Go Island Hopping
South Area Hopping
Day1: Okinawa World
Morning
- Begin your adventure at Okinawa World, a cultural theme park built around the stunning Gyokusendo Cave. Walk through the 5,000-meter-long limestone cave, marveling at its dramatic stalactites and underground beauty. Afterward, enjoy traditional Eisa dance performances and explore the Ryukyu Kingdom Village to learn about Okinawan crafts and heritage.
Afternoon
- Enjoy a relaxing lunch either inside Okinawa World or at a nearby local café. Try Okinawan specialties like taco rice, goya champuru (bitter melon stir-fry), or Okinawa soba.
Evening
- After lunch, head to a nearby onsen such as the Yuinchi Hotel Nanjo’s hot spring. It’s a great way for the whole family to unwind and enjoy panoramic views of the southern coastline while soaking in mineral-rich waters
- Drive a short distance to Cape Chinen Park, a scenic spot overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Take a gentle walk, enjoy the sea breeze, and snap family photos with the stunning coastal backdrop.
- End your day with a breathtaking view from the Nirai Kanai Bridge. This elevated spot offers a sweeping vista of the ocean and is perfect for watching the sunset.
Day2: DMM Kariyushi Aquarium
Morning
- Begin your day at the DMM Kariyushi Aquarium, located inside the iias Okinawa Toyosaki shopping complex. This modern, tech-enhanced aquarium blends digital art with real marine life. Wander through immersive exhibits featuring tropical fish, jellyfish, and even capybaras. It’s a perfect mix of education and entertainment for all ages.
Afternoon
- After exploring the aquarium, enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants inside iias Okinawa. Choose from Japanese cuisine, burgers, or Okinawan specialties like rafute (braised pork belly) or Okinawa soba.
- Just a short walk away, Ashibinaa Outlet Mall offers a wide selection of international and Japanese brands at discounted prices. Stroll through open-air walkways and shop for fashion, accessories, and souvenirs. There are also play areas for kids to enjoy.
Evening
- Take a break with a sweet treat—perhaps beni-imo (purple sweet potato) ice cream or a refreshing Okinawan shaved ice (zenzai). There are several dessert shops nearby or within the outlet mall.
- Head to Toyosaki Seaside Park, just minutes away. Relax by the beach, take a walk along the promenade, or let the kids play in the grassy areas. It’s a peaceful spot to wind down the afternoon with ocean views.
- Enjoy an early dinner at a seaside restaurant or return to iias Okinawa for more dining options. Watch the sunset over the East China Sea as you reflect on the day’s adventures.
Day3: Shuri Castle Park
Morning
- Shuri Castle – Begin your day at Shuri Castle Park, the historic heart of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Explore the reconstructed main hall, the stone-paved paths, and the vibrant Shureimon gate. Take in panoramic views of Naha city and learn about the region’s 450-year royal history. Consider renting an audio guide to enrich your experience .
- Shikinaen Garden – A short walk from Shuri Castle, visit this UNESCO World Heritage Japanese garden. Enjoy its serene ponds, historical structures, and stone bridges, perfect for photography.
- Tsuboya Yachimun Street – Head to Naha’s Tsuboya district, famous for its pottery. Browse family-run ceramic shops and pick up unique Okinawan pottery souvenirs.
- Lunch: Sample Okinawan specialties such as Rafute (braised pork belly) or Okinawa soba at a nearby restaurant in Tsuboya or Naha city center.
Afternoon
- Kokusai Dori (International Street) – Walk or take a short monorail ride to the bustling Kokusai Dori. Explore souvenir shops, local markets, and snack stands. Stop by Makishi Public Market for fresh seafood or tropical fruits.
- Heiwadori and Shisa Statues – Observe local shisa (lion-dog) statues believed to protect households; ideal for snapshots and cultural insights.
Optional Sightseeing Nearby
- Okinawa Prefectural Museum – Learn about Okinawa’s natural history, culture, and art in an interactive display.
- Fukushuen Garden – A tranquil Chinese-style garden built by artisans from Fuzhou, perfect for a peaceful stroll and meditation.
Evening
- Naminoue Shrine and Beach – End your day at this hilltop Shinto shrine overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Witness sunset overNaminoue Beach and enjoy the soothing ocean views. This spot is ideal for calm reflection and photography.
- Dinner at Local Izakaya or Café – Enjoy local seafood, Okinawan specialty dishes, or street eats along Kokusai Dori before returning to your hotel.
Tips for Transportation and Time Management
- Getting Around: Use the Okinawa Urban Monorail (Yui Rail) for quick access from Naha Airport to Shuri Castle (Shuri Station). One-day passes (approx. ¥800) allow unlimited rides .
- Walking: Allow at least 2–3 hours for Shuri Castle and 1–2 hours for Tsuboya and Kokusai Dori.
- Best Start Time: Begin around 8:30–9:00 AM to avoid crowds at Shuri Castle and enjoy the morning calm.
Central Area Hopping
Day1:Rycom Mall
Morning
- Begin your day at Rycom Mall with relaxed shopping, local souvenirs, and a Blue Seal ice cream break. Families can enjoy kid-friendly play zones and cultural displays.
