5-Day Local Experience of Okinawa: Outdoor Adventure and Foodie Journey
Okinawa, Japan
5 days
About Okinawa, Japan
Discover the tropical paradise of Okinawa, Japan, a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and historical significance. Okinawa, the southernmost prefecture of Japan, is a chain of islands boasting pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant coral reef, perfect for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Experience the Ryukyuan culture through traditional music, dance, and crafts, and savor the unique Okinawan cuisine, known for its health benefits. Visit the World Heritage sites like Shuri Castle, and pay respects at the Peace Memorial Park, a poignant reminder of WWII. Okinawa's subtropical climate makes it a year-round destination. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, Okinawa offers an unforgettable journey.
5-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Historical Nakijin: Castle Ruins, Kouri Island and Okinawan BBQ
Morning
Visit the Nakijin Castle Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and the ocean.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant, trying out dishes like Rafute (Okinawan braised pork belly) and Mimiga (pig's ear).
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at the Kouri Island, known for its beautiful beaches and the Kouri Bridge, which offers stunning views of the ocean.
Dinner
Enjoy a traditional Okinawan BBQ for dinner, which includes a variety of meats and vegetables.
Evening
Take a leisurely walk around the island, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the starry night sky.
Day 3
Vibrant Naha: Shuri Castle, Shopping Street and Harbor Views
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Shuri Castle, a symbol of the Ryukyu Kingdom. The castle is a mix of Japanese and Chinese architectural styles.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant, trying out dishes like Taco Rice, a popular Okinawan dish that combines Japanese and American flavors.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Kokusai Street, a bustling shopping street with a variety of shops and eateries.
Dinner
For dinner, try some Okinawan Soba, a noodle soup dish that is a staple in Okinawan cuisine.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the Naha Harbor Diner, a treehouse restaurant that offers stunning views of the city and the harbor.
Day 4
Cultural Nanjo: Okinawa World, Sefa Utaki and Traditional Cuisine
Morning
Visit the Okinawa World, a theme park that showcases Okinawan culture and nature. The park includes a snake museum, a tropical garden, and a limestone cave.
Lunch
Enjoy a traditional Okinawan lunch at a local restaurant, trying out dishes like Goya Champuru and Rafute.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at the Sefa Utaki, a sacred site that is considered one of the most important religious sites in Okinawa.
Dinner
Have dinner at a local restaurant, trying out dishes like Mimiga and Okinawan Soba.
Evening
End your day with a relaxing stroll along the beach, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the sound of the waves.
Day 5
Reflective Itoman: Peace Memorial Park, Himeyuri Museum and Night Market
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Peace Memorial Park, a park dedicated to the memory of the victims of the Battle of Okinawa during World War II.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant, trying out dishes like Taco Rice and Goya Champuru.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Himeyuri Peace Museum, a museum dedicated to the memory of the Himeyuri Student Corps, who were involved in the Battle of Okinawa.
Dinner
For your last dinner in Okinawa, try some local seafood dishes, which are fresh and flavorful.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Itoman Tourist Night Market, a bustling market with a variety of food stalls and shops.
Attractions in Itinerary (11)
1Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring a wide variety of marine life including whale sharks and manta rays.
2Emerald Beach
A beautiful beach located within the Ocean Expo Park, known for its clear, emerald-green waters.
3Nakijin Castle Ruins
A UNESCO World Heritage site that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and the ocean.
4Kouri Island
A small island connected to Okinawa's main island by a bridge, known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters.
5Shuri Castle
A Ryukyuan gusuku in Shuri, Okinawa. Between 1429 and 1879, it was the palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
6Kokusai Street
Known as 'International Street', it's a bustling hub with a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars.
7Okinawa World
A theme park showcasing Okinawan culture, including a recreated traditional village, a snake museum, and a limestone cave.
8Sefa Utaki
A sacred site in the Okinawan religion, known for its spiritual and historical significance.
9Peace Memorial Park
A park dedicated to the memory of those who lost their lives in the Battle of Okinawa during World War II.
