Places to see in Okinawa
Places to See in Okinawa
By Area- A-Z
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Northern Area |
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Southern Area |
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This garden was constructed in 1992, in celebration of the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the sister city relatiochip between Naha and Fuzhou in China. The Kume neighborhood where the garden is located, previously known as Kumemura (Kume Village), was for centuries the center of Chinese culture and learning in the Ryukyu Kingdom, and a symbol of the significant role of Chinese cultural influence in Okinawan history and culture. For more information click on the following links: http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2011/10/fukushuen-chinese-garden-in-naha.html |
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Ginowan is located in the south of Okinawa, and sits on the western coast of the island along the East China Sea. The city sits on gently-sloping coastal terrace composed of Ryukyuan limestone. 38% of the city is occupied by military bases used by the United States. For more information click on the following link http://en.okinawa2go.jp/is/OCVB1EN0020200200/show http://www.okinawa-information.com/ginowan/ginowan_okinawa_guide.htm |
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Gyokusendo Cave is located 40 minutes south of Naha, inside the Okinawa World theme park known as the Culture Kingdom Gyokusendo. This 5000meter long cave was formed approximately 300,000 years ago; it offers today an 890-meter promenade to the public. For more information click on the following link |
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Heiwa Dōri of Naha, is a shopping location and tourist attraction in Okinawa. The street features many gift shops selling wares that range from stone Shisa dogs, which are traditional statues placed on the roofs of many Okinawan homes as protection from evil, and tempura to colored glass and geta clogs. For more information click on the following link: |
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The Higa distillery was established in 1883 in the old town of Shuri, now operating out of Itoman City in the south of Okinawa Island. The Masahiro Awamori Gallery is built on the first floor of the distillery, where visitors can sample and buy various kinds of Awamori and see video footage of its production. On the second floor is the Awamori History Gallery, where visitors will be treated to various Awamori tools, liquor bottles from more than 500 years ago, pre and post-war photos of the distillery, rare and precious documents, and a wide-ranging Awamori collection. For more information click on the following link |
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The Himeyuri Peace Museum was constructed here in memory of those who gave their lives during the Battle of Okinawa. The museum has five display chambers displaying photos from the eve of the Battle of Okinawa, the Haebaru Army Field Hospital, the retreat to the south and the Kyan Peninsula, and a chamber containing portraits of the victims and books of testimonials by survivors. Some of the former nurses serve as tour guides at the museum. For more information click on the following link http://indietravelokinawa.blogspot.jp/2009/04/himeyuri-monument-and-odokomesu-beach.html |
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International Cemetery at Tomari District The International Cemetery at Tomari District, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan was established in the early 19th century to provide a burial place for foreigners who died in the Ryukyu Islands. For more information click on the following link: http://www.interment.net/data/japan/international_cemetery.htm |
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Itoman City/ Tower of Himeyuri Itoman is a city located in Okinawa Prefecture. The city sits at the southern tip of Okinawa Island. Itoman sits on a flat tableland with craggy rolling hills of Ryukyuan limestone which range between Cape Kyan to the south and Yozadake to the north. The south of the town is known for its steep sea cliffs around Cape Kyan and the Mabuni Cliffs. For more information click on the following link http://www.city.itoman.lg.jp.e.id.hp.transer.com/kankou-navi/docs-kankou/2013020112910/ |
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This market place consists of 3 or 4 buildings all featuring various goods. There is a fish market, farmers market, souvenir shop and food. For more information click on the following link http://en.okinawa2go.jp/is/OCVB1EN0600005460/show http://www.japanupdate.com/2013/02/michi-no-eki-itoman-is-fun-shopping-experience/ |
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Kokusaidori (literally "International Road") is Naha's main street, stretching for roughly two kilometers through downtown Naha. Starting around the Naha Bus Terminal and Prefectural Hall, Kokusaidori is lined by restaurants, cafes, bars, hotels, souvenir shops, boutiques and department stores. Many shops remain open until 11pm, and live Okinawa music is played at several restaurants. For more information click on the following link |
