Southern Okinawa Main Island

Explore living history and modern convenience in Okinawa’s cultural heart

Southern Okinawa is the beating heart of the culture of the islands, home to the capitals of both the Ryukyu Kingdom, Shuri, and the modern prefecture, Naha. Explore the history of the royal family at Shurijo Castle Park and the Tamaudun Royal Mausoleum, and immerse yourself in spirituality at Sefa-utaki, one of the island’s most sacred places. Enjoy shopping, dining, entertainment, and nightlife in Naha. Head further south to Itoman or Nanjo to immerse yourself in nature—sprawling limestone caves, pristine beaches, and more—and reflect on Okinawa’s somber WWII history.

Naha

Let your hair down in Okinawa’s cosmopolitan capital and enjoy connections to many beautiful remote islands

Shuri

Encounter royal heritage and World Heritage in the former capital of the Ryukyu Kingdom

Itoman and Nanjo

Encounter Ryukyuan spiritual sites, world history, and limestone caves in Southern Okinawa

Toyosaki

Shop and stroll by the seaside in Toyosaki

Senaga Island

Experience hot springs and laidback seaside fun on this shopping and dining resort island

Ojima Island

Experience fresh seafood and crispy tempura on Ojima Island

Kudaka Island

Discover Okinawa’s spiritual heritage, subtropical flora, and unspoiled nature on Kudaka Island

Aguni Island

Discover a rugged, volcanic landscape and wild birds on Aguni Island

Kita-Daito Island

Reconnect with the simple life on remote Kita-Daito Island

Minami-Daito Island

Discover a unique landscape and limestone caves on Minami-Daito Island

Tonaki Island

Experience traditional Okinawa and go back in time on Tonaki Island

Okinawa Travel Brochures: Travel Guide Book Best of Okinawa

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TRAVEL INSPIRATION

With so much to see and do across 160 different islands, deciding what to do is not always easy. Browse recommended trips, new and trending attractions, travel stories and guides. Be inspired by Okinawa.

Cherry Blossoms in Okinawa: Okinawa sees the earliest blooming cherry blossoms in all Japan, and offers great sightseeing opportunities in spring / The arrival of cherry blossoms is the highlight of the Japanese year.

Yanbaru—Getting Back to Nature: Explore the forests, mangroves, waterfalls, and unique wildlife of Yambaru National Park. Paddle through mangroves and take a guided night walk to spot rare fauna. / Lush green forests, mangroves, waterfalls, and

Shurijo Castle’s Road to Recovery: Shurijo Castle’s road to recovery is long, but visitors can witness every step of progress / On October 31, 2019, a large fire at Shurijo Castle destroyed nine structures, including the Seiden (Main Hall).

Tracing the Roots of Awamori: Discover the depth and history of awamori, Okinawa’s representative distilled spirit / A quick ride on the Yui Rail, and once again I found myself in Shuri, Naha’s old city, the heart of Okinawan culture and history.

Relaxing Retreats in Northern Okinawa: Find out why northern Okinawa is the perfect place to get off the beaten path in a post-COVID world / As we carefully plan travel in a post-COVID world, personal health and safety have become our top priorities.

Ishigaki Island—Traditions Inspired by the Sea: A guide to the rich traditions and vibrant culture of the Yaeyama Islands / Ishigaki is one of the Yaeyama Islands, and home to the southernmost city in Japan. In addition to picture-perfect

Explore Naha by Bicycle: Explore the sights and streets of Okinawa’s capital city by bicycle / Naha City has an excellent public transportation system. There’s a new bus center, and the Yui Rail urban monorail connects the airport with

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