okinawa work and travel

Job information for foreigners in Okinawa matching

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Employment status

• Full time employee (mid career)
• Dispatching
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• Full time employee (recent graduate)
• Full time employee (specified skilled worker)
• Contract employee (specified skilled worker)

Japanese level

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Displayed 1-20 of 72

[Foreigners are active!] Recruiting full-time kitchen hall staff with an annual income of 3.4 to 4 million yen @鉄板焼すてーき

株式会社オーイズミフーズ

Okinawa Ishigaki-shi

Annual income 3,400,000 ~ 4,000,000

Equivalent to N3

株式会社オーイズミフーズ is hiring for a Full time employee (mid career) job in Okinawa Ishigaki-shi.The salary for this job is Annual income 3,400,000 ~ 4,000,000.

Publisher 株式会社オーイズミフーズ 8 months ago

Hotel job in Okinawa

Monthly salary 230,000 ~ 260,000

English, Japanese, Chinese

Equivalent to N2

シーアップル is hiring for a Full time employee (mid career) job in Okinawa.The salary for this job is Monthly salary 230,000 ~ 260,000.

Publisher dialog 8 months ago

ペンション リーフイン国吉

Monthly salary 200,000 ~ 291,000

ペンション リーフイン国吉 is hiring for a Full time employee (mid career) job in Okinawa.The salary for this job is Monthly salary 200,000 ~ 291,000.

ホテルモントレ株式会社

Okinawa Onnason

Monthly salary 190,000 ~ 230,000

English, Chinese, Korean

ホテルモントレ株式会社 is hiring for a Contract employee job in Okinawa Onnason.The salary for this job is Monthly salary 190,000 ~ 230,000.

沖縄ハーバービューホテル

Okinawa Naha-shi

Monthly salary 170,000 ~ 180,000

沖縄ハーバービューホテル is hiring for a Full time employee (mid career) job in Okinawa Naha-shi.The salary for this job is Monthly salary 170,000 ~ 180,000.

Publisher WeXpats Agent 6 months ago

オリエンタルホテル沖縄リゾート＆スパ

Okinawa Nago-shi

Monthly salary 165,000 ~ 210,000

オリエンタルホテル沖縄リゾート＆スパ is hiring for a Full time employee (mid career) job in Okinawa Nago-shi.The salary for this job is Monthly salary 165,000 ~ 210,000.

Service job in Okinawa

株式会社ヒト・コミュニケーションズ

Hourly wage 1,400 ~

Japanese, English

株式会社ヒト・コミュニケーションズ is hiring for a Dispatching job in Okinawa Naha-shi.The salary for this job is Hourly wage 1,400 ~ .

Publisher アルバイトEX 2 weeks ago

Restaurant job in Okinawa

Okinawa Ginowan-shi

Hourly wage 1,010 ~

あきんどスシロー is hiring for a Part time job in Okinawa Ginowan-shi.The salary for this job is Hourly wage 1,010 ~ .

Publisher アルバイトEX 1 week ago

Sales job in Okinawa

セブン-イレブン・ジャパン

Hourly wage 930 ~

セブン-イレブン・ジャパン is hiring for a Part time job in Okinawa.The salary for this job is Hourly wage 930 ~ .

Hourly wage 910 ~ 950

大創産業 is hiring for a Part time job in Okinawa.The salary for this job is Hourly wage 910 ~ 950.

株式会社レソリューション

Monthly salary 200,000 ~ 260,000

株式会社レソリューション is hiring for a Dispatching job in Okinawa.The salary for this job is Monthly salary 200,000 ~ 260,000.

DAISO　イオンモール沖縄ライカム店

DAISO　イオンモール沖縄ライカム店 is hiring for a Part time job in Okinawa.The salary for this job is Hourly wage 910 ~ 950.

DAISO　豊崎TOMITON店

Hourly wage 905 ~ 970

DAISO　豊崎TOMITON店 is hiring for a Part time job in Okinawa.The salary for this job is Hourly wage 905 ~ 970.

DAISO　イーアス沖縄豊崎店

DAISO　イーアス沖縄豊崎店 is hiring for a Part time job in Okinawa.The salary for this job is Hourly wage 905 ~ 970.

Customer service job in Okinawa

Monthly salary 204,960 ~ 242,600

Equivalent to N1

株式会社Ling is hiring for a Dispatching job in Okinawa Naha-shi.The salary for this job is Monthly salary 204,960 ~ 242,600.

Publisher Work Gate 2 months ago

株式会社はま寿司[1]

Hourly wage 1,250 ~

株式会社はま寿司[1] is hiring for a Part time job in Okinawa.The salary for this job is Hourly wage 1,250 ~ .

Publisher マッハバイト 4 days ago

株式会社はま寿司[2]

Hourly wage 1,030 ~

株式会社はま寿司[2] is hiring for a Part time job in Okinawa.The salary for this job is Hourly wage 1,030 ~ .

Hourly wage 1,050 ~ 1,200

Equivalent to

株式会社ヒューネッツ is hiring for a Part time job in Okinawa Naha-shi.The salary for this job is Hourly wage 1,050 ~ 1,200.

Publisher マッハバイト 1 day ago

東急リゾーツ&ステイ株式会社(1)

Hourly wage 1,100 ~

東急リゾーツ&ステイ株式会社(1) is hiring for a Part time job in Okinawa Naha-shi.The salary for this job is Hourly wage 1,100 ~ .

Publisher マッハバイト 3 weeks ago

Apparel job in Okinawa

Okinawa Tomigusuku-shi

株式会社サーズ is hiring for a Part time job in Okinawa Tomigusuku-shi.The salary for this job is Hourly wage 1,100 ~ .

Publisher マッハバイト 7 months ago

Job listing for foreigners in Japan

Ginowan-shi

Okinawa Part time

Okinawa Dispatching

Okinawa Localization

Okinawa Restaurant

Okinawa Job Information for Foreigners

Average annual salary 3,700,000yen

Average monthly salary 213,118yen

Average hourly wage 1,033yen

Number of employees 8,138people

Number of offices 1,591office

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Work and Travel in Japan

Help us grow. share what you know about getting work in japan for travellers., volunteer and paid work opportunities in japan for travellers.

Many foreigners, hold a lifelong desire to travel to Japan, perhaps because the culture is so unique and exotic, especially for westerners. It has a reputation for being expensive and difficult for outsiders to assimilate into, so it’s best to be well-prepared before attempting to work and travel here. However, for those that are willing to push through the culture shock, the rewards for working and travelling in Japan can be great. Read on through our guide to making the most of your adventure in the Land of the Rising Sun. 1. Work in IT in Japan The tech field, of course, is constantly expanding and evolving, and Japan is a country often on the cutting-edge of technological advances. If you have good programming or software engineering skills, you can often find work without speaking much Japanese, which is generally a barrier to entry for many foreigners seeking work in Japan. 2. Teaching English at cram schools  Teaching English as a native speaker is the most common position for foreigners looking to work and travel in Japan. The jobs often don’t pay very well, but backpackers can find work teaching at any time of year, and therefore is a great starting point for new arrivals looking to learn about Japanese culture. 3. Caregiving in an ageing home It is common knowledge that Japan has the highest proportion of elderly citizens of any country in the world. This has created a busy and booming market for elder care, since many young people in the big cities live in cramped apartments are too busy with work to keep their parents at home. If you enjoy working with older people, you don’t necessarily need any experience or even great Japanese language skills to start working in elder care in Japan.

VOLUNTEER WORK VISA / PERMIT REQUIREMENTS FOR JAPAN

Japan allows several nationalities from having to obtain a tourist visa before entering the country. Citizens from most European countries, United States, Australia, and Argentina do not need to get the Japan Tourist Visa since they are considered visa-exempt countries for tourism purposes. Nationals from any of those regions can stay in Japan for a maximum of 90 days visa-free and are assigned Temporary Visitor status. Under the single-entry regulation, tourists can remain in Japan for up to 30 days, but this tourist visa is valid for a period of up to 90 days. Tourists can also apply for a double-entry visa for 2 short trips within a 6-month period. An E-Visa option is upcoming, but has yet to be released, likely due to the pandemic. Citizens of China, Russia, the Phillippines, Vietnam and CIS countries will need a tourist visa sorted before entering the country.

SEASONAL BACKPACKER SKILLS NEEDED IN JAPAN

Spring work.

For being a relatively small, island-based country, Japan enjoys a wide variety of climates. Visitors are attracted not only to the cities but to mountain resorts and organic farms in small rural villages. Backpackers have their choice from a variety of beautiful locations when finding work in hospitality.  Springtime is the best point in the year to find hospitality work, with many visitors coming over to witness the cherry blossoms but before western tourists start to arrive on summer vacation en masse. There are hotels alongside hot springs where you can volunteer in exchange for a bed, as well as hostels in the big city of Hokkaido where you can learn the art of running a hostel.

SUMMER JOBS

We recommend finding a work and travel opportunity at one of Japan’s many organic farms in the summer months. There are the usual fruit and vegetable farms, but also bee farms where honey is harvested, and terraced farms for rice.  You’ll learn unique growing methods that will give you an edge back home if you decide to continue in the gardening or landscaping field. Just be aware that summers in Japan can be extremely hot, so you should be in good physical condition.

Many people say autumn is the best time of year to visit Japan, since the weather is at its most pleasant and mild.  It’s a great time to join historical conservation projects in the country. You’ll have the option of working in far off temples or hosting groups that visit these sites. All you need to partake in these projects is an interest in history and a willingness to work.

Japan has proudly hosted the winter Olympics before, and it is clear to see why - the ski resorts are very popular. Backpackers can find work and travel opportunities at these places in Nagano, Niigata, and Yamagata prefecture, even if you don’t have any winter sports experience. How? Often au pairs are needed to watch after children, or chalet cleaners to keep the resorts clean.

ATTITUDE TO FOREIGNERS WORKING OR VOLUNTEERING IN JAPAN

Japan is an extremely modern country, with all the comforts of home and then some. You shouldn’t have any concerns about health issues or safety while working and travelling in Japan.  The challenges for a foreigner in Japan come with understanding the nuances of social behaviour within the culture. As a westerner, it can be difficult to grasp the priority of “the group” over the individual. You must learn to respect these social constructs, however, or you will not be embraced by your employers. Some ex-pats complain that even after years of living in Japan and learning the language fluently, they never truly feel welcome. Japan is certainly an enticing and mysterious bucket-list country for working travellers. So the only question remains - are you ready to start planning your Japanese adventure?

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• Edited on Jun 4 2021 by

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SUMMER JOBS IN JAPAN

Summer jobs in Japan are available in Okinawa, Japan’s own Hawaii! Culturally rich, and a spectacular beach destination, Okinawa is the most popular beach resort area in Japan.

Experience Okinawa at its best, working in a beach resort. Meet some of the friendliest people in Japan, explore the “Ryukyu” culture, learn the language, and enjoy the tropical sun and water sports!

Watch our past staff videos, and read more about our beach programs below!

JAPAN BEACH RESORT STAFF VIDEOS

Salary & job conditions.

Hourly wage : All our summer jobs in Japan resorts pay at least 896yen (minimum wage in Okinawa) before tax ( Currency Convertor ).

Tax : According to Japanese law, anyone not already living more than 12 months in Japan must pay 20% income tax.

Hours : approx. 44hours per week * , 6-8 days off per month. An average day is 8am – 5pm (with 1-hour unpaid lunch break), however some positions start earlier or finish later. Overtime work (10pm – 5am) is paid at 125% of hourly wages (and is expected during busy periods).

* Weekly hour figures are only estimates, and can fluctuate greatly depending on how busy the Resort is. No Resort can guarantee minimum work hours, due to seasonal weather conditions etc. (eg. if there’s a typhoon, that probably means less customers, which means not as many work hours for everyone).

Work Insurance : All staff are covered by Japanese “Rousai” Work Insurance while on the job.

EXPENSES FOR SUMMER JOBS

Flight & Travel Insurance:  You have to pay for your own flight to Japan, and Travel Insurance. Expect to pay approx. USD$1,500 for both.

Meals:  Approx. 5,000yen per month. Breakfast is not provided (staff prepare their own breakfast in their dorm room).

Accommodation:  Approx. 15,000yen per month.

Meals and Accommodation are deducted from your paycheck each month. The exact amounts deducted will be outlined when you receive a tentative job offer.

Transport Fee:  We only charge you a 10,000yen (USD$100) Transport Fee when you arrive in Japan, which includes delivery to your Resort and a full Orientation to prepare you for your experience.

Leisure:  eg. scuba diving, eating out etc.

JAPAN BEACH JOB DESCRIPTIONS

The positions you’ll be eligible for depend on your Japanese speaking ability. After you apply online, we’ll call you to assess your Japanese. The positions listed below are in ascending order (easiest to hardest) of Japanese ability required (click for full details):

Working Hours : A typical working day falls anywhere between 6:00am and 11:30pm. You won’t start at 6am and finish at 11:30pm, rather you’ll have, on average, a 9 hour shift (with a 1 hour unpaid lunch break) that covers one or two out of three meals services (breakfast and lunch or lunch and dinner).

Morning Preparation: Primary duties include sweeping/vacuuming your work area each morning.

