Okinawa 🇯🇵 10 Things to Do in the Hawaii of Japan
Okinaba is one of the most unique and beautiful places in all of Japan. It’s located far down in the south and surrounded by Turkish blue ocean and white sandy beaches. And it feels completely different from the rest of Japan. The tropical climate, the mix of Japanese and Ryukian culture, and the relaxed island lifestyle make Okinaba a must visit destination in Japan. I’ve been there multiple times, and today I want to show you my top 10 places in Okinawa. Let’s get started. We begin with a very meaningful place, the Okinawa Peace Memorial Park. It’s located on the so tip of the island in Ittoman City and it’s dedicated to remembering the tragic battle of Okinawa during World War II. The park is very large and beautiful maintained with peaceful walkways, the cornerstone of peace monument and the Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum. When I visited, I felt a very calm and reflective atmosphere there. It’s not only a memorial, but also a symbol of peace and reconciliation. The view of the ocean from the cliffs adds even more depth to the experience. I know it might be surprising that this one is one of my favorite spots in Okinawa, but I was honestly impressed by how big the park is and overwhelmed by its beauty. Probably one of the most famous attractions in Okinawa is the Okinawa Shuromi Aquarium inside Ocean Expo Park. If you love marine life, this place will blow your mind. The highlight is a massive Kurrosio sea tank where you can see giant whale sharks swimming right in front of you. It’s one of the largest aquarium tanks in the world. The whole ocean expo park area around it is also great to explore. You can visit the Dolphin Lagoon Tropical Dream Center or simply walk along the coast and enjoy the ocean breeze. It’s perfect for a full day trip. Next up is something very different. the former Japanese Navy underground headquarters located near Naha. This site gives you a glimpse into Okinawa’s wartime history. You can actually walk through the underground tunnels where the Japanese Navy operated during the Battle of Okinawa. The atmosphere is quiet, heavy, and thoughtprovoking. The tunnels are still in good condition, and there are rooms preserved with notes and personal belongings left behind. It is a historical place that really helps you understand what Okinava went through. Next up, we have Okinawa World, one of the most fun and unique attractions on the island. It’s a cultural theme park where you can experience traditional Ryuku crafts, performances, and food. But the main highlight is Kyokusendo Cave, one of Japan’s largest limestone caves. It stretches over 5 km with illuminated stellic sides and crystal clear underground streams. Walking through the cave feels like entering another world. And once you come out, you can watch the traditional Asa dance performances or try local snacks and also look out at Okinavan glass making. Definitely one of the mustseas. If you want to experience the wild and natural sight of Okinawa, drive all the way to Cape Hedo, the northernmost point of the island. You may be surprised, but Okinawa is not as big as you think. It just takes 2 to three hours to drive from Naha, which is located in the south, to Cape Hedo. The cliffs there are absolutely stunning. Rugged rocks meeting the deep blue ocean. You can even see the outline of Yodon Island on a clear day. The drive itself is already worth it. On the way, you will pass lush forests, small villages, and scenic coastal roads. Cape Hedo really makes you appreciate how beautiful and untouched parts of Okinawa still are. From Cape Hedo, it’s not too far for another highlight, Kuri Island. You reach it by driving over the Kuri big bridge, a 2 km long bridge with unbelievable turquoise water on both sides. You know that I love these kind of bridges, so I had to go there. Once you arrive on the island, visit the Curi Ocean Tower for panoramic views over the bridge and the sea. The island has a romantic vibe and is even nicknamed Love Island. There are some small cafes, beaches, and souvenir shops. It’s a perfect half-day trip to enjoy the scenery and take amazing photos. I’m more of a fast traveler. Therefore, I just spend 2 to three hours on the island. Okinawa has many beaches, but Shiro Mitsu Beach on Hamahiga Island is one of my favorites. It’s quiet, clean, and has a local hidden gem feeding. The water is super clear, and perfect for swimming. Close to the beach, you can also visit Shiroichu Cave, a sacred site in Riyukian mythology. Ryukian refers to the ancient culture and beliefs of the Ryukio kingdom which ruled Okinawa long before it became part of Japan. According to legend, it’s where the gods who created Okinawa lived. It’s a peaceful spot surrounded by trees and it gives a small glimpse into Okinawa spiritual roots. Now, let’s head back into the city. Kokusi is the main street of Naha and the heart of Okinawa’s urban life. If you stay in Na then you have to come here but I recommend you to stay somewhere else because Na feels very touristic. The Kokusidori is packed with restaurants, souvenir shops and local food stores. At night the street becomes lively and colorful. You can try Okinavan soba sata andagi which are Okinavan