Naha’s Kokusai-dori and Shuri Castle, the Churaumi Aquarium in the north, and the islands around Ishigaki.
Okinawa is a group of islands with its own Ryukyu culture. Rent a car to explore the main island beyond Naha, and fly or take ferries to the outer islands.
JapaLens editorial guide · Read in about 5 minutesKokusai-dori is the main shopping street, with the Makishi Public Market nearby. Shuri Castle, the former royal palace, burned in 2019; the main hall is being rebuilt, and the grounds stay open. Check the official site for which buildings can be entered.
The Yui Rail monorail connects Naha Airport, Kokusai-dori and Shuri.
Read this area guide →Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium has a huge tank with whale sharks and manta rays. Nearby, Kouri Island is reached by a long bridge over turquoise water.
The aquarium is about two hours from Naha by car or expressway bus.
Read this area guide →Ishigaki has Kabira Bay’s bright water and is the ferry hub for Taketomi, with its red-tiled village, and Iriomote, with mangrove jungle.
Flights reach Ishigaki from Naha and Tokyo; ferries can stop in rough seas, so keep spare time.
Read this area guide →An editorial route idea, not a timed tour. Adjust it for weather, opening days and your walking pace.
Shuri Castle and its grounds.
Okinawa soba lunch.
Kokusai-dori and Makishi market.
Ryukyu cuisine and live sanshin music.
Try Okinawa soba, goya champuru, taco rice, Orion beer and awamori.
Stay in Naha for transport and dining, at a resort on the west coast for beaches, or on Ishigaki for the outer islands.
Yui Rail runs in Naha; elsewhere on the main island a rental car or buses are needed. Typhoon season is roughly July to October.
