Spots in Okinawa Area

  • Okinawa World (Culture Kingdom / Gyokusendo Cave)
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    4.0
    1278 Reviews
    Leisure / Hobbies
    Okinawa Pref. Nanjoushi Tamagusuku Maekawa 1336
    Visitors to this theme park, one of the largest in the prefecture, can fully experience the history, culture, and natural beauty of Okinawa. There, visitors can enjoy seeing the Gyokusendo, called the most beautiful limestone cave in the orient. They can also try their hand at traditional handcrafts at the Ryukyu Kingdom Castle Town, which is lined with old folk homes that are registered as national tangible cultural properties. Other attractions include the eisa dance performances and habu shows. The park also features a souvenir shop offering a wide range of souvenirs and even a craft beer brewery.

    This place borders the line with animal cruelty. The water turtles are in is appalling and extremely dirty. Even the turtles dont seem to want to be in there. Snakes are kept in confined places and...

  • Sefa Utaki
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    4.0
    1047 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Okinawa Pref. Nanjoushi Chinen Kudeken
    Sefa Utaki is a historical site located in Nanjo City, Okinawa Prefecture. In December 2000 it was designated as part of the Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Within Sefa Utaki there are six Ibi (sacred areas), from one of which, Sangui, there is a wonderful view of Kudaka Island (known as the “Island of the Gods”). Sefa Utaki is still venerated as a sacred place, and many people come to pray here.

    It is nearby Cape Chinen Park which we whisked by from. The carpark is pretty near the ticket office to purchase admission tickets. Thankfully the staff at the ticket office briefed us on the way to...

  • Michi no Eki Kyoda (Yanbaru Bussan Center)
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    4.0
    954 Reviews
    Transportation
    Okinawa Pref. Nagoshi Kyoda 17-1
    Michi no Eki Kyoda is a roadside rest and shopping facility in Nago City on National Highway 58. It sells fresh fruit and vegetables delivered directly to the Center by local farmers, as well as local specialty products and souvenir gifts. There is a food court and food stalls, with a comprehensive range of delicious Okinawan dishes available to eat. Michi no Eki Kyoda also has a comprehensive range of other facilities, including a highway information counter, rest lounge, and nap room.

    If you need to go to the bathroom, if you are hungry/thirsty, if you want to do some shopping, this is a great stop to make. If none of the above fits you, this is not a necessary stop, so skip and...

  • Tamatorusaki Observation Deck
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    4.5
    894 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Okinawa Pref. Ishigakishi Ibaruma
    The Tamatorusaki Observation Deck offers wonderful views over the seas off Ishigaki Island. Directly in front is the emerald-green waters of Ibaruma Bay; on the left one can see the Hirakubo Peninsula (known colloquially as the “Shisa (Lion-Dog) Tail”). Hibiscus, Sago Palm and Screw Pine bloom along the side of the path that leads from the car park up to the Observation Deck, allowing visitors to enjoy a relaxing stroll with a “tropical” atmosphere.

    This is a beautiful spot and a must when visiting! It’s an easy drive and access once there! Panoramic views and breathtaking colors on the water below!

  • Naminoue Beach
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    3.5
    934 Reviews
    Leisure / Hobbies
    Okinawa Pref. Nahashi Wakasa 1-25
    Located approximately 15 minutes’ walk from the Prefectural Office Station on the Okinawa Urban Monorail (Yuirail) line, Naminoue Beach is the only beach within the boundaries of Naha City. As the beach is situated close to both the airport and Kokusai-dori Street, it is common to see tourists stop off there for a quick swim on the way back to their hotel, and the beach is also a popular place for local residents to relax. Within the park area, water sports activities can be booked, and beach equipment can be purchased. Swimming is permitted between April and October.

    Its not very big but its the only beach in the city really. Sharp coral chunks along waterline. 2 highway overpasses run above it. Scuba training area very close by. There are way better places in...