Regular Duties : Serving drinks and dishes to customers at their tables, clearing them away after customers have finished, and wiping down tables in preparation for the next customers. Some restaurants have self-serve facilities, whereby customers serve themselves (leaving only the clearing of tables for restaurant staff). Showing customers to tables (taking orders, if required, is usually done by Japanese staff). Serving food onto dishes for customers, and simple food preparation duties, such as making hotdogs, sandwiches or pizzas.

Additional Duties : Greeting customers with a nice smile and a friendly ‘hello’.

Working Hours : A typical day falls between 7:00am and 10:00pm. An average 9 hour shift (1 hour unpaid lunch break) covers either the earlier morning/afternoon or the afternoon/night.

Regular Duties : Cleaning rooms after customers have checked out. Removing used linen, and resetting the room with clean bedroom and bathroom linen. Collection of rubbish and cleaning of bathroom. Vacuuming and wiping of visible surfaces to make clean for new customers. Restocking of room fridge and other amenities. This is not a glamorous job, but very important for the running of a hotel.

Additional Dutie s: Greeting customers with a nice smile and a friendly ‘hello’.

Working Hours : A typical day starts at 8:30am and finishes at 5:30pm (1 hour unpaid lunch break). Evening hours are sometimes required between 5:30pm – 9:00pm.

Morning Preparation : Primary duties include sweeping your work area each morning, and filling cash registers with the days ‘float’.

Regular Duties : Helping customers with any queries and offering recommendations about Beach Equipment (eg. kayaks, jet-skis etc). Briefing customers on the safety and handling of equipment. Taking customer details (name, address, contact numbers) when organizing rental equipment. Ringing up customer rental charges on the cash register and controlling cash inflows-outflows (great care needs to be taken in giving the correct change to customers). Helping customers choose appropriate sized equipment (according to body weight and height, etc.). Collecting rental gear from customers at the end of each work day and checking stock levels to make sure all rental equipment has been returned. Closing and balancing cash registers at the end of the work day.

Working Hours : A typical day starts at 8:30am and finishes at 5:30pm (1 hour unpaid lunch break).

Morning Preparation : Primary duties include setting up beach chairs and umbrellas.

Regular Duties : Monitoring beach and pool areas for customer safety (assisting customers who are in trouble or injured). Keeping a look out for unattended or lost children. Warning any customers who break resort rules or jeopardize others through dangerous actions. Attending to injured customers until medical services arrive (cuts, grazes, stings etc.) First Aid qualification not required. Policing the no-swim zones. Helping customers with any queries.

Working Hours : A typical falls between 8:00am and finishes at 10:00pm (1 hour unpaid lunch break). Overtime work is sometimes available, but unusual.

Morning Preparation : Primary duties include briefly sweeping your work area each morning, and filling cash registers with the days ‘float’.

Regular Duties : Helping customers with any queries, and offering recommendations about gifts and cakes. Ringing up customer purchases on the cash register and controlling cash inflows-outflows (great care needs to be taken in giving the correct change to customers). In limited cases, gift-wrapping may be required. Closing and balancing cash registers at the end of the work day.

Working Hours : An average shift is 9 hours (1 hour unpaid lunch break). Shift times may vary greatly throughout the month. A typical day starts anywhere between 7:00am and 12:00pm and finishes 8 or 9 hours later. Overtime work is sometimes available during the peak summer months.

Morning Preparation : Primary duties include briefly sweeping your work area each morning.

Regular Duties : Taking care of customers’ baggage and delivering baggage to rooms (no tipping in Japan). Guiding customers to the front desk for check-in and helping with any other queries.

Additional Duties : As the initial contact point with customers entering the hotel, greeting customers with a nice smile and a friendly ‘hello’ is crucial.

Working Hours : Shift start times may vary throughout the month. A typical day consists of a 9-hour shift (1 hour unpaid lunch break) anywhere between 7:00am and 9:00pm. Overtime work is available.

Morning Preparation : Primary duties include briefly organizing your work station each morning.

Regular Duties : Taking care of customers’ enquiries and offering recommendations about events / restaurants / sights / facilities etc.

Additional Duties : Greeting customers with a nice smile and a friendly ‘hello’ is crucial.

Working Hours : An average shift is 9 hours (1 hour unpaid lunch break) . Shift times may vary greatly throughout the month. Reception is open 24hrs and shift times can fall anytime during the day. Shifts are rarely split; you will be working a 9 hour block. Overtime work is applicable to shifts exceeding 9 hours.

Regular Duties : Helping customers check-in and check-out. Taking the occasional reservation and answering the telephone (putting telephone calls through to other departments). Helping customers with any queries about hotel facilities etc. and offering recommendations about services. Ringing up customer bills on the cash register and controlling cash inflows-outflows (great care needs to be taken in giving the correct change to customers).

Jobs in Okinawa

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Okinawa Miyakojima Islands Hotel Staff – VISA support available

About okinawa.

Life in Okinawa has been said to resemble that of living in Hawaii. The two places lie at the same latitude with similar climates although Okinawa gets hits by three or four typhoons each year, which is a less frequent occurrence in Hawaii. Nearly 1.5 million people live in Okinawa with nearly 1.2 million of them residing in or near the capital, Naha City. Like Hawaii, tourism is the main economy of Okinawa with more than eight million people visiting annually. Then there is some fishing and agriculture along with support services provided to the large U.S. military presence, which consists of more than 50,000 people including support personnel.　There are bout 50 English conversation schools that hire native English speakers along with half as many other educational institutions that may employ foreign teachers. Then, the hospitality industry provides all assortment of jobs to foreigners who have a proper visa for working, namely working holiday, spouse, etc.

Aside from the beaches and plethora of marine activities, Okinawa has many historical sites including Shuri Castle in the capital, WWII battle sites and uncountable caves to explore. Other things to see include the Okinawa Prefectural Museum, Kokusai-dori (International Avenue), which is a 1.6-kilometre-long stretch of stores, restaurants and bars, and its adjacent Heiwa-dori covered shopping arcade and Makishi Public Market, which is huge shotengai with stands selling fresh fish, meat, and produce, restaurants, and tourist shops.

Naha Festival in October is the prefectures huge matsuri with 275,000 people attending the October event, which includes a giant tug-of-war with 25,000 participants pulling on a rope weighing 40 metric tons. The Naha Hari, where fishermen compete in boat races, is held annually in May, and the Zento Eisa Festival is a large summer matsuri with 300,000 people attending and featuring folk dances, performances and fireworks.

Like Hawaii, Okinawa cuisine is going to feature a wide variety of fresh ocean bounty. Other specialties include soki soba, which is served with stewed pork spare ribs, goya chanpuru, which is tofu with vegetables, meat or fish and rafutee, which is a bacon-like food that is seasoned with a ginger stock and awamori. In addition to all assortment of tropical fruits, Okinawa is famous for using the vegetable goya (bitter melon) in its cooking. While its bitterness is generally a turnoff to visitors, it is said to have a variety of medicinal property and cited as a possible reason for the unusual longevity of Okinawan people, higher than in any other part of Japan. Locally produced molasses with high mineral content from the volcanic soil is also said to contribute to good health.

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Gina Bear's Blog

Solo Female Travel | Latina Traveler

The Ultimate Okinawa Travel Guide

This ultimate Okinawa Travel Guide has been YEARS in the making. If you’re tired of seeing other travel bloggers “claim” they have the ultimate guide after spending a week on the island, (my eyes roll really far back into my head) then this guide is for you. So let’s cut right to the chase. “Why should you trust me?”

I lived on Okinawa for three years, speak Japanese, and immersed myself deep into the culture by taking karate and sanshin (Okinawa snake skin three stringed banjo) lessons. I DEFINITELY have a local’s perspective on what can make your Okinawa travel incredible. Get ready for the inside scoop because this guide has the best things to do on Okinawa, what to see in Okinawa, and must go places in Okinawa.

Table of Contents

Blog Posts You Might Like

• How To Survive Summer in Okinawa
• The Ultimate Tokashiki Guide

Get Travel Insurance 

A common question I get is what do I need to travel to Japan? One thing I always recommend is travel insurance. Life throws curveballs. Flights get canceled. You get sick. There’s a family emergency.  I highly recommend using World Nomads Travel Insurance which you can book here.   With the World Nomads Travel Insurance, you can expect:

• Trip Cancelation  – This benefit helps you recover non-refundable, pre-paid trip costs when you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason, including for an unexpected sickness that keeps you from traveling.
• Emergency Medical  – If you get sick with COVID-19 or another illness, you can get diagnostic tests to confirm your case and other emergency medical benefits.
• Medical Evacuation  – If you’re in an inadequate medical facility, our plans have benefits that can arrange a transfer to a hospital capable of treating your medical needs.
• Trip Interuption  – This section helps you get reimbursed for a one-way, economy-class ticket home and any pre-paid, unused portions of your trip for a covered reason.
• Trip Delay  – If your travels are delayed at least six hours by a covered event, you could get 
• reimbursed for meals, hotels and other basic expenses .

If this plan isn’t for you then you can check out the different  travel insurance plans World Nomads offers here .

How To Stay Connected in Japan

Japan is super stingy when it comes to their wifi and sharing internet. They’ve gotten a little bit better since I’ve lived there, but not much. I recommend  you book an e-sim card and download it directly to your phone. If you don’t have that capability, you can order a 4G wifi box ahead of time and pick it up at any airport you designate in Japan.

How To Get to Okinawa

Most tourists land at Narita or Haneda Airport when they arrive in Japan. So you may be wondering how to go to Okinawa from Tokyo or how to go to Okinawa?

How To Get To Okinawa From Tokyo

Japan’s Okinawa island is just a two and half hour plane ride from Tokyo. By plane is the best way to travel to Okinawa. It’s actually closer to Taiwan than it is to mainland Japan.

How To Get Around Okinawa

Most flights go directly into Naha which is the international airport. Okinawa is not public transportation friendly. You will need to rent a car for your Okinawa travel. If you’re only planning on staying in Naha as an Okinawa tourist, then disregard this. Naha has a monorail that will take you as far as Urasoe. For more information on the Yui Rail and where it takes you, check out the website here .

If you want to go to other stunning beach locations around the island, then I highly suggest you make renting a car a priority. You will need a valid driver’s license and an IDP in order to rent a car in Okinawa . Alternatively, if you’re a YOLO kind of person or you forgot to get your IDP, you can get the Okinawa Bus Pass to cart you around wherever you need to go.

Okinawa Things To Do

This is going to be a quick glance of the top things to do in Okinawa. As you go further into the guide, I have broken down the island into different sections and tourist attractions in Okinawa I recommend. Hands down these are the top 10 things to do in Okinawa Japan.

What To See in Okinawa

When you travel in Okinawa there are a few must not miss things. Some Okinawa places to visit are:

Okinawa Peace Memorial Park

American village.

• Tokashiki Island
• Zamami Island
• Churaumi Aquarium

Things To Do in Okinawa

These things should definitely be on your Okinawa to do list.

• Go beach hopping
• Eat Blue Seal ice cream
• Try goya stir fry
• Visit an outer island
• Visit Shuri Castle

Okinawa FAQ

I lived in Okinawa for three years. My wealth of knowledge is golden. I wasn’t in the military, I speak the language, have local friends, and lived out in actual Japanese society. So my friends, never fear because Gina Bear knows how to make the best of a trip to Japan’s island paradise.

1. What is the best month to visit Okinawa?/ Best time to visit Okinawa Japan?

The best months to visit Okinawa is August through October. This is so you can avoid the intense summer heat. However, September is peak typhoon season.

2. Is Okinawa humid?

Okinawa has a subtropical climate, so yes it is very humid. Sometimes the humidity is so strong, it will feel like you’re swimming through the air and all you want to do is hide in the actual AC unit or go to the beach and dunk yourself profusely. And I’m talking the most unattractive swass during Okinawa in summer.

3. Is Okinawa worth visiting?

The simple answer is… Yes, you ding dong. Visit Okinawa! This beautiful island in the middle of the sea is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever lived in my life. Okinawa is so worth the damn visit and if you don’t go, I hope you suffer from FOMO for the rest of your life.

4. What is Okinawa known for? / What is Okinawa famous for?

If the Karate Kid starring Ralph Macchio and Noriyuki “Pat” Morita, then good job, you get a gold star. While the character of Mr. Miyagi does come from Okinawa, the majority of the film was made in Hawaii. Whomp. Whomp.

In my honest opinion, Okinawa is best known for two things — Okinawa time and the Okinawa diet. The traditional diet there is so high in yummy vitamins and nutrients, the people in Okinawa are known to have the longest life spans in the world.

5. What is Okinawa time?

Now when I talk about Okinawa time… I mean everything is done slowly and whenever people feel like it. In other words, this shit can drive you crazy. If I were you, I’d avoid public transport at all costs and just rent a car while you’re there.

6. Is Okinawa different from the rest of Japan?

Okinawa is also known for other things such as their stunning beaches, mix of Japanese, Chinese, and Korean culture, as well as their own unique culture. Before it became part of Japan, Okinawa was known as the Ryukyu Kingdom and had its own culture, language and traditions.

