Okinawa Travel Guide
Okinawa is one of 47 prefecture with a population of approximately 1.4 million and southernmost island of Japan near Taiwan. Okinawa Prefecture is consisted of many tropical islands that attract many tourist from island Japan and overseas.
Getting in
Most travelers arrive at Naha Airport which is a transportation hub in Okinawa. Domestic flights connect major Japanese international airports like Narita and Kansai International airport and also connect to Okinawa islands such as ishigaki islands. There are some international direct flights from Taiwan and Hong Kong at the Naha Airport. Naha airport is bit far from the Naha City so you can take a bus or rent a car to get to your hotels. Unlike other major cities In Japan, there is no train system in Okinawa except Okinawa city mono rail.
Sightseeing
Shuri Castle; Home of Ryukoku King until 1829 and once destroyed during the World War II. The present castle was rebuilt and became UNESCO Word Heritage site. It is located south of Naha and it takes about 15 minutes by care from Naha Airport. A view of Naha City is magnificent from uphill castle and you can enjoy a tropical breathing of Okinawa.
Manza Beach; Famous public beach resorts located north of central Naha City. It takes about 80 minutes from Naha Airport by car. There are many resort hotels along the coast of Manza beach that attracts many tourist who enjoy beach activities such as scuba diving, cruising and fishing. Manza Beach is also the site of a yearly Rock Festival played by famous Japanese rock musicians. If you travel with your girlfriends, don't gaze at sexy ladies in bathing suit too much.
Ryukyu Village; Famous theme park of traditional Okinawa houses and architecture where you can feel a culture of old time Okinawa. It is located north of Naha city and it takes about one hour from Naha Airport by car. There are many attractions such as brown sugar factory, pottery workshops, Indigo dyeing, traditional Okinawa dance and Ryukyu Karate performance. Most tourists go to Okinawa for tropical beach, but Okinawa is not just beach and Ryukyu village is certainly good destination for those who want to take a rest from too much sunburn.
Other Nearby Destinations
Ishigaki Island- Famous scuba diving spot with crystal clear water. Manta scramble is very popular for manta ray spotting. It takes about 50 minutes from Naha Airport by plane.
Hatenohama - Famous resort for long white sand beach and transparent blue water and a perfect place for snorkeling. It takes 15 minutes from central Kume island by boat or jet ski.
