Curator’s statement
Okinawa is a Japanese prefecture comprising over 150 islands in the East China Sea and Pacific Ocean. It’s closer to Taipei than Tokyo and known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, comfort food and rich history and heritage. The main island, also called Okinawa, is known for being one of the “blue zones” where a larger percentage of the population live past age 100. Okinawa is also influenced by American culture as it was a fierce battleground at the end of World War 2 and was placed under the control of the US for over 25 years. Okinawa is a unique way of life for locals and a wonderful slice of paradise for Tokyo-ites escaping city life or western tourists who want to venture beyond Hawaii and the Caribbean or who are exploring beyond other Asian destinations.
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Where to stay in Okinawa, Japan
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Things to do in Okinawa, Japan
The snorkeling is amazing here with the many coral reefs that are rich in marine life. The water is crystal clear and shallow near many beaches on the Okinawan islands. Popular spots where you can spot exotic marine life and sea turtles are the Blue Cave in Okinawa, the Hatenohama sandbar off Kume Island, Kabira Bay off Ishigaki Island and the Yabiji Reef off Miyako Island.
Unique diving and snorkeling is available on several islands here. There is cave diving at Miyako Island, manta rays off Ishigaki Island and gorgeous seascapes and marine diving and snorkeling from the Kerama Islands just to name a few.
Ocean sports like kayaking, surfing, paddleboarding and jet-skiing are all available on this island.
Spend a day checking out the main city of Naha. Walk along Tsuboya Yachimin street where you can find cute, local pottery shops and cafes perfect to find a traditional tea cup to bring home. Wander Mashiki Market where you can see the many varieties of freshly caught seafood and the alleyways around the market where you’ll find local restaurants, shops, cafes and vintage stores. Then head to Kokusai-dori, the main street in the center of Okinawa for souvenir shopping and a snack. You can even dress up and do a go-kart tour around Naha, or learn about Okinawan Karate.
Visit the Okinawa Churami Aquarium, Cape Manzamo for views of the rocky cliffs overlooking the sea (one resembling an elephant), Shuri Castle, Okinawa Peace Memorial Park or American Village for shopping and a meal.
Places to eat & drink in Okinawa, Japan
People love to travel to Okinawa for the local cuisine, which is basically Japanese food with a comforting, local twist. Here are some favorites on the main island of Okinawa:
Kou Shabu Shabu is one of my favorites in Okinawa for dipping high quality grade A3-A5 local Okinawan thinly sliced beef and vegetables in clear boiling broth, then in sesame and ponzu sauces. The service is very good and the side dishes are delicious.
Mikado - a small local restaurant serving up delicious local dishes - the Katsudon (Chicken cutlet, egg and vegetable rice bowl) is fresh and flavorful and so is the garlic beef and tofu dish. So cheap and so good!
Explore Makishi Market, order some ultra fresh seafood and they will have the upstairs restaurants cook your catch up fresh for you.
Stroll along Tsuboya Yachimun (pottery) street and stop by cute and cozy Uchina Cafe Buku Buku for the yummiest Matcha or Brown Sugar Zenzai (shaved ice with sweet red beans) and Buku Buki hot tea with foam (comes with peanut cookies).
Nuchigafu is a lovely restaurant with an authentic ambiance and kind service in Naha, a neighborhood known for pottery.
Daichibin is a very good izakaya, go for a course meal or delicious side dishes, sake and beer.
Try some yummy nori wrapped rice and spam sandwiches at Po in the American Village. The Tofu Miso Spam and Egg combo is amazing!
If you are driving up the coast from Naha, stop by Beachy Okinawa for delectable lobster sandwiches, ocean themed drinks and dessert. This cafe is super cute!
Need to know
Although Japanese is spoken and the yen is used as currency, Okinawa has a distinct culture and heritage and a more relaxed vibe than on the mainland; it's yet another unique and beautiful destination to explore and fall in love with in your travels throughout Japan.
Travel Advisor
Cindy Rhee
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Japan.