7. How far is Okinawa from Tokyo?

Would you believe me if I told you Okinawa is closer to Taiwan that it is to mainland Japan? A flight from Tokyo to Okinawa will be hour 3.5 hours.

8. How many days do you need in Okinawa?

Whatchu talking about days, fool? Nah, you need at least two to three weeks to really uncover the stunning beauty and nature Okinawa has to offer to the world.

9. Does it get cold in Okinawa, Japan?

You may think being closer to the equator guarantees warmer weather, but my friend, that is sooooo not the case. In the winter months, it can drop down to 50 Fahrenheit or 15 Celsius. Winter in Okinawa starts in November and ends around the end of February when the temperatures start increasing to 70 Fahrenheit or 21 Celsius in March.

And yes, many were the days I froze my butt off because the humidity makes everything so much colder.

10. Where is Okinawa? / Where is Okinawa located?

Okinawa is located in the Pacific Ocean. It’s located about 300 miles off the coast of mainland Japan.

11. What to do in Okinawa? / What is there to do in Okinawa Japan?

The best thing to do in Okinawa is go to the beaches. The subtropical weather is perfect for enjoying them. I also recommend going snorkeling and participating in the local culture by painting a shisa or coral dyeing .

12. What is the best season to visit Okinawa? / Best time to travel to Okinawa?

The best season to travel Okinawa is autumn, winter, or spring. Summer in Okinawa is very hot and humid. Unless you’re used to that kind of weather I don’t recommend going.

What To Pack For Okinawa

Japan is super STRICT when it comes to luggage restrictions and regulations. So if you’re coming from the US… This is terrible news for you. I highly recommend packing as light as possible so that way when you buy all of your favorite Japanese products, there will be room in your suitcase. My favorite  travel suitcase brand is Béis . I’m obsessed with their weekender bag, carryon, and checked luggage.  Use my code for $15 off your first order and 150 points toward your new account .

Travel essentials for what to pack to Okinawa:

• Unlocked phone  –  You can book a sim card here.  Alternatively, if you don’t have an unlocked phone,  you can also use this portable wifi router .
• Toothpaste  – Japanese toothpaste sucks PERIODT. Bring your own from home.
• Important documents  – Bring any important medical documents in case something happens. 
• Passport  – This should be a given, but please don’t forget it. Make a copy of your passport and hide it in your suitcase and leave one on your fridge at home.
• Credit/Debit Cards  – Big shopping malls and most restaurants take credit cards now.
• Cash – Japan is still primarily a cash is king society.
• Medication  – Don’t forget your important medicine because I guarantee it will be a nightmare for you to navigate the hospital and then go to a pharmacy to try and get it.

I also recommend downloading the Lonely Planet Japan Guide , Okinawa and the Ryukyu Islands , and Okinawa Travel Guide 2024 .

Okinawa Travel Budget

How much money do I need to travel in Okinawa? This is a simple Okinawa travel expenses break down. It honestly depends on you, what you like, and what you’re into. In this Okinawa tourist guide, I will be covering the basics like car rental, accommodation, food and tourist activities.

As one of the poorest prefectures in Okinawa, it is considerably cheaper than mainland Japan. But remember, Okinawa is still Japan and it can get quite pricey. One week expenses in Okinawa will go as follows:

• Car Rental – $250
• Accommodation – $320 – $630
• Food – $182
• Special activities – $300

Where To Stay in Okinawa

Most people who visit Okinawa tend to stay in the Naha area. While staying in Naha is great because you can easily get to the outer islands, there are so many other great places to be.

• Aqua Citta (Naha) – This upscale hotel offers pristine views of the city from its rooftop pool and Tomari Port. Aqua Citta is 15 minutes away from Naha Airport.
• Hotel Nikko Alivila (Yomitan) – With its enormous pool, beautiful private beach, stunning views and exceptional service, this is a place I highly recommend. While I lived in Okinawa, many year end parties were hosted here and I had incredible experiences every time.
• ANA Intercontinental Manza Beach (Onna Village) – This place is literally like it’s own little city and is so convenient, you don’t even have to leave the property. Guests can utilize a mini-golf course, shops, rental bicycles, canoes, and jet skis. There’s even on-site gym, hot tub, and sauna.
• Mr. Kinjo (Naha) – Conveninetly located outside Asahibashi Station, the location is great and breakfast is included in your stay.
• Ocean View Araha (Chatan) – Set in Chatan, 2.5 km from Sunset Beach and 2.8 km from Mihama American Village, Ocean View Araha offers garden views and free WiFi.
• Hotel Sunset Zanpa (Yomitan) – Set in Yomitan, Hotel Sunset ZANPA provides accommodation with private balconies. The property is situated 5 km from Zakimi Gusuku Castle, 2.5 km from Murasakimura and 2.1 km from Cape Zanpa. The property is non-smoking and is located 1.6 km from Zanpa Beach.
• Guest House Umikaji (Naha) – This two star guest house is attractively located in the Naha City Centre district of Naha, and set 2 km from Yachimun Street.
• La’ Gent Hotel (Chatan) – Set 1.2 km from Sunset Beach, La’gent Hotel Okinawa Chatan / Hotel and Hostel offers rooms with air conditioning in Chatan. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage space, along with free WiFi. The property is non-smoking and is situated less than 1 km from Mihama American Village.
• Holiday House Ryuky-an (Yomitan) – Located just a 12-minute drive from Cape Maeda, famous for its beautiful scenery, clear waters and snorkelling, Holiday House Ryukyu-an offers a self-catering holiday home with free WiFi access.

What To Eat in Okinawa

One of the reasons Okinawans live so long is because of their diet. It’s rich in fish, rice and veggies (especially goya). In my opinion, the Okinawa diet is one of the most healthy in the world.

If you’re looking for something that is off the beaten path and a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the unique cuisine of Okinawa, then I highly suggest taking a traditional cooking class . With this class, you will get a choice of making goya chanpuru or Okinawa soba (two very staple dishes). Before you cook, you’ll also get a tour of the Naha Food Market and see what’s really up.

P.S. Slowly but surely there is also a vegan and vegetarian scene that has been popping up!

• Okinawa Soba – This dish is buckwheat noodles with pork belly, scallion, fish cake, and boneless pork ribs.
• Beni Imo Taruto – Purple potato tart is one of my all time favorite sweets in Okinawa. They originated in Yomitan.
• Goya Champuru – This dish is made with goya (bitter melon), tofu, egg, and pork belly. It’s a popular dish and a classic one you need to try.
• Okinawan Sea Grapes – My first thought was.. Ew gross, but they’re actually quite nice. The taste is slightly salty with an ocean freshness to it and it is especially nice on a hot day.
• Yaki Niku – This is Japanese style barbecue and something that should definitely be on your must eat list. You get raw cuts of different meats and cook it yourself on the table. I took all my siblings to Japanese barbecue and its something we still enjoy doing together.

Southern Okinawa

While visiting Okinawa, you’ll definitely be starting in Naha. There’s tons of Okinawa tourist attractions (despite what most ill researched and cranky travelers might have said). Everything I recommend are things I personally have done and loved. The ocean in Okinawa is probably the most beautiful ocean you’ll ever see in your life. I recommend going on a Okinawa Glass Bottom Boat Tour from Tomari Port.

Shuri Castle

The Shuri Castle was once known as the Rykyu Kingdom and home to the royalty. Sadly, in 2019 a devastating fire burned down Shuri Castle . To my knowledge, the castle is still be reconstructed. The grounds are just as beautiful though and I still recommend going. You can even rent a kimono or yukata to make the experience 10x better and the photos even more awesome.

Address: 1 Chome-2 Shurikinjocho, Naha, Okinawa 903-0815, Japan Hours: 8am – 8:30pm Phone: +81 98-886-2020

Kokusai Dori

Kokusai Dori is the main touristy strip in Naha. This is where you start your vacation in Okinawa Japan. Here you’ll find hundreds of trinkets and baubles from stores selling Okinawa themed merchandise. Anything and everything Okinawa culture related is on this street. For cool things to do in Okinawa, I suggest you go karting like Super Mario on the main strip.

Okinawa Whale Watching

If you want to watch the humpback whales, the best time of year in Okinawa is from December through April. While whale watching in Okinawa, you can watch them teach their young how to survive in the open waters. It is a majestic experience. You can book your whale watching tour here .

Shuri Ryusen Coral Dyeing

Shuri Ryusen Coral Dyeing has undoubtedly been one of my favorite experiences ever in Okinawa. Instead of throwing away dead coral, Okinawans found a way to repurpose it and make art out of tragedy. Here you take special dyes in a pouch and press it over coral to make imprints. I think this is a great souvenir for your vacation in Okinawa.

Address: 1 Chome-54 Shuriyamagawachō, Naha-shi, Okinawa-ken 903-0825, Japan

Paint Your Own Shisa

One of the best things to do in Okinawa, Japan is to partake in the local culture. Did you know the shisa dog was given to the Ryukyu King to protect him during hard times? Shisa come in male and female pairs. They are used to keep good vibes in your home and keep out all negative vibes. You’ll find them all over Okinawa island and you can paint your own shisa as a great momento .

Address: COI Naha Building 1F, 2 Chome-3-15 Kume, Naha, Okinawa Hours: 8:30am – 6:30pm

Shikinaen Garden

Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Shikinaen Garden is one of the most stunning gardens in Okinawa. With Chinese and unique Ryukyuan influences, I highly recommend this garden. Shikinaen was once a residence and private escape of the royalty where they went to relax and unwind. It’s one of the best things to see in Okinawa if you love nature and gardens.

Address: 421-7 Maaji, Naha, Okinawa 902-0072, Japan Hours: 9am – 5:30pm Phone: +81 98-855-5936

This is a memorial dedicated to the people who died in the Battle of Okinawa during World War II. Our history books tell us one third of Okinawa’s population was lost during this bitter and gruesome battle. If you’re sightseeing Okinawa, this is a must visit activity. Here you’ll learn about the history and sign a petition to end all wars. P.S. Bring some tissues because you’ll see some seriously sad sights in Okinawa.

Address: 614-1 Mabuni, Itoman, Okinawa 901-0333, Japan Hours: 9am – 5pm Phone: +81 98-997-3844

Ryukyu Glass Making

Many people don’t know a very unique style of Ryukyu glass making was born in Okinawa. The glass has many bubbles because it is said to emulate the beautiful ocean. I myself have done this experience and made jewelry. To be honest, it is one of my most cherished possessions. Ryukyu glass making is one of the most unique things to do at Okinawa.

Address: 169 Fukuji, Itoman City, Okinawa 901-0345 Japan Hours: 9:30am – 3:30pm Phone: +81 98-997-4784

Try an ATV Experience

Do you have a need for adventure? Yeah me too. I like going really fast on scooters, ATVs, and golf carts. With this ATV experience in Itoman, you’ll feel like the bad ass you really are. They have a marked trail and its even safe enough to bring kids if you have them.

Address: 1018 Mabuni, Itoman, Okinawa 901-0333, Japan Hours: 9am – 6pm

Central Okinawa

The midlands are my favorite place to play in Okinawa. I lived there and I still know it like the back of my hand today. I honestly think it’s one of the best parts of the island to be on because you have access to the north and south.

American Village is my old stomping grounds and one of my favorite places to visit in Okinawa. Since it is located across the street from the Kadena Air Base, you’ll find many delicious restaurants to choose from. It’s a popular tourist spot in Okinawa Japan. There’s also a huge SEGA arcade to keep you entertained, close proximity to the Aeon Department store, Sunset Beach, and Araha Beach.

As you know, Okinawa is famous for beni imo which is purple potato. Make sure you stop at the Blue Seal flagship store so you can get the ice cream which is to DIE FOR. You can also get your troll on at the Blue Seal ice cream balcony while you overlook the Ferris Wheel. Urban legend in the area has it that if you ride it with someone you’re dating you’ll break up… And to be honest, it happened to me with a guy I was dating, so I’m inclined to believe it.

Address: 15-69 Mihama, Chatan, Nakagami District, Okinawa 904-0115, Japan

This is one of my absolute favorite shopping destinations in Asia. Why? Since the American military bases are all in close proximity to this mall there are many foreign shops I enjoy like Forever 21, H&M, and American Eagle. The Rycom Mall is one of the best Okinawa Japan attractions because there’s so many shopping choices. I you’re a bigger gal or compadre, I recommend hanging out at the Rycom Mall .

Address: Kitanakagusuku, Nakagami District, Okinawa 901-2300, Japan Hours: 10am – 10pm Phone: +81 98-930-0425

If you truly want to experience Okinawa like a local then you have to visit Yomitan Village. It gets overlooked, but its home to a UNESCO World Heritage site, gorgeous beaches, and home of the purple potato tart. For me, my old village is the creme de la creme of Okinawa sightseeing.

Eat at Ocean’s Pizza

This is one of the better places on the island to eat pizza. The quality is amazing (because Japan) and their lunch buffet is to die for. You can order the lunch special pizza buffet with an amazing view. Now that’s what I call eating an Italian pie in style.

