Top 25 Must-See Attractions in Okinawa, Japan

Okinawa is a prefecture in Japan, comprising an archipelago of around 160 islands, with varying degrees of habitation. Given its location off the coast of Kyushu, it benefits from a predominantly subtropical climate and is recognized as one of the premier destinations in Japan for those seeking sun, sand, and surf.

The cultural atmosphere of Okinawa distinctly contrasts with the rest of Japan, owing to its southern location, offering a refreshing alternative to the bustling urban environments typically associated with cities such as Tokyo and Osaka.

Traveling to Okinawa may require more effort than visiting various other destinations within Japan; however, for those seeking a slower pace coupled with extraordinary outdoor vistas, this locale epitomizes an exceptional choice.

Here are the 25 best activities to engage in while in Okinawa…

1. Start at Okinawa Honto

Okinawa Honto, recognized as the largest island of the prefecture, serves as a common starting point for explorations in this area of Japan.

This island also served as a military base during World War Two, and an American base remains operational today, so it is not uncommon to witness military aircraft overhead during your visit.

The principal city on the island, Naha, hosts an array of attractions, including museums that provide insight into Okinawa Honto’s military history.

2. Go spelunking at Okinawa World

Okinawa World is a theme park situated on Okinawa Honto, which encompasses the Gyokusendo Cave.

The cave extends nearly 900 meters, adorned with breathtaking stalagmites and stalactites.

Adjacent to the cave, visitors can explore numerous souvenir stalls, offering a variety of local trinkets, including the region’s famed snake liquor.

To learn more about the snakes prior to their transformation into liquor, a nearby exhibition dedicated to these serpents is available for viewing.

3. Have an adventure on Iriomote

For visitors aiming to maximize their Okinawa experience while staying active, Iriomote Island is a must-visit destination.

Situated near Ishigaki Island, Iriomote is distinguished by its dense jungles.

Visitors can embark on hiking tours through the forest or opt for kayaking adventures around the island.

Subsequently, this island presents an excellent opportunity for those wishing to experience a more rural aspect of Okinawa, as other islands are predominantly recognized for their beachfront and diving activities rather than bushwhacking.

4. Dive at the underwater ruins of Yonaguni

Yonaguni Island is renowned for its remarkable underwater ruins, making it an ideal destination for extraordinary diving experiences in Okinawa.

Composed primarily of solid rock, many underwater structures have been dated to approximately 8,000 years old.

Legends persist that these ruins may belong to an ancient continent referred to as Mu, and visitors will encounter rock formations resembling staircases and chambers.

However, it is essential to note that the currents surrounding these ruins can be strong and unpredictable; thus, diving is primarily recommended for intermediate and experienced divers.

5. Try the local food

One of the pleasurable experiences when visiting Okinawa is the chance to savor its unique culinary offerings, markedly different from those found throughout other regions of Japan.

Many enthusiasts compare Okinawan cuisine to that of Taiwan, with pork serving as a central component in numerous dishes.

Additionally, many dishes feature ingredients like purple yams and bitter melon, and being a tropical locale, a variety of delectable tropical fruits such as papaya and dragon fruit can also be sampled.

6. Go whale watching

For those visiting Okinawa, one of the premier activities is whale watching.

Between January and March, the region becomes a temporary home for humpback whales migrating from Alaska to the southern seas of Japan.

The Kerama Islands are among the prime locations to observe these magnificent creatures, and travelers can join a whale watching excursion that allows for close encounters with these awe-inspiring animals.

7. Visit Shuri Castle

Shuri Castle is a significant landmark in Naha City, historically serving as the residence of the Ryukyu Kingdom’s rulers.

This site is primarily recognized for its gusuku architectural design, characteristic of traditional Okinawan constructions.

Unfortunately, the castle has experienced destruction on multiple occasions and has undergone restoration efforts in 1958 and 1992; thus, the current structure is not the original.

8. Enjoy bird watching on Kume

Kume Island is an excellent destination for those interested in observing a diverse array of local flora and fauna.

As a designated national park, Kume Island offers exceptional trekking opportunities through its lush natural environment.

Furthermore, due to extensive wetlands in the central region, the island attracts a plethora of bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.

9. Try the noodles on the Yaeyama Islands

Okinawa is acknowledged for its distinctive cuisine, which differs markedly from the food found throughout mainland Japan; additionally, across the islands, certain unique dishes can be sampled.

Travelers venturing to the Yaeyama Islands should not miss the opportunity to taste Yaeyama soba, a variant of soba noodles made from white wheat.

These noodles are prepared in a pork broth and topped with additional pork, fish cakes, and fragrant ginger.

10. Go sailing

Although sailing was not widely practiced in Okinawa in the past, the activity has gained considerable popularity recently.

Therefore, if you are interested in sailing, a variety of local sailing companies offer opportunities to explore the islands, including the Kerama Islands, as part of a guided tour or to independently charter a boat and discover the islands at your own pace.

This option enables you to visit uninhabited islands, creating the impression of enjoying a private island retreat for the day.

11. Explore the local villages on Taketomi

Taketomi Island is among the smallest in Okinawa, making it a suitable choice for those wishing to explore thoroughly within a limited timeframe, as traversing the island can be accomplished relatively quickly.

If one opts to hike around the entire island, a few hours will suffice, while simultaneously embracing the charm of traditional villages and observing the long-standing lifestyle and occupations of the islanders.

Interestingly, visitors may even select a traditional mode of transportation—traveling on a cart pulled by a local water buffalo.

