Are you planning a trip to Okinawa and wondering what to see and do while you’re there? Look no further! Okinawa is a beautiful island located in the southernmost part of Japan, known for its stunning beaches, rich culture and history, and delicious food. In this post, we have compiled a list of the top 12 Things to do in Okinawa. From visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shuri Castle to experiencing the marine life at the world-renowned Churaumi Aquarium, this list has something for everyone. So if you’re looking to make the most of your trip to Okinawa, keep reading to discover the best things to see and do on the island.

1. American Village

This shopping and entertainment complex offers a glimpse into American culture, with a variety of restaurants, shops, and a movie theater.

One of the top tourist attractions in Okinawa is the American Village. This shopping and entertainment complex offers visitors a glimpse into American culture, with a variety of restaurants, shops, and a movie theater. The American Village is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike. The complex features a variety of shops, including clothing stores, souvenir shops, and electronics stores. It also has a wide range of restaurants that offer American-style food, such as burgers, pizzas, and fried chicken.

One of the highlights of the American Village is its movie theater. The theater shows a mix of Hollywood movies and Japanese films, and is a great place to escape the heat and enjoy a film in air-conditioned comfort. The American Village is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening, whether you’re looking to do some shopping, grab a bite to eat, or catch a movie. The complex is easy to navigate, and there is something for everyone. So if you’re looking for a taste of American culture in Okinawa, be sure to check out the American Village.

Official Website: American Village

Address: Mihama, Chatan, Nakagami District, Okinawa 904-0115

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

2. Shuri Castle

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the former palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom and offers a glimpse into the island’s rich history and culture.

Shuri Castle is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Okinawa. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the former palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom and offers visitors a glimpse into the island’s rich history and culture. The castle was originally built in the 14th century and served as the political and administrative center of the Ryukyu Kingdom for several centuries. It was destroyed during World War II but was later reconstructed and restored to its former glory.

Visitors to Shuri Castle can explore the various buildings and grounds of the palace, including the main hall, the throne room, and the royal gardens. The castle also offers beautiful views of the surrounding city and the ocean. Shuri Castle is open year-round and is easily accessible by bus or car. Visitors can also take a guided tour in English to learn more about the history and significance of the palace. If you’re interested in learning more about the island’s rich history and culture, be sure to include a visit to Shuri Castle on your itinerary.

Official Website: Shuri Castle

Address: 1 Chome-2 Shurikinjocho, Naha, Okinawa 903-0815

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

3. Okinawa World

This theme park offers a chance to learn about the island’s traditional arts and crafts, including eisa drumming and Ryukyu glassmaking.

Okinawa World is a unique theme park that offers visitors a chance to learn about the island’s traditional arts and crafts. The park is a great place to experience the traditional culture of Okinawa and to learn more about the island’s history and heritage. Popular attraction in Okinawa World is the Ryukyu Glass Village, where visitors can watch glassblowers create beautiful works of art using traditional techniques. The village features a glass factory, a glass museum, and a glassblowing studio where visitors can watch the glassblowers at work and even try their hand at glassblowing.

One of the highlights of Okinawa World is the Eisa Village, where visitors can watch live performances of eisa drumming, a traditional Okinawan dance that is performed during the Obon festival. Eisa is a vibrant, energetic dance that is performed by groups of young people who use drums, cymbals, and other percussion instruments to create a lively rhythm. If you’re interested in learning more about the traditional arts and crafts of Okinawa, be sure to include a visit to Okinawa World on your itinerary.

Official Website: Okinawa World

Address: Maekawa-1336 Tamagusuku, Nanjo, Okinawa 901-0616

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

4. Okinawa Peace Memorial Park

This park honors the victims of the Battle of Okinawa and serves as a reminder of the importance of peace and reconciliation.

The Okinawa Peace Memorial Park is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the island. This park honors the victims of the Battle of Okinawa and serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of peace and reconciliation. The Battle of Okinawa was one of the bloodiest battles of World War II, and the park serves as a memorial to the more than 200,000 people who lost their lives during the battle, including many civilians. The park features several monuments and monuments dedicated to the victims of the battle, including the Peace Memorial Hall and the Cornerstone of Peace.

The park also features a Peace Memorial Park, a Peace Memorial Museum, and a Peace Memorial Center. These places provide information on the history of the Battle of Okinawa and the impact it had on the island and its people. Visitors can also take a guided tour in English to learn more about the history and significance of the battle. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Okinawa and the impact of the Battle of Okinawa on the island, be sure to include a visit to the park on your itinerary.

Official Website: Okinawa Peace Memorial Park

Address: 444 Mabuni, Itoman, Okinawa 901-0333

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

5. Cape Manzamo

This scenic spot offers a great view of the ocean and is a popular spot for sunset viewing.

Cape Manzamo is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Okinawa. This scenic spot offers a breathtaking view of the ocean and is a popular spot for sunset viewing. The cape is located on the southwestern tip of the main island of Okinawa and is known for its dramatic cliffs, crystal clear waters and beautiful natural surroundings.

