free. 

Assuming you still have most of the afternoon left, let’s head for Shuri Castle first to learn more about the region’s history. You will have an amazing view of the city from the observation areas of the castle, and while the castle itself will still be under construction for a while after the tragic fire in 2019, you can get an idea of how grand this center of Okinawa used to be. If you want to know more about the history, Hime Yuri Museum is also recommended. Okinawa is known for its beautiful beaches but it also has a sad war history.

Kinjo Stone Road , a picturesque old road that visitors of the castle used to take and has been well-preserved, is also nice to visit. It’s full of colorful flowers and if you walk from the castle’s direction it is all downhill. The pottery street of Tsuboya Yachimun , this atmospheric street has many cute little pottery shops where they sell Okinawa’s traditional kitchen wares. End your day in the famous Kokusai Dori , or International Street for some good shopping and people-watching.

Stay: in Naha (central)

Eat: Soka noodles in Inaka Kosetsuichiba Minami-ten (lunch or dinner)

Today you will make your first acquaintance with Okinawa’s gorgeous blue ocean! You will take the 9 am ferry (Marine Liner Tokashiki) to this small island that is part of the Kerama Island National Park. It is a good idea to book the ferry ahead of time as it fills up quickly in the summer season. You can either book a diving tour with one of the diving companies if you want to go scuba diving, or you can relax on the beach and snorkel by yourself. Diving tours are great for those who want to experience scuba diving and don’t want to worry about anything, as the company will take care of your transportation and equipment. Tokashiki has incredibly clear, deep blue water where you can meet sea turtles, small sharks, octopi, and all kinds of tropical fish. It will be one of the most unforgettable experiences in your life. 

If you want to enjoy Tokashiki by yourself, upon arrival in the harbor you can take the bus to Aharen Beach. On the beach, you can rent all kinds of equipment such as snorkeling wear, beach umbrellas, and other stuff that makes your stay more fun. They also have a service that transports you to the uninhabited island Hanari , which is simply one of the best snorkeling spots in the world with a soft white sand bottom dotted with coral formations. You can easily spend a whole day here if you love snorkeling, but in that case, you need to make sure to bring your own lunch with you as there are no shops on Hanari. If you’d also like to discover other parts of the island, you can rent bicycles , scooters, and cars in the harbor area and in the Aharen Beach area (you need a Japanese or international license for scooter and car rental). Because the island is rather small, you can’t really get lost. Make sure to catch the ferry back to Naha at 5:30 pm, and enjoy your dinner in Naha.

Eat: Okinawan izakaya food in Aguncha (dinner)

If you can drive in Japan (you need a Japanese or international driver’s license), today is the day to rent a car ( Niconico ). Otherwise, you will have to take the bus and use taxis* for shorter distances as trains don’t go up north so far. Your first stop will be the Banta Cafe of luxury hotel Hoshinoya Okinawa. You can enjoy their funky signature drinks and a snack if you’re hungry (go for the spam onigiri!) with an amazing ocean view in this gorgeous outdoor cafe. Then it is time for some active exercise in Forest Adventure Onna . You can enjoy fun zip lines and other large climbing equipment and challenge yourself physically. If you still have energy left, we recommend checking out the nearby Blue Cave , a popular spot to go snorkeling. You can rent equipment on the spot, or you can book a snorkeling tour with a local company . Also, Nago has the famous Henoko beach with U.S. base issue. Okinawa has amazingly beautiful beaches and rich nature that local people in Okinawa have protected for a long time. And the effort has continued still today. Henoko beach is really beautiful and you can often communicate with locals there. It is worth visiting for anyone caring for this planet. 

If you’d prefer doing something a bit less active and like making your own stuff you can check out Onna Glass Workshop . They don’t only offer the opportunity to create your own Ryukyu glassware, but you can also experience their cool illuminated glass labyrinth. At the end of the day, head to Nago for dinner and check in at your hotel.