12. Take in the views at Akajima Island

If time permits for exploration within Okinawa, Akajima Island is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, often referred to simply as Aka Island.

Despite its modest size, the island is celebrated for its observation towers that allow visitors to enjoy breathtaking views over the surrounding islands and greater Okinawa.

This location is also highly recommended for capturing stunning photographs and offers swimming and hiking opportunities as part of a day trip.

14. Try ocean walking on Nagannu

Nagannu Island, situated within the southern island chain of Okinawa, can be accessed via ferry from nearby Naha.

The island is characterized by its pristine and inviting sandy beaches; thus, it serves as a prime choice for visitors seeking a tranquil beach holiday.

The captivating sea floor is equally enchanting, leading Nagannu to be recognized as one of the premier destinations for ocean walking experiences in Okinawa.

Visitors can equip themselves with weights and helmets to stroll along the ocean floor, immersing themselves in the vibrancy of the surrounding marine life.

15. Go fishing

Okinawa boasts an extensive fishing industry, offering one of the foremost attractions centered around exceptional offshore fishing experiences.

A splendid activity for avid anglers involves chartering a boat and venturing into the azure waters surrounding the archipelago, where diverse and exotic fish species thrive.

Among the species found here are tuna, marlin, and mahi mahi, with many fishing trips providing necessary equipment for convenience.

16. Visit Nago

Nago, situated on Okinawa Honto, merits a visit to explore some of its iconic attractions, notably the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium.

This aquarium is part of the larger Ocean Expo Park and boasts a tank exceeding 7,000 cubic meters in size.

The diverse marine life exhibited includes sharks, rays, and turtles, rendering it an ideal destination for those who may not wish to dive in Okinawa.

17. Try the local tipple at Yonaguni

Yonaguni Island is renowned for being one of Japan’s most remote inhabited islands, offering views of Taiwan on clear days.

Many visitors are drawn to the pristine waters, which are largely untouched by pollution or overfishing, resulting in vivid clarity and abundant marine life.

Notably, the island is famous for its local alcoholic beverage, awamori, crafted from distilled long-grain rice.

18. Dive with sharks

The primary reason many tourists visit Okinawa is for its remarkable diving opportunities, particularly to witness the islands’ renowned shark species.

This includes both whale sharks and hammerhead sharks, and visitors can either embark on boat tours to locations where shark sightings are prevalent or swim out from the shore to known shark areas.

19. Check out the history at Itoman

Itoman, located on Okinawa Honto, is distinguished for its historical significance, featuring sites such as the Okinawa Peace Park, which commemorates the pivotal Battle of Okinawa.

The Peace Park encompasses various sections, including the Cornerstone of Peace memorial, inscribed with the names of individuals who lost their lives during the conflict.

Additionally, the Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum provides informative exhibits detailing the history of the battle.

The Okinawa Peace Memorial Hall, which includes a commemorative tower and artistic displays, is also a notable site in the park.

20. Go surfing

For surfing enthusiasts, Okinawa is frequently cited as one of the premier locations in Japan for engaging with the waves.

However, it is important to consider that waves here typically break over reefs, resulting in shallower waters that may pose risks for inexperienced surfers.

Many surfers congregate along the beaches of Okinawa Honto, and there are also surfing opportunities off the coasts of smaller islands, contingent upon individual skill levels.

21. Shop at Makishi Market

Located within Okinawa Honto, Makishi Market, often referred to as “The Kitchen of Okinawa,” offers a diverse selection of local produce.

Established during World War II, the market features approximately 400 shops where visitors can browse and acquire some of Okinawa’s renowned products, including preserved sea snake and seaweed.

The market also encompasses various cafes and restaurants that serve traditional Okinawan dishes prepared using locally-sourced ingredients, making it a worthwhile stop for culinary explorations.

22. Swim with rays at Ishigaki

For those passionate about diving, Okinawa presents a plethora of options, especially for swimming with manta rays.

Ishigaki Island, noted in the Michelin Green Guide Japan, is famous for its clear waters, particularly in areas like Kabira Bay.

The coveted Manta Scramble, a site popular for diving or snorkeling, serves as a prime location for gliding alongside these elegant rays.

Moreover, Ishigaki Island is known for its uniquely star-shaped sand grains, enhancing its allure.

23. Visit Yonaguni Ethnographic Museum

The Yonaguni Ethnographic Museum, located on Yonaguni Island, is one of the few museums in the area.

Operated by a local resident, the museum’s collection features personal memorabilia and artifacts that provide insight into Yonaguni’s cultural and historical narrative.

Visitors can also learn about the island’s unique language and writing systems, making this museum a valuable repository of knowledge about this lesser-known part of Japan.

24. Enjoy the nightlife at Naha

Naha serves as the capital of Okinawa Honto and is considered one of the premier locations for experiencing nightlife, especially since other islands tend to be more subdued during the evenings.

A notable aspect of Naha’s nightlife is the extensive selection of venues, many of which showcase traditional Okinawan folk music, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the local cultural essence.

25. Relax on Miyako-jima

Miyako-jima is celebrated for being one of Okinawa’s most picturesque islands, attracting numerous tourists eager to uncover its beauty.

The island is particularly famous for its exquisite beaches, making it the perfect locale for visitors wishing to unwind in a tropical paradise while basking in the sun.

In addition to relaxation, opportunities for diving and snorkeling abound, alongside kayaking through the various unspoiled beaches that line the shores.