At Cape Manzamo, visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the promenade and enjoy the panoramic view of the ocean. The cape is also known for its beautiful sunsets, and many visitors come to the cape to watch the sun dip below the horizon. The view of the sun setting over the ocean is truly breathtaking and is a must-see for anyone visiting Okinawa. The cape also features a lighthouse and a lookout point where visitors can enjoy an even more spectacular view of the ocean. The lighthouse is open to the public, and visitors can climb to the top for a panoramic view of the cape and the surrounding area. If you’re looking for a scenic spot to enjoy a beautiful view of the ocean and appreciate the natural beauty of Okinawa, Cape Manzamo is the perfect destination.

Official Website: Cape Manzamo

Address: Onna, Kunigami District, Okinawa 904-0411

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

6. Zamami Island

This small island located off the western coast of Okinawa offers beautiful beaches, clear waters, and a chance to see wild dugongs.

Zamami Island is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Okinawa. This small island, located off the western coast of Okinawa, offers beautiful beaches, clear waters, and a chance to see wild dugongs. Zamami Island is about 50 minutes by express ferry from Naha. The island is a part of the Kerama Islands, a group of islands that are known for their beautiful beaches and clear waters. Zamami Island is a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

The island’s beaches are known for their white sandy shores and crystal clear waters, making it the perfect place to take a dip or enjoy some water sports. The island also offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving, with a diverse array of marine life, including colorful coral and tropical fish. Zamami Island also offers a glimpse into the traditional culture of the Ryukyu Islands, with several historic sites and traditional villages.

Zamami Island is a great destination for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of Okinawa. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Okinawa.

Official Website: Zamami Island

Address: Zamami, Shimajiri District, Okinawa

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

7. Kouri Island

This small island is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and scenic bridge connecting it to the main island.

Kouri Island, located off the northern coast of Okinawa, is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the area. This small island is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and scenic bridge connecting it to the main island. The island’s beaches are a major draw, with white sandy shores and turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The crystal-clear waters make it a great spot for snorkeling and diving, with a diverse array of marine life to discover, including colorful coral and tropical fish. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports, including jet skiing and parasailing.

Kouri Island is also known for its scenic Kouri bridge, which connects the island to the main island of Okinawa. Kouri Island is a great destination for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of Okinawa. The island’s beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and scenic bridge make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the area.

Official Website: Kouri Island

Address: Kouri, Nakijin, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0406

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

8. Churaumi Aquarium

This world-renowned aquarium features a variety of marine life, including whale sharks and manta rays.

The Churaumi Aquarium, located in the Ocean Expo Park in Motobu, Okinawa, is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the area. This world-renowned aquarium features a variety of marine life, including whale sharks and manta rays, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Okinawa.

The aquarium is home to a vast array of marine life, including over 700 species of fish, as well as sharks, rays, and other marine animals. The highlight of the aquarium is the huge “Kuroshio Tank,” which is one of the largest aquarium tanks in the world. It houses a variety of marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, and a wide variety of tropical fish. Visitors can view these magnificent creatures from a walk-through tunnel, which gives an incredible undersea experience. The Churaumi Aquarium is a great destination for families, as it offers a wide range of activities that will appeal to visitors of all ages.

Official Website: Churaumi Aquarium

Address: 424 Ishikawa, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0206

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

9. Sefa Utaki

This sacred site is considered one of the most important religious sites in the Ryukyu Kingdom and is a must-see for those interested in the island’s history and culture.

Sefa Utaki, located in the northern part of Okinawa Island, is a sacred site that is considered one of the most important religious sites in the Ryukyu Kingdom. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see destination for those interested in the island’s history and culture.

Sefa Utaki is a complex of sacred places, including stone gateways, altars, and stone statues. The site is believed to have been used for religious ceremonies and rituals for over 1,000 years and is thought to have been a place of worship for the ancient Ryukyu Kingdom. The site is also considered to be one of the most important places for the preservation of the Ryukyu Kingdom’s culture, history, and traditions. It’s a perfect place to explore the island’s past, present and its natural beauty.

Official Website: Sefa Utaki

Address: Kudeken-539 Chinen, Nanjo, Okinawa 901-1511

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

10. Zakimi Castle Ruins

These ruins offer a glimpse into the island’s past and the defensive fortifications of the Ryukyu Kingdom.

The Zakimi Castle Ruins, located in the northern part of Okinawa Island, offer visitors a glimpse into the island’s past and the defensive fortifications of the Ryukyu Kingdom. The ruins are located on a hilltop and are surrounded by beautiful nature, making it a perfect spot for hiking and enjoying the scenic views. The castle was built in the 15th century and served as a fortification for the Ryukyu Kingdom. The ruins are believed to have been built by the Gosamaru, a prominent political figure of the Ryukyu Kingdom, and were used to protect the kingdom from invasions.

The castle ruins are also home to many ancient artifacts, including pottery, weapons, and other items that have been discovered at the site. Visitors can see these artifacts on display at the nearby Zakimi Castle Ruins Museum. The castle ruins are also a popular spot for sunset viewing, as the hilltop location offers a great view of the surrounding area and the ocean. Visitors can also take in the beauty of the island’s nature while exploring the castle ruins. Visiting Zakimi Castle Ruins is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the island’s history and culture.

