23 Things to Do in Okinawa: Crystal-Clear Blue Seas and a Deep Dive into the Culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom

If you’re planning a trip to Okinawa, the best time to go is July and August, when the ocean is at its clearest and most beautiful.
It’s also the perfect season to enjoy marine activities and experience traditional Okinawan festivals.
If possible, try to plan your visit during this peak season to make the most of what Okinawa has to offer.

Okinawa is home to Naha Airport, which makes it easily accessible from major Japanese cities like Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka—all just about a 2-hour flight away.
The airport also handles international flights, making it an easy destination to access from abroad.
Another great perk is the availability of airport limousine buses that connect Naha Airport to major tourist areas across the island.

“Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium” is a popular tourist spot, located in Okinawa’s Kaiyohaku Park. If you take the building’s escalator down from the 4th floor to the 3rd, you’ll find yourself at the entrance to the aquarium. The aquarium is designed as a “deep dive” into the ocean as you go down to the 2nd and 1st floors, so as you descend, a magnificent world filled with mysterious Okinawan ocean creatures unfolds before you!

Shurijo is a proud Okinawan icon whose brightly-painted vermillion walls also make it the only red castle in Japan.
The castle served as the esteemed seat of politics, trade and culture for the Ryukyu Kingdom that existed during the 450 years between 1429 and 1879.
It sits atop the hill overlooking Naha City, surrounded by curving walls.

This is the highest sacred site of the Ryukyu Kingdom, located in the mountains of Chinen Kudeken, Nanjo City, in the southern part of Okinawa's main island. As a forest where the gods descend, important rituals and ceremonies were held, including the inauguration ceremony of the kingdom's supreme divinity, Kikoe Ogimi, called "Oaraori”. It was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000, and is a component of the "Gusuku and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu".

Cape Maeda is located in Onna, a village on the northern part of Okinawa’s main island.
The cave beneath the cliff that faces the sea is known as “Ao no Dokutsu”, or “Blue Cave”, because the sunlight shining through it lights it up in shades of blue. Whether diving or snorkeling this is one of the hottest spots to visit on Okinawa’s main island.
Glittering sapphire-blue waters await at this stunning escape.

As the name implies, this ancient shrine stands on a quay overhanging the blue sea, and is affectionately known as "Nanmin-san" by the local people.
The origin of the shrine is unknown, but it is believed to have originated as a place of worship where people prayed to the gods of "Nirai Kanai", a utopia believed to lie beyond the sea, for good catches and harvest.
The vermilion worship hall, with its Okinawan tropical atmosphere, is a must-see.

This theme park, established in 1992, specializes in pineapples. Visitors can appreciate pineapple fields, colorful flowers, and jungle-like plants, and learn about the history of pineapples in Okinawa through lectures and materials about pineapples.

The largest cultural facility in the prefecture that combines a museum and an art gallery, affectionately known as Okimyu.
The museum's theme is "Living in the Sea and on the Islands" and unravels the nature, history, and culture of Okinawa. Beginning with the approach with coral reefs underfoot, visitors can learn about the birth and fall of the Ryukyu Kingdom, from postwar Okinawa to the future. Another highlight is the outdoor exhibit with traditional takakura and minka houses.

This theme park condenses the charms of Okinawa and is very popular among tourists from both inside and outside Japan. The largest limestone cave in Okinawa, Gyokusendo Cave, was created over 300,000 years ago, and it's more than one million stalactites reaffirm the mystery and grandeur of nature. In addition to Gyokusendo Cave, there are many other attractions such as "Ryukyu Kingdom Castle Town," where old houses registered as national tangible cultural properties stand side by side, and "Tropical Fruit Garden," where rare tropical fruits such as Shikuwasa and lychee are cultivated.

This mausoleum was built in 1501 during the reign of King Shōshin, the most powerful king of the Ryukyu Kingdom. The tomb is a huge stone structure modeled after Shuri Castle, and is characterized by the fact that the tomb chamber where the remains are buried is divided into three sections on the east and west sides. The remains of the tomb, including the Tamaudun-hi inscribed with the names of royal family members who rest in the tomb, remain as they were when the tomb was built in 1501.