10Himeyuri Peace Museum
A museum dedicated to the Himeyuri students, featuring exhibits on their experiences during the Battle of Okinawa.
11Itoman Tourist Night Market
A vibrant night market offering a variety of local food, drinks, and shopping opportunities. It's a great place to experience the local culture and nightlife.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Goya Champuru
A popular Okinawan stir-fry dish made with bitter melon (goya), tofu, eggs, and pork. It's a staple in Okinawan cuisine and a must-try for its unique flavor.
Sata Andagi
These are Okinawan sweet deep-fried doughnuts. They are crispy on the outside and soft and sweet on the inside. A popular treat in Okinawa.
Okinawa Soba
A noodle soup dish that is a staple in Okinawa. It's made with wheat noodles, pork, and a savory broth.
Mimiga
This is a traditional Okinawan dish made from pig's ears. They are typically boiled, sliced thin, and served with a peanut sauce.
Rafute
A classic Okinawan dish made from pork belly that's been slow-cooked in soy sauce, sugar, and awamori (Okinawan liquor).
Awamori
A traditional Okinawan alcoholic beverage made from rice. It's often served straight, on the rocks, or with water.
Orion Beer
A popular local beer in Okinawa. It's light, crisp, and refreshing, making it a perfect drink for the tropical climate of Okinawa.
Taco Rice
A fusion dish popular in Okinawa that combines elements of Mexican and Japanese cuisine. It consists of taco-flavored ground beef served over rice.
Umibudo
Also known as sea grapes or green caviar, this is a type of seaweed that's popular in Okinawa. It's often served with a dipping sauce as an appetizer.
Shikuwasa Juice
A refreshing beverage made from shikuwasa, a citrus fruit native to Okinawa. It's tart and sweet, similar to a lime or lemonade.
Mozuku Seaweed
A type of seaweed that's popular in Okinawa. It's often served in a vinegar dressing as an appetizer.
Beni Imo Tart
A dessert made from beni imo, a purple sweet potato that's native to Okinawa. The tart is sweet and creamy, with a distinct purple color.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Okakina, Japan is typically from late March to early May when the weather is mild and the island's iconic cherry blossoms are in bloom. Another great time is from October to November when the weather is comfortable and the autumn foliage is beautiful. However, if you're interested in diving or beach activities, the summer months from June to September offer warm sea temperatures, despite being Okinawa's rainy season.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 8 | Mon | Coming of Age Day |
February 11 | Sun | National Foundation Day |
February 12 | Mon | National Foundation Day observed |
February 23 | Fri | Emperor's Birthday |
March 20 | Wed | Spring Equinox |
April 29 | Mon | Shōwa Day |
May 3 | Fri | Constitution Memorial Day |
May 4 | Sat | Greenery Day |
May 5 | Sun | Children's Day |
May 6 | Mon | Children's Day observed |
July 15 | Mon | Sea Day |
August 11 | Sun | Mountain Day |
August 12 | Mon | Day off for Mountain Day |
September 16 | Mon | Respect for the Aged Day |
September 22 | Sun | Autumn Equinox |
September 23 | Mon | Autumn Equinox observed |
October 14 | Mon | Sports Day |
November 3 | Sun | Culture Day |
November 4 | Mon | Culture Day observed |
November 23 | Sat | Labor Thanksgiving Day |
How to get around
Rental Car
Okinawa's public transportation is not as developed as in other parts of Japan, so renting a car is a popular option for tourists. It provides the flexibility to explore the island at your own pace. International driving permits are required for foreign drivers.
Bus
There are bus services that cover Okinawa Main Island and some of the smaller islands. The Okinawa Bus is the main operator on the main island, with routes connecting Naha with other cities. The buses are reliable but can be infrequent in rural areas.
Monorail
The Okinawa Monorail, also known as Yui Rail, operates in Naha, the capital city of Okinawa. It runs from Naha Airport to the city center, making stops at key attractions like Shuri Castle and Kokusai Street.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Okinawa, especially in Naha and other urban areas. They can be hailed on the street, found at taxi ranks, or booked in advance. Taxis are metered and can be a convenient option for short distances.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber are not widely available in Okinawa. However, there are local apps like JapanTaxi that operate similarly, allowing you to book a taxi from your smartphone.
