Okinawa Tourism

The Okinawan archipelago is located at the southwestern end of Japan and spreads between Kyushu and Taiwan. The string of islands, formerly known as Ryukyu Islands and now constituting Okinawa Prefecture, became part of Japan at the end of the 19th century. Nowadays, it is one of the Japanese’s favourite summer vacation destinations.

The climate is humid and subtropical. It is hot during the day for much of the year, with cooler weather in the morning and evenings, and during the winter months. Light coats and sweaters are occasionally needed in winter when northerly winds can make it feel colder than it actually is. The average sea temperature ranges from around 21 degrees Celsius in February to nearly 30 in August, making it possible to enjoy marine activities throughout the year. The rainy season is typically between mid-May and late June. Sudden showers are common but it rarely rains all day.

There are no direct flights to Okinawa from Australia or New Zealand. A number of airlines operate direct flights to Okinawa from surrounding countries in Asia, such as Taiwan, South Korea and Singapore. Click here to learn more about international flights.

Direct domestic flights operate to Naha from Narita International Airport, Tokyo International Airport (Haneda), and many other major airports around Japan. The flight from Tokyo is about 2.5 hours, and from Osaka or Fukuoka it’s just under 2 hours. Some regions also offer direct flights to popular remote islands such as Miyako and Ishigaki. Click here to learn more about direct domestic flight routes.

Both major airlines and budget carriers operate routes to Okinawa, so it is easy to find something to match your budget and schedule.

Buses, taxis, and rental vehicles including cars, motorcycles, and RVs are the main transportation options for getting around in Okinawa. On the main island there is also a monorail running through Naha and connecting Naha Airport in the south with the Shurijo Castle area in the north.

The word champuru—Okinawan for “mixed”—is often used to describe the culture of the islands. Its unique traditions are a fusion of endemic cultural practices and outside influences, from mainland Japan, Asia, and the US. Explore the islands’ performing arts, centuries-old crafts, festivals, and traditional villages to connect with the culture.

Be sure to check out some of Okinawa’s UNESCO World Natural and Cultural Heritage Sites, such as Shurijo Castle Park and Sefa Utaki on Okinawa’s main island, or Iriomote Island.

Learn about Ryukyuan culture and heritage at cultural villages such as Ryukyu Mura, where you can try hands-on experiences like glass-blowing and shi-sa (painting).

Churaumi Aquarium is a great way to learn about Okinawa’s native sea life, or if you are more adventurous there are numerous places to go snorkelling and scuba diving.

It comprises more than 160 inhabited and uninhabited islands, with a combined area of over 2,000 square kilometres.

The main hub for flights to Okinawa is Naha Airport, on the main island. Domestic and International flights also operate to airports on some remote islands such as Ishigaki and Miyako. 

It is generally recommended to stay for a minimum of 3 days to get a taste of Okinawa main island, or with a full week you can explore more of the outlying islands as well.

Tipping is not customary in Okinawa or Japan as a whole. Exceptional service is expected as part of the job. Instead, focus on showing appreciation through polite behaviour and gratitude. In Japan, excellent service is a standard part of the experience in restaurants, hotels, and other services.

For more information about Okinawa, contact the Okinawa Tourism local representative Sally at [email protected] (she speaks English and Japanese) or visit their official website.