Address: 915 Takashiho, Yomitan, Nakagami District, Okinawa 904-0323, Japan Hours: 11am – 9pm Phone Number: +81 98-958-7711

Eat at Dechibica

This is one of the most famous vegan eats on the island. The owners Kiwa and Taku San are seriously wonderfully people. I shamelessly ate at this restaurant once or twice a week and they are truly food artists. They grow their own ingredients or they are sourced locally for optimal freshness.

Address: 904-0314 Okinawa, Nakagami District, 中頭郡 読谷村古堅 古堅648-1-101. Furugen 648-1 Yomitan Hours: 11am – 3pm Phone: +81 98-957-0111

Go To Zakimi Castle

UNESCO designates World Heritage Sites for a reason. It’s because they’re fucking cool. Zakimi Castle was built in the 1400s by the Chuzan Kingdom which ruled over central Okinawa Honto. The castle served as a safeguard against rebels in the north, after the Chuzan Kingdom defeated the Hokuzan Kingdom in the north and eventually united the island into the Ryukyu Kingdom.

Address: 708-6 Zakimi, 読谷村 Yomitan, Nakagami District, Okinawa 904-0301, Japan Hours: 24/7 Phone: +81 98-958-3141

Yomitan Pottery Village

Designated as a national treasure of Japan, the Yomitan Pottery Village showcases the unique artistry of Okinawa. There are over 45 practicing artists, some of which are national treasures themselves. Prices of the pottery start at $10 and up. The Yomitan Pottery village was one of the most interesting things to see in Okinawa Japan because of all the culture and art.

Address: 2653-1 Zakimi, Yomitan, Nakagami District, Okinawa 904-0301, Japan Hours: 9am – 6pm Phone: +81 98-958-4468

Zanpa Beach

This beach is especially stunning when the sun shines. It is free to all residents and tourists who want to enjoy a clean and well-maintained beach in Yomitan. I frequented this beach after work and let me tell you, it’s not crowded at all. Every trip to Okinawa needs to include a beautiful beach or five.

Address: 1933 Uza, Yomitan, Nakagami District, Okinawa 904-0328, Japan Phone: +81 98-958-3833

Swim With Whale Sharks

I totally wish I would have known about swimming with whale sharks before I left Yomitan. If you’re a licensed diver, you can swim with these gentle and beautiful giants in the open ocean. What kind of Okinawa guide would this be if there wasn’t a little adventure?

Address: 33 Toya, Yomitan, Nakagami District, Okinawa Prefecture 904-0305, Japan (Ginowan Marina) Hours: 8:30am & 1pm

Stay At Hotel Nikko Alivila

Hotel Nikko Alivila is one of the most stunning hotels on the island and while I was working as a high school teacher in Okinawa, there were many a school end of the year parties hosted there. If you’re looking to splurge it’s got luxury, spacious guest rooms and beautiful views of Nirai Beach.

You can get lovely massages and walk around European inspired gardens.

Address: 904-0327 Okinawa, Nakagami District, Yomitan, 字儀間６００ Phone: +81 98-982-9111

Video Guide To Yomitan

While I lived on Okinawa, I started my YouTube channel. Because I loved Yomitan so much, I decided to make a video dedicated to the beauty and wonderful things to do in my old hometown.

Onna Village

Did you know Onna means woman in Japanese? Situated right above Yomitan, this is more of a resort village. There’s tons of beaches and incredible places to stay to really enjoy your time in Okinawa.

Ryukyu Mura

The Ryukyu Mura is an Okinawa must visit. This is a theme park with a recreated traditional Okinawan village. A wide range of traditional dances and cultural experiences are held inside Ryukyu Mura . You can eat popular Okinawan dishes and purchase a wide range of souvenirs.

Address: 1130 Yamada, Onna, Kunigami District, Okinawa 904-0416, Japan Hours: 9am – 6pm Phone: +81 98-965-1234

Onna Village Blue Cave

How much of a risk taker are you? I used to be terrified of swimming in the open ocean because I didn’t know what crazy critters lived there. The Blue Cave at Maeda Point was once a hidden gem when I lived there, but now it’s more accessible to the public. Snorkeling (or scuba diving) at the Onna Village Blue Cave is seriously one of the most spectacular things I’ve ever done in my life.

The way it glows and shines like a precious gem is incredible. You’ll be able to see all the stunning coral and exotic fish swimming as well.

Address: Maeganeku, Onna, Kunigami District, Okinawa 904-0414, Japan Hours: 7am – 5pm Phone: +81 98-964-4135

Ikei Island

There are many gorgeous islands in Okinawa. Ikei is one of my favorite and has an incredible beach. You have to pay 700 yen to enter but it is so worth it. They have showers, pristine waters, and floats you can hang out on. It’s one of the best places to visit in Okinawa for exclusive beaches.

Address: 904-2421 Okinawa, Uruma, Yonashiroikei, ４０５ Phone: +81 98-977-8464

Northern Okinawa

Northern Okinawa is much more rural so if you’re really into nature, then the north is definitely a place you want to hang out.

Visit Okinawa World

If you’re looking for a way to really immerse yourself in Okinawa’s unique culture, then you should visit Okinawa World . This interactive museum gives you access to the Nanto Brewery, a culture museum, and cave. It’s definitely worth a visit!

Address: 901-0616 Okinawa, Nanjo, 玉城前川1336 Hours: 9am – 6pm Phone: +81 98-949-7421

Visit Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

The famous Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is one of the top attractions in Okinawa Japan. I can guarantee you’ve seen it on social media before and have been amazed. They save the best for last and the whale shark exhibit is awe inspiring. It’s also the first aquarium to successfully breed a baby whale shark in captivity.

Address: 424 Azaishikawa, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan Hours: 8:30am – 7pm

Nago Pineapple Park

At Nago Pineapple Park you’ll have enough fun for the entire family. This is am amusement park that showcases everything pineapple. At the park, you’ll also be able to drink special alcoholic wine made solely from pineapple.

Address: 1195 Biimata, Nago, Okinawa 905-0005, Japan Hours: 9am – 6pm

Pizza in the Sky

When I tell you this pizza joint is famous, I mean it. Because of the high quality ingredients used and their brick oven way of cooking, expect to wait over an hour to be seated on the weekends. Also, if you couldn’t tell from the name, the restaurant is on top of a mountain making the views and pizza totally worth it.

Address: 1153-2 Yamazato, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0219, Japan Hours: 11:30am – 7pm Phone: +81 980-47-5537

Captain Kangaroo

This is another famous burger place on the island. In fact, it is so well-known that it’s sold out before 1pm. Their burgers are huge and it’s insanely popular with foreigners and Japanese alike.

Address: 183 Umusa, Nago, Okinawa 905-0006, Japan Hours: 11am – 7:30pm Phone: +81 980-54-3698

Tanagagumui (Aha) Falls

If the name doesn’t sound Japanese, it’s because it’s not. As one of Okinawa’s hidden treasures (buried way the hell up north), you would be missing out by not jumping off the waterfall, swinging off the rope swing, or hiking nearby. It’s still one of the best kept secrets and a lot of people don’t know it exists.

Also, there are no lifeguards or any rescue personell there. If you go cliff jumping or swimming, then you do so at your own risk. That being said, there is a rope swing and it’s incredibly refreshing to jump in after the hike up there.

Address: Aha, Kunigami, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-1504, Japan

Kouri Island

Kouri Island is so small you can probably drive around the entire thing in thirty minutes. It’s got great scenery and beautiful beaches. In addition, it also also famous for the heart rocks. Many couples go to take photos there. The stars are especially stunning at night. Kouri Island is near Nago. You can also book a cruising tour of Haneji Island which also has amazing snorkeling.

Address: Kouri Nakijin, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0406

Okinawa Outer Islands

Do you enjoy beach bum life? Are you into Storybook blue oceans, sparkling fish, and a sun tan? Okinawa has loads of outer islands like Tokashiki, Zamami, Ishigaki, Miyako, Aka and Geruma. Only an hour away by ferry from Tomari Pot in Naha, you can visit your tropical paradise any time.

Tokashiki is and forever will be my most favorite outer island on Okinawa. I have so many good memories on this island that have added to the experience. Not only is it beautiful, but you can also see sea turtles too. If you’d like to know more about getting around, the dos and don’t and everything in between, check out my Ultimate Tokashiki Guide or book a hassle free one day tour here .

Kerama Islands

The Kerama Islands are a great day trip and are located 40km from Naha. They are well-known for their pristine white sand beaches, wonderful snorkeling and diving, as well as crystal blue waters ideal for swimming. Going to these amazing islands is such a treat and I recommend a full day island snorkeling at the Kerama islands .

Or if you’re a licensed diver, I heard the Keramas is one of the best diving spots on Okinawa. You can get a diving tour of the Keramas at a discount here .

Zamami is one of the bigger islands of the Keramas and off the coast of Naha. Tokashiki is its neighbor. You can rent a scooter and easily get around on the island. This island is more hilly so I really don’t recommend renting a bike. Bring your snorkel gear because there are so many beaches with no people and lots of curious sea creatures. Zamami is a great day trip but if you want to spend a longer time exploring you can book a stay at Oceana Portvillage or at Zamamia Guest House .

Aka and Geruma

Aka and Geruma are islands attached to Zamami via bridges. They have cute island folklore about two dog lovers. One of the dogs used to swim back and forth from the islands each day to be with his mate. I also love these islands because they are so untouched by tourism. You can easily rent a bike and have these islands all to yourself.

Ishigaki is the second largest island in the chain of islands that comprises of Okinawa. You actually need to take a flight down to Ishigaki and cannot travel there by ferry. Luckily, it’s only an hour by plane to get there. As the second biggest island, there is a lot to do there like explore the smaller islands and immerse yourself in the traditional Ryukyuan Island culture. Since this is the next biggest island, you must rent a car to get around Ishigaki . Here are some of my recommended activities:

• Night Cruise with Stargazing at Ishigaki Island
• Ishigaki Instagrammble Photo Tour
• Iriomote and Yubu Island Day Tour

Taketomi Island

The first time I went to Taketomi Island, I got as sick as a dog with a high fever and then a typhoon rolled in ruining the trip. The second time I went… It was a magical and fantastic trip. I can’t recommend going here enough. Taketomi island is what inspired one of the most famous Okinawan songs you’ll hear time and time again. I really recommend taking this eco-friendly Taketomi and Phantom Island tour here .

Buy Black Pearls at Kabira Bay

Did you know Ishigaki Island is one of the biggest producers of black pearls in the world? They were thought of as so rare and beautiful the Ryukyu Royalty wore them in their crowns and jewelry. Black pearls are expensive, but they are a wonderful Okinawa souvenir. I own a black pearl necklace and it is one of my most cherished possessions. It has sentimental value since I lived in Okinawa and I always said I left part of my heart in the ocean… So I took a part of the ocean with me. I bought my Okinawan black pearl at Ryukyu Pearl and I highly recommend them .

These black pearl farms are located at Kabira Bay so you can see the pearl farmers at work. It’s also a great place to go for an ocean tour. There’s a really cool Kabira Bay and Phantom Island Tour you can take and then come back and go shopping after.

Miyako is much more rural compared to Ishigaki. It has many amazing beaches, but there’s not much to sightsee for on the island. If you just wanna laze around and go to the beach, then Miyako is definitely more your vibe.

In Conclusion

I hope you all really enjoyed this ultimate Okinawa travel guide. I really put my heart and soul into it as Okinawa is super stunning and gorgeous. It’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever lived in my life and I want you all to experience an Okinawa trip like a local. It truly is a hidden gem unaffected by mass tourism. With its natural beauty, stunning beaches, and unique culture, I guarantee you will fall in love after traveling to Okinawa.

This post contains affiliate links which means at no additional cost to you, I make a small commission to help keep Gina Bear’s Blog running. Thanks for your support!

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3 Comments on The Ultimate Okinawa Travel Guide

Aha Falls is also the bomb and also buried up north. Rebekha used to organize trips up there aaaaall the time

Yeah! I love Aha Falls! I hope to go back again soon! 😀

Great post, very informative! Thanks for sharing this helpful info.

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Working Holiday in Okinawa

An Adventure at Beach Rock Village

Before you get too excited about the prospect of living for a month or more rent-free on beautiful Okinawa, Japan's Hawaiian gem in the sub-tropical south, let me just outline an average day-in-the-life of a volunteer staff at Beach Rock Village, an island all its own up in the jungle of Nakijin.

Wake up in a tent, slightly soggy from the tempest that blew in through the night, at 6 am. You didn't set your alarm until 6:30 am, however your neighbor, a mere 3 feet away in the next tent over is a hard sleeper and likes to hit the snooze button lackadaisically for thirty minutes. Why so early? Well, since you are helping re-build the roof on a tree house, and the rain makes it a wee bit too slippery six meters up in a pine tree, you generously volunteered your morning time to help Food Production cut a truckload of nepia grass for the 15 horses next door instead. This has to be done on a daily basis, a task that typically takes 4 people most of the morning to accomplish.

You stumble out of your tent, startle the 4 dogs who start with their own barking alarm and clog your way down the slippery boardwalk to the toilet. Thankfully there isn't a wait and you can handle your business in a timely fashion. And since the mizu-gumi or water team remembered to fill the tank last night, you can actually flush the toilet and wash your face.

