Okinawa In-Depth Travel Guide: A Tropical Secret in the Blue Sea and Sky
Okinawa, the southernmost part of Japan, feels like a world apart from Honshu. Here you’ll find azure seas, white sandy beaches, the ancient culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom, and warm, friendly islanders. Below are must-visit attractions and recommended itineraries in Okinawa to help you experience the true island vibe.
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1️⃣ Manzamo (Manzamo)
An endless coral cliff, one of Okinawa’s most iconic natural landscapes. Especially at sunset, the golden sea and cliffs create a stunning scene, making it a paradise for couples and photography enthusiasts.
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2️⃣ Churaumi Aquarium (Churaumi Aquarium)
A world-class aquarium featuring Japan’s largest “Kuroshio Sea” tank, where you can get up close to whale sharks, manta rays, and other giant marine creatures. A must-visit for families.
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3️⃣ Kokusai-dori (Kokusai-dori)
The busiest shopping and dining street in downtown Naha, offering local specialties, souvenirs, awamori liquor, and snacks. You can also experience traditional Okinawan dance and music performances here.
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4️⃣ Shurijo Castle (Shurijo Castle)
Originally the royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom, it beautifully blends Chinese and Japanese architectural styles. Although rebuilt multiple times due to fires, it remains an excellent place to learn about Ryukyu history.
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5️⃣ Blue Cave (Blue Cave)
A diving hotspot located at Maeda Point, where sunlight penetrates the water inside the cave, reflecting a mysterious blue glow. Perfect for snorkeling and diving. Best visited early morning or late afternoon.
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6️⃣ Umikaji Terrace (Umikaji Terrace)
A trendy new photo spot with white Mediterranean-style buildings and sea-view cafes, reminiscent of Santorini, Greece. It also features natural hot springs with views of Naha Airport, ideal for relaxation.
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7️⃣ Kouri Bridge (Kouri Bridge)
A nearly 2-kilometer-long bridge spanning turquoise waters, the only route to “Love Island” — Kouri Island. It’s also home to the “Heart Rock” legend, making it a romantic date spot.
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8️⃣ Okinawa World (Okinawa World)
Explore the underground stalactite cave “Gyokusendo,” formed over tens of thousands of years, and above ground, the “Kingdom Village” recreates traditional Ryukyu life. You can also try on Ryukyu costumes and crafts.
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9️⃣ Sesoko Island (Sesoko Island)
A small island connected to the main island, boasting pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Perfect for a quiet, leisurely beach day, ideal for couples or travelers seeking to avoid crowds.
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🌟 Okinawa Tips:
•🏖 Best travel season: April to October, summer is ideal for water activities
•🍍 Must-try foods: Sea grapes, Okinawa soba, Taco Rice, Goya Champuru (bitter melon stir-fry with egg)
•🛵 Recommended to rent a car: Public transportation in Okinawa is limited, so driving is the most convenient option
I highly recommend this activity. It combines excitement, sightseeing and fun. It's worth a try. I paid 5,500 yen and went out to sea on a speedboat. The humorous helmsman on the boat slowed down to introduce each scenic spot and took photos for tourists. When the boat arrived at the cave, it felt like an adventure, and the sight of the sea turning into a clear blue was also very beautiful.
As early as in the strategy found: Qingzhi Cave, also known as Qingdong, Blue Cave, is located in Shirong Tien Point, Okinawa, is the most popular point of snorkeling and deep diving in Okinawa, novice divers can also enjoy the fun of diving. Since it's in Okinawa, we can't let it go. Maybe it's the season. There are many divers. The sea is surprisingly clear, and from time to time a group of small fish swim around with ease and complacency. Sunshine sprinkles from the entrance of the cave, passes through the sea water and illuminates the water surface of the cave by reflecting the white sand on the sea floor. The unique beauty created by the sunshine refraction creates a mysterious blue horizon, which is very shocking. Perfect experience.
It's beautiful. I can't swim. I'm a little nervous before snorkeling. The Hong Kong coach is very patient and professional. He saw the fish and coral in the sea. The underwater world is really beautiful beyond words. We had a good time.
On the third day of the trip, we booked the natural blue experience diving + snorkeling half-day tour (500 yuan for renting a degree diving mirror, the total cost of diving includes tax: 21200 yuan). Choosing to dive in Okinawa is very important and indispensable! Seaside City? The coach is a man and a woman. Patient English explanation... Heart Matching! The first dive was no problem at all. But for girls, maybe the oxygen cylinder is too heavy ~my waist is not straight. Qingdong is really beautiful! Many beautiful fish are the ones you've seen in the aquarium. PS: Remember to bring your own slippers, swimsuits and towels. After the half-day tour, there is a place to wash on the shore, but cold water bath: 5, hot water bath: 200 90S, check-in baggage: 100.... Even blow-drying is a money-demanding yo! ____________ The hotel is called TAXI when it comes to diving. It's basically less than 4,000 miles a way. It's hard to make a sub-payment, but the driver hasn't been allowed to find any change...................................................... Wow, ha ha! You really should try it if you have a chance!
We can't swim when we go snorkeling with our friends for the first time. We ordered a snorkeling kit to pick up and take a person back and forth for less than 500 points in Ctrip. The coach is a Hong Kong man. He is very enthusiastic and always takes care of us in the process. There are many people in Qingdong. In fact, the light reflects to the surface of the water and gives out blue light. Personally, I think it's still a beautiful underwater scene outside, with coral and small ones. Fish. The first snorkeling experience was great!