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Okinawa Travel: 30 Attractions, Island Activities, and Tips

Okinawa Travel: 30 Attractions, Island Activities, and Tips

Discover 30 top places to visit in Okinawa, with things to do, activities, hotels, shopping, and essential travel tips for first-time visitors.

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Born in Taipei, Taiwan. I worked in the inbound tourism industry in Kyoto, writing a blog about travel in Japan. I joined MATCHA in October 2019. Hobbies: travel, watching trains, visiting stylish cafes, sweets, collecting seal stamps, watching musicals, taking photos, and others - so many, in fact, that I find it weird myself.
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Okinawa: Japan’s Leading Resort Destination

Okinawa

Okinawa Prefecture has a population of 1.47 million people spread across 160 islands (47 inhabited and 113 uninhabited).

Naha Airport, located on the main island, is the prefecture's primary aviation hub, complemented by 12 local airports scattered throughout the region.

Below, we introduce the top 30 places to visit in Okinawa, along with the latest travel information, access tips, island activities, and local souvenir spots.

Top Destinations in Okinawa

1. Shuri Castle and More! 10 Places to Visit in Naha and Nanjo
2. Places to Visit in Central Okinawa
3. JUNGLIA, Churaumi, and More! 5 Places to Visit in Northern Okinawa
4. Okinawa’s Most Beautiful Outer Islands
- Ishigaki Island
- Miyako Island (Miyakojima)
- Taketomi Island
- Iriomote Island
- Yonaguni Island
5. Shopping in Okinawa
6. Okinawa Souvenirs and Local Specialties
7. Hotels in Okinawa
8. How to Get Around in Okinawa: Airports, Monorail, Buses, Car Rentals

1. Shuri Castle and More! 10 Places to Visit in Naha and Nanjo

While famous as one of Japan’s premier resort destinations, Okinawa offers far more than just beautiful beaches. For 450 years, it thrived as the independent Ryukyu Kingdom, developing a vibrant culture distinct from mainland Japan.

Today, that heritage blends uniquely with modern American influences stemming from the local U.S. military presence.

Geographically, Okinawa Island is divided into three main regions: the North, Central, and South.

The Southern area serves as the gateway to the prefecture, housing Naha Airport as well as the municipalities of Naha, Tomigusuku, Itoman, Nanjo, Haebaru, Yonabaru, and Yaese.
Book your accommodation in Okinawa on Booking.com

1. Shuri Castle

Okinawa

As the historic palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom, Shuri Castle is one of Okinawa’s most iconic cultural landmarks and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000.

Although a devastating fire destroyed a major portion of the castle on October 31, 2019, extensive restoration efforts are nearing completion. The main hall is scheduled to officially reopen to the public on November 23, 2026.

Just a one-minute walk away sits Tamaudun, a magnificent stone mausoleum where generations of Ryukyuan kings are laid to rest. Because of their close proximity, these two historic spots make a perfect combined itinerary.

Shurijo Castle Park

Shurijo Castle Park

1-2 Shuri Kinjocho, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture 903-0815
Shuri Castle Park is a castle ruins park in Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture. Shuri Castle once stood on a hill overlooking Naha Port, which was a base for international trade, and is now an urban park. The main hall was destroyed by fire in 2019, but restoration work is underway with the aim of completion in 2026. Photo by AC

2. Kokusaidori Shopping Street

Kokusaidori Shopping Street

Picture courtesy of Okinawa Convention & Visitors Bureau

One of the most famous streets in Okinawa is Kokusaidori Shopping Street, located in central Naha. Lining this street are rows of shops where you can buy general merchandise, souvenirs, and more!

There are also several food stalls and famous Japanese food chains where you can delight in Okinawan food. Visitors can enjoy the street in several ways through shopping and food.