Climb the steep steps to the staff room and change into sagyo-fuku work clothes and rubber boots; careful not to forget a pair of gloves. The smell of toast and jam and sanpin-cha (jasmine tea) fill the air and grumble your stomach. Not to worry though, as you trundle out of the jungle compound in the rusty, rickety old Beach Rock hippy van bouncing over potholes and boulders with your sleepy-eyed cohorts, you can try and put down a bit of breakfast before work.

Maybe today is a lucky day in the life of Team Nepia, and thus you end up on Kouri-jima , a small island connected by a 2 km long low-bridge over turquoise water, highlighting your tall grass cutting labor with excellent early morning views. Proceed, kama scythe in hand, to slice the thick stalks at the roots, stacking for at least an hour, then heaving and hauling your piles to the truck bed, thinking all the while how very happy the horses will be to get the fresh greens full of vitamins and minerals.

You get back to the village in time for a little carpentry meeting before lunch. Scarf down some udon stew with welsh onion trimmings from the garden and a mustard green salad. Turns out that after lunch you will be wearing a strawberry hat and answering riddles provided to teams of 3-Day Adventure guests, as you cut and grind wood in order to assemble an o-mikoshi festival float for the party tomorrow night. This and other tasks keep you busy until sunset, then you take a quick shower thankful to have hot water, go help fill up the water tank and get back in time to fold some clean work clothes just before dinner. Tonight is tuna steak, again, leftover from the BBQ event two days ago. After dinner at 8 pm is the daily meeting, a round-table affair in the Yurt Cafe/Bar where everyone is brought up to date on the work being done, questions and concerns fielded, announcements made, and general speeches of excitement and enthusiasm punctuated by exclamations of " Otsukaresama ! Good work!" and other verbal team spirit building and pats on the back.

Those who are still " genki " at this point can kick back in the bar and drink as much local Awamori (rice liquor) as they want; the local brew is nightly " nomi-hodai" or all-you-can-drink. Around 1 am you tear yourself away from amusing conversation with Masa the veteran bartender and call it a night, stumbling back to your tent as you stumbled out at 6 in the morning. Wait, what's that funny smell? You seem to have left a piece of candy and choco-pie in your tent for "later" and it seems a rat has chewed a hole to get in through the rain fly and scarf down half your treats first. So, after cleaning up the poop it so kindly left on your sleeping mat and duct-taping the hole, you curl up in sleeping bag and catch some Zzz.

So, if I haven't scared you away with an average day as volunteer staff at Beach Rock Village, by all means, sign up to help cook staff meals and clean the cottage, tipis and tipas as a Guesthouse staff. Or if you fancy cutting firewood and making dough in the morning to prepare brick-oven pizza, taking drink orders and climbing a ladder one-handed up to the Tree Terrace while balancing 4 Cafe Au Laits on a tray, join the Cafe/Bar team. If getting sunburnt and playing in the dirt, composting and planting strikes your fancy help out with Food Production. As main staff and time allows, there is also the possibility of firing ceramics in a mud oven, repairing tree houses, general village maintenance and beautification, sign-making and repair, etc. Just ask!

Everyone also gets to help tend the animals next door at Mumin Boku-jo once a week, as well as a small team filling up the water tank daily. More than your ordinary working holiday, the village offers you a personal insight into a real-life experiment at sustainable living in a gorgeous yet wild place. The make-shift revolving community members add to the dynamic making everyone's experience there totally unique and different than anyone else's before or previous. And as with any community of its kind, there may be difficulties and problems and tensions may rise as heated arguments ensue. A conscious attempt at democracy, the round table meetings provide open forum to voice opinions and express oneself accordingly so that ideally as brothers and sisters you can work it out and continue to enjoy your time and function well together as a team.

Unfortunately the Beach Rock website only has their volunteer staff Help Wanted info in Japanese at the moment. Though if you contacted them directly with a simple, friendly email inquiring about current opportunities, I am sure they would be happy to hear from you and get back ASAP.

Good luck and " Otsukarasama desu! "

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By J Muzacz

Community writer

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Okinawa, Kokuto-gun, Nakijin-son, 1331 ( Directions )

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December 18, 2020

Workation in Okinawa

From infinity pools to coworking cafes

By Zoria Petkoska and Phoebe Amoroso

As we approach the end of 2020, many of us are itching for a bit more freedom. With telework on the rise and winter on the way, there has never been a better time to spread our wings and migrate south to the subtropical haven of Okinawa. From picturesque beaches to that laid-back island vibe, it’s the perfect place to balance wellness and work. Take your time to unplug and relax, knowing that you are never far from the nearest plug — for when you have to take that unnecessarily long video conference call. Starting from either Okinawa Main Island or Ishigaki — both of which have convenient direct flights from Tokyo — here are just a few options for your winter workation. 

Mixing Work and Pleasure at Beach Sunshine Hotel

Beach Hotel Sunshine Ishigakijima is all you could want from a modern hotel, blending tasteful design with its beautiful environs, offering light and airy rooms with ocean views that seem to stretch inside the building itself. How much more enviable could a workation be than typing away on a terrace, then casually sinking into an infinity pool to watch the sunset? More enviable, in fact, when you boast about the exquisite dinner offerings, which include fresh local sashimi and melt-in-mouth Okinawan beef. The hotel also offers relaxing activities from morning yoga to stargazing experiences from their private rooftop, so you can gear up for and wind down from your day. A short distance from the main port, Beach Hotel Sunshine has easy access while offering a serene setting for both work and play. 

2484 Arakawa , Ishigaki ishigakijima-sunshine.net

Savouring that Island Pace at Blue Cafe Ishigakijima

Better suited for a few hours’ work, instead of the whole day, a workation session from a cafe can be an injection of variety in your day. Cafes are the golden intersection of working remotely — coffee, food, and a great atmosphere, so you don’t miss out on life and still get your work done. And when on a tropical island, the view is a must. One of our favorites on Ishigaki is Blue Cafe Ishigakijima with a spacious terrace overlooking Ishigaki Port, where the sun sinks at the end of the day. They are welcoming workation nomads with all the familiar comforts – free WI-FI, great coffee and freshly baked goods from the on-site bakery. Budget travelers can even stay in Blue Cabin hotel, and work from Blue Cafe on the ground floor.

2 -6 Misaki-cho , Ishigaki bluecabin-ishigakijima.jp

Love Okinawa? Make sure you also check out:

• Good Heavens! A Stargazer’s Guide to Okinawa
• The Hitchhiker’s Guide to Japanese Highways
• Live Anywhere in Japan for ¥40,000 a Month

OKINAWA MAIN ISLAND 

Working Smart in Co-Works by Kasha Okinawa in Naha

Many roads go through Okinawa’s capital, so Naha is brimming with cafes and co-working spaces. What sets co-working spaces apart from cafes and hotels is that they are designed to make work easy for the nomadic worker. With meeting rooms, projectors, photocopiers, and great wi-fi, a co-working space has every comfort of an office, without the stress and monotony. The Kasha Okinawa company offers all that and free drinks. Smack dab in central Naha with great urban views, it’s a great base for working or meeting clients in a professional setting.

Those just passing through can drop in for two hours   for ¥ 500, or stay the whole day for ¥1500.  Those based in Naha for longer can opt for different monthly plans, depending on their needs. They even have workation discount plans!

Kumoji UF Building 701, 2-22 -12 Kumoji , Naha City kashaokinawa.com

Taking it easy at ansa okinawa resort.

Given its spacious grounds, it’s hard to describe ANSA Okinawa Resort as a “hidden gem,” but it’s certainly a treasure hidden in plain sight. From the plush, comfortable beds to exceptionally welcoming staff, ANSA manages to conjure that at-home feeling. Set back from the coastline atop a hill with sea views, the hotel offers the quiet to make real progress on your projects, while having everything you need on site. The Surya Cafe offers a seasonal global cuisine menu, and the hotel sources wine from boutique wineries, so treat yourself after you’ve wrapped up for the day. ANSA offers discounts for longer stays and WIFI routers are available for those who need extra connection speed. Its central location is exceptional for those wanting to explore by car, and it’s only 15 minutes from Cape Maeda, one of the best diving and snorkeling spots on the island!

1468 Ishikawa Yamashiro , Uruma ansahotels.com

Zoria Petkoska

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"Local" and therefore strong!

SCROLL DOWN

Have you booked an airplane ticket? OTS will do all other arrangements then!

Since this is okinawa tourist service (ots), overall travel support can be provided..

Of course we offer support with accommodation, rental car and activities, and we also provide sharing economy services and original sightseeing goods. We are waiting for your visit with complete support you can use from arrival to the moment of reaching convenient members lounge! We will help you from the start, in the middle and until the end of your travel.

As long as the company originates from the local area, we provide detailed assist. OTS will continue providing friendly services for our customers.

• I want to search for the activity that I can enjoy in free time
• I want to plan a travel combining plane tickets and hotel the way I want
• I want to try unusual experience
• I want to serarch for accommodation place that fits my purposes
• I want to have a bus tour
• Since it is long-awaited trip I want to travel by beautiful car
• I want to rent a car with proper compensation just in case
• I want to get various travel information
• I want my luggage to be kept

Various kinds of travel support from OTS!

A reason why OTS has been chosen by many customers

• Great detailed support from the staff
• Reliable rental car with complete compensation
• Community-based and therefore able to provide various kinds of support

Attractive features of Okinawa Tourist Service(OTS)

Overlall travel support before, during and after the travel

We conduct overall support from pre-travel consultation, until providing information and services during and after the trip. Moreover, we offer quite rare rental cars with complete compensation so you should not worry even in the worst case.

Local staff from Okinawa helps you during travel

Since we have been based in Okinawa, experienced and knowledgeable staff will help you during your travel on Okinawa.

There are a lot of advantageous coupons! This is because we are Okinawa Tourist Service

Since this is OTS there are a lot of advantageous coupons and campaigns like early reservation discount tickets or campains for simultaneous reservation of hotel and rental car.

"Local company" and therefore strong! Various services of OTS

Reservation with surprisingly advantageous coupon! Book great hotels through "OTS Hotel"

"OTS Hotel" is a web-site for reservation of hotel under management of Okinawa Tourist Service. There are also advantageous coupons and campaigns like early reservation discount tickets or campains for simultaneous reservation of rental car. We combine rental cars together with activities and conduct overall travel support.

Carefree, safe and pleasant trip with "OTS Rent-a-car" with full compensation

OTS Rent-a-car believes that carefree, safe and pleasant rental car will make you smile the most. All automobiles of OTS Rental Car are all new ones (less than 3 year) and our car models are equipped with the newest accident prevention apparatus on board. And we provide more complete than anywhere else insurance so even in the worst case you should not worry.

Speaking of reservation of activities on Okinawa it is "One Two Smile ACTIVITIES"

"One Two Smile ACTIVITIES" is a web site for reservation of activities on Okinawa. We have numerous optional plans that make your travel to Okinawa filled with content like experiencing Okinawan culture and handmade activities as well as diving, kayak and another marine leisure, guided tours, glass-bottom boat cruises, and trying Okinawan soba noodles, steaks and another dishes. Watch, play, try, eat and have a lot of fun on Okinawa.

Let's enjoy a great Holiday in Okinawa! "Okinawa Holiday Hackers"

Okinawa Holiday Hackers is a web media that establishes a connection between the "Charm of Okinawa's Entity・Experience・Humanity" and "Travelers" For a more free and comfortable Trip. With this philosophy, Okinawa Holiday Hackers wants to introduce you recommended spots in Okinawa, fascinating characters, and suggest you how to enjoy traveling in Okinawa more closely.

Members lounge

In sightseeing information station on Kokusai Street, the multilingual staff has a detailed knowledge and provides support for customers traveling Okinawa.

Original goods and services for tourists

Starting from one day bus tours we carry abundance of original local goods so people who know and love Okinawa also provide satisfying sightseeing.

Official vacation rental homes

OTS cooperates with official lodging web site "STAY JAPAN" and offers new style of travels to Okinawa. Would you like to relax in lodging sites on Okinawa with high degree of individuality like in your own house?

The sharing economy

Sharing economy service "ecbo cloak" provides luggage keeping in available space in cafes or stores. From now on OTS will focus attention on researching and providing sharing services.

A lot of Kerama

In Kerama island Travel Information managed by OTS, they proivide the best thing about Kerama island such as events and activities.

LITTLE SHERPA TRAVELS

See the world in just a weekend | short break travel guides and local insights to add more adventure into your limited time off

Travel guides for  australia, usa, south east asia & more.

• Feb 22, 2020

4-Day Okinawa Japan Road Trip Guide: A complete itinerary to experience the best of Naha Island

Updated: Jul 18, 2020

Want to experience the best Japan has to offer in a laid back tropical island setting? That's exactly what you'll get from a visit to Okinawa. From delicious local cuisine and rich cultural history to cliffside coastlines surrounded by the clearest of blue waters. Experience the best of Okinawa in 4 days with our complete road trip itinerary guide with maps.

This post contains some affiliate hotel links, if you click through and book via these links we will get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Getting to Naha, Okinawa from Singapore:

One of the reasons we added Okinawa to our travel list is that it is only a direct flight away from Singapore. Within 5 hours we reached Naha airport thanks to Jetstar Asia.

