Let’s go to Japan again! This time to Okinawa, the Japanese tropical island group. As I was coming from Taiwan, I was in the “neighborhood” anyways.
My interest in Okinawa comes from pop culture, as I know the islands from various anime series and the movie Karate Kid.
For my 4 day trip in Okinawa Honto (main island) I stayed 2 nights in Naha and 2 nights in Nago. I specifically chose to stay in two locations, as it makes it easier to navigate the entire island without having to drive back and forth to one place.
To explore Okinawa it’s a must-have to get a rental car. Even though the city Naha has excellent public transportation, but to venture out onto the rest of the island, an own set of wheels is an absolute necessity!
DAY 1
On the first day I visited the capital Naha and its major sights.
Shuri Castle
Step back in time to the most historically significant structure in Okinawa Honto: Shuri castle (首里城, Shurijō). The red castle stands on top of a hill with a view of Naha below. The structure was built in the 13th century and destroyed many times over, including most recently in 2019 and is in restoration. Nonetheless a visit to Shurijo is still worth it, as the remaining walls and gardens still stand strong.
Kinjocho Ishidatami
A narrow ancient cobblestone road is Shuri Kinjo-cho Stone Paved Path, a historic connection leading to Shuri Castle.
Fukushūen Garden
This hidden gem in Naha is a Chinese style garden offering a serene escape.
Naminoue Shrine
This sacred Shinto shrine is situated on top of a cliff overlooking Naminoue Beach and the sea. All the boats who pass the shrine pray for a safe journey.
Naminoue Beach
This unusual beach is in the city center of Naha. The beach itself is gorgeous with the soft sand and the rising cliff with the Naminoue shrine on top. But mostly unusual because of the direct view of an enormous car bridge right there in the water.
Kokusai-dori shopping street
The main shopping street of Naha is Kokusai-doru. Stroll around for your (tax-free) Okinawa souvenirs.
DAY 2
On the 2nd day in Okinawa I made my way out of Naha by rental car. I used BANANA Rent a Car, which is right next to the monorail station Asahibashi. From the airport the Yui Rail goes directly into Naha city.
American Village
American Village is a semi-indoor shopping area by the shore and the first place you encounter when driving out of Naha. When you already did your shopping spree at Kokusai-dori, you can easily skip American Village. With the heavy downpour I was having, I thought it could be a nice quick stop to check out.
Cape Manzamo
Close to Onna is the rock formation Cape Manzamo. An entrance fee of ¥100 allows you to visit the viewpoint. Although not much else is going on in the area, it’s an easy drop-in with a scenic view of the cliffs.
Churaumi Aquarium
I wasn’t originally planning on visiting Churaumi Aquarium, as I’m not really into enclosed wildlife. But since it was on top of every Okinawa itinerary and the rain was still going strong, I might as well go. I definitely wasn’t disappointed! The huge sea tank “Kuroshio Sea” with its whale shark Jinta is the top attraction of the aquarium. But also be amazed by cool jellyfish, manta rays and other sea life.
Tip: park your car at P9 parking lot, as it’s in between Churaumi Aquarium and Emerald Beach.
Emerald Beach
Right next to the aquarium is Emerald Beach, a pretty white sand beach which perfect for swimming on those sunny days.
Bise Fukugi Tree Road
After Emerald Beach, walk a bit further to Bise Fukugi Tree Road. A picturesque path through the village with trees lined up on both sides, covering the path as a beautiful arch.
DAY 3
It’s time to explore the Northern area of Okinawa Honto.
Nakjin castle
I arrived at Nakjin castle in the early morning where I was the only visitor. Walking through the castle grounds with only the noise of loudly chirping cicadas, was making it a rather magical experience.
Kouri island
Before driving onto Kouri island, first make a stop at Kouri Bridge View Point, a small pretty beach with a striking view of the bridge to Kouri island.
The main attraction is Heart Rock on the North side of the island. A narrow path leads to a small beach with 2 rocks standing proudly in the water in the shape of a heart.
Okuma Beach
Not many visitors in Okinawa make it further North past Nago. Which is a shame to miss out on this huge stretch of sand in front of Okuma Beach Private Beach & Resort. The place is gorgeous and great for swimming. After enjoying the ocean, I shortly crashed the resort to wash up at their outdoor showers.
Cape Hedo
The most northern part of Naha island is Cape Hedo. The magnificent cliffs standing proudly in the sea makes the trip here definitely worth it. Check out the cafe at the observatory for a delicious freshly made banana-apple milkshake.
DAY 4
On my last day I drove to the East side of Okinawa Honto, to Hamahiga island. It’s small but probably my favorite island on Okinawa. Here I encounter a tranquil and mostly unknown area with gorgeous isolated beaches and a few sacred sites.
Shirumichu
Shirumichu is a sacred place, a stairwell and tori bringing you up to a cave.
Shirumichu Beach
Just before the sacred Shirumichu, is one of those beautiful quiet beaches. A small stretch of sand is separated from the ocean by a collection of large rocks.
Kabakumba beach
Another hidden gem is Kabakumba beach, a bit further up a gravel road. This beach is only accessible via the salt factory (and within opening hours, weekdays 10:00 – 16:00). An almost hidden path through the foliage brings you to this secluded beach.
Tomb of Amamichu
Before leaving Hamahiga island, make a quick stop at the Tomb of Amamichu.
Katsuren Castle Ruins
As I’m driving back to Naha, I make one last stop at Katsuren Castle Ruins. The parking lot and ticket booth is across the road from the castle. The entrance fee is ¥600, this includes the service of an electric golf cart bringing you up the steep hill to the castle ruins 🙂
It’s a small area that doesn’t take long to explore. A few stone walls and foundations are the remainder of the former castle.