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The bones of the war dead, collected by the Komesu townspeople, lay in this memorial which was constructed after the end of the war, in February 1946. The bones of 35,000 people were interred here but they were subsequently moved to the National Okinawa War Memorial Park. For more information click on the following link http://rca.open.ed.jp/web_e/history/story/epoch4/okinawasen_up/up07.html |
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Minton Gusuku is located in Nakandakari in the Tamagusuku district. It is an old gusuku built at an elevation of 110 meters. It is said that the founders of the Ryukyu kingdom came from Niraikanai and declared Amamikiyo as a place to live in peace before settling there. For more information click on the following link http://www.city.nanjo.okinawa.jp/about-nanjo/movie_en/2012/02/minton-gusuku.html |
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Naha is the capital city of Okinawa Prefecture, is located on the East China Sea coast of the southern part of Okinawa Island, the largest of Okinawa Prefecture. The modern city was officially founded on May 20th, 1921. Before that Naha had been for centuries one of the most important and populous sites in Okinawa. Naha is the political, economic and education center of Okinawa Prefecture. In the medieval and early modern periods, it was the commercial center of the Ryukyu Kingdom For more information click on the following link |
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This is the Nakandakari Hijya, or the Nakandakari Natural Spring. It's located in the town of Nakandakari, a small district in the Nanjo-shi region, which lies in the southern part of Okinawa. It serves as a water source for the local community. It is an old style spring with a heating stove affixed to the side to heat up water. There is also an sacred place for prayer next to the spring For more information click on the following link http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2011/10/nakandakari-hijya-natural-spring-in.html |
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Naminoue Shrine literally "Above the Waves Shrine", is a Shinto shrine in Naha, the primary shrine in the prefecture. It sits atop a high bluff, overlooking Naminoue Beach and the ocean. For more information click on the following link: http://www.japanesesearch.com/naminoue-shrine-in-naha-%E6%B3%A2%E4%B8%8A%E5%AE%AE-okinawa/ |
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This is a 1.3-kilometer-long park featuring a 13-meter jumbo slide, which corresponds to the height of a 4-story building. This is used as the venue for the 1,300,000 Lights Citizens' Peace Illumination Festival at the end of the year. For more information click on the following link |
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Ashibina is Okinawa's first outlet mall, with 70 world brands gathered in one location. On the ground floor, maker directly-managed shops and legitimate branches are standing next to each, offering goods at 30-80% of their regular price. On the second floor, the food corner gourmet zone has 6 restaurants and a 600-seat capacity. Within the facility, attendees give information to visitors regarding the amenities and shops. For more information click on the following link |
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Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum The Okinawa Prefectural Museum and Art Museum is the first prefecture-run art museum of the entire pre-and postwar era. The Museum's permanent exhibitions include both general exhibitions and sub-exhibitions on special fields and areas. Together, they offer an introduction to Okinawa's nature, history and culture viewed from two complementary aspects-the oceanic aspect and the island aspect. The art museum and history/natural history museum are located on opposite sides of a common lobby, and visitors can buy admission to one or the other, or a combination ticket. For more information click on the following link http://www.museums.pref.okinawa.jp/english/museum/ http://www.museums.pref.okinawa.jp/english/museum/exhibitions/index.html |
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The Okinawa City Monorail Line or Yui Rail, is a monorail line in Naha. Operated by Okinawa Urban Monorail Incorporated Okinawa, it opened on August 10th, 2003, and is the only public rail system in Okinawa Prefecture, the first rail line on Okinawa since World War II. For more information click on the following link http://www.okinawa-information.com/transport/naha_yui_monorail_japan.htm |
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Okinawa World is Okinawa Prefecture's foremost theme park and presents the local history, culture and nature all in one location. The park main attraction is Gyokusendo. 5000meter long cave that was formed approximately 300,000 years ago, it offers today a 890-meter promenade to the public. For more information click on the following link http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e7106.html |