The Kouri Bridge, inaugurated in 2005, is a remote island bridge spanning 1,960 meters, connecting Yagaji Island in Nago City and Kouri Island. As the second-longest bridge in Okinawa that can be crossed for free, it is renowned for the breathtaking view of the emerald-green sea stretching on both sides. This makes it not only a popular drive route but also a highly sought-after scenic spot.

Manzamo remains one of Okinawa’s most coveted, scenic destinations at its spot along the coast of the East China Sea in Onna Village, a town near the heart of Okinawa Island. The name "Manzamo" comes from the Ryukyu word for "field”, and it is said that in 1726, King Sho Kei of the Ryukyu Kingdom praised the area, saying it was "large enough to seat ten thousand people”.

Located about a 5-minute drive from the Churaumi Aquarium in Ocean Expo Park, this picturesque path runs through the traditional village of Bise, known for its grid-like layout. Stretching approximately 1 kilometer, the path is flanked by thousands of Fukugi trees standing 10 to 20 meters tall, creating an enchanting atmosphere brimming with Ryukyuan charm.

RyukyuMura is a theme park that recreates an old Ryukyu village, chock full of authentic experiences including folk songs and performing arts.
Traditional Okinawan houses relocated from various parts of the prefecture line the park, offering hands-on programs popular among visitors like Shisa (lion-dog) painting, Okinawan glass kaleidoscope workshops, crafting coral photo frames, and dressing up in Ryukyu costumes, allowing for an immersive experience into Okinawan culture. Trendy activities like real treasure hunts and puzzle-solving escape games are also available.

A permanent exhibition by the renowned art collective teamLab, known for its innovative works showcased both in Japan and internationally. Centered around the concept of "collaborative creativity and co-creation," this interactive digital art space invites families, friends and all in between to get lost together in an ever-evolving world of art.

Set your sights on Uruma City in central Okinawa for Bios no Oka, a natural botanical garden easily accessible from the resort area of Onna Village. Inside the garden you’ll find a lush, subtropical forest escape where ferns thrive and vibrant orchids bloom for a picture-perfect snapshot of the regions unique and natural flora.

Located in the northern part of Okinawa Main Island, on the Motobu Peninsula, these ruins were once the residence of the king of Hokuzan during the Sanzan Period, when Ryukyu was divided into three regions: Hokuzan, Chuzan, and Nanzan, each vying for power. The castle, believed to have been constructed in the 13th century, was registered as a World Cultural Heritage site in 2000 as part of the "Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu."

Located in the central region of Okinawa’s main island, atop the hills of the Katsuren Peninsula, these castle ruins are renowned as the former residence of Amawari, a 15th-century lord who brought prosperity to Katsuren through overseas trade. In 2000, the site was designated a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.

Senaga Island with a 1.8km circumference is connected to Naha Airport with a marine road. This is where a multi resort facility stands. White buildings line the slope facing the emerald green ocean. It looks like a little town. The beauty was designed after the European resorts such as the Amalfi Coast in Italy and Santorini Island on the Aegean Sea.

This largest outdoor botanical garden in Japan hosts more than 50,000 plants in nearly 1,300 species. The tropical scenery lasts throughout the year here. The Water Paradise and Botanical Garden on the premises show off precious tropical and subtropical plants. The rare species on the mainland of Japan are a must-see, such as Baobab seen on savannas like in Africa, Lotus in June and July blooming at the sunrise with fragrant scent, and Dragon Blood Tree with long life reaching the height of 10-20m. The Alexander Palms seen along the path grow only in green houses on the mainland. You can see them outdoors only here in Japan.

Yachimun, Okinawa's distinctive pottery with a history of over 300 years, dates back to the Ryukyu Kingdom era. The journey of Tsuboya, its famous production area, began in 1682 when the Ryukyu royal government consolidated various kilns scattered around the region into this locality.

Valley of Gangala, located in the southern part of Okinawa’s main island, was formed when a large limestone cave collapsed hundreds of thousands of years ago to reveal a vast valley. The roughly 1-kilometer trail winds through a subtropical forest grown over a millennia, giving visitors a full taste of the grandeur of nature in time.

The Battle of Okinawa claimed many victims during the Pacific War. Himeyuri Tower is a memorial to the Himeyuri students and teachers who died in the Battle of Okinawa, and was built in Itoman City, where the battle ended.