Renting a Car: Getting around Naha, the main island of Okinawa:

As there are many stunning coastal drives along Naha, we highly recommend renting a car to make the most of the visit. Outside the airport, are stands of shuttles offering to take passengers on the 10-minute drive to the nearest car rental company. We rented our car via Budget, pre-booked on Expedia. We recommend a good internet connection to be able to use Google Maps as well (as our GPS was mostly in Japanese).

The best time to visit Okinawa:

We visited during Late January and were treated to 20-25c weather, clear skies and limited crowds. We originally booked to visit in August the previous year, however, delayed our trip due to typhoons.

Where to stay in Naha:

We opted for a stay at the Harbourview hotel in Naha City, which included valet parking for a small daily rate. This location was an easy drive for most of our day trips and a short walk to restaurants in the evening. There are many accommodation options across Naha island though and with a car all are easily accessible which can be seen here.

Find the best hotel deals in Naha, Okinawa:

Our Complete 4 Day Road Trip Itinerary around Okinawa:

Day 1 route: naha - cape manzamo - cape maeda - cape zanpa - america village - naha.

Cape Manzamo:

The sun warmed our backs as the light breeze swept across the calm ocean on a 25c clear day. We wandered past tropical green trees as we approached the famous Manzamo coastline, tour groups were in toe with this site drawing a crowd. We waited for a clearing between groups to get our perfect view of the elephant-shaped rock pushing out into the clear turquoise waters below.

Izakaya Lunch Stop - Cape Manzamo

We turned south along the stunning coastal drive for a further 20 mins towards Cape Maeda. Just 5 minutes past Manzamo, along the coastal highway, we stopped at a small Japanese house converted into an Izakaya restaurant (See stop 2 on our map). Here we sat on tatami mats and floor level and had our first taste of Okinawa’s famous Sea Grape and Soba. We wouldn’t have spend more than $30 for this feast.

Cape Maeda:

Upon arrival at Cape Maeda, the car park was filled with Diving and Snorkeling groups, this spot is famous for swimming in the blue cave. It’s possible to book a tour on the spot. We opted to walk along the rocky cliffs and take in the view, free from other tourists.

Cape Zanpa:

Continuing south, our next stop was Cape Zanpa lighthouse. For a $4 entry fee and 130m climb be treated to some spectacular aerial views of the Okinawa coastline. The views of the water below offered more shades of blue than we could count.

Here we stopped to try another famous Okinawan delicacy - Blue Seals local sweet potato purple ice cream. It was creamy and delicious.

The American Village:

Our final stop south on the way back to Naha was the American Village. Filled with souvenir shops, restaurants and vintage American memorabilia.

Evening in Naha City - Kokusai Dori

After reaching Naha City we walked 10 minutes from our hotel down to the bustling street of Kokusai Dori. A popular tourist strip, filled with restaurants. Here, we got our first taste of the Okinawa brewed Orion Beer, a must-try during your visit.

Day 2 Route: Naha - Kouri Island - Churaumi Aquarium - Naha Makishi Market

Kouri Island:

Experience 50 shades of blue driving across Japan's second-longest bridge connecting to a remote island. Driving to this island was a sight in itself not to be missed. Upon arrival, we stopped via the coast to walk along the water and take it all in. We spent the full morning at Kouri, here are our highlights:

Stop for lunch at the Kouri Shrimp food truck:

We loved the ocean views over a low-cost Japanese-Hawaiian fusion lunch of garlic shrimp, beef, rice and seaweed fries.

Take a buggy tour to the top of the Ocean Tower:

We next jumped on a cute buggy tour taking us to the views at the top of the Ocean Tower. On the way down we stopped to taste the soft pumpkin cookies made on-site, of which we brought several boxes home, these were the perfect souvenir!

Chuarium Aquarium:

From Kouri island, we headed south to Chuarium Aquarium, located again along a stunning coastline of clear blue waters. The highlight here was the large tank of manta's whale sharks.

Naha City Makishi Markets:

After a long day, we headed back to Naha to end the night with a shop and dinner around Naha City's Makishi Markets.

Day 3 Route: Naha - Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters - Umikaji Terrace - A&W - Okinawa World & Gyokusen-do Cave - Valley of Gangala - Naha

The Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters (WW2 Museum & tunnels) - Tomigusuku:

Just 15 minutes from our hotel was the Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters from World War Two. We experienced the war history walking through meters of underground tunnels once critical in the battle for Okinawa.

Umikaji Terrace & the Hammock Cafe:

Also located in Naha City is the coastal area of Umikaji terrace, filled with waterfront restaurants. Here we stopped for a morning coffee at the Instagrammable Hammock Cafe.

Lunch at A&W:

Seemingly the most famous fast food restaurant in Okinawa is A&W. We made a lunch stop to try the juicy burgers and fries.

Okinawa World and Gyokusen-do Cave:

We spent our afternoon at Okinawa World. The highlight here was the 2km Gyokusen-do cave developed hundreds of thousands of years ago and taking more than 20 minutes to walk through. We also enjoyed some local culture here, watching a traditional drumming and dance show, as well as visiting some pineapple plantations.

Valley of Gangala:

Directly across the road from Okinawa World is the Valley of Gangala, a lush green valley of a once collapsed limestone cave. Walking tours are available hourly through the area, which can only be accessed as part of a tour. We managed to catch the last English tour of the day departing at 4 pm.

Day 4 Route: Exploring Naha City's Surrounds - Shurijo Castle - Tsuboya Pottery Village - Fukushuen Park - Dinner in an old Japanese Residence

Shurijo Castle:

Our first stop of the day was exploring the remnants of this world heritage castle and grounds while enjoying a view over Naha city.

Tsuboya Pottery Village:

We then shopped for some locally-made souvenirs at Tsuboya Pottery Village. We Took time to wander the cute streets & stop for the local Bukubuku tea, made from rice (Andrew also made a new friend).

Fukushuen Park:

Our last stop of the day was wandering the traditional gardens of Fukushuen Park.

Dinner at Komiya Shokudo Japanese Residence:

Finally we enjoyed dinner in a traditional Japanese house for under $30 for 2 people.

We hope you enjoyed our weekend travel guide to the Okinawa, Japan.

We also share our top 10 must try local foods in Okinawa here.

For more blog posts on weekend getaways and travel itineraries check out the destinations section of our blog.

LITTLE SHERPAS

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West Coast Sweden - 4 Day road trip itinerary for Summer (from Stockholm to Smögen)

Portland, Maine: Perfect 3-Day travel itinerary for a summer long weekend

Estes Park and the Rocky Mountain National Park: The ultimate weekend travel guide

OUR AIM: is to help more people experience the world in just a weekend. We hope through sharing our easy-to-follow short break and weekend travel guides we can inspire others to make the most of their weekends and precious annual leave.

WE ARE: An Australian and British married couple living in Australia, which we recently moved back to after 7 years exploring Asia. By week we manage data forecasting and engineering projects. By the weekend we wander. This is the story of our weekend travels. We are passionate travellers who love taking photos, eating and going on adventures.  We hope you enjoy our travel blog.

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20 Epic Things to Do in Okinawa, Japan [2024 Guide]

• Last Updated: January 26, 2024

From diving with sharks to sailing through a chain of islands to relaxing on a beach, here are 20 of the best things to do in Okinawa, Japan.

The Okinawa prefecture is one of the 47 prefectures of Japan and comprises over 160 islands. The chain of islands is south of Japan’s main island and is arguably Japan’s best-hidden gem.

The islands are surrounded by the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean so they can be accessed fairly conveniently from several regions throughout Asia and not just Japan.

Okinawa Honto is the Okinawa main island and is the most popular among tourists. Despite being only 110km long and 11km wide, there are plenty of sights to see and a list of fun activities in the Okinawa main island.

With its warm and comfortable climate year-round, you can enjoy the Okinawa prefecture in any season. In January, the coldest month, the average temperature in Naha (Okinawa’s capital city) is a cool 17℃, much warmer than the rest of Japan.

We recommend avoiding travelling to the Okinawa prefecture in May and early June due to heavy precipitation during the rainy season. In late June, once the rainy season has passed, it’s hot and sunny for the next few months.

You’ll fly into Naha Airport near Okinawa city and can continue exploring from there.

READ MORE: Check out our complete travel to Japan guide.

Table of Contents

1) Dive With Sharks or Whales

2) or try freediving instead, 3) trek to tadake falls, 4) surfs up, 5) visit one of okinawa’s most sacred sites, 6) learn about okinawan culture at okinawa world, 7) visit war memorials and monuments, 8) continue on to the former navy underground headquarters, 9) visit a pineapple-themed park, 10) enjoy west coast vibes at mihama american village, 12) visit shuri castle of the ryukyu kingdom, 12) try the traditional ryuku costume, 13) stroll through makishi public market, 14) enjoy traditional folk performance over dinner, 15) sign up for a sailing or kayaking trip, 16) go whale watching, 17) bird watching on kume island, 18) dive the yonaguni ruins, 19) completely relax at aka island, 20) swim with rays at ishigaki island, the best hostel in okinawa – my place guest house, the best budget accommodation for couples – naha west inn, best mid-range hotel – hotel wbf art stay, best luxury hotel in okinawa – hyatt regency naha okinawa, best restaurants in okinawa, top things to do in okinawa.

While the Okinawa islands provide a lot of water-based activities, there are still many other things to see in Okinawa if that’s not for you.

See the Shuri Castle of the Ryukyu Kingdom, visit Okinawa Peace Memorial Park, explore Naha city, and more. There is so much fun to be had when visiting Okinawa Japan.

The biggest draw for tourism in the Okinawa prefecture is easily the diving. Okinawa is famous for some of the most stunning dive sites around the world, boasting awesome opportunities to dive with whale sharks and hammerhead sharks in the wild.

While it might seem counterintuitive to travel to an island paradise in winter, from January to March, it’s possible to see humpback whales.

Japanese companies do not bait marine animals but always double check with your diving school to be sure.

As with all things in nature, sometimes you find them and sometimes you don’t!

Even if you aren’t keen to dive with the big animals, you can still enjoy snorkeling or diving among beautiful coral reefs and maybe spot some sea turtles.

As freedivers ourselves, we know firsthand how wonderful the freediving life and experience is.

If you enjoy snorkelling and want to help improve your skills to dive down and spend a little longer with marine life, consider taking a course in the Okinawa islands.

You’ll learn how to safely breath-hold, dive and optimise your energy while out. in the water. Imagine all the wonderful fish and coral reefs you can see!

The marine life in Okinawa is rich in biodiversity and impresses even the more experienced divers. Make sure to rent diving gear – this is an Okinawa must see.

For one of the more adventurous Okinawa activities, trek your way deep into the Northern Okinawa jungle. Here, you’ll find a stunning and remote waterfall called Tadake Falls.

Like some of the best things in life, you have to earn this one. Dedicate an entire day to this adventure as you hike, river trek, water slide, jungle swing and rope climb your way through the jungle.

Expect a muddy trek, to get soaking wet and a pretty tough trail. Not for the fainthearted but a lot of fun if you’re willing to give it a shot.

The waterfall isn’t among the best in the world but the journey to get there makes it something that can’t be missed.

READ MORE: Check out our list of the best places to visit in Japan .

We know that the most fun things to do in Okinawa involve water so it’s no surprise that surfing is pretty popular here.

Beginner-friendly waves make the Okinawa prefecture the perfect destination to try surfing for the first time.

The only thing to keep in mind is that the waves here usually break over reefs. This means that they tend to be shallow and can be dangerous if you’re completely new to surfing or are inexperienced.

We recommend going through a surf school so that you have someone showing you the proper technique, how to read and catch waves and to prevent potential injury.

Surfing is popular on the beaches around Okinawa Honto but you can also find some great waves off the coast of some of the smaller islands.

Of the places to visit in Okinawa, Sefa Utaki is one of the most sacred. It is an important sacred site of the indigenous Okinawan religion which emphasises the worship of nature.

In the early 16th century, Sefa Utaki came into prominence when it became one of the main locations for religious ceremonies and rituals.

Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sefa Utaki is located on a hillside along the ocean and features several rock formations connected by walking trails.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our guide to the best things to do in Japan !

One of the more popular Okinawa attractions is Okinawa World, a touristy theme park dedicated to culture on Okinawa’s Main Island.

The main attractions at Okinawa World are a Gyokusendo Cave, a craft village and snake museum at Habu Park.

Gyokusendo Cave at Okinawa World is five kilometres long and is the second longest cave in Japan. Only 850 metres of the cave is open to the public and here, you can see spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.

Outside the cave are a number of souvenir stalls selling local trinkets including snake liquor, a delicacy in Okinawa.

You can learn about the habu, an aggressive and lethally venomous snake most commonly seen submerged in bottles of awamori.

In Habu Park, visitors can learn more about the snakes in various snake-themed exhibits that provide information on the ecology and history of snakes and reptiles.

This amazing museum and immersive theme park offers you a look into the culture of Okinawa. You can spend a full day exploring Okinawa World, from the Okinawa Cave to Nanto Brewery. Book your tickets here !

Some of the more popular places of interest in Okinawa are important historical sites like various war memorials.