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Orion is locally brewed and the most popular beer in Okinawa. This factory is located in the northern part of Okinawa, Nago city. The park offers a brewery tour; visitors can observe the process of making Orion Beer and learn about the beer. And at the end of the tour, you they taste the fresh Orion Beer. For more information click on the following link |
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Peace Prayer and Memorial Museum Peace Prayer and Memorial Museum is the main memorial to the Battle of Okinawa, located near the southern tip of the island, it provides a sobering overview of the lead up to the battle, the battle itself and the reconstruction of Okinawa. For more information click on the following link http://www.peace-museum.pref.okinawa.jp/english/ |
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Ryukyu Glass Craft is the largest glass factory in Okinawa, established since 1985. For more information click on the following link |
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Sefa-utaki, meaning "purified place of Utaki, is an historical sacred space, overlooking Kudaka Island, which served as one of the key locations of worship in the native religion of the Ryukyu people for millennia. Later as a part of assimilation of Okinawa by Japan, it was shifted to serve as a Shinto Shrine. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Gusuku UNESCO World Heritage Site Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu in Nanjō, Okinawa. For more information click on the following link http://www.japanvisitor.com/japan-city-guides/sefa-utaki-cape-chinen-okinawa |
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Shikinaen Royal Garden was built in 1799 as the summer residence for the Ryukyu royal family. It was also used to welcome envoys and officials from China and Asia. It is a landscaped garden built in a way that the changes of scenery can be enjoyed while strolling around the pond. The garden's designs reflect Chinese influence with arched bridges and pavilions while maintaining a unique Ryukyu flavour. For more information click on the following link |
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This is a shisa studio with a wide variety of courses, including crafting a three-dimensional unglazed shisa or a shisa mask. The shisa painting course is ideal for those short on time. The workshop is equipped with electric potter's wheels, and visitors can try their hand at making various pottery items. For more information click on the following link |
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Shuri Castle is a Ryukyuan castle (or gusuku) in Shuri, Okinawa. It was the palace of the Ryūkyū Kingdom. In 1945, during the Battle of Okinawa, it was almost completely destroyed. Beginning in 1992, it was reconstructed on the original site based on photographs, historical records, and memory. For more information click on the following link |
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Tamagusuku Castle is a Ryūkyūan gusuku. It is the oldest castle on Okinawa. The legendary creator of the Ryukyus, Amamikiyo, is said to have built Tamagusuku Castle, with his descendant Tenson being the lord of the place. The legend says that during the 13th and 14th centuries, the Tamagusuku Lord repaired and expanded the castle. From the Ryukyuan dynasty to nowadays, the place is visited as a sacred grove. Waking up a straight slope, a natural circle shape stone marks the entrance of the castle and offers marvelous scenery. For more information click on the following link: http://okinawahai.com/tamagusuku-ruins/ http://en.okinawastory.jp/facility/tamagusuku-castle-historic-site |
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Naha’s Tsuboya District is the center of Okinawan pottery. Dozens of workshops are still operating after being passed down through generations. Two forms of pottery are produced here; Arayachi, which is unglazed pottery, and Joyachi, which is glazed pottery. For more information click on the following link |
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Tsushima Maru was a Japanese passenger/cargo ship that was sunk by the submarine USS Bowfin during World War II, while carrying hundreds of schoolchildren from Okinawa to Kagoshima. At this museum you can learn about this incident, names, survivors, proof of bereaved family, class rooms, replica of the ship, and portrait of deceased persons. For more information click on the following link: http://en.okinawa2go.jp/is/OCVB1EN0600001150/show http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2012/02/tsushima-maru-museum.html |
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The Valley of Gangala was created by limestone erosion hundreds of thousands of years ago. Unusual rock formations, giant caverns, and strange looking trees are the highlights in this very interesting-to-see place. Its most recognizable feature is that of a giant Banyan Tree, or Gajimaru Tree, in which its roots descend deep into an open cavity. Live events and photo exhibitions take place at the adjoining Cave Café, which is the departure point for tours to the valley. For more information click on the following link http://en.okinawa2go.jp/is/OCVB1EN0600005611/show http://okinawahai.com/underground-okinawa-for-nature-lovers/ |
