Follow this Okinawa Itinerary and Discover the Region's Nature and HistoryOkinawa

Before its unification and the emergence of the Ryukyu dynasty, Okinawa was a collection of islands ruled by different domains. The Ryukyu kingdom was the name given to the unified islands of Okinawa before it became a part of Japan. Built in the early 14th century, Nakijin Castle is located in Northern Okinawa and was once the center of defense. Today, its ruins have been registered as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu. Today, it is a popular Okinawan attraction, with visitors exploring the stones of this once-great monument. Away from the castle ruins, you can enjoy a trip to the Nakijin Village History and Culture Center. This tiny museum is full of objects excavated within the castle grounds and gives visitors a tantalizing glimpse into daily Japanese life centuries before.

One of the top Okinawan activities is cycling, and cycling from Kouri Island to Kijoka is the best way to enjoy it. Rent a bike and take to the road surrounded by lush, forested mountains, stunning coastal vistas and rich cultural heritage. Biking in Japan is a wonderful way to take in the beauty of this diverse nation at a slower pace. You can take your time to explore the coastal roads and fascinating communities in this part of Okinawa and discover how Okinawan people live their daily lives. As you pass through these communities, you can take a stop by a local restaurant along the way and enjoy freshly caught fish dishes, or bike to an elevated point and enjoy lunch while overlooking the beautiful island scenery. Choose from various cycle routes and find one that suits your expertise. There are plenty of options for more strenuous climbs. Otherwise, just sit back and enjoy a gentle cycle around the island.

The Yambaru National Park in Northern Okinawa is one of the natural wonders of Japan and provides routes for some of the best hikes in Japan too. A combination of verdant, sub-tropical canopies, twisted mangroves, towering waterfalls and endemic wildlife, a visit to this secluded forest is something you'll never forget. Designated as the 33rd national park of Japan in 2016, the Northern Okinawa area has been nominated as a combined UNESCO World Heritage Site with Iriomote Island, Tokunoshima Island and Amami-Oshima Island in 2021. There are many ways to enjoy the forest, from hikes through the thick subtropical jungle to kayak tours along its rivers. However, if you decide to spend your time in Yambaru, you'll leave with an overwhelming sense of gratitude, having been able to experience a small slice of paradise.

When you arrive in Kin Town you'll be surprised by the mix of Japanese and Western influences. After World War II, Okinawa was ruled by the United States and was heavily influenced by American culture. Kin Town is a unique place to visit since around half of the town is home to Camp Hansen, one of several United States Marine bases in Okinawa. In Kin Town’s Shinkaichi district, you'll come across countless establishments selling dishes like tacos and hamburgers with signs in English and prices in US dollars, something out of the ordinary elsewhere in the country. Yet, cultures coexist in Kin Town, and there's no better symbol of this than taco rice. The popular dish consisting of taco meat and rice was created in the town. However, beyond the area's unique culture are some incredible natural landmarks, including the dramatic Cape Kin and the Okukubi River, lined with verdant mangroves.

The Battle of Okinawa was the last major battle of World War II. Many visitors choose to visit the Battle of Okinawa location because the site acts as a reminder to the importance of peace and the consequences of conflict. During a trip to the Southern Battleground, which includes sites like the Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum, Okinawa Peace Memorial Park , Okinawa Peace Hall, and The Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters, you'll find memorials and monuments detailing incredible stories of courage, as well as loss. This poignant end to your trip around Okinawa will leave you in awe of the region's people who have worked hard to preserve the outstanding natural beauty and rich culture of this remote part of Japan.