Naha Kokusaidori Shopping Street

Naha Kokusaidori Shopping Street

3-2-10 Makishi, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture 900-0013
Located in the center of Naha City, Kokusai Street is a bustling shopping street lined with souvenir shops and restaurants for about 1.6 kilometers. There are many spots where you can enjoy local crafts and Okinawan cuisine, making it the perfect place for shopping and eating. You can also experience Okinawan culture firsthand, such as traditional Eisa performances and interactions with local people at the market. Strolling around with friends is sure to leave you with a memorable time. (Photo by AC)

3. Makishi Public Market

First Makishi Public Market

Photo by Pixta

Affectionately nicknamed the “Kitchen of Naha,” Makishi Public Market is the vibrant heart of Okinawa’s food culture.

The market has a fascinating history, starting as an open-air black market in 1945 immediately after World War II, before eventually becoming a formal public market managed by the city.

Today, visitors can explore bustling vendor stalls on the first floor, head up to the second floor to enjoy a lively food hall, or check out the cooking classrooms and multipurpose spaces on the third floor.

First Makishi Public Market

First Makishi Public Market

2-7-10 Matsuo, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture 900-0014

4. Naminoue Shrine

Naminoue Shrine

Photo by Pixta

Naminoue Shrine, which is located in Naha, is Okinawa's most prestigious Shinto sanctuary. It is celebrated as the head of the Ryukyu Hassha—the eight elite shrines that received special status and protection from the Ryukyu Kingdom.

Perched majestically atop a high coral cliff overlooking the deep blue ocean, the shrine’s brilliant vermilion architecture offers an absolutely breathtaking sight.

Naminoue Palace

Naminoue Palace

1-25-11 Wakasa, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture 900-0031

5. Shikinaen Garden

Shikinaen Garden

Photo by Pixta

Shikinaen Garden, a World Heritage site, is a circular garden where visitors can walk the circumference of the grounds.

In addition to tropical plants, it is home to buildings incorporating Chinese and Ryukyuan architectural styles. This expansive space will allow you to soak up Okinawa’s unique culture.

Shikinaen Garden

Shikinaen Garden

421-7 Maji, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture 902-0072

6. Minatogawa Stateside Town

Minatogawa Stateside Town

Photo by Pixta

Minatogawa Stateside Town in Urasoe City, Okinawa, is an area where American soldiers once lived.

Nowadays, the streets are lined with several trendy cafes and general stores, turning the area into a hot spot for food and shopping.

Minatogawa Stateside Town

Minatogawa Stateside Town

2-17 Minatogawa, Urasoe City, Okinawa Prefecture 901-2134

7. Tsuboya Yachimun Street

Tsuboya Yachimun Street

Photo by Pixta

Just a five-minute walk from Kokusai-dori and Makishi Public Market, Tsuboya Yachimun Street is a charming, historic avenue lined with vibrant pottery shops.

Named after the Okinawan word for pottery (yachimun), this scenic street offers a stunning array of ceramics, ranging from traditional Ryukyu styles to sleek, contemporary designs.

From beautifully crafted plates, cups, and vases to unique ceramic spoons, you'll find plenty of amazing pieces that make the perfect souvenirs to take home.

Tsuboya Yachimun Street

Tsuboya Yachimun Street

1-16 Tsuboya, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture 902-0065

8. Senagajima Umikaji Terrace

Senagajima Umikaji Terrace

Photo by Pixta

The famous Senagajima Umikaji Terrace on Senaga Island is a shopping complex famed for its white Greek-style buildings.

The complex has 47 stores, primarily focusing on restaurants for enjoying various Okinawan cuisines. It’s also famous as an Instagrammable spot that extends into a spectacular ocean view and blue sky.

Senagajima Umikaji Terrace

Senagajima Umikaji Terrace

174-6 Senaga, Tomigusuku City, Okinawa Prefecture 901-0233

9. Gyokusendo Cave

Gyokusendo Cave

Photo by Pixta

Gyokusendo Cave is a limestone cave inside Okinawa World Culture Kingdom, a theme park where you can experience Okinawa’s charms first-hand.

The limestone cave is illuminated by milky white stalactites and stretches 800 meters. Enjoy an experience that feels like you’re in another world!