Central Area |
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Located on the Pacific Ocean side of the island, the Awase Fishing Port is a very famous fishing spot in central Okinawa. For more information click on the following link: |
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This park has the greatest number of orchids in all Japan. Horticulturists nurture the young orchids in the park's greenhouses and then transplant them around the grounds. Other plants and trees, including pines, pineapples, ferns and a wide variety of flowers, are also grown here. For more information click on the following link: |
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Cape Manzamo is a scenic rock formation on Okinawa Island, Japan. It is located near Onna Village, in the Kunigami District of Okinawa Prefecture. Cape Manzamo is one of the most popular places among both Japanese and international travellers who visit Okinawa Island. For more information click on the following link: |
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Zanpa beach is a great day outing, with lighthouse tours right next door, a huge grassy park around the corner, phenomenal cliff views, and a great beach with varied water activities. For more information click on the following link: |
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The town of Chatan is one of the most popular destinations in the Okinawa Islands. The town is divided up into three districts: Kitamae, Mihama, and Sunabe and is located along one of Okinawa’s main highway Route 58 and not far away from U.S. military bases Kadena Air Base, Camp Lester and Camp Foster. For more information click on the following link: http://www.okinawa-information.com/chatan/chatan_okinawa_guide.htm |
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This is a small Ryukyu glass studio and shop known for its unusual and creative collection, including seashell-inspired pastel glass and emerald green items that remind you of the beautiful gradation of color in Okinawan waters. Hands-on glass making workshop is also on offer. For more information click on the following link: |
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Kaichu-doro is an inter-island highway that slices through the sea in a straight line and then connects Katsuren Peninsula and Henza Island. It is a route to access Miyagi and Ikei islands. Its construction is a combination of bridges and earth dredged up from the shallow sea bottom and packed to form a roadbed. Dubbed the "road that glides across the sea" or "the beautiful bridge," the highway has become a place famous for its delightful views. For more information click on the following link: |
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Katsuren Castle also known as Katsuren-jō, is a gusuku (Okinawan castle) in Uruma, Okinawa Prefecture. In the Okinawan language the castle is known as Kacchin Gusuku. Katsuren Castle was built on a large hill of Ryukyuan limestone, 98 meters (322 ft) above sea level on the Katsuren Peninsula. With the Pacific Ocean on two sides, it is also called the "Ocean Gusuku". Its "golden age" was in the mid-15th century, under the powerful aji lord of Katsuren, Amawari. For more information click on the following link: http://www.travel-around-japan.com/k98-09-katsuren-castle.html |
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This is the workshop of Yoshiro Ikemiyagi, a multiple-award-winning okinawan certified traditional craftsman. Over 500 items are available for sale at the adjacent shop. In addition, the studio offers a variety of hands-on glass making courses. For more information click on the following link: |
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Kumaya cave is located in the north rocky mountain of Tana, Iheya Island, it was made by the chart that erodes 280 million years ago. The cave is 10m high and 30m wide and 600 square meters. To the locals, it is known as a very spiritual place. According to the Japanese inscription on the stone marker, it was during the war that people sought refuge here. It was reported that all those who took refuge survived. Later, an excavation team sponsored by the Chatan Board of Education and the Government of Japan found bones and other artifacts in this area and was estimated to be between 2500-3000 years old. For more information click on the following link: |
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Cape Maeda is located in central Okinawa Honto and is the most popular spot for snorkeling and diving on the island, often busy with groups of snorkelers and divers. Maeda's popularity is well founded, as there is a wide variety of marine life in the area, as well as a cave that you can swim into. For more information click on the following link: http://www.time2pcs.com/2%20-%20Outdoor%20Recreation/Diving%20at%20Maeda%20Point.htm |
