📝 1. Overview
Okinawa is Japan’s tropical escape—where coral reefs meet castle ruins, and the relaxed island rhythm rewrites time. With influences from its Ryukyu Kingdom past, Chinese trade, and American presence, it’s a cultural cocktail with epic beaches, rich traditions, and unforgettable food. Whether you’re snorkeling in emerald coves or strolling through historic towns, Okinawa offers sun-soaked memories all year round.
🌟 2. Highlights
🏖️ Emerald Beaches – Clear waters, white sand, perfect sunsets
🏯 Shurijo Castle – Reconstructed Ryukyu royal history
🪸 Coral Reefs – World-class snorkeling & diving in Kerama & Ishigaki
🥁 Ryukyu Culture – Eisa dance, sanshin music, and local crafts
🥢 Okinawan Cuisine – Goya, taco rice, purple sweet potato dreams
🌴 Island Hopping – From Tokashiki to Miyako to remote paradise
🗺️ 3. Zones in Okinawa
| Zone | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Naha | Okinawa’s capital with markets, museums, Shurijo Castle, and lively streets |
| Central Okinawa | Beach resorts, American Village, snorkeling & family fun |
| Northern Okinawa | Churaumi Aquarium, Cape Manzamo, scenic drives, and lush forests |
| Ishigaki Island | Coral beaches, diving, Kabira Bay, and gateway to Yaeyama Islands |
| Miyako Island | White sand beaches, stunning bridges, and laid-back island vibes |
🎟️ 4. Tickets & Passes – Popular Attractions
| Attraction | Price (Adult) | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Shurijo Castle Park | ¥400–¥1,000 | 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium | ¥2,180 | 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM |
| Cape Manzamo | Free | 24 hours |
| Okinawa World & Gyokusendo Cave | ¥2,000 | 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Ishigaki Island Stargazing Tour | ¥5,000–¥7,000 | Varies (night only) |
| 🟡 Island ferry passes & rental car discounts often available in packages |
💡 5. Tips
🌞 UV is intense—bring sunscreen & a hat
🚙 Rent a car! Public transport is limited outside Naha
🏖️ Best beach seasons = May to October
🛶 Book snorkeling/diving tours early during peak times
🛫 Domestic flights are essential for island hopping beyond Okinawa Main Island
🍽️ 6. Must-Try Foods in Okinawa
🥢 Okinawa Soba – Thick noodles in pork-based broth
🌿 Goya Champuru – Stir-fry with bitter melon, tofu & pork
🌮 Taco Rice – Tex-Mex twist: ground beef + salsa over rice
🍠 Beni-imo Sweets – Purple sweet potato everything
🍹 Orion Beer & Awamori – Okinawan pride in every sip
🏨 7. Hotel Areas (Why Stay Here?)
Naha (Kokusai-dori)
→ Great for first-timers, nightlife, shopping & airport access
Onna / Central Coast
→ Gorgeous beach resorts & marine activity hubs
Ishigaki Island
→ Ideal base for exploring Yaeyama islands & remote paradise
✳️ Also try guesthouses in Kerama, eco-lodges in northern forests, or beachside villas!
🚗 8. Access
📍 From Major Airports
- OKA (Naha Airport) → Naha City: ~15 min
- OKA → Onna area: ~60 min by car
- Miyako Airport → Downtown: ~15 min
- New Ishigaki Airport → Ishigaki City: ~25 min
📍 Getting Around
🚙 Rental car = essential on main island & Miyako
🛥️ Ferries connect nearby islands (Kerama, Tokashiki, Zamami)
🛫 Flights to outlying islands (Ishigaki, Yonaguni, Miyako) daily
🚌 Local buses = okay in cities, limited elsewhere
🌐 9. Contact / Info
🔗 Okinawa Official Travel Guide
📞 Info Line: +81-98-869-1701
📍 Visitor Centers: Naha Airport, Kokusai-dori, Churaumi Aquarium