Hello, travel enthusiasts! 🙌 Okinawa is a place filled with special attractions unique within Japan, including crystal-clear blue waters, white sandy beaches, distinctive Ryukyu culture, and historical heritage. 🌊🌴
For those planning an Okinawa trip in 2025, I’ve carefully selected 5 popular tourist spots that you absolutely shouldn’t miss on your first visit! By visiting these locations, you’ll definitely experience the full charm of Okinawa. Let’s take a look! 💫
1. Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium 🐋🐬
When it comes to representative tourist spots in Okinawa, you simply can’t miss the “Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium”! 😍
Features The “Kuroshio Sea,” one of the world’s largest tanks, allows you to observe giant whale sharks and manta rays swimming gracefully up close. Its overwhelming scale will leave every visitor deeply moved. 💙
Highlights
- “Kuroshio Sea” main tank: A massive tank measuring 8.2m high, 22.5m wide, and 18.6m deep!
- Dolphin show: Thrilling performances in the outdoor pool
- Touch pool: Interactive exhibits where you can actually touch marine creatures like sharks and starfish
- Deep-sea creature exhibition: Mysterious deep-sea organisms rarely seen elsewhere
Access About 2 hours by car from Naha Airport. If using public transportation, take the express bus from Naha Bus Terminal to “Churaumi Aquarium.” 🚌
Recommendations The aquarium is spacious, so it’s recommended to allocate sufficient time (about 3-4 hours) for your visit. Also, whale shark feeding shows often take place in the evening, so it’s good to check the schedule in advance! 📱
2. Shuri Castle Park 🏯👑
Features Shuri Castle, which flourished as the political and cultural center of the Ryukyu Kingdom, is a World Heritage site where you can experience Okinawa’s history. Although the main hall was lost in a fire in 2019, restoration work has progressed, and by 2025, many buildings will be open for viewing. 🔨
Highlights
- Shureimon Gate: This beautiful vermilion gate is the symbolic entrance to Shuri Castle
- Main Hall: Magnificent architecture symbolizing the prosperity of the Ryukyu Kingdom
- View from the castle walls: A spectacular viewpoint overlooking Naha City
- Traditional craft exhibitions: View artistic crafts from the Ryukyu Dynasty era
Access Located in Naha City, about a 15-minute walk from “Shuri Station” on the Yui Rail. As there are slopes, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. 👟
Recommendations Visiting early in the morning means fewer tourists and a more relaxed experience. The castle illuminated at night is also magical and worth seeing. There’s also a café on site, so it’s nice to take a break and enjoy Ryukyu sweets! 🍵🍰
3. Kokusai Street 🛍️🍽️
Features A shopping street approximately 1.6km long in the heart of Naha City, also known as “Okinawa’s Kitchen.” It’s bustling with tourists as the center of Okinawa tourism.
Highlights
- Okinawan restaurants: Enjoy authentic local dishes like goya champuru, soki soba, and sea grapes
- Souvenir shops: Abundant Okinawa-specific souvenirs like shisa figurines, Ryukyu glass, and bingata textiles
- Live music venues: Many places to enjoy Okinawan folk music and sanshin performances
- Makishi Public Market: A local market with fresh seafood, vegetables, and Okinawan ingredients
Access Just a short walk from “Kencho-mae Station” or “Makishi Station” on the Yui Rail. About 15 minutes by taxi from Naha Airport. 🚕
Recommendations Weekday afternoons are relatively uncrowded, making it ideal for leisurely shopping. The alleys off Kokusai Street, like “Heiwa Dori” and “Sakaemachi Market,” have their own atmosphere where you can experience the local vibe. At night, izakayas and bars are open, creating a lively atmosphere until late. 🌙🍻
4. Manzamo 🐘🌊
Features A scenic spot characterized by an elephant trunk-shaped rock formation. The view of the emerald green sea from the cliffs is breathtakingly beautiful. 💚
Highlights
- Elephant’s Trunk Rock: A rock formation that looks like an elephant extending its trunk to drink seawater
- Scenic viewpoint: A photo spot with beautiful contrast between the blue sea and sky
- Sunset: The scenery during sunset is especially popular, creating a romantic atmosphere
- Surrounding walkway: Well-maintained walking paths along the coastline
Access About 1.5 hours by car from Naha Airport. Located in Onna Village on the west coast of central Okinawa Island. 🚗
Recommendations In 2025, you can enjoy the spectacular views more safely from newly renovated observation decks. There are seafood restaurants and cafés nearby, so it’s recommended to taste Okinawan cuisine after enjoying the scenery. 📸🍴
5. Kouri Island 💙🌉
Features A small island located in the northern part of the main island, featuring crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. Also called the “Island of Love,” it’s popular as a sacred place for couples. 💑
Highlights
- Kouri Bridge: A scenic drive spot on a bridge about 2km long over emerald green waters
- Heart Rock: A popular spot for successful love where you can view the sea through a heart-shaped gap in the rocks
- Kouri Beach: A beautiful beach with white sand and transparent water where you can also enjoy snorkeling
- Kouri Ocean Tower: An observation tower offering 360-degree panoramic views of the island
Access About 2 hours by car from Naha Airport. Rental cars are convenient for access. 🚙
Recommendations The island is small, so half a day is enough to tour around. Weekday visits are recommended to avoid crowds. There are few dining options on the island, so it’s reassuring to bring a packed lunch or plan lunch in nearby Motobu Town. 🍱
Summary 🗺️📝
How did you like these 5 popular tourist spots in Okinawa that I introduced? Each is filled with Okinawa’s unique charm. 🥰
- Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium: Impressive large tanks and marine creatures
- Shuri Castle Park: Experience the history and culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom
- Kokusai Street: Enjoy Okinawan cuisine and shopping
- Manzamo: Enjoy the elephant trunk rock and spectacular views
- Kouri Island: Resort feeling with transparent waters and white sandy beaches
Please use this as a reference for your Okinawa travel plans in 2025! The experience varies depending on weather and season, so don’t forget to prepare appropriate clothing and items for your visit. ☀️🌦️
If you have any recommended Okinawa tourist spots, please let me know in the comments section! I’ll use them as reference for the next Okinawa special feature. ✨
Wishing you a wonderful Okinawa trip! 🏝️🌺
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