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Manza Beach is an attractive beach with soft sand. The beach is part of the ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort whose large hotel building overlooks the entire 300 meter long beach. A wide range of facilities and activities are offered to staying guests and daytime visitors. For more information click on the following link: |
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Mihama American Village is a large entertainment complex located in Chatan, Okinawa. The main hub of Mihama American Village is the Depot Island grouping of shops, restaurants and cafes. Depot Island is a large, maze like shopping space which consists of five buildings: A, B, C, D & E. Here you can find a large number of retail stores specializing in American and the latest Okinawa island style fashion and accessories. For more information click on the following link: |
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This large village was actually built in 1992 as a set for the six month television drama Ryukyu no Kaze (the wind of the Ryukyus) a film series on the history of the Ryukyus during the 16th and 17th centuries. The sets of the television show were very realistic renditions of ancient structures of the Ryukyuan period. After the show came to an end, the village was left in place and still stands as an excellent example of what life during the Ryukyu kingdom period was like. The park also offers a great variety of Okinawan arts and crafts to try as well as other activities that are fun for visitors of all ages. For more information click on the following link: |
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This 6k loop starts in Nagahama, Yomitan Village, Okinawa, follows the river to Nagahama Dam and includes a boardwalk of steep stairs through the jungle surrounding the castle. For more information click on the following link: |
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Nakagusuku Castle (Nakagusuku-jo) stands on the summit of a mountain with commanding views. It is considered one of the most famous castles in Okinawa. The castle walls are built up high following the contours of the land, and their outlines draw gentle curves. The walls are built neatly using natural rocks, and have withstood over 400 years of wind and weather. The arched gate stone displays the beauty of stone buildings unique to Okinawa. For more information click on the following link: |
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Nakamurake is a traditional Okinawan style house, dating from the 18th century, when it served as the residence of the Nakamura family. Nakamurake has been designated a major cultural asset by the Japanese government and is open to the public. For more information click on the following link: |
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Okashi Goten is a sweets store which specialises in purple sweet potato pies. There are branch stores in places like Kokusai Dori and Shuri Castle. Visitors can watch the sweet potato pies being made in the factory at the rear of the store and there are taste trays available for the pies and other items for sale. There is actually a wide variety of edible souvenirs, as well as a few non-edible ones. For more information click on the following link: http://okinawatravelinfo.com/shopping/okashigoten_onna/ |
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Okinawa is the second-largest city in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, following Naha, the capital city. It is located in the central part of the island of Okinawa, about 20 kilometres north of Naha. For more information click on the following link: http://www.city.okinawa.okinawa.jp/site/view/contview.jsp?cateid=130&id=6447&page=1 |
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The Okinawa Convention Center is a multi-purpose convention center in the city of Ginowan, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. They opened in 1987. It has a capacity of 5,000. It is the home arena of the Ryukyu Golden Kings basketball team. For more information click on the following link: |
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This facility offers a factory tour and a hands-on lacquer ware workshop where you can make a Ryukyu souvenir yourself. You can bring your piece home on the same day. For more information click on the following link: http://www.oki-islandguide.com/attractions/okinawa-minami-no-shima-pottery-studio-2 |
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The Okinawa Kids Discovery Kingdom houses 3 facilities: "Nature Land," the "Wonder Museum" and the "Children's Center". "Nature Land" is Japan's southernmost animal zoo, with approximately 150 species of animals. The "Wonder Museum" is an experience area, which held exhibitions of Japanese artists as well as workshops. The "Children's Center" is a volunteer activity space that backups the park. On the second floor, the "IT atelier" offers a multimedia space dotted of 60 computers for art creation and other workshops. For more information click on the following link: |
