Okinawa: The Complete Guide to This Tropical Japanese Island

Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, is an archipelago of about 160 islands stretching from Kyushu to Taiwan. Located at the southern tip of Japan, this tropical island is a top destination for a warm-weather holiday in Japan. With a perfect combination of sunny weather, white sand and clear turquoise waters, it attracts divers, surfers and beach lovers at home and abroad.

But Okinawa is more than just sun and sand. The area is home to many attractions, including undisturbed remote islands and world-class resorts with top-notch facilities. Due to the island’s proximity to Chinese mainland and Taiwan, it is also known for its rich traditions, influenced by Japanese, Chinese, and Taiwanese cultures. Okinawa’s remote location is a refreshing change from Japan’s major cities of Tokyo and Osaka.

From sunny holiday weather, exciting coastal adventures to sumptuous local cuisine, a fascinating rendezvous in this tropical paradise awaits visitors. Here is a guide to making the most of “Hawaii of Japan”.

With more than enough attractions to see in Okinawa, visitors can look forward to an extensive itinerary to experience some of Japan’s top adventures. Whether you want to sample local cuisine or experience Japanese hospitality up close, check out Okinawa’s top attractions.

Soak up the Sun on the Shores of Pristine Beaches

Okinawa is a world-famous summer destination, and what better way to start your holiday than by visiting the beach? With more than 100 beaches on the main island of Okinawa, the options for visitors are endless.

From silky soft white sand beaches and crystal clear blue waters to idyllic coral reefs, the environment is perfect for relaxing and soaking up the tranquil atmosphere. But those who like to soak will enjoy the warm water temperature.

Best of all, the region’s subtropical climate offers excellent conditions for tourists all year round.

Visit Shuri Castle

Before becoming a prefecture of Japan in 1879, Okinawa was an independent country known as the Ryukyu Kingdom. This is why the culture and history of the island is relatively unique compared to the rest of the country.

Shuri Castle was the imperial palace during the reign of the kingdom and holds a special place in the history and culture of ancient Okinawa. Despite being destroyed during World War II, it was rebuilt in the 90s and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, it receives thousands of visitors and is one of Okinawa Prefecture’s most popular landmarks.

• Admission: $3 for adults, $2.24 for students, $1.2 for children
• Opening Hours: 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m

Try Snorkeling in Crystal Clear Waters

No trip to Okinawa is complete without a snorkeling experience. Clear waters and a warm tropical climate provide ideal conditions for undersea exploration, with nearly 800 of the world’s 200 species of corals waiting to be discovered in the waters around Okinawa.

Luckily, tourists don’t have to look around as the island is full of snorkeling hotspots.

From Onna Seaside Park and Miyako Island to Kaipei Bay and the Blue Grotto, everything depends on the preferences of visitors. While underwater, don’t forget to check out the abundant marine life.

Play the World of Okinawa

Okinawa World is a theme park located in the southern part of the main island that offers visitors a range of fun activities. From glassblowing and craft making to drum performances, there are plenty of activities to keep guests busy.

However, the highlight of the world of Okinawa is the 850-meter-long Gyosen-dong cave. It boasts a spectacular array of stalactites and stalagmites that amaze visitors.

Outside the cave, visitors can shop for cute Japanese souvenirs at the many local stalls in the area. The facility also houses a snake museum, where visitors can enjoy a snake show or learn about the venomous hab snake.

• Admission: $15 for adults, $7.5 for children
• Opening hours: Open daily, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m

Take a Whale Watching Tour

Okinawa offers guests the rare opportunity to see these extraordinary gentle giants up close. From December to April, humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of the region, and boat trips allow vacationers to experience these activities firsthand.

Some boats have hydrophones so passengers can hear songs unique to the species.

Some of the main locations for whale watching include Tokashiki Island and the Kerama Islands. In addition to humpback whales, Bryde’s whales, sperm whales, and even whale sharks can be seen.

Visit the Belle Sea Aquarium

Mirikai Aquarium is the largest aquarium in Japan and one of the largest in the world. Located within the Ocean Expo Park, this huge aquarium is home to a variety of incredible marine life such as whale sharks, manta rays, and more, making it the island’s top attraction.

