Okinawa Region
Southern Japanese prefecture of islands and US bases
Subtropical prefecture of islands south of Kyushu where coral reefs, diving around the Kerama Islands, Ryukyu heritage in Naha and Okinawan cuisine like soba attract beachgoers and history seekers.
Okinawa at a Glance#
Okinawa is Japan gone tropical - coral seas, white beaches and the distinct culture of the old Ryukyu Kingdom.
Why go / don’t miss: the reconstructed Shuri Castle in Naha, the giant Churaumi Aquarium, world-class diving and beaches on Ishigaki and Miyakojima, and the jungle island of Iriomote.
Areas: the main island around Naha (Shuri, beaches, aquarium); the Kerama islands for day-trip snorkelling; and the far-south Yaeyama islands (Ishigaki, Iriomote, Taketomi).
Getting around: fly into Naha (and on to the outer islands); rent a car on the main island; ferries and short flights link the archipelago.
When to go: Apr-Jun and Oct dodge the rainy/typhoon peaks; the sea is warm most of the year.
Where to stay: Naha or a west-coast resort on the main island; Ishigaki as a Yaeyama base.
Dining: Okinawa soba, goya champuru, taco rice, and awamori (the local spirit).
Local tips: the outer islands have the dreamiest beaches - build in a flight or ferry beyond the main island.