*if you are not renting a car, we recommend sticking to a maximum of 2 activities on this day

Stay: in Nago

Eat: The Bros Sandwich Stand (lunch) and hamburgers at Warren’s Place 2.1

Today will be a day full of ocean fun, so wear your swimsuit underneath your clothes and bring your towels and a few bottles of water for showering. First, head to Sesoko island’s Anchi Beach . You can rent snorkeling equipment on the beach, the shallow, clear waters here are perfect for floating around while enjoying the underwater view and above the water with a long bridge spanning the distance between Motobu and Sesoko. Alternatively, you can also book a SUPping tour  to the same beach for some relaxing stand-up paddling on the relatively calm water. Enjoy your lunch in the open air on Sesoko before heading north to Bisezaki Kaigan . This lush green seaside area features shadow-rich lanes lined by tropical fukugi trees that you can enjoy by rental bicycle or ox cart. Here, you can take another dip in the sea in a shallow area teeming with fish and with a gentle stream that you can ‘ride’. Enjoy your time here leisurely before heading back to Nago.

Eat: Taco Rice at Shimahiro or Fuu Cafe (lunch) and Okinawan home-style food at Chura-hana

It is already your last day in Okinawa, but let’s wake up early and enjoy it to the max! Your schedule of the day will depend on which time your airplane leaves, hopefully, you were able to book a return flight that leaves after 7 pm. If you have less time, a trip to Takaki Falls is recommended. This lovely short hike via a streaming river (around 30 minutes one-way) brings you to a paradise-like waterfall where you can take a refreshing dive in the small lake. The drive back to Naha airport will take around 1.5 hours if you take the toll road.

If you have a bit more time on your hands (and a rental car at your disposal), you can go to Yambaru, the jungly northern part of Okinawa. Stop by the Yambaru Adventure Farm for a dirty but fun ride on an ATV on their mud course and taste their delicious local coffee afterward. Then, drive to the Okinawa Rail Learning Center to meet the rare and endangered rail (bird) that can only be seen here. Keep in mind that the drive back to Naha airport will take around 2.5 hours if you take the toll road and longer if you take the scenic coastal road.

Eat: coffee and curry at Matayoshi Coffee Farm

Did reading this itinerary spark your interest in traveling to and in Japan? There is so much to see, do, and experience in the Land of the Rising Sun that it can be hard to choose which activities and cities to include in your travel plan! If we may give you a small hint, booking a private tour with a fun local guide is always a great addition to your Japan itinerary. A private guide can always adjust the itinerary to fit your interests and needs, and they offer valuable extra information about the places you visit throughout the tour. Your local expert guide is also always happy to give you insider tips on restaurants and sightseeing in their city. We offer various tours in many cities in Japan including Tokyo , Kyoto , Osaka , Hiroshima , and Kanazawa , so make sure to have a look at our homepage before your trip begins!

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Happy traveling!

Stefanie Akkerman moved from the Netherlands to Japan in 2013 with her Japanese husband and son. She jumped into the niche of Dutch tour guiding in Tokyo and Kamakura in 2015 and occasionally writes articles about all the great sights and activities Japan has to offer. She loves (Japanese) food, and to work that all off she goes diving, snorkeling, cycling, or hiking.

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5 Amazing Day Trips from Okinawa

If you’re looking for the perfect day trips from Okinawa here’s my advice >> pick an island, any island! There are a specific few that are perfect for spontaneous day trips, some you need to plan out more (because there is a ferry ride involved), and some a little farther away that you’ll just need at least a weekend to explore; more on those later!

Here are 5 of my favorite places for day tripping around Okinawa:

To plan a day trip simply choose your desired destination, call the port and reserve tickets for the ferry. There are two types, a fast one and slow one. We did the fast one! Try to book seats on the first ferry going and last ferry coming back. You can also bring your car on the slow ferry, you just have to make a reservation in advance. Most islands do offer bike, scooter or car rentals, and it may be cheaper than bringing your car over on the ferry.