Towards the end of World War II, Okinawa Honto became the sites of one of the war’s bloodiest battles with an estimated 200,000 people killed in battle from April to June 1945.

There are a number of monuments and museums relating to the period. Some of the larger monuments have been constructed in the south of Okinawa Main Island where the worst fighting of the battle took place.

The main memorial to the Battle of Okinawa is the Okinawa Peace Memorial Park, located near the southern tip of the island. The Peace Memorial Museum offers a sobering overview of before, during and after the battle and how Okinawa was reconstructed.

Various monuments such as the Cornerstone of Peace and the Himeyuri Monument also commemorate fallen civilians and soldiers.

The Peace Memorial Museum is also a popular place to check out. Okinawa War Memorials are a must-see on Okinawa’s Main Island.

This is not a happy place to visit. For history buffs or those fascinated with WWII, this sombre museum is interesting and eye-opening.

The Headquarters consists of several hundred metres of underground corridors and rooms that served as the Japanese navy’s headquarters during the war.

On 6 June 1945, commanding officer Rear Admiral Ota sent a lengthy telegram to Tokyo commending the bravery and fierce resistance that Okinawans had shown in the long battle.

A few days later, he and his other officers, totalling over 175, sadly died by suicide (considered an ‘honourable death’) in the tunnels.

Yep, that’s right, pineapples. If you’re ever wondering what to do in Okinawa, it’s celebrating pineapples of course. And what other way than a theme park completed dedicated to them!

Pineapples were cultivated in Okinawa as an agricultural product for around a century but the arrival of lower-priced imported pineapples has seen the industry suffer.

The solution? Promote the fruit as a tourist attraction!

The Nago Pineapple Park is a small theme park that includes a ride on a pineapple-shaped vehicle through pineapple fields, a tropical garden and a. souvenir shop where visitors get the chance to sample some pineapple products.

At certain times of the year, you can also observe how pineapples are peeled, cut and canned in a small factory on site.

The Mihama American Village is built on former US Forces airfield and the idea behind the entertainment complex came from Seaport Village, a mall in San Diego.

At the Mihama American Village, you’ll see an instant resemblance to the West Coast of the US.

Find a unique mix of shops with anime goods stores, boutiques, restaurants, cafes, karaoke studios and a cinema at the Mihama American Village.

One of the top locations for sightseeing in the Okinawa prefecture is Shuri Castle, home to the rulers of the Ryukyu Kingdom and the name of the former capital.

Originally built in the late 1300s, Shuri Castle played an integral role in the political unification of Okinawa island. Over the centuries, wars and fires destroyed the castle multiple times with the most recent during the Battle of Okinawa in 1945.

It was restored in 1958 and 1992 so visitors could continue to appreciate and enjoy the gusuku architecture of the castle which is built in the traditional Okinawan style.

Unfortunately, Shuri Castle was devastated in another fire in 2019. Nine buildings, including the Main Hall, were destroyed.

All of Japan is helping to support Okinawa rebuild the magnificent palace , and local volunteers are putting in commendable effort. Visitors to Okinawa can view the progress of the palace’s reconstruction, though it is still relatively in shambles.

Shuri Castle is meant to be finished in 2026, though there is no guarantee. However, we have left it on this list of the best things to do in Okinawa because it is still a beloved landmark and the locals are very passionate about restoring it.

Shuri Castle has risen from the ashes numerous times already, so there is a good chance this will happen again.

The gardens around the castle are still open to enjoy as well, so it may still be worth a visit!

The palace is currently closed for restorations. Read this article for more info!

The traditional costume from the era of the Kingdom of the Ryuku is different from the common kimonos seen today.

Visitors can try on the costumes, take photos and tour the castle. Ladies get full professional hair styling and make-up which takes around an hour.

Strolling through the complex dressed up gives you a bit of a visual idea of what it was like for the royal family in the Old Kingdom. This is a cool thing to do when you visit Okinawa.

The market is a maze of tiny alleys that interconnect into a large space of food stalls. Here, you can find a variety of ingredients including fresh fish, meat, vegetables, dried foods, daily groceries and liquor.

For a chance to sample some fresh seafood, try the mochiage system where you purchase seafood on the first floor of the market and ask for a staff of a restaurant to cook it and serve it to you on the second floor. The cost for cooking is around 500 yen each.

Zizake Yokocho is an izakaya (a restaurant where you order smaller share style dishes) on Kokusai Street. It serves Okinawan cuisine, local sake Awamori and has traditional folk song performances.

Singers take to the stage three times a day and requests from guests are welcomed. You’ll find lyrics to the folk songs that represent Okinawa on the tables to better understand the music.

And if you’re in the mood, get up and dance!

Sailing hasn’t been that popular in Okinawa but more recently, it’s experiencing an upward trend.

There are now various sailing companies that offer trips to cruise around different islands in Okinawa.

Alternatively, if you are a budding sailor, you can charter your own boat and go island hopping at your own pace.

This way, you can stop by different islands in the East China Sea- many of which are uninhabited – and enjoy your own secluded paradise.

Another way to enjoy a day on the water is kayaking. For a gorgeous day paddling through the water, book a kayaking tour .

If you’re wondering what to see in Okinawa, how about some humpback whales?

A cannot-be-missed activity in Okinawa Japan is whale watching. Between January and March, the area is infamous for spotting humpback whales that swim in the waters off the southern coast.

The whales migrate from Alaska to Japan and one of the best places to see them while whale watching is around the Kerama Islands.

You can book whale watching tours which take you out on a boat to get close to these magnificent animals.

For nature enthusiasts, Kume Island is one of the best places to visit in Okinawa. Here, you’ll find a wide range of local plant and wildlife.

Kume Island is also a national park so one of the top activities to do is to trek through the lush foliage

The island is also a national park and one of the top activities here is the chance to go trekking through the lush foliage that covers much of Kume.

Avid birders will also love Kume because the central part of the island contains natural wetlands with bird watching opportunities.

You’ll find a large number of local species that congregate around the area and hide in the tall grasses and bushes.

While this isn’t something to do from Okinawa Honto, it’s a must if you’re in the area and looking to do some other outer Okinawa travel on some different islands.

Yonaguni island is actually closer to Taiwan than it is to Japan’s main island of Honshū. Of the different islands in Okinawa, this is one of the most famous for its scuba diving sites.

Yonaguni is known for its incredible underwater ruins and many of the ruins here are made of solid rock, with some dated back to 8,000 years old.

If you’re an intermediate or experienced diver, this is one of the best things to do in Okinawa and can’t be missed.

There are legends about the origins of the ruins and are say that they are apart of a lost continent called Mu. Here, you’ll find rock formations that look like staircases, rooms and walls.

If you’re looking to explore some Okinawa activities away from the main island, hop over to Akajima Island, also known as Aka Island.

This picturesque and peaceful island is relatively small. It’s well known for its observation towers which offer some stunning views across the islands and wider Okinawa.

You’ll find some spectacular photo opportunities around the island. You can also go swimming, hike across the island or just relax in paradise.

Ishigaki Island is another one of Okinawa’s incredible islands, and it is famous for manta rays.

Ishigaki Island was listed in the Michelin Green Guide Japan and is the number one place for swimming with manta rays in Japan.

You’ll find crystal clear water in spots like Manta Scramble and can easily find majestic rays swimming through the seas. Snorkeling at Ishigaki Island is truly a dream!

You can dive or snorkel in the area and just enjoy observing and sharing the sea with these graceful creatures.

Okinawa Travel Guide

To help you make the most of your time in Okinawa, we’ve put together a little travel guide for you to choose where to eat and where to stay in Okinawa. You’ll want to stay on the main island of Okinawa for convenience.

Best Accommodation – Where To Stay in Okinawa

Since there are many different areas and places to stay in the Okinawa Main Island of Okinawa Honto, we’ve made some suggestions based around Naha, Okinawa’s capital.

You’ll fly into Naha Airport near Okinawa City. From Naha Airport you can easily get public transport or a hotel transport to a hotel near the city.

Operated by a well-known diving ship in Okinawa, My Place Guest House is the best place to stay in Okinawa Honto if you’re planning on doing any of the marine activities.

The hostel provides free reliable WiFi throughout, a spacious common area, fully equipped shared kitchen and a wide living room that you can use 24 hours. There are even hammocks!

My Place has a range of different rooms from dorms to privates, and is the best budget place to stay on the main island of Okinawa.

Naha West Inn offers clean and comfortable budget accommodation for couples looking for something private in Naha city.

The hotel has plenty of parking available, is opposite a Family Mart and walking distance from public transport. Location wise, it’s very central and convenient for visiting Okinawa sights.

The hotel has a modern and sleek design, rooms are spacious and clean and the beds are large. And as an added bonus, coffee is free!

This funky hotel combines the concept of culture and art into a 10-floor hotel.

Hotel WBF Art Stay is a special place that celebrates imagination and in itself is one of the awesome Okinawa attractions of Naha city.

Rooms on levels 3 to 10 are decorated with drawings by the ‘Ban Rom Sai’ in Thailand, a home for children who have lost their parents due to AIDS or have contracted HIV from their parents.

The other rooms on the second floor are decorated with artworks of active artists from different countries.

Located centrally among all the action in Naha city near the Naha Airport, there are many surrounding restaurants open late and the morning markets are only a 5-minute walk away.

For those who want to splash out and enjoy some luxury in Okinawa city, check out Hyatt Regency in Naha. It’s near Naha Airport as well!

The hotel is stunning with a classic modern look, decorated stylishly with elegant finishes.

There’s a gym, spa, large outdoor pool with timber decking and nice lounge areas. Rooms are spacious, comfortable and elegant.

If you’ve stayed at any Hyatt Regency hotels before, you’ll know to expect fine-tuned luxury and this hotel is no different.

Hamaya Soba is a soba specialty shop that offers Okinawa soba, a classic noodle dish in Okinawa cuisine. It’s affordable, delicious and unique to the region.

Meat eaters wanting to try some delicious high-quality Japanese Wagyu should go to Yakiniku Hana , a BBQ restaurant serving mouthwatering Ishigaki beef, one of the best types of Wagyu beef in Japan.

Marutama serves its own twist on taco rice, an Okinawan fusion food of taco-flavoured minced beef on white rice. Here, you’ll find it with a homemade miso and salsa sauce, taking the dish to another level.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Amanda Tran

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Getting around Okinawa

Planning to travel in Okinawa? Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, let this guide help you make the most of your Okinawa experience. Travel from the airport to a hotel using Uber and discover popular routes and destinations. Depending on your city, you can even use the app to get around with public transport, bikes or scooters, and more.

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38 years and 18 marathons later, Okinawa MLC looks back on decades of service

Elena Takaho (Photo courtesy of 10th Support Group Public Affairs)

On a regular basis, the 10th Support Group depends on the cultural expertise and political know-how Elena Takaho has developed over the past 38 years of service to both the U.S. and Japanese governments.

As the 10th SG’s political advisor, Takaho helps the Army navigate through many important events and meetings with positive and professional outcomes.

Back in 1977, a recently graduated Takaho set out into the workforce. With a strong work ethic, fast typing abilities, and bilingual skills, she nabbed one of the coveted Master Labor Contractor positions at nearby Camp Foster. Takaho started her long career as an administrative specialist

“Even back in those days, jobs on base were good, steady, and well-paying jobs. I was excited and felt fortunate to have the opportunity,” Takaho said.

Takaho worked for six years with the Marine Corps at Camp Foster until 1983 when she took a job at the U.S. Naval Hospital as a travel clerk at Camp Lester. Within three years, her adventurous and independent spirit got the better of her and she bought a one-way ticket to Tokyo and signed on with a large American realty investments corporation. Within a few years, she was recruited to be an executive secretary to the director of client service of a large American advertisement group. Times were good, Japan was in the midst of an economic bubble that seemed to have a never-ending rise. Takaho rented an apartment near Yokohama and used the commute to cycle the more than 40-kilometer roundtrip daily in time to get to the 7 a.m. aerobics class before work.

“I hated the jam-packed train commute. So I used the location to my advantage to do something I love,” she said.

After nine years in Tokyo, family situations urged her back to Okinawa. She packed her things in Yokohama and returned. In October 1995, Takaho resumed her career for the government as an MLC with the Marine Corps Air Station Futenma’s, Morale Welfare and Recreation office as an administrative specialist. Within two years she was promoted to training technician with the renamed Marine Corps Community Services Department at Camp Foster.

After two years of being a training technician, she seized the opportunity to move into the role of community relations specialist for the Office of the Commanding Officer for MCAS Futenma. During her 14 years there, Futenma was embroiled in the political back-and-forth that has routinely plagued the site due to its history and location. Takaho cut her teeth in the community relations and political realm there and honed her prowess in helping the command team navigate difficult community/base tensions. Takaho earned experience in Futenma’s politically charged environment while handling high-level visits, with prime ministers, and foreign ministry personnel. various ambassadors, mayors, ward chiefs, and other community leaders.

According to Takaho, one program that stands out in her mind fondly is the Volunteer English Teaching Assistance Program. She felt pride in the ongoing success of that program coordinating Marine Corps volunteers to teach English at numerous elementary schools in Ginowan City. The pilot program, which was thought to only last a couple of years went on for a decade from 2000 to 2010.

