Things To Do
in Itoman
Itoman is a coastal city at the southern tip of Okinawa Island, offering a relaxed pace, beautiful sea views, and a deep sense of Ryukyuan history. The city blends quiet residential streets with scenic beaches, fishing harbors, and historic memorial sites. Itoman is known for fresh seafood, accessible nature, and meaningful WWII and peace-related landmarks such as the Himeyuri Peace Memorial.
Visitors come to soak in coastal sunsets, learn about Okinawan culture, and enjoy easy day trips from Naha.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Naha Airport and take a scenic drive to Itoman, enjoying the beautiful coastal views along the way. Check into your accommodation and freshen up before diving into the local culture. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, trying out traditional Okinawan dishes.
Visit the Itoman Peace Memorial Park to learn about the history of the Battle of Okinawa. Take time to reflect amidst the serene gardens and monuments that honor those who lost their lives. Capture photographs of the stunning ocean vistas that surround the park.
Dine at a local izakaya, savoring Okinawan delicacies like goya champuru and taco rice. Experience the vibrant atmosphere as locals gather for food and drinks, sharing stories and laughter. Stroll along the Itoman waterfront, taking in the evening breeze and the sound of waves.
Spend the morning exploring Okinawa World, a theme park dedicated to Okinawan culture and traditions. Discover the stunning limestone caves of Gyokusendo, home to enchanting rock formations. Engage in traditional crafts, such as weaving and pottery making.
Enjoy a taste of Okinawa by sampling the local cuisine at the park's eateries, including the famous Okinawa soba. Attend a cultural performance showcasing traditional Okinawan dance and music, immersing yourself further into the island's heritage. Spend some time wandering through the various exhibits, learning about local history and artistry.
Finish the day at a local restaurant known for its fresh seafood, indulging in dishes like grilled fish and tempura. Engage with locals and fellow travelers as you enjoy your meal, exchanging tips and stories. Take a quiet walk back to your accommodation under the starry sky, appreciating the peace of Itoman.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee in town | $2-5 |
| 🚌Local transit day pass | $6-8 |
| 🛒Groceries for a day | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and relaxed pace
- Rich Okinawan culture and memorial sites
- Fresh seafood and local cuisine
- Easy day-trips from Naha
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some areas can be quieter and harder to reach without a car
- Language barrier in small shops may exist
- Seasonal typhoons limit outdoor plans
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you very much
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Koko wa doko desu ka?" - Where is this place?
- "Onegaishimasu" - Please
Places to Visit in Itoman
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide ocean panoramas with memorials, creating solemn, sweeping compositions at sunrise or sunset.
Cliffs, turquoise water, and dramatic coastline—great for wide-angle seascapes and golden-hour shots.
Early-morning activity with colorful boats and nets, ideal for vibrant, candid harbor photography.
Historic site with elevated viewpoints over the sea and surrounding fields—nice for atmospheric landscape shots.
Food in Itoman
Itoman Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-braised Okinawan pork belly that melts in your mouth, typically served with a shallow soy-sugar glaze.
Must-Try!
Thick wheat noodles in a pork-based broth, sometimes topped with chashu and beni shoga for a comforting bowl.
A hearty stir-fry featuring bitter melon, tofu, egg, and sometimes pork or spam—classic Okinawan comfort food.
Delicate seaweed pearls that pop with ocean sweetness, often served with salt or ponzu for dipping.
Deep-fried Okinawan donuts with a dense, sweet crumb—perfect as a dessert or snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh seafood, produce, and ready-to-eat bites with a seaside atmosphere.
A harbor-side market where you can sample or purchase fresh catches and simple seafood snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Speak softly on trains and public areas; avoid loud conversations to respect others.
Remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional venues or accommodations.
If visiting a home, bringing a small gift is appreciated but not required.
Safety
Tipping in Itoman
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; many service charges are included. If you feel compelled, a small amount is acceptable in high-end establishments, but not expected in standard venues.
Cash is widely used at markets and smaller eateries. Major credit cards are common at hotels, larger restaurants, and tourist-focused spots. Some smaller venues may accept only cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent showers and a risk of typhoons. Water activities are excellent, and sunsets are long-lasting. Stay hydrated and carry sun protection.
Pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds. Improved visibility for outdoor photography and comfortable hiking conditions.
Mild and dry by Okinawan standards; daytime highs in the teens to low 20s Celsius. Great for sightseeing and coastal walks without the heat.
Warm days with blooming flora and comfortable humidity. Ideal for outdoor exploring and photography along the coast.
Itoman at Night
Hiking in Itoman
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trail with rugged cliffs and sea views, suitable for a short to moderate hike near Mabuni Beach.
Hilly path around the ruins offering sweeping ocean panoramas and historical ambiance.
Airports
How to reach Itoman by plane.
Main Okinawa international gateway; about 40-60 minutes by car from Itoman; connects to Japan and international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Traditional communities with family-oriented culture and strong ties to heritage.
Common residents in southern Okinawa seeking a slower pace and coastal lifestyle.
People from Naha and beyond visiting for beaches, memorials, and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular on Mabuni Beach and other southern beaches due to consistent waves.
A beloved sport in Okinawa with local leagues and youth programs.
Okinawan karate culture is strong here, with schools and demonstrations across the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Itoman.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for dishes centered on tofu, goya, and vegetables. Request meat-free dashi or broth if needed, and ask for rice or noodle-based dishes without pork stock.