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Located near the shore, this expansive indoor market is the place to go for the freshest local produce. Exotic produce like dragon fruit, sea grapes and seaweed can be purchased here. The varieties of events that occur here ensure that the market is always buzzing with activity. There is also a great selection of souvenirs for those who can't get enough of this coastal city. For more information click on the following link: |
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The museum exhibits some 3,000 items, mainly related to traditional daily life in Onna Village. The exhibit includes a large number drawings and pictures. The theme of the permanent exhibition is ‘Life and road in Onna.” Items include old fishing tools and also a map and pictures of the road that Commodore Matthew Perry of U.S. followed 150 years ago when he visited Okinawa. For more information click on the following link: |
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This is a traditional Okinawan village with exhibits showcasing various festivals, crafts and foods. You can also enjoy a parade (10am — also at 4pm) that condenses a years’ worth of festivals into one parade: Usudeku, Karate, Miruku, Kajimayah, Lion Dance, Juri, Mamidoma & Eisa. For more information click on the following link: |
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The Southeast Botanical Gardens is a commercial botanical garden located in the city of Okinawa, Okinawa Prefecture. The garden is open daily. The gardens covers 100 acres (40.47 ha) and contain over 2,000 plant species, including some 450 species of palms, as well as flowers, fruit trees, a Polynesian Lake with carp, and an insect collection. For more information click on the following link: |
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Sunabe Seawall is home turf for the Reef Encounters Crew. Along the entire coast of Sunabe dive sites, dive shops and, of course divers abound. Sunabe is no doubt the mecca for diving on Okinawa. For more information click on the following link: http://www.okinawa-information.com/content/sunabe-seawall-chatan-okinawa http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2012/06/sunabe-baba-park-beach.html |
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"Handmade Studio Tatsubo" is a spot where visitors can experience creating and coloring their own Shisa. Plaster Shisa in various sizes and shapes are lined up. For more information click on the following link: http://english.plat-okinawa.jp/leisure/shop/detail.jsp?id=64551 |
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Chula U is a relaxing traditional Japanese public bath. Chula-U is one of the few public baths that combines a traditional bath with a swimming pool area. There is a large cold-water pool and a toddler’s pool for the little ones. For more information click on the following link: http://okinawahai.com/terme-villa-chu/ |
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This studio offers an excellent variety of hands-on workshops. And various glassware products are available for sale; they come in unique designs and patterns such as animal print and the eye of a typhoon. For more information click on the following link: |
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Yachimun no Sato (Potter’s Village) is located in Kina, Yomitan Village. The Kinaware was originated in this place and it’s one of the oldest kiln sites in Okinawa. There are approximately 40 kilns and well known potters create their masterpieces all year round. For more information click on the following link: http://www.oki-islandguide.com/specialfeatures/a-pottery-mecca-yomitan-village-yachimun-no-sato |
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Yomitan is a vibrant village in the Central-West part of Okinawa Island. Sitting on the East China Sea, Yomitan is about 28 km north of the Okinawa Capital, Naha. Yomitan is mainly an agricultural and crafts village with its economy supported by crops such as chrysanthemums (a symbol of Japan), sugar cane, and the beni imo (purple sweet potato). For more information click on the following link: http://www.okinawa-information.com/yomitan/yomitan_travel_guide.htm |
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Zakimi Castle was originally built in the 15th century by Gosamaru, who was a fine castle builder and a legendary samurai commander. The castle ruins feature double ramparts and Okinawa’s oldest arched stone gate as well as a picnic site with a splendid view of the East China Sea. For more information click on the following link: http://www.travel-around-japan.com/k98-10-zakimi-castle.html |
Northern Area |
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Bankoku Shinryokan Resort MICE Facility was built in Nago, Okinawa Prefecture, as a facility for corporate meetings and study tours, international conferences, exhibitions and other events. "Bankoku Shinryo" means a "Bridge between nations" and the facility is named after a phrase carved on the large bell at the Shuri Castle of the Ryukyu Kingdom which thrived through trade with China and Southeast Asia, starting in the 14th century. For more information click on the following link: http://www.shinryokan.com/menuIndex.jsp?id=21545&menuid=6407&funcid=28 |