If you decide to visit Tokashiki, there is a bus that will take you around the island. I went with a group of 5 people so we decided to rent a car and split the cost.. it ended up being pretty cheap and convenient! Be sure to visit both Arahen and Tokashiku Beach.

Tomari Port Info Address: 〒900-0016 Okinawa Prefecture, Naha, 前島3-25-1 Phone: 098-861-3341

Be sure to visit the battlesites – like the Ernie Pyle Memorial and the Ahasha Cave, the Lily Festival grounds (if you go at the end of April, beginning of May), hike up Mt. Gusuku, gaze down the Wajee cliffs, and eat lunch at the IE Island Country Club (I still dream about the Yakiniku salad). For more info, check out this  Ie island brochure .

Motobu Port Info Address: 5232 Sakimotobu, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture 905-0225 Phone: 098-866-2395

Check out my Ie island posts: Biking on Ie Island , YYY Resort ,  Lily Festival on Ie Island

Be sure to visit the Kouri Ocean Tower to see a wonderful panoramic view of the island, take a selfie with the Love Rocks and try the Shrimp Wagon for lunch! There is also a truck that sells delicious fruit smoothies in Yagaji Island, right before the bridge to Kouri.

Address:  Kouri, Nakijin, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture 905-0406

There are 2 memorable beaches here… although both have entrance fees. #1 Ikei Beach is a nice beach with netted areas, chair/umbrella rentals, as well as water sport rentals and a restaurant. Get some kakigori while you’re there! Entrance fee: ¥400. #2 Oodomari Beach, also known as Mamasan Beach, is great for snorkeling! Entrance fee: ¥500 Adults, ¥300 Children. If paying to go to the beach isn’t your jam, then drive around, I bet there are others that are secluded/open/free!

If you visit at the end of September, check out the Ichihanari Art Project ! It’s a fun event that goes on in those 4 islands.

Address:  Yonashiroikei, Uruma, Okinawa Prefecture 904-2421

Address:  Katsurenhiga, Uruma 904-2316, Okinawa Prefecture.

Do you have any other day trips you’d add to the list? Is there anything you’d recommend doing on these 5 islands? Leave me a comment below!

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This is the Best 7 Day Okinawa Itinerary (2024)

Japan ‘s remote Okinawa islands in the Pacific Ocean are its best-kept secret . Many of the islands are quiet and serene, despite their tropical climate, sandy beaches and delicious food. I recently visited the islands as part of a backpacking Japan trip . In this post, I will share my top tips on how to create the perfect Okinawa itinerary for 7 days.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means, if you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, read my disclaimer .

How to create your Okinawa itinerary

So, how many days in Okinawa do you really need? If you are planning to stay on the main island, anything from 3 days to 7 days in Okinawa is ideal, so you can blend beach time with travelling and activities.

An Okinawa travel itinerary of 3 or 4 days could include a beach day, a scuba diving or snorkelling day and a day to visit local Okinawa attractions. If you have 5 days in Okinawa, you can discover beaches and places of interest further afield, especially if you hire a car.

If you plan to take flights or boat trips to visit some of the other islands in the archipelago, then an Okinawa itinerary 7 days or more is perfect. One week in Okinawa will give you time to see and do everything you want to, without feeling rushed.

These are the best places to stay on your Okinawa itinerary

If you’re wondering where to stay in Okinawa, you have a number of options. The best place to stay in Okinawa depends how long you have on the islands and what you would like to do on your Okinawa itinerary.

You will need to bear in mind that the main Okinawa island is long. Even if you hire a car, the maximum speed limit is 60 km per hour (around 37 miles per hour) and you will find it takes a while to get to each of the beaches and Okinawa tourist attractions. This is why an Okinawa 7 day itinerary could work better than a shorter trip, so you can relax and see more. You can read more about all the best places to go in Okinawa below.