  • Ryukyu Mura
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    4.0
    753 Reviews
    Leisure / Hobbies
    Okinawa Pref. Kunigamigunonnason Yamada 1130
    Ryukyu Mura is an interactive facility for Okinawan culture, arts and performance in Yamada, Onna Village, Kunigami County. Inside the park, there is a row of traditional Ryukyu houses, recreating the olden-day Okinawan atmosphere so it is often used as a location for filmmaking. There are various hands-on programs such as traditional craft making and attractions such as Eisa, an Okinawan folk dance performance. There are eating and shopping areas in the attached dome-shaped facility called “Okinawa Station Chanpuru”. One feature is that there are many things to do even on rainy days.

    Its overpriced (compared to all other theme parks / tourist attractions in the same vein on the island). All the houses, artifacts etc. are old and dilapidated. It might have been great in the...

  • Naminoue-gu Shrine
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    4.0
    784 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Okinawa Pref. Nahashi Wakasa 1-25-11
    This temple located on a cliff edge above the waves has a long history. Naha Port was a base for trade with China, Southeast Asia, Korea and ancient Japan long ago, and it is said that shipping leaving the port would pray for a safe voyage, and shipping entering the port would give thanks for their safety. Various events such as the Shinkosai, Okinawan sumo tournaments, Ryukyu dancing and Enbu Taikai tournaments are held during and around the annual festival on May 17.

    We visited on New Years Day. Arrived about 9am and not too crowded, but lines were long when we left. We walked from our hotel near Asahibashi station - about 10-15 minutes. Could buy amulets and...

  • Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum
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    4.0
    711 Reviews
    Leisure / Hobbies
    Okinawa Pref. Nahashi Omoromachi 3-1-1
    The Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum, which is the largest museum of its kind in Okinawa Prefecture, is located approximately 10 minutes’ walk from Omoromachi Station on the Okinawa Urban Monorail (Yuirail) line. Besides the Museum’s permanent exhibitions—which comprise general exhibitions relating to Okinawa’s natural environments, history and culture, as well as five sub-exhibitions on natural history etc.—special exhibitions are also held. The outdoor display area, with its reconstructions of a traditional Ryukyuan farmhouse and storehouse, is particularly popular with visitors. The Art Museum’s collections are focused on the work of artists with a connection to Okinawa island or Okinawa Prefecture, as well as modern and contemporary art; exhibits include contemporary artworks from Japan, other Asian countries, and the U.S.A., etc.

    A nice museum with lots to show. I specifically liked the natural history sections a lot. In some sections, there is no English translation on the info cards, so you may get lost a little if you do...

  • Senagajima Umikaji Terrace
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    4.0
    446 Reviews
    Shopping
    Okinawa Pref. Tomigusukushi Senaga 174-6
    This commercial facility is by the sea on the western side of Senaga Island 15 minutes by car from Naha Airport. The food consists mainly of Okinawan dishes, and there's also a craft shop with jewelry and other products for sale. There are 33 establishments in total offering everything from snorkeling to sea kayaking and more, not to mention “FM-Toyomi” satellite studios. Weekly events are held as well, and include the resort-music-focused “Music Night” and performances by street entertainers.

    Great place for dining and shopping. Lots of shops and options. Beautiful view over the water. Too many stray cats around...

  • Busena Marine Park
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    4.0
    563 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Okinawa Pref. Nagoshi Kise 1744-1
    Busena Marine Park is located at Cape Busena, near Nago City. An underwater observatory has been built in the waters off the cape, providing a 360-degree view of the beautifully colored fish through 24 underwater windows. Glass-bottomed boats depart from the pier near the observatory, enabling visitors to “stroll” through the ocean. Please note that there is an admission charge for the observatory, and there is also a charge for the trips in the glass-bottomed boats (packages combining the two activities at a specially reduced price are available).

    Climbing down this permanent sort-of-submarine was interesting, although we didnt do the boar tour.

