Buzz
While Okinawa may not be as renowned or widely recognized as Tokyo or Kyoto, it remains a captivating destination for Japanese tourism, boasting stunning beaches, a haven for diving enthusiasts, and vibrant festivals throughout the year.
Perfect Destination for Diving Enthusiasts
Okinawa, Japan travel is truly a paradise for those passionate about diving, renowned for its diverse coral reefs. Diving in Okinawa offers visitors the chance to explore over 400 different coral species along with various marine creatures such as sea turtles, hammerhead sharks, and manta rays.
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
Ranked as the world's second-largest aquarium, Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is a captivating destination that attracts independent travelers visiting Okinawa.
When it comes to the distinctive features of Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, it is the habitat of rare whale sharks and is also known for frequent dolphin shows that entertain and amaze visitors.
Enchanting Cherry Blossoms
If you want to admire the beauty of Japanese cherry blossoms in spring without the crowds of the bustling tourist spots in Tokyo, you can opt for Okinawa. It's also the place where cherry blossoms bloom earliest in Japan, usually around early January every year.
Home to the World's Longest-Living Population
Okinawa is renowned as the home to the world's longest-living population because most people on the Okinawa island have an exceptionally high life expectancy thanks to a diet rich in green vegetables, which is three times more than in other places.
Visitors can explore Ogimi Village, known as the “capital of the elderly”. Most residents in the village are over 85 years old but still quite active, and they might even offer you some useful advice on living a longer life.
Stunning Beaches
Okinawa boasts numerous stunning and pristine beaches such as Kondoi Beach, Yonaha Maehama Beach, Nirai Beach, Aragusuku Beach, Sunayama Beach, and Okuma Beach. The waters around Okinawa are incredibly beautiful and crystal clear, shimmering with emerald hues, bordered by fine white sands.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
In addition to its famous tourist destinations, Okinawa takes pride in its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, attracting international visitors. Among them, the most renowned and widely recognized are the 9 Gusuku Sites and related properties of the Ryukyu Kingdom. These cultural heritage sites include two sacred forests, the Tamaudun Mausoleum, a garden, and the ruins of five gusuku (castles).
Foodie Paradise
The cuisine of the Okinawa archipelago offers a unique culinary experience distinct from the common Japanese culinary style, influenced by China, Southeast Asia, and the United States.
Okinawa cuisine brings a different flavor compared to other regions - Illustrative image
Nevertheless, Okinawa is hailed as a paradise for food enthusiasts, boasting a rich culinary scene with a plethora of delicious and enticing dishes such as sataandago cakes, soki soba, and sashimi.
Vibrant Festivals
From fruit festivals to beer festivals, Okinawa is truly not short of colorful and exciting celebrations. Among the most prominent festivals in Okinawa, the Naha Tug-of-War Festival stands out, well-known to many tourists. This tug-of-war festival has a long history, spanning nearly 600 years, and has been listed in the Guinness World Records.
Birthplace of Karate
Okinawa, the birthplace of Karate - Illustrative image
If you're a fan of the famous martial art karate, there's no reason to overlook Okinawa tourism. Because the Okinawa region is considered the birthplace of the traditional martial art karate, which later became famous throughout Japan and the world. If possible, you should try learning a few self-defense Karate moves from the locals in the area.
A Haven for Peace Lovers
Okinawa is regarded as an ideal destination for budget travel to Japan for those who want to escape the busy, noisy urban life. With its tropical weather and rural lifestyle, visitors here will feel the tranquility and serenity everywhere they go.
