Tom For a first time visitor to Okinawa, there are simply too many things to do and attractions here. Where do you start if you’re travelling to Okinawa for the first time? Will it be the pristine beaches with its clear blue waters? Or will it be the unbelievably beautiful landscapes and amazing sunsets? Perhaps a visit to the world-renowned Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium? Or simply tucking into the delicious Okinawan cuisine? (Hint: Okinawan food will covered in the next post!) In this post, we’ll be covering all the top attractions in Okinawa! If you’re still not sure of the things to do in Okinawa, check out this post to find out more as we uncover attractions in Okinawa from the north of the island to the south!
Book Here with Klook: Okinawa Hotels
Okinawa Attractions – 1. Nuchi Masu Sea Salt Factory
Sea salt is one of the most famous items in Okinawa. Here at Nuchi Masu Sea Salt Factory, you’ll be able to see its patented process where sea water passes through high pressure nozzles to create sea water mist. As the mist descends and evaporates, tiny salt crystals form. You’ll also be able to try its famous sea salt ice cream (540 yen). Somehow, the milky creamy goodness combines perfectly with the slight saltish taste. Across the car park from the entrance is a sign that says “Happy Cliff”. Follow it and you’ll be able to enjoy views of clear turqoise waters and corals that Okinawa is famous for!
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 1 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 904-2423 2768 Miyagi Yonashiro Uruma-city Okinawa
Opening Hours: 9am to 5:30pm
Okinawa Attractions – 2. Melody Road
Japanese are known for their ingenuity and engineering prowess. The result? A road that plays a melody as you drive across it! Known as Melody Road, the road hums to the tune of an Okinawan folk tune as you drive across it at 40km/h. Remember to maintain the steady speed to enjoy the entire tune!
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 2 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: Futami, Nago, Okinawa 905-2269, Japan
Opening Hours: All day! Though it could be quite creepy if you drive through it at night -_-”
Okinawa Attractions – 3. Fukugawa Dam (aka Ada Dam)
While on our way to Ada Garden Hotel in the northern part of Okinawa, we stumbled upon a picturesque location – Fukugawa Dam (aka Ada Dam). Seeing that there was a brown-coloured sign (typically indicating a tourist attraction), we took an exit and were surprised by the stunning views of the valleys where the Fushi river flowed. Reminded us of Yosemite’s “Tunnel View”.
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 2 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: Ada, Kunigami, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-1503, Japan
Opening Hours: All day
Okinawa Attractions – 4. Okinawa Rail Ecology Center (Yambaru Kuina)
The Okinawa Rail (also known as Yambaru Kuina) is a flightless bird that is native to the island of Okinawa. At the Okinawa Rail Ecology Center (500 yen per person), you’ll be educated on the conservation efforts to protect this endangered species. During feeding time, you’ll also be able to witness the speed at which it runs – lightning fast. While you’re here, try your hand at folding an origami of the Okinawa Rail. So whose is better? 🤔
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 2 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 1477-35 Ada, Kunigami, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-1503, Japan
Opening Hours: 9am to 5pm
Okinawa Attractions – 5. Okinawa Rail Ecology Center (Putt Golf)
Also at Okinawa Rail Ecological Center, we discovered that there’s a HUGE Putt Golf Course! For 400 yen per person, you’ll be able to try out all 3 putt golf courses, for the entire day! But what really is putt golf? To us, it is akin to mini golf, except that the ball and putter are larger. However, as the distance is further than a typical mini golf course, you’ll find that you’d probably have to exert yourself a little more. Great opportunity for a work out!
