Even if you don't usually have much exposure to art, I highly recommend coming here for a stroll.
This museum is a little different from what you might typically imagine. It's not just about viewing exhibitions—the architecture, gardens, nature, and ocean views are all incorporated into the experience. Taking your time to walk around and soak it all in is really relaxing.
The museum has works by well-known artists such as Yayoi Kusama, Park Seo-Bo, and Zhang Xiaogang. When you get tired, you can sit on the terrace or at the cafe, enjoy the ocean view, and just unwind.
I think the most charming thing about this place is that you don't have to understand art. You can simply enjoy a peaceful moment in a comfortable setting. If you want to add something a little different to your Okinawa itinerary, this place is well worth including.
Nanjo Art Museum | Review by 王小鈞
Other Reviews by 王小鈞
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Nakijin Castle Ruins
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.
It was my first time visiting the Nakijin Castle Ruins, and they were even more impressive than I expected!
This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Okinawa. Although the castle itself is long gone, the 1.5-kilometer stone wall is still well preserved. Walking along the stone-paved paths really feels like traveling back in time.
What I liked most was that there were hardly any tourists on a weekday, so I could stroll around and take photos without any crowds. From the higher points, you can also look out over Okinawa's mountains and ocean, and the view is really relaxing.
The grounds aren't very large, and you can easily see everything in about an hour, making it a good stop on an itinerary through northern Okinawa. If you like historic sites or just want a quiet place to walk around, it's well worth a visit. -
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Cape Chinen Park
Located in Nanjo City in southern Okinawa, Cape Chinen Park sits dramatically at the edge of Cape Chinen, jutting out into the Pacific Ocean. This scenic spot offers panoramic, 250-degree ocean views that stretch across vibrant coral reefs. The mesmerizing gradient from emerald green to deep cobalt blue is nothing short of breathtaking. You can also catch sight of nearby uninhabited Komaka Island, known for its white sandy beaches, and Kudaka Island-revered as the “Island of the Gods.” On clear days, you may even see as far as Tsuken Island and the Katsuren Peninsula to the northeast.
Cape Chinen Park was one of my favorite ocean-view spots on this trip to Okinawa.
Standing on the cape, the endless Pacific Ocean stretches out before you, with the water gradually changing from emerald green to deep blue. It really looks like a painting, and every photo feels so soothing.
When the weather is nice, you can also see Komaka Island, surrounded by white sandy beaches, and Kudaka Island, known as the “Island of the Gods.” The view is incredibly open, and when the sea breeze blows, all your worries temporarily disappear.
There aren't many commercial facilities here. It's simply a place to enjoy the ocean, feel the breeze, and relax. If you're planning to visit southern Okinawa, I definitely recommend adding Cape Chinen Park to your itinerary. You don't need to stay long, but it will leave a lasting impression. -
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A Happy Pancake Umikaji Terrace Okinawa
Part of a nationwide chain originating from Awaji Island, A Happy Pancake is a beloved café known for its fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth pancakes. The Okinawa location sits within Umikaji Terrace, a resort-style commercial complex on Senaga Island, conveniently close to Naha Airport. Here, visitors can enjoy both carefully crafted pancakes and breathtaking ocean views.
This place definitely belongs on the list of must-try desserts in Okinawa!
If you visit Umikaji Terrace on Senaga Island, be sure to plan a stop at this incredibly popular pancake shop. I recommend making an online reservation first. Otherwise, between waiting in line and having the pancakes made to order, you'll be waiting quite a while.
Each order of pancakes is freshly made and takes about 20 minutes. They're made with fresh eggs, Hokkaido fresh cream, and New Zealand manuka honey. They're slightly crisp on the outside and incredibly fluffy inside, and every bite makes the wait feel worthwhile!
Besides the classic pancakes, there are also fruit, whipped cream, and seasonal flavors. Every option looks so tempting. You can enjoy the pancakes with an unbeatable ocean view and watch planes take off and land up close. The whole place is filled with a vacation atmosphere.
After eating here, I really had only one thought: super delicious! If you come to Okinawa, I highly recommend adding this place to your itinerary. Enjoying beautiful scenery with delicious food is definitely one of the most relaxing moments of the trip. -