Ferry
Ferries are a common way to travel between the islands of the Okinawa archipelago. There are regular services from Naha to the Kerama Islands, Miyako Island, and Ishigaki Island, among others.
Bicycle
Cycling is a popular way to get around in Okinawa, especially on the smaller islands. Many places offer bicycle rentals. However, be aware that Okinawa is hilly and can be hot, so this option may be physically demanding.
Foot
Walking is a viable option in the more compact areas of Okinawa, such as Naha city center. Many of the main attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other.
Important information
Currency¥ JPY
Time zoneUTC+9
Driving sideLeft
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 119; Fire: 119; Police: 110
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage100 V
Things to know about Okinawa, Japan as a first time visitor
1
Okinawa has a subtropical climate, meaning it is generally warm and humid throughout the year. Summers can be hot, with temperatures reaching up to 89°F (32°C), while winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 59°F (15°C).
2
The official language is Japanese, but the local dialect, Uchinaguchi, is also spoken. English is not widely spoken, so it may be helpful to learn some basic Japanese phrases.
3
The currency used in Okinawa is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.
4
Okinawa is known for its unique Ryukyuan culture, which is distinct from mainland Japan. This includes traditional music, dance, and crafts.
5
Okinawa's cuisine is unique and heavily influenced by its history and geography. Don't miss trying local specialties like goya champuru (bitter melon stir-fry), Okinawa soba, and awamori (local liquor).
6
Okinawa follows Japan Standard Time (JST), which is 9 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+9).
7
Public transportation in Okinawa is reliable but not extensive. Renting a car is the most convenient way to get around, especially if you plan to visit more remote areas.
8
Driving is on the left side of the road, and an international driving permit is required for foreign drivers.
9
Okinawa is known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving. Remember to respect the marine life and avoid touching or disturbing the coral reefs.
10
Typhoon season in Okinawa runs from June to November. Be sure to check the weather forecast and plan accordingly.
11
Okinawa has a slower pace of life compared to mainland Japan. Embrace the local philosophy of 'nuchi du takara' (life is a treasure) and take the time to relax and enjoy your surroundings.
12
Tipping is not customary in Japan, including Okinawa. Good service is expected and is included in the price.
13
Okinawa has a rich history, particularly related to World War II. It's important to be respectful when visiting war memorials and historical sites.
14
Okinawa is home to many unique species of flora and fauna. Be respectful of the wildlife and avoid feeding or disturbing animals.
15
The Okinawan people are known for their longevity, with one of the highest rates of centenarians in the world. This is often attributed to their healthy diet and active lifestyle.
16
Okinawa has a unique tradition of pottery called 'yachimun'. You can visit pottery villages and even try your hand at making your own.
17
The traditional Okinawan garment is the 'bingata', a brightly colored fabric with unique patterns. It's a popular souvenir and can be found in many local shops.
18
Okinawa has a strong tradition of martial arts, being the birthplace of karate. You may have the opportunity to watch or even participate in a karate class.
19
Okinawa has a unique form of traditional music called 'sanshin'. It's worth seeking out a live performance during your visit.
20
Okinawa has a number of traditional festivals and events throughout the year. If your visit coincides with one, it's a great opportunity to experience local culture.