However, most visitors are attracted to the Kuroshio tank, a sprawling area that holds 750.<> million liters of water and is home to thousands of marine species.

In addition to the aquarium, guests can visit the facility’s traditional Okinawan village and botanical garden. A visit to Mirikai Aquarium is an ideal family vacation destination in Okinawa.

• Admission: Adults $16.26, Students $10.74, Children $5.29
• Opening Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m

Explore Mihama American Village

Discover the American flair of Japan at Mihama American Village in Okinawa. Built on the site of a former American airport, the village is inspired by San Diego’s Seaport Village and is a large shopping mall with a unique mix of shops.

From restaurants, cafes, boutiques, grocery stores to karaoke studios, it’s a West Coast vibe that will make it the perfect playground for homesick American tourists.

This American-themed building features a giant Ferris wheel and a popular movie theater. It’s also a great place to watch the sunset over the beach.

Explore the Okinawan Countryside on Iriomote Island

Outdoor enthusiasts and open-space enthusiasts should take a day trip to Iriomote Island. Located near Ishigaki Island, it is known for its dense jungle cover and is the perfect place to hike or hike while exploring the area. Iriomote Island is a great place to get away from the urban space of Okinawa and is ideal for those who want to be at one with nature.

The air is fresh, the atmosphere is peaceful, and the sound of birds and beasts is in the air.

On a lucky day, visitors can encounter fantastic wildlife in the area, such as the endangered Iriomote wildcat. Alternatively, you can take a kayak ride on the island’s river and explore the jungle from the water.

Taste Local Delicacies

Japan is known worldwide for its rich culinary traditions, and foodies will have an exciting time with the flavors of the region. However, Okinawan cuisine is different from many parts of the country, which should motivate tourists to try its cuisine. Many of the dishes here are closely related to Taiwanese cuisine, with pork being a staple in most meals.

Most recipes incorporate bitter melon and purple yam, which should be a unique taste and new experience for many people. Guests can also taste delicious tropical fruits such as papaya and dragon fruit.

Visit Saiba Ontake, The Holy Place of Okinawa

Sefa Utaki is one of the most sacred places on the island. It is an important site of Okinawa’s traditional religion that worships nature. Sefa Utaki was particularly important at the beginning of the 16th century, when it was the main place where religious ceremonies and ceremonies were held.

Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and welcomes visitors to visit or witness sacred sites.

Best Time to Visit Okinawa

Okinawa’s subtropical climate allows the island to enjoy warm weather for most of the year, making it a year-round tourist destination. The best time to visit Okinawa is spring or autumn, when the sun is not too hot and the conditions are perfect for visiting its important attractions.

Spring marks the beginning of the beach season, with tourists flocking to the coast to fully enjoy marine sports and beach activities. Okinawa is also the best place to see cherry blossoms, as it was one of the first regions in Japan to see this phenomenon.

Summer is the hottest season on the island, with temperatures soaring to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. But that hasn’t stopped tourists from flocking to Okinawa, which means it’s the busiest time of the year. It is also a rainy season with the risk of typhoons. Guests are advised to check the local weather forecast before travelling.

Bring a pair of sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to better cope with the hot weather.

Winters in Okinawa are not too cold. With highs reaching over 80 degrees Fahrenheit, guests are forgiven for wanting to go out for adventure or to the beach. Constant rain showers limit outdoor adventures.

The Best Way to See Okinawa

Thanks to a variety of reliable transportation options, getting around Okinawa will be a breeze for tourists. Whether planning a stay within the city limits or going out on an adventure, travelers can choose from a variety of travel options.

Monorail

Taking a monorail is the most convenient way to get around Okinawa. It is not affected by traffic, which can be frustrating during high season, and it is fast. It takes only 27 minutes to get from Naha Airport to Shuri, which is almost half an hour faster than by bus.

In addition, the elevated railroad (more than 60 feet above the ground) allows passengers to enjoy the beauty of their surroundings during their journey.