Naha – the capital city

The capital city of Naha is a great place to go shopping and it is also most convenient for the airport. One of the main places to visit in Okinawa for shopping is Naha’s Kokusaidori street, also known as International street, which is full of bars, shops and restaurants.

If you choose to stay in Okinawa’s capital city of Naha, there are some great hotels here. The boutique-style Mercure Okinawa Naha hotel is conveniently located less than ten minutes from the airport by monorail. Its Bistro de La Mer restaurant offers French dishes paired with excellent international wines.

If you are backpacking Okinawa and looking for a hostel, the stylish Okinawa Sora House is in a great location, close to all the shops and restaurants on the popular Kokusai Street.

Browse and book your room in one of the best hotels and places to stay in Naha .

Chatan – American Village

We stayed in Chatan, around an hour north of Naha. There is an affordable shuttle bus that travels between here and the airport.

As well as a beach, Chatan includes a lively area known as American Village, which has many restaurants, shops and entertainment venues. 

This colourfully-lit area has a retro, Americana feel and is completely different from the rest of Japan. It is popular with the Americans stationed on the island’s large U.S. military base. Its blend of Japanese and US culture feels quite unique.

Check out the latest deals on the top hotels and places to stay in Chatan .

Hotels in Chatan, Okinawa include the fabulous Hilton Okinawa Chatan Resort , a short walk from American Village. Guests rave about its sea views and friendly staff.

We stayed at the neighbouring, brand new Doubletree by Hilton Okinawa Chatan resort . which also overlooks the sea. This is a gorgeous hotel with welcoming staff and useful amenities. Our large room had a balcony, two double beds and a wet room with a rain shower, which is perfect to relax under after a day of sightseeing or at the beach. I recommend choosing an ocean-facing room so you can see the stunning sunset views over the sea.

If you are on an Okinawa backpacking trip and looking for a hostel, there are some great options in Chatan. The hipster AIEN Coffee & Hostel serves a delicious breakfast and offers bike rental, while the colourful Seawall Hostel is just two minutes’ walk from the beach.

Further north – Onna and Nago

If you plan to visit north Okinawa, it’s worth knowing that Onna has one of the best-known scuba diving spots, while Nago is home to the most fun and quirky tourist attractions in Okinawa.

In Onna you will find one of the best Okinawa beach resorts. The ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort hotel is in an enviable spot surrounded by the ocean and with a private beach. The excellent Hotel Monterey Okinawa Spa & Resort offers a wide range of activities, while the superb Sheraton Sunmarina Okinawa Resort hotel has facilities for families and sports lovers.

One of the top-rated hotels in Nago is the Kanehide Kise Beach Palace , which has large rooms, sea views and sits on a sandy beach.

Backpackers in Okinawa should head straight to the Akachichi Guesthouse when in Onna, which has affordable private rooms with garden views and delicious breakfast served on the terrace. In Nago, the brilliant Backpackers Guesthouse Border has sociable dorm rooms and sea views.

What you need to know about travelling around Okinawa

There isn’t yet a good public transport infrastructure in Okinawa and taxis are expensive, so the best way to travel around in Okinawa is by car.

The fantastic staff at our hotel booked us in at an Okinawa car rental place nearby so we could set off on an Okinawa road trip to explore the island.

In Japan, people drive on the left and the roads have a relatively low speed limit. For this reason, even with a car, we found it took longer than expected to visit places. However, in general the local drivers are calm and polite which makes driving in Okinawa quite pleasant, even if you are not used to driving on the left. Read on for our Okinawa self drive itinerary.

This is the best 7 day Okinawa itinerary

Day 1 – spend a day at one of okinawa’s beautiful beaches.

Our Okinawa 1 week itinerary included some local attractions and the best Okinawa beaches. This is why we had come to this tropical island after all. There are beautiful beaches here with hardly a soul on them.

One of the best beaches in Okinawa is Oodomari beach on the remote Ikei Island. It can be reached by car in around an hour from Chatan , via a series of bridges from Okinawa island, which is a fun part of your Okinawa self drive route.

