Okinawa & Naha
3 Spots
Okinawa is Japan's southernmost prefecture, renowned for its emerald seas, white-sand beaches, and the unique Ryukyu culture that developed independently from mainland Japan for centuries. The capital city Naha is home to Shuri Castle, the restored palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom, and the vibrant Kokusai Street lined with shops and restaurants. A short trip north leads to the world-class Churaumi Aquarium. The subtropical climate, distinctive cuisine (goya champuru, soki soba), and warm hospitality make Okinawa unlike anywhere else in Japan.
Info
Spot Rankings
Spots in this Area
Shuri Castle
Shuri Castle was the palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom (1429-1879), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that blended Chinese, Japanese, and Southeast Asian architectural styles. The distinctive vermilion palace testified to Ryukyu's prosperity as a maritime trading nation. After a devastating fire in 2019 destroyed the main hall, restoration is underway — visitors can observe the "visible reconstruction" process up close, making it a unique experience. The castle grounds offer panoramic views of Naha city and the East China Sea, with landmarks including the iconic Shureimon Gate and Sonohyan Utaki stone gate.
Kokusai Street
Kokusai Street is Naha's 1.6 km main drag, nicknamed the "Miracle Mile" for its astonishing post-war recovery from total destruction. Today the bustling street is lined with Okinawan souvenir shops, awamori tasting bars, local restaurants serving goya champuru and soki soba, and American vintage stores reflecting the island's unique cultural blend. Duck into the side streets to discover Makishi Public Market, where the ground floor displays colourful tropical fish and cuts of pork — pick your ingredients and have them cooked upstairs at the market's dining hall.
Churaumi Aquarium
Churaumi Aquarium, located within Ocean Expo Park in northern Okinawa, is one of the world's largest aquariums. Its centrepiece is the "Kuroshio Sea" tank — a massive 7,500 cubic metre pool viewed through a 22-metre-wide acrylic panel where whale sharks and manta rays glide majestically overhead. The aquarium was the first in the world to successfully keep and breed multiple whale sharks. Outdoors, the free Okichan Theater dolphin show and sea turtle lagoon are family favourites. The adjacent Emerald Beach is one of Okinawa's most beautiful, and the entire Ocean Expo Park can easily fill a full day.