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 3 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 1477-35 Ada, Kunigami, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-1503, Japan
Opening Hours: 9am to 5pm
Okinawa Attractions – 6. Cape Hedo Okinawa
Another attraction in the northern part of Okinawa is Cape Hedo – the northern most cape of Okinawa. Here, you’ll be able to take in breathtaking views of the cliffs, rock formation and of course the signature clear blue waters and skies. While you’re here, check out one of two restaurants – Fushikubu Cafe (sandwiches and pizza) or Cape Hedo Parlor Kinjo (Okinawan cuisine)
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 3 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: Hedo, Kunigami, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-1421, Japan
Opening Hours: All day
Okinawa Attractions – 7. Okinawa Ocean Expo Park
Although the Okinawa Ocean Expo Park is known for its paid attractions such as the world-renowned Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium and Tropical Dream Center, the premise itself is actually a free park where you can enjoy sea views and splendid sunsets at Sunset Plaza. Kids can also enjoy a great time at the playground next to Sunset Plaza.
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 4 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 424番地 Azaishikawa, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
Opening Hours: 8am to 6:30pm
Okinawa Attractions – 8. Tropical and Subtropical Arboretum
The Tropical and Subtropical Arboretum, a botanical park is also free for visitors to check out a variety of plants normally found in the tropical and subtropical climates. While we were there, we also noticed some craft lessons going on for the kids well.
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 4 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 424番地 Azaishikawa, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
Opening Hours: 8am to 6:30pm
Okinawa Attractions – 9. Okichan Dolphin Theater
The Okichan Dolphin Theater is where visitors can watch dolphin shows – FOR FREE! While our typical idea of “free shows” equate to poor quality. However, this is not the case at Okichan Dolphin Theater. Take a look at the height of the jump in the video above. You’ll be mesmerised by the fancy tricks that these dolphins pull out during the show!
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 4 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 424番地 Azaishikawa, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
Show Times: 10:30am, 11:30am, 1pm, 3pm, 5pm
Okinawa Attractions – 10. Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
Having visited both SEA Aquarium in Singapore and the Monterey Aquarium in California, we decided to give the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium (1880 yen) a miss this time round. Nonetheless, there are free attractions such as the manatees and giant sea turtles for the public to view. For splendid sea views, take the escalator from the aquarium and take in the amazing sights like we did in the video above.
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 4 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 424番地 Azaishikawa, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
Opening Hours: 8am to 6:30pm
Okinawa Attractions – 11. Tropical Dream Center
The Tropical Dream Center is another botanical garden within Okinawa Ocean Expo Park. There’s both an observatory as well as a conservatory within. From the observatory, you’ll have a “birds-eye-view” of the area while the conservatory presents flora from other regions such as Southeast Asia – we saw a durian tree!
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 4 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 424番地 Azaishikawa, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
Opening Hours: 8am to 6:30pm
Okinawa Attractions – 12. Emerald Beach
Also within the premise of the Okinawa Ocean Expo Park, you’ll be able to find one of the most beautiful beaches in Okinawa – Emerald Beach. As the name suggests, the waters reflects a beautiful emerald colour that brings swathes of visitors during the peak summer months. We visited during the end of the swim season. Though it was a little cloudy and windy, we still dozed off under the gentle caress of the sea breeze and ever so calming sound of the waves. Ah…
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 4 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 424番地 Azaishikawa, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
Opening Hours: 8am to 6:30pm
Book Here with Klook: Okinawa Hotels
Things to do in Okinawa – 13. Okinawa Fruits Land
The sub-tropical climate of Okinawa is similar to that of parts of Hawaii. This is also why the land is conducive for various plants and fruit plantation. Okinawa Fruits Land is one such attraction that literally showcases “the fruits of their labour” and there’s even a fruits cafe for you to enjoy all kinds of sweet-tasting desserts. This time, we had the mango dessert (720 yen) and the mango was oh-so-sweet! Next door, there’s also the Nago Pineapple Park. As we’ve visited the Dole Pineapple Plantation in Oahu Hawaii before, we decided to give this pineapple park a miss.