In June 2013, Takaho left the USMC and rose to the position of Political Advisor for the U.S. Army’s 10th Regional Support Group Command Group located at Torii Station in Yomitan. For the past 11 years with the Army, Takaho’s expertise has guided the Army through many high-level events and meetings assisting with maintaining community/base relations in various ways.

“I look back on my career and have many fond memories of events and people who I have interacted with along the way,” she said.

Takaho’s life hasn’t always been solely dedicated to work or family, she has always taken great pride in fitness. Early in life, she had aspirations of being a professional athlete. Some locals speculated and rumored that she might be an Olympiad in training. While on a long vacation from Tokyo, she would wake up and jog several miles from her home to Zanpa Beach where she would jump in the ocean and swim a long distance along the coast and then jog home. Takaho also looks back on her 18 consecutive finishes in the Naha marathon. The only reason she stopped at 18 was due to the race’s cancellation because of COVID. Early in life, Takaho had aspirations of being a pro athlete. According to her, the last thing she ever saw herself doing was desk work. Fitness goals have kept her going all these years. Early in her career, she was the only female to join a Karate dojo near work and earned a black belt before moving on to other fitness adventures. “One of the reasons I moved on to something new was because my arms were getting too big and muscular for my blouses,” she said with a chuckle.

Takaho’s adventurous spirit over the years, combined with her dedication to her job has always been at the forefront. “I flew to San Diego and rode elephants at the zoo. I hiked to the top of Mount Fuji, I joined a motorcycle group, and also did solo rides from Yokohama to Niigata prefecture,” She said. Earlier in life at the age of 16, Takaho was one of the first females in Okinawa to receive a motorcycle license.

“Okinawa is a wonderful place, but very small. Some of my siblings were off doing great things around the world, I wanted to go see some of the excitement for myself and explore the big city. I saw Madonna in concert. Work was never easy in Tokyo, hours were very long, but they were challenging and rewarding” Takaho explained.

After a lifetime of experiences and memories, Takaho is set to retire at the end of June 2024. Her first priority is to care for her elderly mother, but she is also in planning mode to rent a motorcycle and ride a ring around all of Japan’s mainland (Honshu) and Hokkaido.

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Okinawa feels no easing of US military base burden amid 'southwest shift' strategy

N AHA -- Okinawa on May 15 marked the 52nd anniversary of its reversion to Japan from U.S. rule. As Tokyo and Washington prepare to boost defensive capabilities in Japan's southwestern islands in response to China's increasing military activities, U.S. military training has intensified in Okinawa and reinforcement of Japan's Self-Defense Forces (SDF) is also progressing.

The administration of Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has stated that alleviation of the excessive burden on Okinawa of hosting U.S. military bases is "one of the government's most important issues," but due to the series of 'southwest shift' moves, the burden felt by Okinawans is instead increasing.

Hiroshi Toyama, mayor of the town of Kadena, Okinawa Prefecture, home to the U.S. Military's Kadena Air Base where many fighter jets are stationed, addressed the issue on May 13. "Our country's security environment is becoming more severe, and base operations are intensifying. It's difficult to feel that the burden has been reduced," he told reporters.

In line with the phased replacement of F-15 fighter jets starting in November 2022, noisy F-35 and other stealth fighter jets are being deployed on rotation, resulting in serious noise pollution. In November 2023, an MQ-9 unmanned reconnaissance aircraft unit was relocated from Kagoshima Prefecture. And despite a bilateral agreement for U.S. military parachute training to be conducted on the Okinawa Prefecture island of Iejima in principle, the exercises have been conducted at Kadena Air Base every month since December 2023. This has sparked protests from the Okinawa Prefectural Government and surrounding municipalities.

Since the 1972 reversion, 9,440 hectares of land once used exclusively for U.S. military facilities in Okinawa Prefecture has been returned to Japan, but by area, the prefecture still hosts 70% of U.S. military facilities in Japan. Off the coast of the city of Nago in the prefecture, meanwhile, land reclamation work is underway for the relocation of U.S. Marine Corps Air Station Futenma from the local city of Ginowan.

In March 2024, the U.S. military's Lower Plaza Housing Area, covering some 23 hectares in the central part of the main island of Okinawa, was opened to the public as a "green space plaza" for joint use by Japan and the U.S. in anticipation of its future return to Japan. At a commemorative ceremony, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi described the move as a "visible achievement in reducing the (base) burden" on Okinawa. But there are no concrete plans for the subsequent return of bases for the foreseeable future.

Meanwhile, the deployment of new SDF units within the prefecture is steadily advancing. In March 2023, the Ministry of Defense established a Ground Self-Defense Force camp on Ishigaki Island, and in March 2024, a surface-to-ship missile regiment was stationed in the city of Uruma in central Okinawa. Japan and the U.S. frequently conduct joint training in preparation for contingencies. Okinawa Gov. Denny Tamaki cautioned, "The establishment of SDF facilities should be considered in conjunction with the reduction of the U.S. military base burden."

Okinawa Prefecture's economy, which had slumped due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is showing signs of recovery. The number of tourists in fiscal 2023 increased by 26% compared to the previous financial year to hit 8.53 million, or 85% of the record 10 million visitors marked in fiscal 2018. The effective ratio of job offers to applicants also rose for the third consecutive year, averaging 1.17 in fiscal 2023. However, per capita income in the prefecture remains at 70% of the national average, and the rapid rise in commodity prices and fuel costs is impacting residents' lives.

(Japanese original by Hiroshi Higa, Naha Bureau)

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‘No sign of life’ at crash site of helicopter carrying Iran’s president, others

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi places his hands on his heart as a gesture of respect to the crowd during the funeral ceremony of the victims of Wednesday's bomb explosion in the city of Kerman about 510 miles southeast of the capital Tehran, Iran, Jan. 5, 2024. A helicopter carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi suffered a “hard landing” on Sunday, May 19, 2024, Iranian state television reported, without immediately elaborating. (Vahid Salemi/AP)

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Rescuers on Monday found a helicopter that was carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, the country’s foreign minister and other officials that had apparently crashed in the mountainous northwest reaches of Iran the day before, though “no sign of life” was detected, state media reported.

As the sun rose Monday, rescuers saw the helicopter from a distance of some 1.25 miles, the head of the Iranian Red Crescent Society, Pir Hossein Kolivand, told state media. He did not elaborate and the officials had been missing at that point by over 12 hours.

The incident comes as Iran under Raisi and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei launched an unprecedented drone-and-missile attack on Israel last month and has enriched uranium closer than ever to weapons-grade levels.

Iran has also faced years of mass protests against its Shiite theocracy over an ailing economy and women’s rights — making the moment that much more sensitive for Tehran and the future of the country as the Israel-Hamas war inflames the wider Middle East.

Raisi was traveling in Iran’s East Azerbaijan province. State TV said what it called a “hard landing” happened near Jolfa, a city on the border with the nation of Azerbaijan, some 375 miles northwest of the Iranian capital, Tehran. Later, state TV put it farther east near the village of Uzi, but details remained contradictory.

With Raisi were Iran’s Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, the governor of Iran’s East Azerbaijan province and other officials and bodyguards, the state-run IRNA news agency reported. One local government official used the word “crash,” but others referred to either a “hard landing” or an “incident.”

Early Monday morning, Turkish authorities released what they described as drone footage showing what appeared to be a fire in the wilderness that they “suspected to be wreckage of helicopter.” The coordinates listed in the footage put the fire some 12 miles south of the Azerbaijan-Iranian border on the side of a steep mountain.

Footage released by the IRNA early Monday showed what the agency described as the crash site, across a steep valley in a green mountain range. Soldiers speaking in the local Azeri language said: “There it is, we found it.”

Shortly after, state TV in an on-screen scrolling text said: “There is no sign of live from people on board.” It did not elaborate, but the semiofficial Tasnim news agency showed rescuers using a small drone to fly over the site, with them speaking among themselves saying the same thing.

Hard-liners had urged the public to pray. State TV aired images of hundreds of the faithful, some with their hands outstretched in supplication, praying at Imam Reza Shrine in the city of Mashhad, one of Shiite Islam’s holiest sites, as well as in Qom and other locations across the country. State television’s main channel aired the prayers nonstop.

In Tehran, a group of men kneeling on the side of the street clasped strands of prayer beads and watched a video of Raisi praying, some of them visibly weeping.

“If anything happens to him we’ll be heartbroken,” said one of the men, Mehdi Seyedi. “May the prayers work and may he return to the arms of the nation safe and sound.”

IRNA called the area a “forest” and the region is known to be mountainous as well. State TV aired images of SUVs racing through a wooded area and said they were being hampered by poor weather conditions, including heavy rain and wind. Rescuers could be seen walking in the fog and mist.

Khamenei himself also urged the public to pray.

“We hope that God the Almighty returns the dear president and his colleagues in full health to the arms of the nation,” Khamenei said, drawing an “amen” from the worshipers he was addressing.

However, the supreme leader also stressed the business of Iran’s government would continue no matter what. Under the Iranian constitution, Iran’s vice first president takes over if the president dies with Khamenei’s assent, and a new presidential election would be called within 50 days. First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber already had begun receiving calls from officials and foreign governments in Raisi’s absence, state media reported.

Raisi, 63, a hard-liner who formerly led the country’s judiciary, is viewed as a protégé of Khamenei and some analysts have suggested he could replace the 85-year-old leader after Khamenei’s death or resignation.

Raisi had been on the border with Azerbaijan early Sunday to inaugurate a dam with Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev. The dam is the third one that the two nations built on the Aras River. The visit came despite chilly relations between the two nations, including over a gun attack on Azerbaijan’s Embassy in Tehran in 2023, and Azerbaijan’s diplomatic relations with Israel, which Iran’s Shiite theocracy views as its main enemy in the region.

Iran flies a variety of helicopters in the country, but international sanctions make it difficult to obtain parts for them. Its military air fleet also largely dates back to before the 1979 Islamic Revolution. IRNA published images it described as Raisi taking off in what resembled a Bell helicopter, with a blue-and-white paint scheme previously seen in published photographs.

Raisi won Iran’s 2021 presidential election, a vote that saw the lowest turnout in the Islamic Republic’s history. Raisi is sanctioned by the U.S. in part over his involvement in the mass execution of thousands of political prisoners in 1988 at the end of the bloody Iran-Iraq war.

Under Raisi, Iran now enriches uranium at nearly weapons-grade levels and hampers international inspections. Iran has armed Russia in its war on Ukraine, as well as launched a massive drone-and-missile attack on Israel amid its war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. It also has continued arming proxy groups in the Mideast, like Yemen’s Houthi rebels and Lebanon’s Hezbollah.

Meanwhile, mass protests in the country have raged for years. The most recent involved the 2022 death of Mahsa Amini, a woman who had been earlier detained over allegedly not wearing a hijab, or headscarf, to the liking of authorities. The monthslong security crackdown that followed the demonstrations killed more than 500 people and saw over 22,000 detained.

In March, a United Nations investigative panel found that Iran was responsible for the “physical violence” that led to Amini’s death.

Associated Press writers Nasser Karimi in Tehran, Iran, contributed to this report.

previous coverage

• Iran’s hard-line president still missing after likely helicopter crash in foggy, mountainous region

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• Getting Around Okinawa

Navigating Okinawa is a breeze with these transportation options

There are plenty of options when it comes to getting around Okinawa. On the main island, public transportation such as monorail, buses, and taxis make traveling between destinations quick and convenient. But rental cars, bicycles, and motorcycles are a great way to get off the beaten path and explore at your own pace, especially on Okinawa’s more remote islands. Choose the option that best matches your itinerary.

Rental Vehicles

Rental bicycles, express ferries.

The Yui Rail monorail connects 19 stations in around just 40 minutes, and is a quick and convenient way to travel from Naha Airport to popular sightseeing destinations. Discount tickets allow for unlimited rides in a specified time period, making it a great option for traveling on a budget.

Rental cars, motorcycles, and RVs are perfect for travelers who want to get off the beaten path and explore Okinawa at their own pace. There are many vehicle rental companies throughout the islands, offering competitive rental plans to suit your budget. Reserve online or in advance to make your trip as smooth as possible.

Whether cruising along the shore or zooming through the city, rental bicycles are a great way to explore the islands. Bicycle share services like ChuraChari make pick up and drop off easy and convenient, and many services offer motor-assisted options in addition to conventional bicycles.

Taxis are a quick, convenient, and plentiful option when traveling in Okinawa’s urban areas. In addition to standard taxis, shuttle taxis can be chartered for transport between the airport and hotels, and sightseeing taxis offer a unique way to tour the area. Availability is limited on remote islands, so be sure to confirm in advance.

Okinawa’s main island is served by a convenient bus network that connects popular destinations. Options include local buses, airport services, and tour buses. While some remote islands also have bus services, the situation varies from island to island.

A vast network of ferries connects the many beautiful islands that make up Okinawa. Most major routes between islands offer express services, which can be cheaper than flights. Please note that weather conditions may impact services and travel time.

Flights operate from Naha Airport to many of Okinawa’s remote islands.They connect visitors with the Miyako and Yaeyama islands in the south, the Daito Islands in the east, and Kume Island in the west.

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