As with some other Okinawa beach trips, you will need to pay a small fee to the beach’s owners but you can enjoy the area almost to yourself. The sea is ideal for swimming – clear, clean and full of fish. There are basic showers where you can wash off the sand afterwards.

Day 2 – Pay your respects at the Peace Memorial Park

Okinawa’s Peace Memorial Park, a 40 minute drive from Chatan and 30 minutes south of Naha , is one of the most thought-provoking places to go in Okinawa.

Here, you can walk around the various sites and pay your respects to the many lives lost on both sides of the Battle of Okinawa. In World War II’s last major battle, over 180,000 American troops invaded Okinawa island, as part of their strategy to defeat Japan. There is a museum here where you can discover the devastating impact of the war on Okinawa and its people.

Day 3 – Visit Sefa-Utaki, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

I loved Sefa-Utaki, a sacred space with an enormous spiritual significance for Okinawa. It is 50 minutes from Chatan by car and 40 minutes east of Naha .

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the main Okinawa points of interest. For thousands of years, people have come here to worship in Okinawa’s native Ryukyuan religion. This religion values paying respects to our ancestors, as well as the gods and spirits of the natural world. 

According to Ryukyuan texts, Sefa-Utaki was the spot where Amamikyu, the goddess of creation, first manifested and set foot on Okinawa. Kings and priestesses would make pilgrimages here to conduct important ceremonies and pray for the prosperity of the kingdom and its harvests.

Winding staircases and footpaths lead through lush jungle surroundings to shrine areas and notable rock formations. The last place you reach is the most sacred. Here, two huge rocks lean against each other, forming a triangle-shaped space, like a natural cathedral.

Day 4 – Go snorkelling in Onna

Explore the underwater world around the islands on one of the Okinawa snorkelling tours, notably at the popular Blue Cave site near Onna.

If you are feeling adventurous, there are many Okinawa scuba diving sites around the islands, which are surrounded by coral reefs. We headed towards the neighbouring island’s Kerama National Park on our scuba-diving trip.

Also in Onna is one of the most notable places of interest in Okinawa. Ryukyu Mura recreates a traditional Okinawan village, complete with dancing and drum performances.

Discover the all best hotels and places to stay in Onna

Days 5-7 – Check out the unique tourist attractions in Nago

If you’re in Nago, don’t miss Nago Pineapple Park, a theme park giving tours of pineapple fields, which is one of Okinawa’s main tourist attractions.

Also in Nago is Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium. Once the world’s largest aquarium, it contains impressive exhibits containing sharks, manta rays and a vivid variety of sealife. The nearby underwater observatory at Busena Marine Park is another one of the best places to visit in Okinawa.

Okinawa has its own brand of American-style beer, called Orion. It has been widely consumed on the island for the last 60 years. You can visit the Orion Happy Park in Nago and tour the factory where Orion beer is brewed.

You will need to allow a couple of hours to travel back to Naha airport.

Find out the latest prices for the best hotels and places to stay in Nago .

This is the best time to visit Okinawa

Temperatures on the Okinawa islands reach around 20°C all year round, thanks to the subtropical climate. While most of mainland Japan’s beaches open in July for the summer, the best time to visit Okinawa beaches is a large part of the year. In Okinawa beach opening is from March all the way through to October. It’s the perfect stop in Japan for beach lovers.

Okinawa’s main rainy season is in May and June. In July and August, temperatures reach over 30° and there is a chance of typhoons hitting the islands from then until September. Okinawa’s weather in December to February has the lowest temperatures, at closer to 20°, but also the lowest amount of rainfall.

If you’re wondering, when should I visit Okinawa, the best time to visit is in the spring months of March and early April, or in the autumn, from October to November.

Keep reading this Okinawa travel blog post to discover how to create the perfect 7 day itinerary to see the best of Okinawa.

Don’t go without Lonely Planet’s essential Japan and Okinawa travel guide book – buy it here .