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 5 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 1220-71 Biimata, Nago, Okinawa 905-0005, Japan
Opening Hours: 9am to 6pm
Things to do in Okinawa – 14. Orion Happy Park Okinawa
Did you know that there is free beer tasting in Okinawa? Orion beer no less! At Orion Happy Park, you’ll be able to understand the brewing and packaging process of Orion beer. After the tour, you’ll be treated to 2 glasses of freshly-brewed Orion beer with its in-house snack. As they say, draft beers fresh from the brewery is always the best! Remember to make your bookings online as walk-ins are not allowed.
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 5 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 2 Chome-2-1 Agarie, Nago, Okinawa 905-0021, Japan
Opening Hours: 9am to 6pm
Things to do in Okinawa – 15. Cape Manzamo
On the way to Hotel Sunset Zanpa in central Okinawa, we passed by several “Capes” to take in the unique rock and cliff formations. First up was Cape Manzamo. It is currently free parking. However, there’s some construction going on and perhaps parking would be charged in the near future. The walking paths are nicely boarded and fenced. Hence, it is a nice leisurely stroll around the perimeter of the cape.
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 5 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: Onna, Kunigami District, Okinawa 904-0411, Japan
Opening Hours: All day
Things to do in Okinawa – 16. Cape Maeda
Next was Cape Maeda. Carpark costs 100 yen. The paths are not that clearly marked out towards the end. If you’re adventurous enough, you may venture to the edge of the cliff as shown in the picture above.
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 5 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 469-1 Maeda, Onna, Kunigami District, Okinawa 904-0417, Japan
Opening Hours: All day
Things to do in Okinawa – 17. Cape Zanpa
Cape Zanpa is a popular “cape” destination because of the lighthouse structure. Nearby, Zanpa Beach is an organised beach with inflated giant playground for visitors to enjoy. Moreover, sunsets as seen from Cape Zanpa can be really mesmerising. The giant “egg yolk” above was what we actually saw as the sun set in the horizon. Simply beautiful.
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 5 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: Uza, Yomitan, Nakagami District, Okinawa 904-0328, Japan
Opening Hours: All day
Things to do in Okinawa – 18. Okinawa Outlet Mall Ashibinaa
As Orix car rental, where we returned our car, was close to Okinawa Outlet Mall Ashibinaa, we decided to drop by to do some “light shopping”. 😛 We found that the prices are relatively competitive but still pales in comparison when up against the sales in USA. Nonetheless, for Singaporeans, there are still pretty good deals that can be found here.
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 6 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 1-188 Toyosaki, Tomigusuku, Okinawa 901-0225, Japan
Opening Hours: 10am to 8pm
Things to do in Okinawa – 19. Hotel Aqua Citta Naha Awamori Club Lounge
Normally we wouldn’t place a hotel in the attractions list. However, if you are interested in the local brew of Okinawa – Awamori, you’d be glad to note that Hotel Aqua Citta Naha has a club lounge that offers unlimited servings of Awamori from the brewery in the region! There are also red/white wines and beers available for guests that stay at the Club Lounge Rooms. The hotel also boasts a rooftop “fish tank” infinity pool that offers unparalleled views of Naha City.
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 6 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 3 Chome-2-20 Maejima, Naha, Okinawa 900-0016, Japan
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Book Here with Klook: Okinawa Hotels
Things to do in Okinawa – 20. Taste of Okinawa
Taste of Okinawa is an uniquely Okinawan Cooking Experience where you’ll be taught to cook authentic Okinawan dishes such as Goya Champuru as well as Pork Rafute. You’ll also be able to buy some of the freshest ingredients in the local markets prior to the cooking experience. During this walk-about, you can ask your guide about anything Okinawa – akin to having a local travel/cooking guide for the morning. A great experience not to be missed!
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 7 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 1 Chome-6-21 Tsuboya, Naha, Okinawa 902-0065, Japan
Opening Hours: Tues to Sun, 2 sessions per day. 10:30am to 1:30pm / 3:30pm to 6:30pm
Things to do in Okinawa – 21. Naminoue Beach Naha City
Naminoue Beach is the only beach in Naha City. Nonetheless, as with many other beaches in Okinawa, the waters are crystal clear. The sandy beach coupled with lively music from the built-in speakers at the beach, offers beach-goers a great venue to chill or just hang out with friends and loved ones.