Located just a 20-minute drive from Naha Airport, DMM Kariyushi Aquarium opened in 2020 in the ever-popular "Toyosaki Town" area, home to beaches, resorts, and shopping facilities. The aquarium is designed around the concept of providing "zero-distance wonder and immersive experiences”, so you can get even closer to beauty of nature and marine life via innovative displays.

The Miyako Archipelago is located in the middle of the Ryukyu Arc that arcs from Okinawa Island to Ishigaki and Iriomote Islands. Miyako Island is the main island among eight islands of various sizes, including Ikema Island and Ogami Island. The main attraction of Miyakojima is its beautiful ocean, which is outstandingly beautiful even in Okinawa. It is famous for its clear emerald green and cobalt blue waters, and is a popular spot for diving, snorkeling, and other marine sports.

Ishigaki Island is a main island of Yaeyama islands in located approximately 400 km southwest of Okinawa main island in the East China Sea. It takes about a 50-minute flight from Okinawa main island. The 3rd largest island of Okinawa Prefecture followed by Okinawa main island and Iriomote Island, and the mild climate and crystal-clear water characteristic of tropical countries are attractive. It is famous for attracting many divers from all over the world who are fascinated by its beauty.

Taketomi Island, which is included in Taketomi Town belonging to the Yaeyama Islands in Okinawa Prefecture, is a small island with a circumference of only 9.2 km.
Three villages on the island (Nishi Village, Higashi Village, and Nakasuji Village) are registered as Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings.

Located in a residential area a short walk from Shurijo Castle, this famous restaurant is popular among locals for its Okinawan soba noodles, with a long line of customers waiting in line before the restaurant opens.

Established across Okinawa, this is the main store of the Steakhouse 88 chain, popular for its variety of menus, and reasonable prices. The origin of this restaurant is "CLUB88," which was opened in 1955 during the period of U.S. military rule, and was granted an "A sign" business license after passing strict U.S. standards as a restaurant open to U.S. military personnel and other visitors.

An izakaya where you can enjoy free live performances of shimauta (traditional Okinawan folk music) with no live or table charges. The performances are held three times daily at 7 PM, 8 PM, and 9 PM. Not only can you listen, but you're also welcome to join in, making it a perfect spot to create unforgettable Okinawan memories.

The founder, Tamio Kina, opened the restaurant in Yonabaru-cho in 1973 as a franchise chain in order to "spread hamburger culture in the southern part of the main island of Okinawa". Later, in 1986, he became an independent company, selling hamburgers and desserts unique to Okinawa and gaining popularity, and currently has three stores.

Blue Seal, is the beloved ice cream brand founded in 1948 in Okinawa, renowned for its unique Okinawan flavors, such as beni-imo (purple sweet potato), shikuwasa (Okinawan lime) and salt chinsuko (a local biscuit). With over 20 varieties always available, the lineup at their Kokusai Street store includes both classic and limited-edition products, tailored to suit the hot and humid climate of Okinawa with a rich yet refreshing taste.

Naha City Kokusai-dori Shopping Street is located in the center of Naha City and is the main street representing Okinawa.
It is the largest downtown area in Naha City and is famous as the center of commerce and entertainment. It is known as "Kokusai-dori (International street)," based on the concept of "a people-friendly town and a town that is fun to walk through.

Built near the Toyosaki Seaside Park Beach, Okinawa's first outlet mall is named "Ashibinaa," which means "playground" in Okinawan language, symbolizing a gathering place for people of all generations.

Mihama Town Resort American Village is a resort town located about 40 minutes by car from Naha Airport. See why the many families, couples and tourists trust this beach-side destination for the best variety of shops, eateries, natural hot springs, amusement stops and more.

Japan's first shopping center, located about a 6-minute drive from Koza Gate Street.
It was established in 1954, before Okinawa's reversion to mainland Japan, to meet the needs of U.S. soldiers stationed in Japan and their families. The three-story atrium connected to a one-story corridor reminiscent of mid-century architecture still exudes an exotic atmosphere, and the lush greenery makes for a pleasant stroll.

It is the kitchen of the Uchinanchu (Okinawan people), with colorful fish, island vegetables that convey the energy of the land, pork of various parts, and other foods unique to Okinawa. The market, which has a long history with its roots in the postwar black market, is currently undergoing renovation due to aging buildings and continues to operate in temporary facilities.

