Things To Do
in Okinawa
Okinawa, Japan is a subtropical archipelago known for its clear waters, coral reefs, and distinct Ryukyuan heritage. The main island centers on Naha, a lively hub of markets, historic sites, and gateway to nearby isles. Visitors can enjoy pristine beaches, world-class diving, and a culinary scene that blends Japanese, Chinese, and island flavors.
Expect warm hospitality, a relaxed pace, and opportunities to explore lush forests, caves, and turquoise seas.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Shuri Castle, an important UNESCO World Heritage site. As you wander through the vibrant red gates and sprawling gardens, immerse yourself in the Ryukyu Kingdom's rich history. Enjoy the stunning views of Naha city from the castle's elevated position.
After lunch at a nearby local restaurant, explore the charming streets of Shuri, where you can find traditional crafts and souvenirs. Visit the Shurikinzan Yaki pottery village to witness artisans at work and perhaps try your hand at making your own piece. Conclude your afternoon with a leisurely stroll through the lush Shuri Ryusen Garden.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional Okinawan izakaya for dinner, where you can savor unique dishes like Okinawa soba and goya champuru. Afterward, enjoy a performance of traditional Okinawan music and dance at a local venue. Let the warm atmosphere of the evening and the rich cultural experiences linger in your memory.
Set off early for a boat trip to the Kerama Islands, known for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Upon arrival, don your snorkeling gear and dive into the underwater paradise, discovering colorful coral reefs and schools of tropical fish. The tranquil atmosphere of the islands will refresh your spirit as you soak in the beauty of nature.
After an exhilarating morning of snorkeling, enjoy a beach picnic on one of the beautiful sandy shores. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, swimming, or taking a kayak out to explore the coastline. Capture the stunning views and serene environment, perfect for unwinding and appreciating the natural landscape.
As evening approaches, return to Okinawa and freshen up to head out for dinner. Treat yourself to a seafood feast at a local restaurant, featuring fresh catches from the surrounding waters. End your day by watching the sunset over the ocean, a perfect conclusion to an adventure-filled day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏨Hotel per night | $80-180 |
| 🏖️Beach towel rental | $5-10 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm climate and friendly locals
- Rich Ryukyuan culture and food
- Beautiful beaches and world-class diving
- Heat and humidity in summer
- Language barriers in rural areas
- Some sites require transport by car or bus
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "お願いします" - Please
- "日本語を話せますか？" - Do you speak Japanese?
- "いくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "どこですか？" - Where is it?
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Okinawa
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic cliff arch and turquoise water ideal for sunset landscape photography.
Twin white beaches connected by a bridge; iconic shots of the sea and a heart-shaped rock formation.
Historic Ryukyu-era fortress ruins with red walls and torii-like structures.
The expansive Kuroshio Sea tank and the coral-colored shoreline provide dramatic coastal images.
Ancient fortress ruins perched on a hillside with sweeping ocean views.
Stalactite caves with dramatic lighting and striking formations.
Food in Okinawa
Okinawa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick, chewy noodles in a pork-based broth with tender braised pork and scallions.
Must-Try!
A stir-fry of bitter melon (goya), tofu, egg, and pork or Spam.
Braised Okinawan pork belly in a sweet-soy glaze.
A fusion dish from American influence: seasoned ground beef, cheese, lettuce, and salsa served over rice.
Premium pork from the Okinawa islands, often prepared as tonkatsu or grilled.
Sweet deep-fried Okinawan doughnuts, a beloved snack.
Slimy, vine-like seaweed often served with a light ponzu and sesame.
Juicy green pearls that pop with a briny sweetness; best eaten fresh with ponzu.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Naha’s culinary hub where you can shop ingredients and sample freshly prepared dishes in nearby eateries.
Street stalls offer goya chips, sata andagi, and fresh tropical fruit with regional twists.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly and behave quietly at religious and historic sites like Shuri Castle and Sefa Utaki.
Keep voices down in public spaces, avoid loud behavior, and queue patiently.
In homes and some traditional accommodations you may be asked to remove shoes; follow host cues.
Safety
Tipping in Okinawa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; exceptional service is included in price; you may leave small change for hotel staff at your discretion.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are common in cities and larger establishments; some rural spots may be cash-only; consider an overseas ATM card for withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures; blooming cherries in parts of the main island; great for hiking Yanbaru early mornings.
Hot and humid with frequent showers; typhoon season potential; perfect for beaches, snorkeling, and water activities.
Mild, less humid; ideal for outdoor exploration and cultural sites.
Mild and comfortable, rarely below 10°C at night; good for whale watching and inland sightseeing.
Okinawa at Night
Hiking in Okinawa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate hike to Okinawa’s highest peak on the main island, in Yanbaru forest.
Forest trail to a scenic waterfall in northern Okinawa; lush scenery and streams.
A network of trails through the northern rainforest offering wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Okinawa by plane.
Main gateway to Okinawa Island; numerous domestic and international flights; easy access to Naha city by monorail or taxi.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents with a distinct Ryukyuan heritage, cuisine, and language influences.
A notable percentage of residents affiliated with U.S. bases and personnel in the region.
A rising number of visitors from East Asia, Europe, and North America exploring beaches and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among locals and school teams; many parks host games and workouts.
Enjoy matches or casual play at community fields.
Okinawa is the birthplace of karate; you can visit dojos and culture centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Okinawa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Okinawan dishes rely on pork or fish; look for tofu and vegetable plates, request dashi-free broth, and ask for vegetarian options when dining.