Car Rental

For those who plan to visit distant attractions, renting a car is the best way to get around. It offers the flexibility to follow a customizable itinerary and explore the island at your preferred pace.

Several rental companies in Okinawa offer convenient wheel rentals to guests, and some of them have offices at Naha Airport and other major towns. In addition to cars, tourists can rent motorhomes to suit the needs of the whole family or group.

• Price: About $15-$30 per day

Traffic jams are frequent during morning and evening rush hours in Central Okinawa and Naha. Tourists may want to avoid these, especially on weekdays. Choose to rent a car with an Electronic No Parking Fee (ETC) card to avoid wasting time on the highway.

Bus

The main island of Okinawa has a well-developed bus network that connects passengers to different destinations. Fares can be paid in cash or OKICA IC cards and can be used at monorail and bus stations.

The only problem with buses is that some lines may be few and can be daunting to find the right connection.

10,000 and 5,000 bills are not accepted when paying for the bus fare, so please bring enough change to avoid inconvenience when boarding.

Taxicab

Taxis are common in Japan, but prices for Okinawa operators are cheaper than in most parts of the country, making them a popular choice for tourists. Some of them also serve as guides and are handy for those who are not sure where to go or what to see.

Taxi fare: Approximately $4, plus $1.5 for each additional kilometer

Ferry

Ferries offer a unique way to explore the county’s scenic beauty. With so many islands to explore, ferries and boats are the best way to get to smaller islands, and there are regular services on major routes.

The best gourmet restaurant in Okinawa

Japanese cuisine has given birth to some of the most popular dishes in the dining world, and Okinawa is a great culinary capital for culinary enthusiasts. However, due to the unique history and culture of the region, the food here is different from the rest of the country.

The island’s remote location to the south means that locals have developed a unique culinary culture using local produce. This should guarantee visitors an exciting exotic dining experience that is guaranteed to stimulate their taste buds. Consider the following top restaurants in Okinawa.

Roguii

• Address: 904-2174 Okinawa City, Okinawa Prefecture 2-11-38 Yogi
• Opening hours: Weekdays (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.), weekends (9 a.m. to 6 p.m.)

Durham Soba

• Address: 2-13-20 Yamazato, Okinawa City, Okinawa Prefecture
• Opening hours: 11am – 9:30pm

Hamaya

• Address: 904-0113 Okinawa 2-99 Miyagi, Kitatan-cho, Nakazu-gun
• Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m

YAMBAR Ishigaki

• Address: 907-0012 Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture 16-14 Misakicho
• Opening hours: 12 noon – 12 am

Tips to Know When Visiting Okinawa

Okinawa is a delightful destination with plenty of activities for tourists. But to make the most of your vacation, here are some useful things to keep in mind when visiting this Japanese city.

• Okinawa is a hot and humid city, and the temperatures can be overwhelming for some. Try to constantly hydrate and bring enough warm clothes to cope. It is still recommended to dress conservatively.
• As the prefecture with the lowest prices in Japan, Okinawa can be used for a long time with one dollar. Tourists may want to spend a fortune on accommodation to fully enjoy the holiday.
• Avoid driving on highways unless necessary. While renting a car is relatively cheap, highway tolls can be expensive.
• While Japan accepts international debit and credit cards, it is recommended to carry cash on remote islands such as Okinawa. Most established family businesses prefer cash.
• Japanese culture attaches great importance to etiquette, from basic daily tasks such as eating and talking. Visitors should be polite and friendly when interacting with locals and try to follow their lead when it comes to public behavior.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Okinawa best known for?

• Okinawa is a famous tropical beach resort and is loved for its unique cuisine. It is also one of the best places to visit during cherry blossom season in Japan.

Q: Why is Okinawa so special?

• In addition to offering fun adventures unique to Japan, Okinawans live longer than most people in the world. They are less susceptible to diseases such as cancer, dementia and heart disease.

Q: What is the best month to go to Okinawa?

• Okinawa is a great destination for Japanese tourists visiting in spring, so any time between March and May is perfect. However, autumn (September to December) does not disappoint.