Opening in April 2024, this resort hotel is located on Senagajima, the island closest to Naha Airport in Okinawa. Its prime location offers easy access not only to the airport but also to the island's shopping area "Umikaji Terrace," nearby aquariums, and outlet malls. The top floor features an infinity pool and an outdoor onsen spa, both with panoramic views of the airport runway, the blue sea, and departing and arriving planes, creating a spectacular setting.

Located in Onna Village, about an hour’s drive from Naha Airport, Sheraton Okinawa Sunmarina Resort offers an ideal getaway in the central part of Okinawa Island. The resort's iconic white pyramid-shaped main tower stands as a symbol of this luxurious hotel, where guests can immerse themselves in the pristine nature of Okinawa, with a beach known for its exceptional clarity and a private marina.

Situated along the western coast of Okinawa's main island, this resort hotel overlooks Tiger Beach, offering a picturesque setting based on the concept of a "picturesque resort," where every corner provides a beautiful, photo-worthy view. The vast 33,000 square-meter grounds are filled with stunning scenery, perfect for capturing memorable moments.

The resort hotel is about a 10-minute drive from Koza Gate Street. From the spacious, open guest room, you can view Okinawa’s blue ocean.
The hotel houses facilities to provide comfort such as a large restaurant for up to 200 guests, fitness room, indoor swimming pool and sauna. There are optional activities provided such as water leisures to let you enjoy Okinawa’s spectacular sea, the sunset kayak to savor the west coast and the sea bright in golden twilight, etc. You can make a reservation for various activities on their website.

A premier resort hotel located on Cape Busena, one of the largest resort areas in Japan. This hotel provides a refined and relaxing atmosphere tailored to adults, featuring facilities and services that harmonize with Okinawa's climate and culture, along with warm, royal hospitality.

Since its birth in 2005," Yukishio (snow salt) Chinsukou" has been loved as a standard Okinawa souvenir for more than 15 years. Crispy texture at first. And then moist.

The main ingredients of chinsukou are flour and sugar, almost the same as cookies. The difference is that lard is used instead of butter. “Yukishio Chinsukou" also uses specially selected lard, which gives it a rich, full-bodied flavor.

Sata Andagi, a flour and egg-based, sweet doughy and deep-fried confection. In the past, this tasty treat was once a homemade staple of Okinawan homes. Crunchy exterior meets moist, fluffy interior. Sinking your teeth into each bouncy bite is a top-notch experience. Unlike donuts, the batter is made without any milk or water, but with plenty of eggs. It’s then deep-fried at a relatively low heat, so that it cooks through to the middle and enjoys a longer shelf=life of up to one week.

This tart pastry has an impressive visual appeal with its purple red sweet potato paste. The tart dough is squeezed with paste made from 100% Okinawan red potatoes purchased from more than 140 contract farmers. The moist texture of the tart and the rich sweetness of the red potatoes make it an exquisite product. It is made without preservatives or coloring agents to preserve the original color and flavor of the red potatoes.

If you're from Okinawa, you’ve probably heard of the beloved local instant noodles, "Okiko Ramen." Introduced in 1966 by the food manufacturer Okiko, primarily known for producing and selling bread, it was Okinawa’s first-ever instant noodle. Back then, Okinawa was still under U.S. administration, and many goods were imported. In this setting, locally produced Okiko Ramen became a hit, selling like hotcakes and reaching peak production of 2.5 million servings.

“Tamanaha Miso Soy Sauce” has been in business for more than 170 years, with a factory near Shuri Castle, still preserving the taste of miso that has been used by the royal family of the Ryukyus. The company's miso, made with natural brewing and without additives, is deeply loved by the locals.

The carnival began in 1993 and is held annually on the last Saturday and Sunday of November in Okinawa City. The event lasts for two days and attracts tens of thousands of participants every year. Ryukyuan dances, street dances, eisa, folk performances, musicals, live music, brass bands, etc. are performed.

After the Bon Festival of the Lunar calendar ends, Okinawa’s All-Island Eisa Festival is held on that weekend. Eisa is a dance with chanting performed to welcome and send off ancestral spirits during July 13 - 15. With the shamisen (Japanese banjo), singing and drum beat, the traditional art of Okinawa is danced.