Sun, sea and sand in Okinawa,
Japan's southernmost, tropical prefecture
Far to the south of Japan's main islands, Okinawa is truly unique.
The subtropical climate makes for incredible beaches and diverse flora and fauna,
and this small island chain has developed a unique culture of its own.
Okinawa also has substantial trade with neighboring Asian countries.
Visitors to Okinawa receive a taste of Japan unlike anywhere else, making it an essential stop on any itinerary.
Nature
An unforgettable trip to explore Okinawa's compelling natural landscapes
Okinawa's islands are mesmerizing, bathed in sunshine, fringed by white sand beaches and populated by tropical plants and animals. Emerald seas await visitors to Ishigaki Island, one of the largest of the Yaeyama Islands. The Kerama Islands are a perfect place to island hop and view many different ecosystems, while Yagaji Island is a convenient getaway that's filled with protected mangroves, mudflats and sugarcane fields.
Culture
Get the inside scoop on Okinawan traditions and delicacies
As an isolated island chain, cultural traditions on Okinawa have evolved quite separately from the rest of the country. One iconic cultural phenomenon that has spread far beyond the borders of Okinawa is Karate. This martial art originated in Okinawa and is still practiced at dojos across the prefecture. If sports aren't your thing, try a taste of Awamori, the oldest distilled drink in Japan. Or discover unique creations at the All-Okinawa Yachimun Pottery Market (hosted annually in spring).
Activity
Discover the real Okinawa by day and night
While relaxing on the beach is a highlight of any visit to Okinawa, there's a lot more to discover. Below the waves, divers on Yonaguni Island can get up close and personal with hammerhead sharks. Discover US-Japanese fusion culture on a night out in Koza. And experience the history of functional, beautiful Okinawan yachimun pottery at Naha Tsuboya Yachimun Street, a hot spot for the local craft since the 1600s.
Okinawa in the News
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A natural balance: Local culture and endemic wildlife in northern Okinawa Main Island
BBC
Okinawa is Japan’s southernmost prefecture. Once an independent Ryukyu Kingdom, this beautiful chain of subtropical islands has its own traditions of dance, crafts, music, and karate. The ancient forests in northern Okinawa Main Island and Iriomote Island are home to numerous endemic species, and in 2021 their ecological significance was recognised as a Unesco Natural World Heritage Site.
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Discover Japan: Forest Bathing and Spiritual Connections
CNN
Japan’s southernmost isles boast nature escapes at every corner, but the northern area of Okinawa’s main island is one of the most exceptional. Here, the subtropical forests of the Yambaru area—which is both part of the Yambaru National Park and a newly designated UNESCO World Heritage site (together with parts of the Amami Archipelago and Iriomote Island)—lures adventurers with its impressive biodiversity.
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See a New Side of Japan with These Epic Outdoor Adventures
Travel + Leisure
More watery adventures await in Okinawa, the southernmost tip of Japan. This necklace of postcard-perfect islands, renowned for their laid-back tempo and deliciously unique cuisine, offer idyllic beaches and vivid blue ocean. A paradise for divers, there are innumerable diving sites suitable for all skill levels, from deep underwater caves to colorful coral reefs.
Okinawa
Far to the south of Japan's main islands, Okinawa is truly unique. The subtropical climate makes for incredible beaches and diverse flora and fauna, and this small island chain has developed a unique culture of its own.
Hokkaido
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