Okinawa Island, the largest of the Ryukyu Islands, is a unique blend of Japanese and Ryukyu cultures. It offers beautiful beaches, plenty of historical sights, places with vibrant local traditions, large number of resorts and excellent cuisine. To find the island on the map, look a little southwest of Japan itself, in the waters of the East China Sea.
Check our first timers guide to the best things to do in Okinawa. In this post, we’ve tried to collect the information about the most important tourist places to visit on this Japanese island.
Places to Visit in Okinawa
Hiji Falls
One of the popular tourist attraction worth visiting on Okinawa island is Hiji Falls, which is considered the highest on the island. This stunning waterfall located in the northern part of Okinawa Island, within the Yambaru region, known for its lush subtropical forests and diverse wildlife.
The hike to Hiji Falls is about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) one way, through a well-marked trail that takes about 40-60 minutes depending on your pace and stops along the way. But you should be careful, as the road is mostly wet and slippery.
One of the main highlights of the trail is crossing the suspension bridge, so enjoy the views of the forest and the river below.
- On the map: link.
Okinawa World Theme Park
Okinawa World is a cultural theme park located in the southern part of Okinawa Island, offering visitors a rich experience of Okinawan traditions, crafts, natural wonders, and history. It is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the unique cultural heritage of Okinawa.
The main attractions of this park are: limestone cave, Habu museum and cultural village. Gyokusendo cave is 5-kilometer-long limestone cave, one of the largest in Japan, with 850 meters accessible to the public.
Walk along illuminated pathways, don’t miss a chance to see stalactites and stalagmites, underground rivers.
Kingdom village presents traditional Okinawan village showcasing Ryukyu-era architecture and lifestyle. There you can participate in hands-on workshops like traditional weaving, pottery, glass blowing, and dyeing. Watch live performances of Eisa dance and traditional music.
- Opening hours: daily, 09.00-17.30
- Address: Maekawa-1336 Tamagusuku, Nanjo, Okinawa 901-0616, Japan
- Entrance fee: 12 USD, buy ticket here
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
For sure, one of the places that should be included in your bucket list. Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, located within the Ocean Expo Park in Motobu, is one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world.
The main attraction of the aquarium is massive tank that holds 7,500 cubic meters of water. It is a home to whale sharks, manta rays, and various other marine species. Spend some time at each of the water tanks to learn about different water systems and its habitants, including coral reefs, deep sea and many others.
In the interactive zones you can touch and feel various marine creatures like starfish and sea cucumbers. Also, see daily dolphin shows and educational presentations.
- Operating Hours: 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM (last admission at 5:30 PM). Hours may extend during peak seasons.
- Buy Ticket to Churaumi Aquarium
- Address: 424 Ishikawa, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
Shurijo Castle
Shurijo Castle, located in Naha, Okinawa, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the Ryukyu Kingdom’s cultural heritage. The castle served as the political, economic, and cultural center of the Ryukyu Kingdom for over 400 years.
Due to a devastating fire in 2019 several key buildings were destroyed, including the Seiden. Reconstruction efforts are ongoing, and parts of the castle and its grounds are still accessible to the public.
- Operating hours: 08.00 -18.30, daily
- Address: 1-2 Shurikinjocho, Naha, Okinawa 903-0815, Japan
- Entrance fee: ¥ 400
- Okinawa Local Experience Tour
Kokusai Dori
Kokusai Dori, also known as “International Street,” is the main shopping, dining, and entertainment street in Naha city. Stretching for approximately 1.6 kilometers, it is a bustling hub that offers a mix of traditional and modern Okinawan culture, making it a must-visit destination for tourists.
If you’re looking for something interesting to bring back home from your trip you’ll enjoy shopping here. You can find traditional Okinawan crafts, Shisa statues, Ryukyu glass, and local foods.
Go ahead to Makishi Public Market, known as the “Kitchen of Okinawa,” where you can find fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Okinawan delicacies. Make sure to try street food like sata andagi (Okinawan donuts), beni imo (purple sweet potato) ice cream, and freshly made tempura. Most shops and restaurants are open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Kerama Islands
The Kerama Islands, located about 32 kilometers (20 miles) west of Okinawa’s main island, are renowned for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Islands are part of the Kerama Shoto National Park, known for their vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
The archipelago consists of over 20 islands, with the main inhabited ones being Tokashiki, Zamami, Aka, and Geruma. It’s a paradise for snorkeling, diving, and beach lovers, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of mainland Okinawa.
From January to March, the Kerama Islands are a prime location for whale watching, as humpback whales migrate to the area for breeding.
Peace Memorial Museum
In Itoman city, there is another noteworthy place – Peace Memorial Museum. This museum is dedicated to commemorating the Battle of Okinawa, which took place during World War II in 1945, and promoting peace and understanding.
The centerpiece of this museum is a large monument inscribed with the names of over 240,000 people who died during the Battle of Okinawa, including soldiers from both sides and local civilians.
- Location: 614-1 Mabuni, Itoman City, Okinawa
- Operating Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM).
Nago Pineapple Park
Located in Nago City on the northern part of Okinawa Island, Nago Pineapple Park is a unique theme park dedicated to pineapples. It offers visitors a fun and educational experience centered around this tropical fruit, including interactive exhibits, pineapple tastings, and various pineapple-themed attractions.
Visitors can take a guided tour on an automated pineapple-shaped cart through the lush pineapple fields and tropical gardens. Learn about pineapple cultivation and the history of pineapple farming in Okinawa. You can also watch the production process and enjoy samples of pineapple cakes, cookies, and other treats.
- Tickets to Nago Pineapple park
- Address: 150 Kagamizu, Naha, Okinawa 901-0142, Japan
- Operating hours: 09.00 — 20.00, daily