Official Website: Zakimi Castle Ruins

Address: 904-0301 Okinawa, Nakagami District, Yomitan, Zakimi, ７０８ ６

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

11. Gyokusendo Cave

This limestone cave features beautiful crystal formations and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Okinawa.

Gyokusendo Cave is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Okinawa, and for good reason. This limestone cave is located in the southern part of the main island and features beautiful crystal formations that have been created over thousands of years. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave and see some of the most beautiful crystal formations in the world. The cave is over 3 kilometers long, making it the longest limestone cave in Japan. Visitors can explore the cave via an underground path that takes them through the different sections of the cave, including the “Crystal Palace” and the “Cave of the Sun”.

Gyokusendo Cave is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Okinawa. Visitors can also find a souvenir shop and a restaurant, they can take a rest while enjoying the beautiful scenery and the crystal formations. It’s a perfect place to explore the island’s nature and culture, and a perfect place to experience the natural beauty of Okinawa.

Official Website: Gyokusendo Cave

Address: Maekawa-1336 Tamagusuku, Nanjo, Okinawa 901-0616

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

12. Cape Zanpa Lighthouse

Standing tall on the western coast of Okinawa Island, Cape Zanpa Lighthouse is a historical and picturesque landmark that offers breathtaking views.

Cape Zanpa Lighthouse is a historical landmark located on the western coast of Okinawa Island in Japan. Built in 1902, it has since served as a navigational aid to ships passing through the East China Sea. The lighthouse tower is made of stone and stands 30 meters tall, with a light that can be seen from 24 nautical miles away. The surrounding area is also picturesque, with a panoramic view of the ocean and nearby cliffs.

Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for a breathtaking view of the surrounding area. There is also a museum located on-site that showcases the history and significance of the lighthouse, as well as the surrounding area. Cape Zanpa Lighthouse is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Okinawa Island.

Official Website: Cape Zanpa Lighthouse

Address: Uza, Yomitan, Nakagami District, Okinawa 904-0328

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

In conclusion, Okinawa is a beautiful island filled with a rich history and culture. From the bustling shopping and entertainment complex of American Village, to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shuri Castle, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Take a stroll through the Okinawa Peace Memorial Park to reflect on the importance of peace, or head to Cape Manza for a breathtaking sunset view. The island’s natural beauty can be seen in the crystal-clear waters of Kouri Island and the limestone formations of Gyokusendo Cave. The Churaumi Aquarium is a must-see for marine life enthusiasts and the sacred site of Sefa Utaki offers a glimpse into the island’s spiritual past. The ruins of Zakimi Castle, Cape Zanpa Lighthouse and Zamami island offers the visitors a chance to explore the island’s history. With so many things to see and do, Okinawa is a destination not to be missed. So, pack your bags and head to Okinawa for an unforgettable experience.

Where to stay in Okinawa for Sightseeing

You may wonder where to stay for sightseeing in Okinawa. Whether you’re looking for luxury, mid-range or budget accommodation, we have got you covered. Here is our list of top hotels to stay in Okinawa for an unforgettable sightseeing experience.

Luxury Hotels:

Halekulani Okinawa – Experience paradise with ocean views from every room at Halekulani, a luxurious Hawaiian resort in Onna Village, one of Japan’s top beach destinations. A luxurious beachfront resort offers 5-star accommodation with world-class amenities including multiple restaurants, a spa, and an infinity pool. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, room service and a 24-hour front desk, along with free WiFi.

Club Med Kabira – Ishigaki – An all-inclusive resort that includes meals, bar drinks and offering a variety of activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and cultural experiences, with a beautiful beachfront location.

Mid-Range Hotels:

Grandvrio Resort Ishigaki Island Ocean’s Wing – A modern hotel with an 2 outdoor pool, hot spring bath, 4 restaurants and stunning ocean views. GRANDVRIORESORT ISHIGAKI ISLAND Ocean’s Wing is right on Ishigaki Island’s southwest beaches.

Hotel Moon Beach – Hotel Moon Beach offers a private beach, tennis, massage, outdoor pool, sea activities, fitness center and balcony rooms with free Wi-Fi. Guests can jet ski and enjoy minigolf, public bath, and saunas. The restaurant serves international dishes, while the lounge-bar offers drinks with live music.

Budget Hotels:

Hotel Emerald Isle Ishigakijima – Hotel Emerald Isle Ishigakijima provides comfortable accommodation with free WiFi. It’s conveniently located just 2 minutes away from the local bus and ferry terminals. The hotel also features a bar, a 24-hour front desk, and well-equipped rooms with private bathrooms.

Comfort Hotel Naha Kencho-Mae – Comfort Hotel Naha Prefectural Office, just a 3-minute walk from Kenchomae Monorail Station, provides free WiFi access, flat-screen TV with VOD channels (extra charge) in every room. The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and complimentary coffee as a welcome drink. A complimentary breakfast features eggs, salad and fresh fruits.

No matter what your budget, there are plenty of options for where to stay in Okinawa for sightseeing. From luxurious hotels with stunning views to budget-friendly accommodations in the heart of the city, there’s something for everyone.

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