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Bise Village is a seaside village hidden beneath the dense foliage of beautiful fukugi trees. This traditional Okinawan village consists of approximately 250 homes plotted in a chessboard like manner, surrounded by sandy paths lined with lush fukugi trees. Fukugi trees have been used as wind breaks since ancient times and are traditionally placed around seaside villages to protect them from Okinawa's fierce typhoon season. For more information click on the following link: |
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The observatory of Busena Marine Park is an underwater observatory in Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture. Visitors can walk on a narrow pier that leads to a tall building and descend a spiral corridor to reach the sea bottom and admire beautiful coral reefs and Okinawan sea life. For more information click on the following link: |
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Cape Hedo or Hedo Point, is the northernmost point on Okinawa Island, located within Kunigami Village. A cape jutting out north from the island, it faces the South China Sea on the west, and the Pacific Ocean on the east. On a particularly clear day, the island of Yoron (Yoronjima) in Kagoshima Prefecture can be seen on the horizon. Yoron Island is located approximately 23 kilometres to the north. Cape Hedo is part of Okinawa Dai Sekirinzan Quasi-National Park, a prefectural park established in 1965 and re-established with the reversion of Okinawa to Japan in 1972. For more information click on the following link: |
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Dai Sekirinzan is a natural area made up of strangely shaped rocks formed over millions of years. The area is a geological formation known as Karst. Soft limestone rocks being worn down by water and wind, form karst. For more information click on the following link: http://www.japanupdate.com/archive/?id=9548 http://www.guidegecko.com/kunigami/parks/dai-sekirinzan/p,608187357 |
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There are many places on Okinawa where mangroves grow, and one of the largest mangrove forests is at the mouth of Gesashi River in Higashi Village. The mangroves stretch about one kilometer up both sides of the river, spreading about 200 meters wide. The mangrove area covers about 10 hectares in total, and is the largest mangrove area on Okinawa’s main island. For more information click on the following link: |
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In this factory you can experience original glassmaking and watch glass artisans working on this technique. For more information click on the following link: http://en.okinawastory.jp/facility/glass-house-in-the-forest |
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Hiji Falls is a National Park and popular tourist destination on the island of Okinawa, Japan. It is located in the northern part of the island, approximately 20 kilometers north of the city of Nago. For more information click on the following link: |
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Located in the Kanna district of Ginoza Village, the Kanna Thalasso Okinawa is a full-scale thalassotherapy center. On the second floor, 14 types of Jacuzzis, various pools and saunas allow body and soul relaxation. In December 2003, an executive zone opened offering world famous amenities, like French thalassotherapy. For more information click on the following link: |
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Port of Motobu is located in Okinawa, the southernmost prefecture of Japan. Located in a sub-tropical region, this port enjoys a temperate climate and is renowned throughout the world for its precious flora, fauna, and its surrounding corals. For more information click on the following link: http://www.mlit.go.jp/kowan/sinsyunkouenkai/cruise_manual/port/motobu_e.html |
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The Nago Castle ruins are part of Nago central park located near the city center and play host to the Nago City spring cherry blossom festival one of the biggest in Okinawa. The ruins stand on top of the hill in the park and overlook the clear water of the East China Sea giving some truly breathtaking view. For more information click on the following link: http://www.okinawa-information.com/content/nago-castle-ruins |
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The pineapple is one of Okinawa's most prized crops. The Nago Pineapple Park has many interesting exhibits explaining the history, cultivation and refinement of the Okinawan pineapple. Visitors can see pineapples growing all year round and may take a free 10-minute tour through the beautiful gardens on a pineapple cart. For more information click on the following link: |
