Bridge between islands in Okinawa, Japan
ISLAND LIFE, JAPAN-STYLE

Cruise to Okinawa (Naha), Japan

The only place in Japan with a subtropical climate, Okinawa radiates a relaxed island vibe, with its sunny skies, clear blue oceans and warm weather year-round. Check out the Ryukyu Mura — a recreation of an old Okinawan village with crafts, foods and festivals — to learn what life was like during the time of the independent Ryukyu Kingdom from the 15th to 19th centuries. Cruise to Okinawa to see the stately pagodas of Ryukyu Castle and the stone ruins of Nakagusuku Castle with its ancient walled courtyards. Head to Okuma Beach on the mainland, or venture out to Miyako Island to see the iconic stone arch at Sunayama Beach and snorkel under the gentle turquoise waves.
National Language Japanese
Currency Accepted Japanese Yen (JPY)

Things To Do in Okinawa (Naha)

Ancient Kyueimon Gate in wall of Shuri Castle in Okinawa, Japan

Live Like a King

Ancient Kyueimon Gate in wall of Shuri Castle in Okinawa, Japan

Ancient Kyueimon Gate in wall of Shuri Castle in Okinawa, Japan

Live Like a King

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shurijo Castle's bright red exterior is instantly striking. Destroyed and rebuilt many times over, this building offers you a sense of life during the Ryukyu Kingdom's golden years. Then, see the former residence of the Japanese king at the Shikinaen Gardens populated by tropical flora.

Beautiful Beach with resort in Okinawa, Japan

Where Sea Meets Sky

Beautiful Beach with resort in Okinawa, Japan

Beautiful Beach with resort in Okinawa, Japan

Where Sea Meets Sky

Explore the depths of the bay at Nami-no-ue Sea and Sky Park. With guided snorkeling tours and diving equipment, you can see 95 types of coral and 53 species of colorful fish. Finish up with a beach party and a barbeque under the golden sun.

A house of traditional construction in Okinawa, Japan
A house of traditional construction in Okinawa, Japan

Okinawan Education

At Ryukyu Mura village, you'll find a recreated village and practical demonstrations of old crafts. The vibrant village welcomes visitors with dances and celebrations of traditional festivals and arts. Complete your day of learning at the Okinawa Prefecture Museum, home to a massive 85,000 artifacts dating to the 12th century.

Bowl of Okinawa Soba Soup with thick noodles in Okinawa, Japan
Bowl of Okinawa Soba Soup with thick noodles in Okinawa, Japan

Local Cuisine

The food here is both distinctly Japanese and uniquely Okinawan, with Chinese and South Asian influences creating a cuisine all its own. Okinawa cruises allow you to try Okinawan soba (actually more reminiscent to udon noodles because they're so thick) served in a ramen-like pork broth and topped with slow-cooked pork spare ribs. Don't miss out on Agu, the Wagyu beef of pork, with its tender texture and sweet flavor.

Traditional Ryukyu Shisa Guardian Lion Clay Pottery in Okinawa, Japan
Traditional Ryukyu Shisa Guardian Lion Clay Pottery in Okinawa, Japan

Shopping

Many craft techniques are unique to Okinawa. Head to Kokusai-Dori (International Street) to browse for Ryukyan glass and lacquerware or colorful Shuri-ori textiles. On Tsuboya Yachimun-Dori Street, you can pick up intricate Tsuboya-yaki pottery — choose between decorative traditional statues or plates, bowls and other home-use items.

Insider's Tips
Insider's Tips
1 If you're here in October, join in the fun of the famous Naha Tug-of-War Festival.
2 If you catch a taxi, the door will open and close for you automatically; there is no need to do it yourself.

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