Okinawa World

Okinawa World

1336 Tamagusukumaekawa, Nanjo City, Okinawa Prefecture 901-0616
Okinawa World is a theme park located in Nanjō City, Okinawa Prefecture. It is one of Okinawa's leading tourist spots, where you can enjoy Okinawa's history, culture, and nature all at once. It is full of attractions such as the Habu and mongoose shows and Gyokusendo Cave, making it a place that both adults and children can enjoy. Photo by AC

10. Sefa Utaki

Sefa Utaki

Sefa Utaki is a sacred land with the highest prestige in the Ryukyu Kingdom. It was forbidden for men to enter during this era. Even the king had to dress as a woman to be permitted entrance during his visits.

Sefa Utaki, registered as a World Heritage site in 2000, can now be visited by anyone regardless of religion, nationality, and gender.

Sefa Utaki

Sefa Utaki

539 Chinen Kuteken, Nanjo City, Okinawa Prefecture 901-1511

2. Okinawa's Central Area (Chatan, Okinawa)

Okinawa’s Central area delivers a unique, international vibe shaped by its proximity to several U.S. military bases. This multicultural atmosphere makes it a fascinating contrast to other parts of the island.

Geographically, this vibrant region is made up of Urasoe, Ginowan, Okinawa City, Uruma, Chatan, Kadena, Nakagusuku, Kitanakagusuku, Nishihara, and Yomitan.

11. Mihama American Village

Mihama American Village

Photo by Pixta

Mihama American Village, about a 40-minute drive from Naha Airport, was once a U.S. military airfield that was returned to Okinawa Prefecture and then reborn into a new place.

This popular spot is great for eating, shopping, or enjoying a break at the beach. There is an abundance of accommodations in the area as well.

Mihama American Village

Mihama American Village

904-0115 Mihama, Chatan Town, Nakagami District, Okinawa Prefecture
American Village is located in the Mihama district of Chatan Town, and is a resort area built on the site of a returned US military base. It is lined with commercial facilities such as a Ferris wheel, a cinema complex, restaurants, boutiques, and a shopping mall, and you can enjoy illuminations at night.

12. Koza Gate Street

Okinawa

Photo by Pixta

Koza Gate Street, situated at the entrance of a U.S. military base, is a shopping street with rows of restaurants and general stores.

It was once the most vibrant place in Okinawa, introducing present-day American culture to the prefecture. Several posters and signs are printed in English, so you may feel like you’re in the United States just by walking down the streets.

Koza Gate Street

Koza Gate Street

Chuo, Okinawa City, Okinawa Prefecture 904-0004

13. teamLab Future Park Okinawa

teamLab Future Park Okinawa

Picture courtesy of Klook

teamLab Future Park Okinawa, an interactive digital art space centered on "co-creation," is our top recommendation for families traveling with children.

Visitors of all ages can move their bodies through playful, collaborative installations like rolling the color-changing Light Ball Orchestra or watching their custom-drawn fish swim in the Sketch Aquarium.

Before leaving, head to the Sketch Factory. Using on-site ordering terminals, you can instantly turn your personal drawings into custom souvenirs like badges, towels, T-shirts, and tote bags—the perfect one-of-a-kind memento of your trip.

JUNGLIA, Churaumi, and More! 5 Places to Visit in Northern Okinawa

The Northern area of Okinawa is a haven for nature enthusiasts and culture seekers alike, boasting raw, untouched landscapes and a rich cultural heritage.

This scenic region includes Nago, Kunigami, Ogimi, Higashi, Motobu, Nakijin, Onna, Ginoza, Kin, and Ie, alongside the magnificent Yanbaru National Park.

Whether you want to explore subtropical rainforests, discover ancient castle ruins, or relax on secluded beaches, the North offers an unforgettable glimpse into Okinawa’s wild side.

14. JUNGLIA: An Excitement-Packed Amusement Park

JUNGLIA OKINAWA

Picture courtesy of PR Times

JUNGLIA OKINAWA is a massive amusement park immersed in the stunning nature of Yanbaru, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Designed by the team behind Universal Studios Japan, the park offers 22 exciting attractions—including a Dinosaur Safari and a luxury spa—alongside 15 dining facilities, making it the perfect day trip for families and friends.