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Nakijin Castle is a Ryukyuan castle or fortress (gusuku) located in Nakijin, Okinawa Prefecture. It is currently in ruins. In the late 14th century, the Ryukyus consisted of three principalities: Nanzan to the south, Chūzan in the central area, and Hokuzan in the north. Nakijin was the capital of Hokuzan. The fortress includes several sacred Utaki groves, reflecting the castle's role as a center of religious activity. It is today known for the Hikan cherries which bloom in northern Okinawa between mid-January and early February, providing the first cherry blossoms each year in Japan. For more information click on the following link: |
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NEO Park is one of two zoos in Okinawa and features more than 500 species of ferns and 3,600 species of plants and cacti covering 251,490 square meters of land. When visitors first enter the park they will be greeted by the foraging birds in Flamingo lake and see many of these same birds flying free throughout the park. For more information click on the following link: |
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Ocean Expo Park/Churaumi Aquarium Ocean Expo Park commemorates the Okinawa International Ocean Exhibition which opened in 1975, and was built on the same land the following year as a national park. The basic theme of the park is “Sun, Flowers, and Ocean,” which is suggested by the Park's central location in the sight-seeing district on the northern part of main island of Okinawa. It was the largest aquarium in the world until it was surpassed by the Georgia Aquarium in 2005. For more information click on the following link: http://oki-churaumi.jp/en/guide/okipark.html
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Fruit Land grows about 40 different kinds of tropical fruit in their orchard. Visitors can go for a walk in the orchard, and there is also a butterfly field featuring some rare species. After visiting the orchard, fresh fruit and juice can be bought at the restaurant. Other attractions include a papermaking shop that uses ground sugarcane as raw material. For more information click on the following link: |
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Okuni rindo means “mountain road through Okuni.” The road winds for 35 Km (22 miles) and is an up and down, side to side driving adventure, and one of the best kept secrets in Okinawa. A drive on the Okuni rindo reveals Northern Okinawa’s subtropical nature. You will see small crowds of people holding plastic water jugs looking to get pure water from mountain streams, as you round the tight corners of the narrow roads. For more information click on the following link: http://okinawa.stripes.com/travel/okuni-rindo-roundabout-way-see-okinawa |
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Ryugujo Butterfly Garden offers a chance to get really close to butterflies. There are red hats offered to tourists to put on which will attract the butterflies to them. Visitors will find it to be a great place to hone photography skills with these fluttery creatures. Ryugujo Butterfly Garden is located a few kilometers before Ocean Expo Park just off of Route 114 and adjacent to the Hotel Mahaina Wellness Resort Okinawa Island. For more information click on the following link: http://en.japantravel.com/photos/ryugujo-butterfly-garden
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This is a beautiful beach with white sand and clear blue water. Perfect for diving, swimming, snorkeling or just relaxing. For more information click on the following link: http://okinawahai.com/sesoko-beach/ http://www.mapitokinawa.com/2012/08/sesoko-beach.html http://www.okinawa-information.com/blog/beautiful-sesoko-beach |
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Tanaga-gumi is one more of Okinawa’s natural treasures; it is a crystal clear pond of fresh water fed by a cascading water fall, sometimes referred to as Aha Falls. Tanaga-gumui is fed by the Fuku River and is a popular place to have a refreshing swim after the short hike it takes to get there. For more information click on the following link: |
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Yagajima is an island of 16 km in circumference, reached from the south or north of the Route 58 over the Yagajima-ohashi (bridge). This beautiful island offers migratory birds, three types of mangroves and diverse inhabitants of the prominent at low tide Watt country. For more information click on the following link: |
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Yanbaru is the name given to the forested northern part of Okinawa Island in Japan. Spanning the northern villages of Higashi, Kunigami, and Ōgimi, Yanbaru contains some of the last large surviving tracts of subtropical rainforest in Asia, with many endemic species of flora and fauna. Many southerners fled to the area for refuge during the Battle of Okinawa. For more information click on the following link: |
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This is a vast primeval Cyathea forest, hosting the biggest tree ferns in Okinawa. The park also delights visitors with beautiful anthuriums and orchids. Guests will feel as if they are back in the age of the dinosaurs just by walking around the forest surrounded by 33-foot-high fern trees. For more information click on the following link: http://www.oki-islandguide.com/attractions/yanbaru-ikoi-no-mori-2 |