  • Kouri Ocean Tower
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    4.0
    585 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Okinawa Pref. Kunigamigunnakijinson Kouri 538
    Kouri Ocean Tower on Kouri Island is situated in the sea north of the Motobu Peninsula. From the observatory tower at 82 meters above sea level, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kouri Bridge and the beautiful blue ocean. Because you ride on a cart to the tower, you can relax while enjoying the sea breeze. You can take photos with the picturesque scenery in the background while you enjoy the lush subtropical garden. In the tower, as many as 10,000 shells including heart-shaped shells and colorful ones are exhibited. There is a restaurant where you can enjoy your meal while gazing at sea as well as a shop where a unique sweet only available in Kouri Island is sold directly from the factory.

    I went here with my boyfriend. It costs about 800¥ to get in (they only take cash). You get in a little cart that brings you up to the tower. The cart ride provides you with some facts about the...

  • Shurijo Castle Park (Shurijo Castle)
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    4.0
    205 Reviews
    Leisure / Hobbies
    Okinawa Pref. Nahashi Shurikinjouchou 1-2

    Beautiful castle, lucky to be still standing after multiple fires over the centuries. There were dancers/entertainment in the grounds when we were there. A couple of gift shops and a cafe...

  • Ishigaki Island Limestone Cave
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    3.5
    667 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Okinawa Pref. Ishigakishi Ishigaki 1666
    Ishigaki Island Limestone Cave is a large limestone cave which developed naturally over a period of about 200,000 years. It has a total length of 3.2 kilometers, out of which approximately 660 meters is open to the public. The limestone cave which was created from coral reef has many highlights such as the “Suikinkutsu” (water harp cave) where you can enjoy the sound of water dripping and the “Totoro Stalactite” which is similar to Totoro. The inside of the cave has been illuminated creating a fantastic atmosphere. The tour of the caves takes about 30 minutes.

    This cave shows nature at its most fascinating. However, some of the human additions need work. I liked the various colors to subtly highlight the stalactites, but the Christmas-style lights detract...

  • Shikina-en garden
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    4.0
    530 Reviews
    Leisure / Hobbies
    Okinawa Pref. Nahashi Maji 421-7
    This Ryukyuan-style garden is in Naha City. It was first built in 1799 as a villa for the Ryukyuan kings. The garden was known as the “Southern Gardens” because of its location to the south of Shuri-jo Castle. With a winding-path design, this unique garden combines elements of Chinese and traditional Okinawan design. In 2000, the Shikina-en garden was included within the scope of the Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu UNESCO World Heritage Site. The red algae Thorea gaudichaudii C. Ag. (which has been designated as a National Natural Monument) was first discovered at the Ikutoku Spring in the Shikina-en Garden.

    Very well built garden with some nice paths to walk and a bunch of good spots for nice pictures. Relaxing and beautiful, well worth the time spent.

  • The Tower of Himeyuri / Himeyuri Peace Museum
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    4.5
    354 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Okinawa Pref. Itomanshi Ihara 671-1
    Himeyuri Memorial Tower is a cenotaph dedicated to the Himeyuri student corps who died in the Battle of Okinawa. The Himeyuri student corps was a group of 240 students and teachers of the Okinawa Shihan Women's School and Okinawa Daiichi Women's High School who were mobilized as a nursing unit for the Okinawan Army Field Hospital, towards the end of the Pacific War. Following the US military's advance at the end of May, they were withdrawn to the southern part of Okinawa Island, and abruptly disbanded in June. However, over 100 of them lost their lives soon after. In 1989, this museum was established to teach people about the wartime experiences of the Himeyuri student corps. The museum displays exhibits of the Himeyuri student corps personal possessions and photographs. There is also a diorama which is a reproduction of the Ihara Third Surgical Cave Hospital. The museum aims to make people consider war and peace through learning about the Himeyuri student corps' experiences.

    I enjoyed this museum pretty much, in fact more than the Naval museum as the stories here was presented very well and in a thought provoking manner. Having been to numerous war museum and influence...