Located in northern Okinawa, JUNGLIA is easily accessible from Naha City in about 90 minutes by car or dedicated shuttle bus.

15. Cape Manzamo

Cape Manzamo

Cape Manzamo is a cliff with an elephant trunk-like shape. This famous sightseeing spot is in northern Okinawa.

King Sho Kei of the Ryukyu Kingdom described this land as “an open field so wide it could seat 10,000 people.” Because of this comment, the cape came to be called Manzamo (literally “a field for 10,000 people to sit”).

Cape Manzamo

Cape Manzamo

〒904-0411 Onna, Onna Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture
Cape Manzamo is a scenic spot located in Onna Village, Okinawa Prefecture. It is a famous tourist spot with sheer cliffs and the vast lawns that spread over them. The name comes from the fact that Ryukyu King Sho Kei described it as "a field large enough for ten thousand people to sit on." Photo by AC

16. Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is another famous sightseeing spot that represents Okinawa. The aquarium has one of the largest water tanks in the world.

Visitors can marvel at marine life from various waters, including coral reefs, the Kuroshio Sea, and the deep sea. All of the exhibitions revolve around the concept of the “seas of Okinawa.”

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

424 Ishikawa, Motobu-cho, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa 905-0206
Located in the northern part of Okinawa's main island, Churaumi Aquarium has one of the world's largest aquariums, where you can observe large marine creatures such as whale sharks and manta rays up close. There are plenty of exhibits that teach you about the diverse ecosystem of Okinawa's oceans, including the beauty of the coral reefs and the mysteries of deep-sea creatures. You can gain a deeper understanding by participating in a guided tour of the aquarium or a backstage tour. If you visit on your graduation trip, you can rediscover the charm of the ocean with your friends and share your impressions. (Photo by AC)

17. Kouri Bridge

Kouri Bridge

Kouri Bridge measures 1,960 meters and connects Kouri Island with Yagaji Island. Beautiful, emerald-green waters stretch out on either side of the bridge, making it a standard spot in Okinawa for a scenic drive.

Kouri Bridge

Kouri Bridge

〒905-0406 Kouri, Nakijin Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefectu...

18. Nakijin Castle

Nakijin Castle

Nakijin Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features a striking architectural style vastly different from the castles found on mainland Japan. Its massive, undulating stone walls offer a glimpse into the ancient Ryukyu Kingdom.

Even better, this historic fortress is where you can catch the very first cherry blossoms of the year in Japan! The kanhizakura trees on the grounds burst into vibrant pink flowers annually from late January to mid-February, making it a spectacular winter destination.

Nakijin Castle Ruins

Nakijin Castle Ruins

〒905-0428 5101 Imadomari, Nakijin Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa...

19. Ryukyu Mura (Ryukyu Village)

Ryukyu Mura

Photo by Pixta

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the islands at Ryukyu Mura, a vibrant cultural theme park celebrating Okinawan nature and traditions. Step back in time as you stroll past authentic, red-tiled traditional homes and join in on a variety of hands-on workshops.

You can try on ryusou (elegant traditional garments), paint your own ceramic shisa—the iconic lion-dog guardian deities of Okinawa—or learn to pluck a melody on the sanshin, a traditional three-stringed instrument woven deeply into the island's musical history.

Ryukyu Mura

Ryukyu Mura

1130 Yamada, Onna Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture 904-0...

Okinawa’s Most Beautiful Outer Islands

Situated southwest of Okinawa's main island, the Yaeyama Islands are a breathtaking archipelago of remote gems preserving raw, untouched nature. Among them, Ishigaki Island, Iriomote Island, and Taketomi Island stand out as premier destinations.

Offering a tranquil escape from the bustling mainland, they are the perfect tropical sanctuary for travelers seeking world-class relaxation amidst lush, subtropical landscapes.

Miyakojima, in the Miyako Archipelago, is another popular destination, with many resorts and world-famous beaches.

