City Info

Okinawa Prefecture consists of more than 150 distinct islands, all of which lie 400 miles from mainland Japan. This sets Okinawa apart as a world unto itself. In Okinawa, you can explore deserted beaches, swim with sea turtles, or snorkel in crystal clear waters. One hundred and eleven of Okinawa’s islands are uninhabited, pristine and untouched, making them prime real estate for adventure. Okinawa is home to rare creatures, such as the Iriomote wild cat, and cuisine unique and different from the rest of Japan.

Things to do in Okinawa
Packed with beaches and tropical forests, what is there not to do in Okinawa? Hiking, snorkeling, and scuba diving make the short list, but Okinawa has even more to offer. If Okinawa’s diverse wildlife isn’t enough for you, you can visit the Churaumi Aquarium, considered the best aquarium in Japan and one of the best in the world. A highlight is the Kuroshio Tank, one of the largest fish tanks in the world, which houses the massive whale shark – the largest extant fish in the world. You’ll also enjoy hands-on starfish exhibits; dolphin, sea turtle, and manatee shows; large-scale coral reef exhibits; displays of deep-sea bioluminescent fish; and more.

A favorite historical site is the Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum and Park, where you can honor the memory of those lost in the Battle of Okinawa. The sobering museum chronicles what led up to the battle, the battle itself, and the subsequent reconstruction.

The Shuri Castle, located in Naha, was built during the 14th century. It was used as a residence by the royal family of Ryukyu Kingdome becoming the political, economic and cultral heart of the Ryukyu Islands for 450 years. It has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout its history, most recently during World War II. In 1992 it was reconstructed for the last time in its original site.

Source: https://www.jrailpass.com/blog/okinawa-travel-guide