  • The Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters
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    4.5
    418 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Okinawa Pref. Tomigusukushi Tomigusuku 236
    The Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters is an underground bunker complex constructed in 1944. There were around 450 meters of tunnels in total; the aim was to enable the defense of Okinawa to be carried on for as long as possible. The underground complex held a total of around 4,000 personnel; many lives were lost here. In 1970, 300 meters of the tunnels (including the command center) were restored, and opened to the public. There is a museum with a display of items recovered from the underground bunker complex, including weapons, uniforms, letters written to family members, etc.

    Was o.k., but (my opinion) painted a horrible picture of the U.S. during the war when in fact mainland Japan didnt exactly treat the Okinwans as equals during this time.

  • Fukushu-en garden
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    4.0
    453 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Okinawa Pref. Nahashi Kume 2-29-19
    Located around seven minutes’ walk from the Prefectural Office Station on the Okinawa Urban Monorail (Yuirail) line, Fukushu-en is a Chinese-style garden that was created to mark the 10th anniversary of the establishment of “sister-city” relations between Fuzhou City in China and Naha City, and the 70th anniversary of the establishment of Naha City Government; it reflects the fact that Chinese culture exerted a considerable influence on Ryukyuan culture in the past. The verdant garden is divided into three sections—Ming, Wen, and Hua—and is filled with beautiful seasonal flowers throughout the year. The large pond in the center of the garden features a waterfall that creates a cooling ambience.

    Cute gardens, small entry fee, paid parking near by, you can even walk under the waterfall. Pretty and quiet, very easy to walk around, not very large gardens in Naha, Couple of vending machines...

  • Banna Park
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    4.0
    496 Reviews
    Leisure / Hobbies
    Okinawa Pref. Ishigakishi Ishigaki 961-15
    This nature-rich park is in the center of Ishigaki Island and covers the entirety of Mt. Banna, 230 meters above sea level. It features open spaces that take advantage of the mountain topography as well as a walkway from which you can observe the subtropical wildlife—a hit with families. The “Emerald Sea Observation Deck” provides a sweeping view of the Yaeyama Islands, Taketomi Island, Iriomote Island, and the ocean itself.

    I came here only because it was close to the cave. This huge park should have a higher rating. There are many lookouts and walking trails. It’s quite hilly so a bit challenging as a cyclist. However...

  • Neo Park Okinawa
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    4.0
    395 Reviews
    Leisure / Hobbies
    Okinawa Pref. Nagoshi Nago 4607-41
    Neo Park Okinawa located in Nago City, the northern part of Okinawa Prefecture, is a natural botanical and zoological park. Animals and plants from tropical areas such as Central and South America, Oceania and Africa are grown without heat insulation by utilizing Okinawa’s rich climate and natural features. The free range farming method on the large property is like being in nature itself. You can enjoy an interactive animal experience unlike other flora and fauna parks.

    I was excited to visit this place as i was looking forward to feed capybara. But, its totally not to my expectation. When we arrived, we paid for the tram ticket. So decided to take a tour ard...

  • Daisekirinzan
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    4.5
    393 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Okinawa Pref. Kunigamigunkunigamison Ginama 1241
    This is Japan’s only subtropical Karst topographical landform, created 200 million years ago by the corrosion of limestone by rain and other natural forces. It has been considered a holy site since ancient times, and four courses are available that introduce visitors to unusually shaped rocks, large rock formations, subtropical forest, and other natural scenery. There is also a barrier-free course for the elderly and children. Come enjoy the wondrous paradise formed by Nature’s own hand.

    Daisekirinzan is definitely worth a visit, especially if visiting Cape Hedo. Our phone guided us directly to the parking lot no issues and there was a huge parking spot. There is an entrance fee...

Okinawa Areas

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Let go of your image of a busy, ordered Japan and replace it with crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and relaxing folk music: You’ve arrived in Okinawa. A world away from the high intensity of Tokyo, Okinawans appear to live a laid-back beach life on this paradisiacal tropical island that lies in the middle of the East China Sea almost 1,000 kilometers south of mainland Japan’s most southern tip. Home to a spattering of islands, prepare yourself to discover underwater caves, star-shaped sand, and an island culture sometimes unrecognizable from mainland Japan.

Okinawa Photo Album

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