20. Ishigaki Island

Ishigaki Island

Picture courtesy of the Okinawa Media Library

Ishigaki Island—the center of politics, economy, education, and traffic with the largest population among the Yaeyama Islands—is a famed mecca for snorkeling in Japan. Hundreds of domestic and international visitors come to this island to snorkel in these clear, transparent waters.

It also has convenient access. You can visit the island via a direct flight on domestic airlines from any major airport in Japan (Narita, Haneda, Chubu, Kansai, etc.)

Ishigaki Island

Ishigaki Island

Ishigaki, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture 907-0023

21. Miyako Island (Miyakojima)

Miyakojima Island

Photo by Pixta

Miyakojima, or Miyako Island, is a major resort destination with several famous beaches and impressive bridges that connect it to other islands.

The charm of this island lies in its breathtaking "Miyako Blue" waters, widely considered home to Asia’s most beautiful white-sand beaches, like Yonaha Maehama.

Unlike other mountainous islands, Miyakojima’s flat, coral-reef geography creates crystal-clear, runoff-free waters perfect for world-class snorkeling and diving alongside sea turtles.

Beyond the beach, the island offers a seamless blend of natural wonder and accessibility. You can drive across spectacular, toll-free bridges connecting neighboring islands, savor distinct local cuisine like Miyako soba, and experience a relaxed, idyllic tropical culture that rivals any premier resort destination.


Picture courtesy of the Taketomi Tourism Association

22. Taketomi Island

Okinawa

Taketomi Island has a population of 350 people. It is so small that you can walk an entire lap around the island in one hour.

Taketomi Island has activities like sightseeing by carriages pulled by water buffalos, touring traditional Okinawan homes, and beaches with star-shaped sand. This remote island is famous across Japan for its many charms despite its small size.

Taketomi Island

Taketomi Island

〒907-1101 Taketomi, Taketomi Town, Yaeyama District, Okinawa Prefectu...

23. Iriomote Island

Okinawa

Iriomote Island, the second biggest island in Okinawa Prefecture after Okinawa Island, is a jungle covered in mangroves, wetlands, and forests that make up over 90% of the island’s land area.

Iriomote Island is home to countless subtropical flora and fauna—almost like Japan’s very own Amazon! Interacting with nature on a canoe tour in rivers overgrown with mangroves or trekking in the jungle is Iriomote Island’s appeal.

Iriomote Island

Iriomote Island

907 Taketomi-cho, Yaeyama-gun, Okinawa Prefecture 907-1542, Okinawa Pr...

24. Yonaguni Island

Okinawa

Photo by Pixta

Yonaguni Island, located in the westernmost extremity of Japan, is actually closer to Taiwan than the main island of Honshu. You can even see the Central Mountain Range in Taiwan from the remote island on clear days.

Yonaguni Island is also famous as the filming location for the popular Japanese drama “Dr. Koto’s Clinic.” It is accessible by airplane from Naha Airport or New Ishigaki Airport.

Yonaguni Island

Yonaguni Island

〒907-1801 Yonaguni, Yonaguni Town, Yaeyama District, Okinawa Prefectu...

Shopping in Okinawa

Okinawa is a shopping paradise with many supermarkets, department stores, shopping centers, and duty-free shops. Finding your favorite local items is easy with everything at your fingertips!

25. SAN-A

SAN-A

For an authentic taste of everyday island life, head to San-A, Okinawa's most popular premier supermarket chain.

You can easily find their standalone neighborhood stores all over the prefecture, as well as massive flagship branches inside major shopping hubs like Naha Main Place, Urasoe West Coast Parco City, and Ginowan Convention City.

It is the perfect place to stop by, shop like a local, and pick up unique Okinawan snacks and souvenirs!

SAN-A Naha Main Place

SAN-A Naha Main Place

〒900-0006 4-4-9 Omoromachi, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture

26. Okinawa Outlet Mall Ashibinaa

Okinawa

Picture courtesy of the PR TIMES

Okinawa Outlet Mall Ashibinaa is Okinawa’s first outlet mall. You can purchase products for outlet prices at 110 stores, including luxury, famous sports, and popular Japanese brands.

