Okinawa is a colorful tropical archipelago of Japan, where you can discover many interesting things about Japan from classic to modern. Let's find out about the schedule of things to do when coming to Okinawa Island !
Japan is a country with countless beautiful landscapes. Hokkaido in the north and tropical Okinawa in the south. Okinawa is a cluster of many islands and is a top destination for Japanese tourists . So when planning your next tour to Japan, be prepared with summer clothes if Okinawa Island is on your itinerary. With a warm climate, rich culture, and endless tourist activities and attractions, you need a specific schedule so you don't miss any of the fun!
Itinerary of places to visit on Okinawa Island
SHURI CASTLE
If you learn about Japanese history before visiting, you may know that Okinawa was formerly the Ryukyu Kingdom. At the head of the kingdom was the palace, Shuri Castle. Although much of it was destroyed during World War II, it was rebuilt in its original location in 1992. There is no difference between the castle today and the one it once stood decades ago.
- 15 min walk from Shuri Station
- Adults 820 yen, children 620 yen
- Should go in the morning of the first day visiting Okinawa
KOKUSAIDORI ROAD
International Avenue
Kokusaidori Street or International Avenue is known as Naha's entertainment district. Traveling to Okinawa will likely take you to Naha, the capital of the prefecture. This 1.6 km long street cuts through the city and is lined with hundreds of shops perfect for picking up a great souvenir.
- 5 min walk from Kenchomae Station
- Should go in the morning of the first day visiting Okinawa
OKINAWA CHURAUMI AQUARIUM
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
This underwater wonderland was once the world's largest aquarium. With massive tanks and amazing interactive exhibits, it's the perfect stop to learn about the aquatic life around Okinawa. The aquarium is four stories tall and features exhibits of deep sea creatures, corals, tropical fish and sharks, including whale sharks. It's one of the best places to visit on Okinawa.
- 2 hours drive from Naha Airport, 2.5 hours to 3.5 hours bus ride from Naha Airport
- Adults 1,850 Yen, Children 1,230 Yen
- Should go in the afternoon of the first day visiting Okinawa
MAKISHI MARKET
Exploring Makishi Public Market is a truly cultural experience. Also located in the capital city of Naha, this market is a melting pot of cuisines from all over Asia. You’ll find fresher seafood than anywhere else in the area. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, head to the second floor where there are restaurants and other eateries serving local cuisine.
- 10 minutes walk from Miebashi Station
- Should go in the afternoon of the first day visiting Okinawa
TAKETOMI ISLAND
In the Yaeyama Islands, Taketomi Island has a population of less than 400 people. This tiny island is only 5.42 square kilometers in size and is famous for its traditional Okinawan architecture such as houses, stone walls and sand roads. Here you can snorkel and take a ride on a cart pulled by an ox.
- Price for cow tour: Adults 1,200 yen, children 600 yen
- Should go on the morning of the second day to visit Okinawa
MIYAKO ISLAND
Compared to Taketomi Island, Miyako Island is about 158.7 square kilometers. It is a cultural paradise. If you are here, be sure to try the native Okinawan drink Awamori. Awamori is a type of alcohol and it is made from long grain indica rice. The scenery here is definitely a beautiful highlight for those who love taking pictures or simply sightseeing.
- Should go on the afternoon of the 2nd day to visit Okinawa
ISHIGAKI ISLAND
Ishigaki is a city in Okinawa on Ishigaki Island. The city includes the island as well as the famous Senkaku Islands and the mainland. It has a lot of rainfall all year round and is actually considered to be like a tropical rainforest. Here you can try delicious fresh pineapple!
- Should go on the morning of the 3rd day to visit Okinawa
GREEN CAVE
Probably one of the most beautiful underwater spots in Okinawa, Blue Cave is definitely a highlight for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. It is consistently recommended in guidebooks and has been rated as a must-see. The colors and aquatic life on display here are truly unique and are second to none.
- Prices vary depending on the tour, ranging from 2,500 yen to 9,000 yen.
- Should go on the afternoon of the 3rd day to visit Okinawa
RYUKYU VILLAGE
Ryukyu Village is like a theme park to experience and learn about the history of Okinawa. You can enjoy traditional food, see traditional architecture, learn folk songs, and even enjoy a cultural performance. This is a great place to start your adventure in Okinawa - explore and learn!
- 60 minutes by bus from Naha Bus Terminal to Ryukyumuramae Station
- Should go on the morning of the 4th day to visit Okinawa
- Adults 1,200 yen, children 600 yen
MAEHAMA BEACH
With crystal clear waters and white sand beaches, it’s no wonder this beach is ranked as one of the most beautiful in Japan. Stretching for miles along the southwest coast of Miyako Island, the white sand and warm waters make it the best place to relax on the Okinawan island getaway. The vibrant colours here can be overwhelming.
- Should go on Wednesday afternoon to visit Okinawa
What to do in Okinawa Island?
EAT OKINAWA SOBA
Noodle dishes in Japan range from ramen to udon. While on this tropical island, one can enjoy Okinawa soba, pronounced sub suba in the Okinawan dialect. This noodle is similar to standard soba, but has much thicker buckwheat noodles. Depending on the region, the noodles will be rounder or flatter. This is a must-try dish when visiting Okinawa.
EAT JIMAMI TOFU
Jimami Dofu is a unique tofu dish from Okinawa. Regular tofu uses mainly soybeans, while Jimami Dofu combines peanuts. Adding peanuts creates a special texture and a unique flavor that is unique to Okinawa.
GOYA CHAMPURU
Another dish originating from Okinawa, Goya Champuru is an Okinawan stir-fry dish that typically includes Goya (bitter melon), tofu, eggs, and sliced or minced pork. This dish is on the menu at most family restaurants in Okinawa, and you can even find it on the menu at restaurants on the Japanese mainland.
Surely when coming to the tropical island of Okinawa in Japan, you will experience many interesting things. What is special is that you can even sign up for a glass making class and experience it yourself! Prices and times vary according to age and what you want to do, this is the special feature of Japan tours to Okinawa that tourists love!
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