Afternoon
- Head to nearby parks or scenic spots like Nakagusuku Castle Ruins for a touch of history and nature. Enjoy lunch at a local café or try Okinawan specialties around the area.
Evening
- Return to Rycom for dinner with ocean-inspired views or rooftop dining. Catch live performances or explore the illuminated mall atmosphere — a perfect way to end your day.
Day2:American Village in Mihama
Morning
- Start your day with a stroll through Mihama American Village. Enjoy seaside views, grab a coffee at a beachside café, and explore colorful shops for souvenirs and fashion.
Afternoon
- Head to Sunset Beach for a relaxing walk or light water activities. Visit Depot Island for unique local finds and enjoy lunch at one of the many international or Okinawan restaurants nearby.
Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking. Bring sunscreen and a hat for daytime sun. The area is family-friendly with plenty of photo spots, so keep your camera ready!
Day3:Katsuren Castle Ruins & Ocean Road (Kaichu Road)Drive
Morning – Katsuren Castle Ruins
- Start your day at the Katsuren Castle Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Uruma City, Okinawa.
- Spend approximately 45–60 minutes exploring the ruins, including the main compound (Ichinokura) for panoramic ocean views, historic stone walls, and sacred sites like the Amawari shrine.
- Enjoy photo opportunities along the trails and terraces; the castle offers spectacular 360-degree views of East Okinawa.
- Note: There are no restrooms within the ruins, so use facilities at the nearby parking area.
Afternoon – Ocean Road (Kaichu Road) Drive
- After visiting the castle, take a scenic drive along the Ocean Road, connecting the Katsuren Peninsula to Henza Island and further islands like Hamahiga, Miyagi, and Ikei.
- The drive spans about 4.7–5 km over the sea, offering stunning views of emerald waters on both sides.
- Stop at the Ayahashi-kan Road Station for a break, local snacks, and cultural exhibits.
- Optional: Visit nearby islands to explore beaches, local shrines, and traditional Ryukyu houses.
- Sunset drives are particularly beautiful, showing the sea and sky in vivid colors.
Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
- Parking is available at the Katsuren Castle site and along the Ocean Road.
- This itinerary can be completed in a day, combining history, panoramic views, and ocean scenery for a fulfilling Okinawa experience.
North Area Hopping
Day1: Nago Pineapple Park
Moring
- Begin your day at Nago Pineapple Park, a fun and quirky theme park dedicated to—you guessed it—pineapples! Ride the self-driving pineapple cart through lush gardens, learn about pineapple cultivation, and sample pineapple wine, juice, and sweets. The gift shop is perfect for picking up tropical souvenirs.
- Head to a nearby restaurant in Nago for lunch. Try Okinawan specialties like agu pork, sea grapes (umibudo), or fresh seafood. Many local eateries offer ocean views and family-friendly menus.
Afternoon
- Just a short drive away, Neo Park Okinawa is a spacious zoo and botanical garden where animals roam freely in natural habitats. Kids will love feeding tropical birds and seeing capybaras, flamingos, and more. It’s a relaxing and interactive experience for all ages.
- Stop by a nearby café or dessert shop for Okinawan sweets like chinsuko cookies or beni-imo (purple sweet potato) ice cream. It’s a sweet way to recharge before sunset.
Eveneing
- Drive north to the Kouri Bridge area for a stunning sunset view. The long bridge stretches over turquoise waters, and the nearby lookout points offer breathtaking photo opportunities.
- Wrap up your day with dinner at a seaside izakaya or hotel restaurant in Nago. Enjoy fresh sashimi, tempura, or Okinawan-style tapas before heading back to your accommodation.
Day2: Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
Morning
- Start your journey at one of Japan’s most famous aquariums. Marvel at the massive Kuroshio Tank with whale sharks and manta rays, and explore exhibits featuring coral reefs, deep-sea creatures, and sea turtles.
Afternoon
- Lunch at Ocean Expo Park or Nearby Café Enjoy lunch with ocean views. Many restaurants nearby offer Okinawan dishes like taco rice or fresh seafood.
- Stroll Through Bise Fukugi Tree Road Take a peaceful walk through the Fukugi tree-lined paths in Bise Village. This shaded, serene area is perfect for family photos and a quiet escape from the sun.
Evening
- Visit the Beach Near Bise or Emerald Beach Relax by the beach, let the kids play in the sand, or take a dip in the clear waters.
- Early Dinner and Return to Hotel Wrap up the day with a casual dinner at a local izakaya or resort restaura
Day3: Head to Sesoko Island
Morning
- Cross the bridge to Sesoko Island for a morning of beach time. Swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the white sand beaches.
- Lunch on Sesoko or Back in Motobu Choose a beachside café or return to the mainland for lunch.
Afternoon
- Visit Okashi Goten Dinosaur Area Explore the dinosaur-themed zone at Okashi Goten. Kids will love the life-sized models and interactive exhibits. Don’t forget to grab some Okinawan sweets from the gift shop!
- Optional Stop at a Scenic Park or Viewpoint If time allows, visit a nearby park or lookout point for final photos and relaxation.
- Farewell Dinner Celebrate the end of your northern Okinawa adventure with a special dinner—perhaps at a resort or a local favorite.