How to get to Okinawa

The main Okinawa airport is in Naha and there are different sections depending on whether you are flying to or from Japan or internationally. Airlines such as ANA operate cheap flights to Okinawa from the main islands of Japan, even though it covers a distance of around 900 miles (1500 km).

Check the flight times and prices for cheap flights to Okinawa .

From Tokyo to Okinawa, the journey takes almost three hours. Flights from Haneda to Okinawa airport can cost as little as US$60, so it’s certainly possible to book cheap flights from Okinawa to Tokyo.

Flights from Okinawa to Osaka take just under two hours and can cost from around US$45, while from Kyoto to Okinawa the journey is two hours and 15 minutes, priced from around US$80 depending on the time of year.

From Hong Kong to Okinawa the flight time is actually shorter than from Tokyo, at two hours 40 minutes, and it costs from around US$100. Meanwhile, Singapore to Okinawa flights take five hours and closer to US$300.

If you are wondering how to go to Okinawa from Malaysia, the cheapest flights are from Kuala Lumpur, with a stop in Taiwan. Costing around US$225, it takes 7.5 hours.

Feast on the unique food in Okinawa

One of the things Okinawa is famous for is its unique fusion food , thanks to its many international influences. These include  taco rice , a Japanese-American dish inspired by the nearby U.S. military base.

For us, one of the best Okinawa restaurants was a semi-hidden restaurant called Oshino. Here, each table is fixed with its own  teppanyaki  grill, where your food is cooked in front of you. They even give you a special spatula to cut and serve your meal onto your plate. The restaurant specialises in original versions of   teppanyaki  dishes.

Everything we ate here was good but my favourite was a Tex-Mex take on Japan’s famous  okonomiyaki  savoury pancake dish, which you won’t find anywhere else in the country.

In the wake of World War II, Spam, the famous U.S. tinned pork brand, was one of the few sources of meat for the islanders and fit is still popular today. In the American Village’s huge Aeon supermarket, you can find many flavours of Spam.

A popular breakfast for Okinawa residents is a Spam sushi sandwich. This breakfast sushi sandwich is rice covered with nori seaweed and filled with egg, Spam and tomato ketchup. It is surprisingly tasty. 

The famous Japanese dish of  tempura –  battered and deep fried seafood and vegetables – was in fact inspired by a meat-free, deep-fried recipe from Portuguese traders arriving in Japan’s historic port city of Nagasaki ( see below ) during the 16th century. The best place to find it in Okinawa is at the Oshiro tempura shop on the tiny Oishi island, just off the south of Okinawa island.

In Okinawa, they use local ingredients in their tempura, including  goya  bitter melon and  benimo , the purple sweet potatoes Okinawans love to use in both savoury and sweet dishes.

Buy Okinawan souvenirs to treasure

When you explore Okinawa, you will often see pairs of what look like guardian lions at the entrance of doorways and shrines. These are shisa , traditional Ryukyuan decorative beasts from Okinawan mythology, believed to ward off evil.

The left shisa traditionally has its mouth closed in order to keep the good spirits in, while the beast on the right has an open mouth to banish the evil spirits. You can find plenty of replicas of these shisa to decorate your home or give as a present.

Another popular souvenir from Okinawa is the region’s famous sweet potato tarts. At the airport, you will find many examples of these bright purple treats to pick up as a unique gift.

Final thoughts on creating the perfect Okinawa itinerary

Okinawa remains a relatively overlooked part of Japan and many visitors do not venture down to these tropical islands. It’s understandable when there are so many amazing things to do in Japan .

While there are some fabulous hotels, the islands are not yet set up to be major tourist destinations and this is part of its charm. If you are interested in culture, food, history and beaches and somewhere off-the-beaten track, Okinawa is a fascinating and rewarding place to visit.

Start researching your holiday in Okinawa here .

Next, read about how to create a three-week itinerary in Japan that you will remember forever.