🏝 Editor's Perspective: A Complete Travel Guide to Okinawa

Okinawa, known as the "Hawaii of Japan," boasts warm weather, clear waters, and a diverse blend of Ryukyu culture and the atmosphere of a US military base. Whether you're looking to snorkel, explore historic towns, or simply relax and unwind, Okinawa has it all.

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🏙 Recommended must-see attractions

1. Kokusai Dori

• Highlights : The busiest shopping and food street in downtown Naha.
• Editor’s tip : The atmosphere is best at night, when souvenir shops, restaurants, and ice cream shops are all concentrated.

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2. Shurijo Castle

• Highlights : The symbol of the Ryukyu Kingdom, a world cultural heritage.
• Editor’s Tip : Although it’s currently undergoing reconstruction due to a fire, it’s still worth visiting the surrounding park and city wall landscape.

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3. Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

• Highlights : This massive tank, home to giant whale sharks and manta rays, is a must-see attraction in Okinawa.
• Editor's Tip : We recommend visiting the museum early in the morning when it opens, as it's less crowded and you can also visit the adjacent Ocean Expo Park.

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4. Kouri Island

• Highlights : Transparent blue sea and white sand beach, known as the "holy land for lovers".
• Editor's Tip : Kouri Bridge is a stunning photo spot, and the sunset in the evening is incredibly romantic.

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5. Manzamo

• Highlights : Elephant trunk-shaped coral reef cliffs with a panoramic view of the sea.
• Editor’s Tip : It’s recommended to take photos at dusk when the light is softer.

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6. Gyokusendo Cave & Okinawa World

• Highlights : A 5-kilometer-long stalactite cave, accompanied by Ryukyu traditional cultural performances.
• Editor's tip : The temperature inside the cave is cool, making it a great place to escape the summer heat.

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7. Cape Zanpa

• Highlights : Okinawa's famous sunset spot, with a white lighthouse and spectacular waves.
• Editor’s Tip : On a clear day, you can see the Kerama Islands from a distance.

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🍜 Must-eat food in Okinawa

1. Okinawa Soba

   • Thick noodles with pork, kamaboko, and a refreshing broth.
   • Recommended restaurants: Shuri Aki, Shuri Shokudo

2. Sea grapes (Umibudo)

   • It is called "Emerald" and has a juicy and salty taste when you put it in your mouth.

3. Taco Rice

   • A creative dish of Mexican taco fillings placed on rice.

4. Bitter Melon Scrambled Eggs (Goya Champuru)

   • Okinawan home cooking, refreshing and delicious.

5. Red taro dessert

   • Red taro tarts and red taro ice cream are both popular souvenirs.

6. Blue Seal Ice Cream

   • Okinawa-exclusive flavors, recommended are salted vanilla and red taro.

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🚗 Okinawa Transportation Guide

Transportation within the city and the island

• Naha City : The Yui Rail monorail connects Naha Airport, Shuri Castle, and Kokusai-dori.
• Tourist attractions : Okinawa Island has scattered attractions, so renting a car is the most convenient way to drive.
• Bus : There are sightseeing buses and city buses, but they are less frequent, so please check the timetable.

From the airport to the city

• Naha Airport → Kokusai-dori : Approximately 15 minutes by monorail.
• Naha Airport → Churaumi Aquarium : Approximately 2 hours by car, approximately 2.5 hours by bus.

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🗓 My personal 3-day itinerary suggestion

Day 1 (City Cultural Route)
Naha Airport → Shurijo Castle → Kokusai Street Shopping → Yatai or Izakaya Dinner

Day 2 (Northern Seaview Route)
Churaumi Aquarium → Ocean Expo Park → Kouri Island → Manzamo Beach

Day 3 (Nature Adventure Route)
Gyokusen Cave & Okinawa World → Lunch: Okinawa Noodles → Sunset at Cape Zanpa → Return to the airport

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💡Editor 's friendly reminder :

• To drive in Okinawa, you need to hold an international driver's license + a translated version and follow Japan's left-hand driving rules.
• The sun is strong in summer, so it is recommended to bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
• Please pay attention to tides and jellyfish warnings when playing in the sea.