Basic Japanese to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | こんにちは | Konnichiwa | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | さようなら | Sayonara | Leaving or saying goodbye |
Thank you | ありがとう | Arigatou | Showing appreciation |
Please | お願いします | Onegaishimasu | Making a request |
Yes | はい | Hai | Answering affirmatively |
No | いいえ | Iie | Answering negatively |
Excuse me | すみません | Sumimasen | Getting attention or apologizing |
I'm sorry | ごめんなさい | Gomen nasai | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | 英語を話せますか？ | Eigo o hanasemasu ka? | Trying to find someone who speaks English |
I don't understand | わかりません | Wakarimasen | When you don't understand what was said |
Where is the bathroom? | トイレはどこですか？ | Toire wa doko desu ka? | When you need to find a bathroom |
How much does this cost? | これはいくらですか？ | Kore wa ikura desu ka? | When you want to know the price of something |
I would like this | これをください | Kore o kudasai | When you want to order or buy something |
Help | 助けて | Tasukete | When you need assistance |
Good morning | おはようございます | Ohayou gozaimasu | Greeting someone in the morning |
Good night | おやすみなさい | Oyasuminasai | Saying goodnight or going to bed |
Delicious | おいしい | Oishii | Complimenting food |
Cheers | 乾杯 | Kanpai | Making a toast |
Where is...? | ...はどこですか？ | ... wa doko desu ka? | Asking for directions |
I'm lost | 迷子です | Maigo desu | When you are lost |
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear (5 pairs)
Socks (5 pairs)
T-shirts (5)
Shorts (2 pairs)
Jeans/Pants (2 pairs)
Sweater or Jacket (1)
Swimwear (1)
Sleepwear (1 set)
Comfortable walking shoes (1 pair)
Sandals/Flip-flops (1 pair)
Hat/Cap (1)
Sunglasses (1 pair)
Toiletries
Toothbrush (1)
Toothpaste (1 small tube)
Deodorant (1)
Razor (1)
Shaving cream (1 small can)
Shampoo/Conditioner (Travel size)
Body wash/Soap (Travel size)
Sunscreen (1)
Lip balm with SPF (1)
Personal hygiene items
Prescription medications
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license/ID
Credit and Debit cards
Cash and coins
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and/or car rental reservations
Airline tickets
Emergency contacts and important addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Power bank
Headphones/Earbuds
Camera
Charger for camera
Memory card for camera
Travel adapter/converter
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs
Eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or e-books
Travel guide for Okinawa
Phrasebook or language app
First-aid kit
Hand sanitizer
Tissues/Wet wipes
Weather Conditions
Okinawa, Japan, is known for its subtropical climate, which means it experiences warm weather throughout the year. However, it's important to note that the weather can vary significantly depending on the season. During the winter months, from December to February, Okinawa experiences mild weather with average temperatures ranging from 59°F to 68°F (15°C to 20°C). This is a great time to visit if you prefer cooler temperatures. However, it's advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings. Spring, from March to May, sees temperatures rise to between 68°F and 82°F (20°C to 28°C). This is a beautiful time to visit as the island is in full bloom. However, it's also the start of the rainy season which typically runs from late May to early June. So, don't forget to pack a raincoat or umbrella. Summer, from June to August, is hot and humid with temperatures often exceeding 89°F (32°C). If you're planning to visit during this time, be prepared for high humidity and occasional tropical storms. It's important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. Autumn, from September to November, is typhoon season. While the temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 73°F to 86°F (23°C to 30°C), the weather can be unpredictable. If you're planning to visit during this time, it's important to stay updated on the weather forecast and have a flexible itinerary. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Okinawa is a beautiful destination with a lot to offer, but like any tropical location, the weather can be unpredictable.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 23° / 15° | January is the coldest month in Okinawa, but it's still relatively mild with occasional rain. |
February | 23° / 15° | February is similar to January, with mild temperatures and occasional rain, making it a good time for indoor activities. |
March | 24° / 16° | March sees a slight increase in temperature, but it's still a bit chilly for beach activities. |
April | 27° / 19° | April is when the weather starts to warm up, making it a good time for outdoor activities. |
May | 30° / 22° | May is warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities and exploring the islands. |
June | 33° / 25° | June is the start of the rainy season, so be prepared for occasional showers. |
July | 36° / 28° | July is hot and humid, with high chances of typhoons, so check the weather forecast regularly. |
August | 36° / 28° | August is also hot and humid, with occasional typhoons, so it's a good time for indoor activities. |
September | 34° / 26° | September is still warm, but the typhoon risk decreases, making it a good time for outdoor activities. |
October | 31° / 23° | October is a great time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and less rainfall. |
November | 28° / 20° | November is slightly cooler, but still warm enough for outdoor activities. |
December | 25° / 17° | December is cooler and drier, making it a good time for sightseeing and exploring the city. |
Did you know?
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