donuts or even go bar hopping in the small side streets like Haii. It’s a great place to spend the evening after exploring the island all day. When I’m traveling in Japan, I’m always aware of local markets or fish markets. If you love fresh seafood, you have to visit Tomari Eyumachi Fish Market in Naha. It’s a local market where fisherman sell their daily catch, and you can eat sashimi or sushi directly on the spot. The tuna here is especially famous. It feels way more authentic than big tourist spots and gives you that everyday Okinaban life vibe. definitely come hungry. For some relaxed shopping and air conditioning after the heat, check out Sana Naha Main Place, one of the biggest malls in Okinawa. It’s clean, modern, and has a good mix of Japanese and international brands. There also some cafes, restaurants, and a movie theater. It’s not a sightseeing spot, but perfect for a slow afternoon or rainy day. I wanted to include this spot because as I said, Naha felt touristic and I had the feeling that the restaurants were a bit overpriced. Instead of that, you can go to a great shopping mall and pay normal prices for your dinner. Before we wrap up, let me quickly mention three more places that are definitely worth your time if you have extra days. One of them is the Nami Noi Shrine, a beautiful shrine located right above the ocean in Naha. It’s most important shrine in Okinawa and has a great view. So, if you stay in the city, it’s for sure worth the time. Second, I have American Village, a colorful entertainment area with shops, street art, and a sunset beach. Great for photos and evening walks. And one place I should always mention when I talk about Okinawa is Shuri Castle, the symbol of Rikyu Kingdom and Okinawa’s royal history. Parts of it were rebuilt after the 2019 fire, and it’s still an impressive place to visit. I did not put it on my top 10 because I think Okinawa has many beautiful places and unfortunately because of the fire, there’s not so much to see anymore of the castle than it was before. That was my video about the best place in Okinawa. If you like this video, make sure to subscribe and write me in the comments which place of Japan I should cover next. See you in the next video. Matanet.
Okinawa is a beautiful place in Japan and I want to tell you about my top 10 places and things on that island. I loved driving through that island and exploring it. It has many different things to offer. You can use this video as a travel guide.
Locations:
Peace Memorial Park: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5ASWpE49eYsP6tfJ7
Okinawa Aquarium & Ocean Expo Park: https://maps.app.goo.gl/VSZd5NkyVBaoDaYZ8
Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters: https://maps.app.goo.gl/faptgbn6nmPo7tkh7
Okinawa World & Gyokusendo Cave: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZzvDxGhqGDVi3bFg8 https://maps.app.goo.gl/dMzQ2Zd5Y8fkKnoB6
Kouri Ocean Tower & Kouri Big Bridge: https://maps.app.goo.gl/fgioGyWFcoBTh18k9
Shirumichu Beach: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7mcEGmEuZ2tz9imTA
Naha Kokusai Dori Shopping Street: https://maps.app.goo.gl/hfHVzWR9tQ4sGQpX6
Fish Market: https://maps.app.goo.gl/wmjA9BaSa8o6dc1Q7
Naha Mall: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BAuPJx3RShRTZzw17
Credits:
Thrust Up in the Sky: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZVrAe_tEtLc&list=RDZVrAe_tEtLc&start_radio=1
World Wanderings: 4K Walking Tours: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JBiFQcPJZkM
4K Japan-Tripig: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VVpAW5ZB5o
4K Japan-Tripig: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJSUrlsYZH8&list=RDuJSUrlsYZH8&start_radio=1
Video Street View Japan: https://youtu.be/RTHrRre4NHg?si=jooEyDGiTXVkZOuH&t=570
am1manTravel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0v90zzryh8
CJC Three: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QuXl5-aFRHI
Wander Pass: https://youtu.be/9Agw3Ujabug?si=VeaJghwM5e8ST2NB&t=24
MashChannel1026: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nw5dk8ujDlo&list=RDnw5dk8ujDlo&start_radio=1
Raul Mantecon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jo_Aa85rz_0
FPV Drone and Music: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ajluk77cggw&list=RDajluk77cggw&start_radio=1
Rocky Rae: https://youtu.be/Y9KNQZzhiy4?si=exSx6GujYKvL2gHU&t=178
JapanVibes: https://youtu.be/IBkNcgQ5Y5Y?si=kETwmj0KvfcSruii
Leong Thian Teh: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lkayuvXN8dM
BARRY Channel to the world: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7z1M0_tyXE&list=RDR7z1M0_tyXE&start_radio=1&t=1s
OilOun Happy Memories: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlTWxWYZXtg
Together Land 4k: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eujtoo25rM4
Gururi Okinawa Channel: https://youtu.be/cisDXxXWF40?si=bcLL5L9uuKbDJBhk
SUPERGENKI JAPANplus: https://youtu.be/rMKc5GOqfe0?si=GxRB0y3l0G6mGRX_&t=19
World Wanderings: 4K Walking Tours: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x3CaeciQmx8
App Hacknet (AppHack): https://youtu.be/AA8aDJpUq_o?si=vyCqRfvKsfHRr74K&t=41
Disclaimer:
These are video excerpts from other content creators and myself.
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