Okinawa

Shisa guardians, clear waters, and WWII echoes.

Okinawa blends history and nature with Shurijo Castle, Churaumi Aquarium, unique cuisine, and pristine beaches. Explore caves and enjoy local culture and food.

4.7
out of 5

Known for Shurijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the crystal-clear waters of its surrounding beaches, Okinawa provides a mix of historical exploration and aquatic activities. The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium showcases the region's rich marine life, adding to the city's appeal.

Shurijo Castle

A key historical site in Okinawa, Shurijo Castle dates back to the Ryukyu Kingdom and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle, though partially reconstructed due to fires, offers insight into the region's unique blend of Japanese and Southeast Asian influences. Visitors can explore the main hall, surrounding gardens, and various gates that offer views of the island.

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium showcases the region’s marine biodiversity. The Kuroshio Sea tank is a highlight, housing whale sharks, manta rays, and numerous fish species. Educational exhibits cover various aspects of marine life, making it a must-visit for families and those interested in oceanography.

Local Food

Okinawa’s cuisine stands out with its unique flavors. You can try Okinawan soba, a noodle dish typically served with pork. Other local specialties include goya champuru, a stir-fry made with bitter melon, tofu, and pork. Makishi Public Market in Naha is a good place to sample various local dishes and purchase fresh produce.

Local Nature

Okinawa is famous for its beautiful beaches and clear waters ideal for snorkeling and diving. Manza Beach and Emerald Beach are popular spots. For a different natural experience, visit the Valley of Gangala, an extensive limestone cave system where guided tours take you through underground rivers and ancient formations.

Cultural Experiences

The island offers multiple opportunities for cultural immersion. You can watch traditional Okinawan dance performances at places like the National Theatre Okinawa or participate in pottery workshops in the Yomitan Village. Additionally, the Okinawa Prefectural Museum provides a comprehensive look at the island's history and culture.

How to Get There and How to Get Around

Getting to Okinawa typically involves flying into Naha Airport from major Japanese cities like Tokyo and Osaka, or international hubs such as Seoul and Taipei. Public transportation includes buses and monorails, but renting a car is often more convenient for exploring the island.

Average temperatures during the day in Okinawa.
July
31°
Aug
31°
Sep
30°
Oct
27°
Nov
24°
Dec
21°
Jan
19°
Feb
19°
Mar
21°
Apr
24°
May
26°
Jun
29°

What people say about Okinawa

4.7
People
5
Food
5
Spaces
4
Value
5
Safety
5

What to do in Okinawa

The 5 places where people live the longest in the world

Article from December 2023 with 5 places

In the vast Pacific, Okinawa City is an understated jewel of Japan, receiving far fewer visitors than its counterparts, [Tokyo](https://humbo.com/jp/tokyo and Kyoto. Yet, it has its own allure that transcends its coastal landscapes and urban pulse. Okinawa City is home to one of the world's longest-living populations, a feat that doesn't just rest on genetic luck but on lifestyle choices deeply ingrained in the local culture.

Okinawans live by the principle of "Ikigai" or "reason for being," a way of life that integrates work, leisure, and community. The city's narrow streets echo with laughter from the local izakayas, where residents enjoy meals with friends and family. The traditional diet here leans heavily on plant-based foods and fish, low in processed ingredients and high in nutrients. This balanced diet and regular physical activity contribute significantly to the locals' health and longevity.

Despite its small size, Okinawa City is brimming with cultural richness. It boasts a distinct dialect, music, and dance - remnants of the Ryukyu Kingdom that ruled these islands until the late 19th century. The people here value a slow-paced life, taking time to appreciate the natural beauty around them and prioritizing harmony in their relationships.

A little-known fact about Okinawa City is its commitment to reducing waste. The city has an effective recycling system, and the local philosophy of "Mottainai," or "waste not" is deeply rooted in daily life. This respect for the environment is another aspect of Okinawa's lifestyle that contributes to its reputation as a haven for long life. It's not just about living longer; it's about living sustainably.

In Okinawa City, longevity isn't a secret; it's a lifestyle.

Continue reading

Bucket list-worthy places in Japan

Article from December 2023 with 11 places

For those seeking sun, sand, and sea, the subtropical islands of Okinawa are a perfect choice. Boasting crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches, Okinawa is a popular destination for snorkeling, scuba diving, and marine life spotting. The islands also have a unique culture and history, influenced by both Japan and nearby Taiwan.

Visit Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or explore the Churaumi Aquarium, one of the largest in the world. Okinawan cuisine is distinct from mainland Japan, so be sure to try dishes like goya champuru (bitter melon stir-fry) and umibudo (sea grapes).

Continue reading

Places nearby Okinawa

Best places to visit in🇯🇵Japan

A map of your visited countries

Share where you have been with your own interactive map of the world.

Your travel bucket list

Keep track of where you want to go with an interactive travel bucket list.

Articles about Japan

Image of Bucket list-worthy places in Japan
Image of Bucket list-worthy places in Japan

Bucket list-worthy places in Japan

December 2023,
Japan is a country that never fails to impress visitors with its unique blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation. With a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and mouth-watering cu
Image of The most beautiful national parks in the world
Image of The most beautiful national parks in the world

The most beautiful national parks in the world

November 2024,
National parks are unique in several ways, about 15% of all land and 8% of all water in the world is protected. National parks are protected pockets of nature that offers a unique opportunity for bot
Image of All World Expo locations since 1851
Image of All World Expo locations since 1851

All World Expo locations since 1851

November 2024,
For more than a century and a half, global citizens have congregated at World Expos to celebrate human achievement, explore pressing issues of the day, and experience the cultural expressions of peopl
Image of The 30 best food cities in the world
Image of The 30 best food cities in the world

The 30 best food cities in the world

November 2024,
This is a list of the top food destinations in the world based on the opinions of travelers from more than 100 countries. If you travel to eat, this is for you! It doesn’t matter if you are a foodie o
Humbo™Visited countries mapTravel bucket listTravel quizzesTop 100 destinationsPrivacyTerms