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6 Reasons to Get You Planning for an Okinawa Trip ASAP
For many, Tokyo’s the first place that comes to mind when it comes to Japan. With its bright lights, incredible skyscrapers, and iconic spots, it’s easy to forget that the country actually has something beyond the metropolis: a tropical side that’s just brimming with great food, incredible weather, and of course — thrilling activities.
Being the only subtropical region of the country, expect humid summers and mildly cold winters during your trip to Okinawa Prefecture. Now pair that up with its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and thriving wildlife, and you’re sure to enter a tropical paradise as you’ve never had before. If that’s not enough to excite you, we’ll give you even more reasons that will!
New massive theme park Junglia Okinawa to open this July!
Photo Credit：JUNGLIA
A new exciting theme park is opening in northern Okinawa Prefecture this July 25th! From a heart-pounding Dinosaur Safari experience to a luxurious spa amidst the breathtaking subtropical beauty of Okinawa, this exciting 70-billion-yen ($451.1 million USD) theme park is set to become the go-to destination for both locals and visitors.
Photo Credit: JUNGLIA
The new theme park in Okinawa will have 22 incredible attractions, including the exhilarating Dinosaur Safari where you’ll feel the rush of narrowly escaping predators in off-road vehicles, a scenic Horizon Balloon ride offering incredible panoramic views, and restaurants with equally jaw-dropping views that will feature local Okinawa ingredients.
Photo Credit：JUNGLIA
Spearheaded by Tsuyoshi Morioka, who’s also known to have a significant role behind Universal Studios Japan’s revitalization, Junglia Okinawa is poised to redefine the theme park experience and create unforgettable memories. Domestic prices have been revealed, with One-day passes set at 6,930 YEN (~ 45 USD) for persons 12 years and over, and 4,950 YEN (~ 32 USD) for children under 12.
Where to get Junglia Okinawa tickets
You can book your tickets on Klook as early as now!
Klook Tip: Be sure to differentiate “Okinawa Prefecture” from “Okinawa Islands”. Okinawa Prefecture comprises three major island groups: Okinawa Islands, Miyako Islands, and Yaeyama Islands.
To help you distinguish between Okinawa Prefecture and Okinawa Islands, we’ve separated our Okinawa guide into two parts: things you can do in Okinawa Islands and things you can do outside of it.
Things to do in Okinawa Islands
Okinawa Islands, also known as Okinawa Shoto, is the prefecture’s main island and is home to its capital, Naha. It’s the busiest of the entire prefecture and has more than half of the Okinawa population, so you can expect it to be more urbanized compared to the rest of the islands. While they do have public transportation, both locals and tourists alike prefer to use cars, because the lone rail system in the entire prefecture, the Yui Rail, runs only through Naha and Uraso.
Klook Tip: You can rent cars in Okinawa on Klook! Enjoy a scenic drive and get to more areas at your own pace.
Before we get to the reasons, what’s a trip without food?? If you want to experience Okinawan cuisine, you should stop by Makishi Public Market for a taste of Okinawa’s freshest seafood, fruits in season, and a selection of meats. There are also eateries where you can eat local favorites like sōki soba (tender pork ribs, egg noodles, and pork broth).
Now, here are six reasons to get you excited about a trip to Okinawa!
1. Witness the giants of the sea firsthand while whale watching in Okinawa
Every winter from December to April, you’ll be able to see the massive and awe-inspiring humpback whales as they break through the surface of Okinawa’s waters. During this time, the whales travel to Okinawa to give birth and raise their young, giving you a better chance of encountering them. They’re one of the largest mammals in the world, so seeing them make waves and enormous splashes with your own eyes is quite a sight to behold.
Klook Tip: Although the chances of it are low, don’t worry if you weren’t able to see any whales during your trip — you can get a re-challenge coupon or a full refund.
Book your Okinawa Whale Watching Tour now!
2. Eat your own catch at Okinawa’s deep blue waters and explore the mangroves
One of the only two prefectures in Japan that has mangroves (the other being Kagoshima), you have to experience its mangrove forests at least once! A fun way of doing so is through kayaking, a calming experience that gives you a close-up look into Okinawa’s unique flora and fauna.
If you like, you could also try fishing at the sea nearby — it’s optional and you don’t need any prior fishing experience. You’ll get to fish at Okinawa’s famous blue waters and even eat your very own catch!
Klook Tip: If you love sunsets, you have to witness an Okinawa one through the Sunset Kayak Experience. It’s a whole experience in itself that you should try at least once in your life.
Book your kayaking and fishing experience now!
3. Explore mangroves on a paddle board at Hijya River
Apart from kayaking, stand-up paddle boards (SUP) are also a great way to explore mangroves. Don’t be nervous if it’s your first time on a paddle board — it’s totally beginner friendly. There will also be a guide to teach you how to balance on the board, stop, change directions, and all the other basics.
Once you get familiar with it, you’ll then be guided through the Hijya River and see all kinds of creatures like fiddler crabs and wild birds that perch on the many branches. The calm waters and nature sounds will give you one of the best nature experiences you’ll encounter.
Discover Okinawa’s mangroves with Klook!
Things to do outside Okinawa Islands
South of Okinawa Prefecture are the Miyako Islands and the Yaeyama Islands, each has their own must-try experiences you would not want to miss.
For those who absolutely love snorkeling, Miyako is a must. Here you’ll find Yoshino Beach, a well-known snorkeling spot where there are a lot of colorful fish and large coral reefs that you have to see for yourself.
Klook Tip: If you reach the high tide, you’ll have a good chance of swimming alongside the sea turtles!