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 7 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 1 Chome-25 Wakasa, Naha, Okinawa 900-0031, Japan
Opening Hours: 9am to 7pm
Things to do in Okinawa – 22. Shurijo Castle
It was most unfortunate that the Shurijo Castle was burnt down 2 days prior to our visit. Along with it, some thousands of relics as well. Nonetheless, various sections of the Shurijo Castle’s premise has started opening up since December 2019. However, without the main building, a visit here would not be the same – at least not in the near future.
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 10 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 1 Chome-2 Shurikinjocho, Naha, Okinawa 903-0815, Japan
Opening Hours: 8am to 7:30pm
Things to do in Okinawa – 23. Nishihara Yonabaru Marine Park
Nishihara Marine Park is a popular area with the locals because of the many activities you can do here. Kids can check out the HUGE playgrounds across the road from the beach area. At the beach area itself, you can do many beach activities such as beach soccer, beach volleyball, BBQ and also water sports such as jet ski and banana boat. Essentially, fun for the entire family 🙂
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 10 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 17 Agarizaki, Nishiharacho, Nakagamigun, Okinawa
Opening Hours: 8:30am to 8pm
Things to do in Okinawa – 24. Cape Chinen Park
Of all the “Capes”, Cape Chinen is probably our favourite. The park itself is very well designed, with pavilions and well-designated foot paths. The green grass simply invites one to sprawl and have a nice little picnic. At the edge of the park, the views of the surrounding waters are also breathtaking. Rejuvenating 🙂
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 10 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: Kudeken Chinen, Nanjo, Okinawa 901-1400, Japan
Opening Hours: All day
Things to do in Okinawa – 25. Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Park
Another great venue for the family is the Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Park. Kids can enjoy a great work out at one of the many play areas here. The peace memorial also commemorates the Battle of Okinawa, a great place to learn a little history. Finally, the views here are simply amazing as well.
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 10 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 444 Mabuni, Itoman, Okinawa 901-0333, Japan
Opening Hours: All day
Things to do in Okinawa – 26. Umikaji Terrace Senagajima
Umikaji Terrace Senagajima is an area on the island of Senaga, modelled after Santorini in Greece. Having been to Oia and Imerovigli in Santorini Greece, we found it to be nothing like it. Nonetheless, the area is still a great place to wine, dine and hang out. This time, we visited the Hammock Cafe, had a flavourful beef burrito and dozed off on one of the hammocks. Visited SunRoom Sweets thereafter, where we had the Mango Daifuku. With 5 different layers of textures within, it was simply one of the best desserts we’ve tasted. Yum!
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 10 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 174番地6 Senaga, Tomigusuku, Okinawa 901-0233, Japan
Opening Hours: 10am to 10pm
Things to do in Okinawa – 27. Mango Souko Naha
Our last recommendation is a second hand shop known as Mango Souko Naha. The pros of visiting this place is that it operates 24 hours a day and has neatly zoned areas for different interests ranging from clothes, to music to collectibles. The cons is that the prices are not that competitive. We did some random googling and found most of the prices comparable to that of ebay. Nonetheless, a nice little venue to visit if you have spare time and want to head out for some late night shopping.
[Find out more about this Okinawa Attraction on Day 10 of our Travels in Okinawa]
Address: 3 Chome-1-12 Takara, Naha, Okinawa 901-0145, Japan
Opening Hours: 24 hours
We hope you have enjoyed our coverage of the top things to do and attractions in Okinawa. Stay tuned for our next post where we check out some yummy and delicious food, not to be missed in Okinawa!
Check out our video of the 27 Okinawa Attractions and Things to do in Okinawa!
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