Things to Do in Okinawa

Diving in Okinawa offers thrilling encounters with whale sharks and hammerhead sharks in their natural habitats. From January to March, you can even spot humpback whales here. The dive sites in Okinawa are popular around the world for their stunning beauty and diverse marine life, including sea turtles and vibrant coral reefs. You can see these wonderful marine creatures while diving or snorkelling on the beaches in Okinawa. It is one of the best things to do in Okinawa for nature and ocean lovers.

Must Read: Places to visit In Okianawa

Freediving in Okinawa offers a unique way to explore its vibrant marine life. Whether you are a snorkeller looking to enhance your skills or an experienced diver, the clear waters and diverse underwater world provide an ideal setting. Here, you can learn breath-holding techniques and efficient diving practices in courses tailored to improve your underwater experience. You can also swim alongside colourful fish and explore intricate coral reefs. It is also advisable to rent diving gear before indulging in this activity.

Checkout: Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Trekking to Tadake Falls is among the thrilling activities to do in Okinawa. Located deep in the jungle of Northern Okinawa, this remote waterfall promises an adventurous journey with your friends and family. You can spend a full day hiking, river trekking, water sliding, jungle swinging, and rope climbing through muddy trails here. Although you will get soaked and face challenging terrain, the exhilarating experience is absolutely worth it.

Also Check: Okinawa World

Sefa Utaki is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most sacred sites in Okinawa. Visiting this attraction is among those things to do in Okinawa that lets you learn about the history and culture of the city. Located on a hillside overlooking the ocean, it emphasises reverence for nature. Dating back to the 16th century, it was a centre for religious ceremonies. Upon visiting, you can explore its unique rock formations and tranquil walking trails that offer a glimpse into the rich spiritual heritage of Okinawa.

Must Read: Theme Parks In Okinawa

The Okinawa World provides a full-day experience in a popular theme park on the main island of Okinawa. It showcases Gyokusendo Cave, which is the second-longest cave in Japan with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. You can also explore a craft village and Habu Park's snake museum to learn about the habu snake. Moreover, you can enjoy local souvenirs like snake liquor and immerse yourself in exhibits on snake ecology and history.

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Kume Island is a heaven for nature lovers in Okinawa. It allows you to trek through lush forests and national parks to discover diverse local plants and wildlife. Exploring natural wetlands where native species gather among tall grasses and bushes and bird watching on Kume Island are some of the best activities to do in Okinawa. You can also enjoy the serenity of this national park and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the island.

Checkout: Parks In Okinawa

You can explore the former Navy Underground Headquarters, which is a ceremonial reminder of World War II in Okinawa. This museum offers a sad yet insightful experience for history lovers. Built during the war, it consists of extensive underground corridors and rooms used by the Japanese Navy. You can learn about the fierce battle of Okinawa and the tragic events that unfolded here in 1945. It is a beautiful opportunity to reflect on the bravery and sacrifices made during this tumultuous period in Okinawa.

The Nago Pineapple Park is a fun-filled pineapple-themed park in Okinawa. This unique attraction celebrates Okinawa's pineapple cultivation history with rides through pineapple fields on pineapple-shaped vehicles. You can explore tropical gardens, taste pineapple products at the souvenir shop, and even see how pineapples are processed in a small factory onsite. It is a delightful way to learn about pineapples and enjoy this tropical fruit while exploring things to do in Okinawa.

You can experience the lively vibes of the Mihama American Village in Okinawa, which was built on a former US Forces airfield. Inspired by the Seaport Village of San Diego, it offers a taste of West Coast America in Japan. Here, you can explore a variety of shops selling anime goods, and boutiques, and enjoy dining at restaurants, cafes, and karaoke studios. You can also catch a movie at the cinema for a complete day of entertainment.

If you are a cultural enthusiast, you can visit the Shuri Castle, which was once the seat of power for the Ryukyu Kingdom. Built in the late 1300s, this castle played a crucial role in the history of the city as it witnessed wars and fires, including destruction during World War II's Battle of Okinawa. Although damaged by a fire in 2019, ongoing efforts to restore it highlight its significance. While the main hall remains in ruins, exploring the gardens of the castle is one of the best things to do in Okinawa.

Diving into history at the Yonaguni Ruins is a must-do for people exploring the outer islands of Okinawa. Located closer to Taiwan than Japan's mainland, Yonaguni Island has some of the most famous scuba diving spots in the city. You can discover ancient underwater structures dating back 8,000 years, including solid rock formations resembling staircases, rooms, and walls. This place offers a unique glimpse into ancient civilizations beneath the waves.

A must-do activity in Okinawa is walking through the Makishi Public Market. This bustling market is a maze of small alleys that are filled with food stalls offering fresh fish, meats, vegetables, and dried goods. One unique feature of this market is the Mochiage System, which allows you to buy seafood on the first floor and have it cooked at a restaurant on the second floor for about 500 yen per dish. It is a great way to enjoy fresh seafood and experience local flavours while exploring the lively atmosphere of the market.