Things To Do
in Nanjō
Nanjō, Okinawa is a sun-soaked coastal city at the island's southern tip where lush hills meet turquoise seas. It blends serene beaches, sacred Ryukyuan sites, and welcoming, slow-paced Okinawan life. The town serves as a gateway to nature, caves, and cultural landmarks just a short drive from Naha.
With warm weather year-round and friendly locals, Nanjō invites relaxed exploration by car or scooter along scenic coastal roads.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the historic ruins of the Sefa Utaki, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Engage in a serene morning walk among the ancient stones and lush greenery while learning about the sacred rituals that took place here. Enjoy the tranquility before the crowds arrive, taking in the spiritual atmosphere of this important cultural site.
After lunch, head to the nearby Okinawa World, a theme park that showcases traditional Okinawan culture. Explore the limestone caves and witness a captivating performance of the local Eisa dance. Don't forget to try your hand at crafting your own pottery or exploring the traditional craft villages.
As the sun sets, have dinner at a local izakaya where you can savor Okinawan cuisine, including dishes like Rafute and Goya Champuru. The warm atmosphere and friendly locals make for a perfect way to unwind after a busy day. Conclude your evening with a stroll along the beach, soaking in the peaceful sounds of the waves.
Begin your day at Maehama Beach, known for its stunning white sands and crystal-clear waters. Spend the morning swimming and sunbathing, or rent a kayak to explore the coastline. Enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze as you take in the views of the surrounding landscape.
In the afternoon, sign up for some exciting water sports like jet skiing or paddle boarding. The beach offers rental services and friendly instructors to ensure you have a safe and fun experience. After some adrenaline-pumping activities, relax under the sun with a refreshing drink from a beachside café.
As evening approaches, indulge in a beachside barbecue with fresh seafood and local produce. The vibrant sunset over the ocean provides a stunning backdrop for your meal. End your day by joining a beach bonfire, sharing stories and laughter with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍣Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $70-150 |
| 🚆Local transit (single ride or day pass) | $2-5 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful southern coastline with sacred sites and caves
- Relaxed pace of life and friendly locals
- Accessible day trips to nature, caves, and beaches
- Excellent seafood and unique Okinawan cuisine
- Varied landscapes from coastlines to forests
- Public transport can be limited outside Naha; car rental is convenient
- Nightlife is low-key compared to larger cities
- Summer heat and typhoon season require planning
- Some rural eateries and shops may be cash-only
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you very much
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Can you speak English?
- "Doko desu ka?" - Where is this?
- "Menu o onegaishimasu" - Menu please
- "Kore wa ikura desu ka?" - How much is this?
- "Onegaishimasu" - Please (request)
Places to Visit in Nanjō
Visit one of these nice places.
A sacred site perched above the sea with winding paths and dramatic ocean vistas—ideal for tranquil, atmospheric shots at dawn or dusk.
Cliffs, sea spray, and sweeping coastal views; capture dramatic sunsets and limestone formations along the coast.
Illuminated stalactites and stalagmites create surreal interiors perfect for low-light photography.
Ruins set on elevated ground with views over the southern coastline; excellent for panoramic landscape shots.
Food in Nanjō
Nanjō Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Stir-fried bitter melon with tofu, pork, and eggs; a hallmark of Okinawa cuisine found in many local eateries.
Must-Try!
Thick noodle soup with broth that’s lighter than Japan’s typical ramen; topped with pork and scallions.
Slow-braised pork belly in a sweet soy sauce glaze; a staple comfort dish in Okinawa.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh seafood stalls and small eateries offering bite-sized snacks and grilled skewers along the coast.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Speak softly, do not touch sacred objects, and follow posted guidelines; remove hats and avoid large crowds at shrines and utaki.
Remove shoes when entering some homes or traditional inns; bow or nod as a polite greeting.
Dispose of trash thoughtfully; avoid eating while walking in busy areas; use both hands when offering or receiving items in formal settings.
Safety
Tipping in Nanjō
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; a polite thank you is usually sufficient. Some upscale establishments may include a service charge.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in rural areas. Credit cards are commonly accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and tourist spots; ATMs from 7-Eleven and post offices are reliable for foreign cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers and the risk of typhoons. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, and stay hydrated; great for beach days, snorkeling, and vibrant sunsets.
Pleasant temperatures with milder humidity and fewer crowds. Ideal for outdoor hiking, photography with golden light, and coastline cruising.
Mild and mild-to-warm daytime temperatures, often comfortable for sightseeing. Rarely cold, but expect some rain and cool evenings.
Temperate and lush, with occasional showers during tsuyu season. Great for walks, temple visits, and early snorkeling conditions when water is warmer.
Nanjō at Night
Hiking in Nanjō
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hike with panoramic sea views, limestone features, and opportunities for seascape photography.
Gentle ascent to ancient ruins with sweeping outlooks over the southern coast and ocean.
Airports
How to reach Nanjō by plane.
Main gateway to Okinawa; international and domestic flights; about a 40–60 minute drive to central Nanjo depending on traffic.
Yaeyama Islands gateway; domestic connections from OKA that are useful for island-hopping near Okinawa’s outer regions.
Gate to the Miyako Islands; convenient for multi-island itineraries starting from Okinawa's main hub.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Aging population common to rural Okinawa, with a strong sense of community, family ties, and local traditions; growing presence of visitors and part-time residents.
Local families and schools contribute to a family-friendly atmosphere; cultural events and markets provide regular activities.
Year-round visitors drawn to beaches, caves, and cultural sites; small numbers of expatriates contribute to a multicultural vibe in some cafes and lodgings.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple in schools and local leagues; many fields across Okinawa host games and practices.
Longstanding Ryukyuan martial art tradition; lessons and demonstrations are common in coastal towns.
Widely played in youth clubs and regional teams; local matches can be found seasonally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nanjō.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Okinawan dishes rely on pork and seafood; look for vegetarian options like tofu dishes, steamed vegetables, and rice bowls; ask for basic veggie options and avoid dashi if needed.