Further south are the Yaeyama Islands, where you’ll find Ishigaki City, the most urbanized area of Yaeyama and your gateway to the rest of its islands. To truly experience the charm of rural life, try to go around on foot, especially in the smaller islands of Yaeyama.
4. Hop on a segway and explore Ishigaki’s Banna Park
A sprawling forest in Ishigaki, Banna Park will make you feel totally immersed in nature. Hear all the sounds of nature as intended, with no obstructions and no loud industrial noises. To be able to get around the massive park, we highly recommend a segway tour. The route passes through a 100m suspension bridge and goes through the forests of Mt. Omoto, one of the most scenic spots in Ishigaki. Your guide will also be sharing interesting facts about the species that reside there while you can hear all kinds of the park’s creatures. You’ll also have time to explore on your own with your futuristic segway afterward!
Klook Tip: New to segways? No problem! The guides on-site will help you get the hang of it before the actual activity.
Discover Banna Park on a segway!
5. Go on a night jungle tour under the brightest stars in Ishigaki
If you’re thinking of what to do in Ishigaki, a night jungle tour is definitely worth a spot in your itinerary. There are many sights, sounds, and animals that you won’t find during the daytime — here you’ll get a chance to see Japan’s massive coconut crabs and enjoy the starry night sky at its brightest, with no large street lights to dim their sparkle.
Book a Star and Jungle Night Experience in Ishigaki or Iriomote
6. Experience a trekking and kayaking adventure to Sangara Falls
If you’re into hiking and or looking for more physical activities, you should try a trekking and kayaking adventure to Sangara Falls. Though it’s a bit more physical compared to other tourist activities, you’ll be rewarded with an immersive experience that brings you as close to nature as possible. The adventure starts with a guided kayak ride through the mangrove river. You’ll then reach the lush green forest where you’ll start getting in some steps and trek for about 20-30 minutes. Trust us, it will definitely be worth it! You’ll eventually reach Sangara Falls and have a well-deserved Japanese meal by the tranquil waters.
A Short Guide to Booking a Klook Car Rental and Driving Abroad
The Joy of Driving Abroad
One of the greatest things about going on adventures is the joy of exploration, the thrill of making stops along the way and discovering points of interest and places to visit as you follow the path to your primary destination. It’s even better when you’re behind the wheel and out of the blue, a landmark or vista catches your attention and you make an unplanned stop to take it all in.
Photo credit: @tekhnika on Pixabay
This is why, if you know how to drive, we recommend that you book a car rental for your trip abroad, especially if you have a flexible itinerary or no itinerary at all! Taking the wheel and driving on a foreign open road instills an unmatched sense of freedom and a feeling of wanting to take what may come along during your journey. There’s also the convenience of not having to worry about lining up for public transportation, or missing out on stops on the way because you’re stuck on a one-way ride to somewhere. So, consider driving abroad to enrich your adventures! Book on Klook and pick the car that’s perfect for you and/or your group!
Klook Car Rentals and How to Book ’em
Now, you’re probably wondering “Okay, how do I book a car to drive in whatever country I’m visiting?” Don’t worry! Klook has a system that allows you to book a car rental with ease!
Step 1: On the Klook homepage, click or tap on “Car rentals”
Step 2: Click on “International” to indicate the city and specific location where you’ll pick up and return the car rental. You may also return the car at another location. Click on “Return car to a different location” if you’re going to do so.
Step 3: Input your pick-up location and the drop-off location (the cities and the actual locations). If you’re not returning the car to another location, then the drop-off location will be the same as your pick-up location. Also select your age/age range!
Step 4: Select the number of days you’ll be renting the car, then click on “Search.”
Step 5: You’ll be brought to a page where you’ll see a roster of cars up for rent! It’ll indicate the number of seats in a car, how many suitcases each one can fit, if they’re automatic or not, and more!
There’s also a sidebar for you to help filter your preferences, from choosing to pay now or pay at pick-up, suppliers, insurance, seats, features, and service options!
Step 6: You will see a summary of your pick so far! It even automatically calculates the full price of your rental, depending on the number of days you indicated!
Below the summary, you’ll see information about what your rental will come with, plus, you can customize your package by picking if you want the car to have a full tank, if you want to pay now or at pick-up, and you can select which add-ons you want!
Whether you’re a local resident or not, there are also reminders on what you need to bring in order to pick up your car rental, age restrictions, and self-driving precautions
Step 7: After you’re done selecting your rental details and add-ons, the next step is to fill out your Driver Information, your Contact Information, and even your flight number (just in case there are any delays with your flight).
Step 8: Last thing you have to do is pay for your rental! Then, you’re all set to pick it up!
Applying for International Driver’s License
Photo credit: @Robfoto on Pixabay
If you look at the Terms & Conditions picture, you’ll notice that you’ll be required to bring an international driver’s license, also known as International Driving Permit. The IDP is the most important thing you’ll need to have with you at all times when driving internationally.
What is an International Driver’s License?
An International Driver’s License is a nifty permit that contains your name, photo, and your driving information translated into several languages so road authorities from all over the world can easily read it. It also certifies that you hold a valid driver’s license in your homeland and indicates what types of vehicle you’re allowed to drive.
How to get International Driver’s License?
Applying for an International Driver’s License is relatively easy! The general requirements are:
- An official driver’s license from your homeland (first and foremost requirement!)
- Two or three copies of an ID photo (not photocopies!)
- Cash/credit card/check for the International Driver’s License fee
These may not be the only requirements for you. The requirements will depend on your country of origin, so best to check with your local IDP-issuing company/group.