The location is also convenient thanks to direct buses that depart from Naha Airport, Kokusaidori Shopping Street, and Akamine Station. Please refer to the official website for additional details on access.

Okinawa Outlet Mall Ashibinaa

Okinawa Outlet Mall Ashibinaa

1-188 Toyosaki, Tomigusuku City, Okinawa Prefecture 901-0225

27. AEON MALL Okinawa Rycom

AEON MALL Okinawa Rycom

Picture courtesy of AEON MALL

AEON MALL Okinawa Rycom feels like a resort. However, it is Okinawa’s biggest shopping center, with a large aquarium in the center. Not only is this shopping spot loved by the locals, but visitors can also enjoy it.

You can access the shopping center by direct buses from central Naha or the airport. Please refer to the official website for details.

AEON MALL Okinawa Rycom

AEON MALL Okinawa Rycom

1 Rycom, Kitanakagusuku Village, Nakagami District, Okinawa Prefecture...

28. RYUBO Department Store

RYUBO Department Store

RYUBO Department Store is Okinawa’s only department store, located next to Kokusaidori Shopping Street and Kenchomae Station.

The department store is great for purchasing general merchandise and souvenirs from shops like MUJI, a popular Japanese household goods brand.

RYUBO Department Store
Address: 900-0015 Okinawa, Naha, Kumoji 1-1-1
Business Hours: 10:00-20:00 *Business hours for some stores may differ.
Website: https://ryubo.jp/us/

29. T Galleria Okinawa by DFS

Okinawa

Picture courtesy of the PR TIMES

T Galleria Okinawa by DFS, located next to Omoromachi Station is a duty-free shop recommended for shopping enthusiasts.

Of course, overseas visitors are exempt from tax, but residents of Japan can purchase duty-free items as well! This is possible if you have a plane ticket for a domestic airline departing from Naha Airport outside of Okinawa Prefecture. The store offers an abundant selection of Western and Japanese brands, so be sure to check it out if you’re hoping to get some duty-free products!

T Galleria Okinawa

T Galleria Okinawa

4-1 Omoromachi, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture 900-0006

30. PARCO CITY

PARCO CITY

PARCO CITY in Urasoe is a large commercial complex that opened in the summer of 2019. It is the second largest shopping spot in Okinawa Prefecture, with roughly 250 stores in the complex.

As many as 35 buses operate between Naha and PARCO CITY daily, so the complex’s easy accessibility is a plus.

PARCO CITY
Address: 901-2123 Okinawa, Urasoe, Irijima 3-1-1
Business Hours: 10:00-22:00 *Business hours for some stores may differ.
Website: https://www.parcocity.jp/

Okinawa Souvenirs and Local Specialties

Next, we’ll introduce our three recommendations for signature Okinawan souvenirs.

1. Chinsuko

Okinawa

Chinsuko is a traditional cookie representative of Okinawa. There has been a recent increase in flavor variations over the past few years. Chinsuko is now sold in flavors such as chocolate and matcha green tea in addition to standard flavors such as brown sugar or salt.

2. Beniimo Tart

Okinawa

Beniimo tart is made with purple sweet potatoes, an Okinawan specialty. The unique, subtle sweetness of purple sweet potatoes and their dense texture are loved by many. In addition to chinsuko cookies, it has become one of the most famous sweets in Okinawa.

Okashi Goten, famous for their delicious beniimo tarts, is a shop we recommend given the numerous options available! You can get your hands on their products at souvenir shops and airports in Okinawa.

3. Awamori

Okinawa

Awamori is a traditional distilled alcohol made with rice as the base ingredient. It has a rich, mellow fragrance and strong sweetness. You can delight in this alcoholic beverage at restaurants in Okinawa or purchase it at souvenir shops in the airport.

Stay at a Hotel in Okinawa

Hotel Mahaina

An Okinawa trip will be filled with activities from heading to the beach, shopping, and nature activities. Our recommendation is to book a stay for two to three nights.

