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Beyond the Beaches: Exploring Okinawa’s Natural Wonders and Adventure Activities

Choose the best base and have a wonderful trip to Okinawa Japan

Okinawa prefecture is a breathtakingly beautiful chain of islands that make up the southernmost prefecture of Japan. It is an archipelago of over 160 islands, but only a handful are inhabited.

The main island, which is also known as Okinawa Island, is the largest island and is home to the island’s prefectural capital Naha.

There are direct flights that take about 2 hours and 45 minutes from mainland Japan to Naha Airport. Even for a short period of time on weekends, you can casually experience “Okinawa.”

Okinawa is blessed with stunning natural beauty, with a subtropical climate, white sandy beaches, and a blue ocean. It is a place where you can experience the unique culture and traditions of the Ryukyu Kingdom, which ruled over the islands for centuries before they became a part of Japan.

Uruma City Sea [Photo by Ryo Yoshitake on Unsplash]

Okinawa’s rich history and culture that are different from mainland Japan are evident in its many UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as Shurijo Castle, which was the seat of the Ryukyu Kingdom.

This site offers a glimpse into the past and allows visitors to appreciate the unique blend of East and West that is characteristic of Okinawa.

In addition to its cultural and historical attractions, Okinawa is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The island is a haven for water sports lovers in Japan, with activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking available in abundance.

The island’s colorful coral reefs are home to a wide variety of marine life, including sea turtles and even manta rays!

Okinawa soba you want to eat once during your stay

No matter when you visit, be it summer or winter, Okinawa is sure to leave a lasting impression on you with its stunning coral reefs in the blue oceans, beautiful beaches, and warm hospitality.

If you’re planning a trip to Okinawa, deciding where to stay can be a daunting task. Fortunately, the island has something for everyone, from the north of the island to the southern end, whether you’re looking for a luxurious beachfront resort or a budget-friendly guesthouse.

Let’s divide the major island groups into parts to understand the differences between these areas, so you can choose the best accommodation to suit your sightseeing purposes.

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What kind of place is the main island of Okinawa, Japan?

Okinawa Island is divided into three areas – the northern, central Okinawa, and southern regions – each with its own unique attractions and characteristics.

The southern part of Okinawa Island is home to Naha Airport, the gateway to the island. Direct flights are available from the rest of Japan to this airport.

It is famous for its white sandy beaches and sunny weather. This area is perfect for those looking to relax and unwind, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

If you want to actively visit sightseeing spots, staying in the southern or central Okinawa area is convenient.

Uruma City [Photo by Hiroko Yoshii on Unsplash]

On the other hand, the northern part is more than an hour by car from Naha Airport. It is also where luxury resort hotels are located, and it is for those who want to relax, focusing on hotel stays rather than sightseeing.

Table of contents

• Sightseeing Spots in Southern Okinawa, Japan
• Things to do in Okinawa Island – Chubu
• Okinawa Island – Northern Attractions
• Recommended for those who do not rent a car – Hip Hop Bus Day Tour
• Recommended for those who want to explore freely – Charter

Sightseeing Spots in Southern Okinawa, Japan

Southern Okinawa Island is full of tourist attractions, including Kokusai Street, Okinawa’s premier shopping district, Sefa Utaki, a world heritage power spot, and Shurijo Castle, which is being rebuilt.

In addition to historical places, there are many seasonal spots, such as Senagajima Umikaji Terrace, so you can enjoy just the southern part without getting bored.

It is recommended not only for those who are new to the main island of Okinawa but also for those who want to be active in sightseeing.

Kokusai Street

From the official website of “Naha Kokusaidori Shopping Street”

About 10 minutes by car from the airport. If you take the Japan Okinawa Urban Monorail Line “Yui Rail”, it takes 13 minutes to the nearest station “Kenchomae”.

Kokusai-Dori has not only souvenir shops but also many restaurants and izakayas, so if you like a lively atmosphere, why not stay here?