If you are on Okinawa Island, then let’s find a hotel that matches the purpose of your Okinawa trip. For instance, stay at a hotel in the Southern area if you want to enjoy shopping, in the Central area for the beach, or the Northern area for nature activities.

There are also several wonderful accommodations where you can experience Okinawa’s lush nature on islands outside the mainland, including Ishigaki or Taketomi Island. Use Booking.com or Agoda to find the best hotel for you!

Book an accommodation in Okinawa on Booking.com!

Transportation in Okinawa (Airplane, Monorail, Bus, Rental Car)

Located in central Okinawa, Naha City has a robust public transportation system. With the monorail and buses available, you can enjoy sightseeing in Okinawa without driving.

On the other hand, we recommend renting a car if you’re traveling with children or prefer more spontaneous trips. Please choose the transportation method that best fits your traveling style.

Airplane

Okinawa

The primary gateway to Okinawa Prefecture is Naha Airport. If you are traveling internationally, direct flights to Naha are primarily available from major cities across Asia.

Travelers arriving from Western countries typically fly into Japan's main international hubs—such as Haneda or Narita in Tokyo, Kansai in Osaka, or Chubu Centrair in Nagoya—before taking a quick domestic connection to Okinawa.

Once you arrive, you can catch domestic flights to explore the southern remote islands, though direct routes to destinations like Ishigaki and Miyakojima are also available from mainland Japan.

Monorail

Monorail

The transportation system most sightseers use first when traveling to Naha is the Okinawa Urban Monorail (nicknamed Yui Rail).

It is Okinawa Prefecture’s only railway, traveling from Naha Airport Station in the south to Tedako-Uranishi Station in the north. It’s a convenient and speedy transportation option for those who plan to only travel within Naha.

If you are going to ride the monorail several times a day, it would be a great deal to purchase either the One Day Pass (800 yen) or the Two Day Pass (1,400 yen) for unlimited rides.

Transportation IC cards such as Suica, ICOCA, and PASMO can be used on the monorail. To reload currency onto your IC card, you can conveniently do it at station ticket offices and convenience stores.

Bus

Okinawa Bus Terminal

Various buses operate mainly in Naha, Okinawa, such as the Okinawa Bus and Naha Bus (Japanese).

The Naha Bus sells a one-day bus pass (660 yen) that can be used for unlimited rides within the flat fare section of Naha. If you want to travel to other remote areas from Naha, then take the intercity bus or express bus from Naha Bus Terminal next to Asahibashi Station.

Rental Car

Okinawa

We recommend renting a car to enjoy your Okinawa sightseeing more flexibly if you can drive.

MATCHA has an exclusive 10% discount coupon for international visitors when renting a vehicle from Nippon Rent-A-Car, one of Japan's leading rental car companies (support available in English, Chinese, and Thai). Please be sure to check it out!

Do note that you may not be able to reserve a car since it has become popular in recent years to travel around Okinawa by rental car. Those who want to travel by rental car should make their reservations early.

Places offering free Wi-Fi in Japan are limited. Therefore, international visitors will find it handy to rent a pocket Wi-Fi device during their travels.

MATCHA has a coupon for NINJA WiFi (English) that gets you a great discount of 20% off! Please take advantage of this offer.

Book a pocket Wi-Fi reservation at NINJA WiFi

Enjoy Your Trip to Okinawa!

Okinawa is one of the most popular resorts in Japan. No wonder it's jam-packed with things to do and see! There are gorgeous ocean views, shopping, nature-rich activities, and historical spots for you to experience the Ryukyu Kingdom!

Okinawa offers more than your typical sightseeing spots. Make your way to remote islands and other destinations you’ve never been to before!

Main image by Pixta

Written by

Jacky Chen

Born in Taipei, Taiwan. I worked in the inbound tourism industry in Kyoto, writing a blog about travel in Japan. I joined MATCHA in October 2019. Hobbies: travel, watching trains, visiting stylish cafes, sweets, collecting seal stamps, watching musicals, taking photos, and others - so many, in fact, that I find it weird myself.
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