Okinawa Road Trip: A Seven-Day Island Adventure
Source:
@Laurens & Laura
18 places in Okinawa featured in a youtube post by Laurens & Laura, verified on Google Maps: Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, Nago Pineapple Park, Katsuren Castle Ruins, and 15 more.
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
Aquarium
4.5
The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is home to one of the world's largest aquarium tanks, featuring an impressive 9-meter long whale shark and various other marine life. Admission costs 2180 JPY per person. The aquarium also offers free outdoor areas with activities like manatee and dolphin shows, making it a comprehensive and engaging experience for all ages.
Nago Pineapple Park
Amusement center
3.8
Nago Pineapple Park is a unique theme park dedicated to pineapples, celebrating Okinawa's sweet and juicy pineapples. Admission costs 1500 JPY per person and includes a charming automated vehicle ride through pineapple fields and tropical gardens. Visitors can enjoy various pineapple-themed foods, from fresh fruit to desserts and savory dishes.
Katsuren Castle Ruins
Historical landmark
4.4
Katsuren Castle Ruins are the remains of a Ryukyuan castle, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The site offers a glimpse into Okinawa's rich history and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. The Amamawari Park museum near the entrance provides historical context and performances related to the castle's past.
Kouri Island
Place
4.6
Kouri Island is a small, picturesque island accessible via the Kouri Bridge, renowned for its beautiful beaches and natural rock formations. One of its most famous spots is the 'Heart Rock,' a unique rock formation on the beach that appears heart-shaped from certain angles. It's a popular destination for couples and photographers seeking romantic scenery.
Cape Manzamo
Place
4.2
Cape Manzamo is a picturesque cape known for its dramatic cliff formations and elephant-trunk-shaped rock arch. Despite potentially rainy weather, the natural beauty of the location remains striking. A visitor center provides indoor viewing areas and a cafe where you can enjoy local snacks like Okinawan donuts while taking in the views.
Naminoue Beach
Place
4.0
Naminoue Beach is a man-made beach in Naha, making it a convenient urban escape for swimming and relaxation. It's equipped with nets to protect swimmers from marine stingers, ensuring a safe environment. Despite its urban setting, the beach offers pleasant views and a range of water activities.
DRIVE IN RIKARIKA-WARUMI
Landmark
4.4
Rikarika Warumi is a drive-in restaurant known for its extensive selection of hamburgers and stunning scenic views. It offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for enjoying a meal while overlooking the beautiful coastal landscape. The variety of burgers and the scenic deck make it an ideal stop for a casual dining experience.
Naha International Airport
Airport
4.1
Naha Airport (OKA) is the main international airport serving Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. The monorail provides a convenient way to reach the city from the airport, with single rides starting at 230 JPY and unlimited day passes available for 800 JPY. Consider using a Suica or credit card for tap-to-pay convenience, avoiding the need for paper tickets.
Okinawa Harbor View Hotel
Hotel
4.1
The ANA Crowne Plaza Resort Okinawa Harborview is a 3.5-star resort-style hotel nestled in the hills of Uruma, offering a quiet retreat with impressive views. It features amenities like a swimming pool, an onsen (hot spring) and manga reading room, a gym, and even karaoke rooms. Twin rooms offer comfortable accommodation with scenic vistas and modern facilities.
Kouri Big Bridge
Bridge
4.7
Kouri Bridge is a stunning bridge connecting Okinawa Island to Kouri Island, offering spectacular views of the turquoise waters. It's a popular spot for scenic drives and photography, showcasing the beauty of the Okinawan coastline. Numerous viewpoints along the bridge allow visitors to capture memorable photos of the surrounding seascape.
Fukusuke Tamago
Takeout restaurant
4.5
Fukusuke Tamago is a popular spot to try a local Okinawan staple: the Spam Musubi with a giant egg. This unique snack features grilled Spam, a large layer of egg, and rice, all wrapped in seaweed. It's a quick and satisfying bite, reflecting the island's unique culinary influences.
Cape Hedo
Landmark
4.4
Cape Hedo is the northernmost point of Okinawa's main island, offering breathtaking views of the coastline. The area is tranquil and beautiful, even on cloudy days, making it a worthwhile visit for nature lovers. A small cafe on the second floor of the information and outlook building provides food and drinks with a 180-degree view of the cape.
Cape Chinen Park
Park
4.4
Cape Chinen Park is a beautiful ocean park offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and nearby islands. It features well-maintained pathways and green spaces, ideal for a leisurely stroll or enjoying the breathtaking scenery. The clear blue waters and serene atmosphere make it a perfect spot for relaxation and photography.
SEA SIDE DRIVE-IN
Restaurant
4.2
Sea Side Drive-in is a retro-themed restaurant that transports diners back to Okinawa in the 1960s. It offers a diverse menu with various set plates featuring fried seafood, ribs, chicken, and hamburgers. The restaurant boasts scenic views of the ocean, especially from window-side tables, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing meal.
Mitsuya Honpo Onna
Donut shop
4.5
Mitsuya Honpo is a shop located at Cape Manzamo offering Okinawan donuts, a local specialty. Visitors can choose from varieties like brown sugar and coconut. These donuts are described as a bit dry and might pair well with something creamy like ice cream.
JEF Yonabaru
Fast food restaurant
3.9
Jef Burger is an iconic Okinawan fast-food chain, famous for its unique menu items and drive-in service. A must-try is the "Nugo Pork Egg" burger, featuring grilled spam, a large egg, and lettuce, all wrapped in seaweed. Their chicken sandwich is also highly praised for being moist, fatty, and juicy, making it a perfect quick meal.
Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum
Museum
4.5
The Okinawa Peace Memorial Museum in Itoman serves as a poignant tribute to the victims of World War II's Battle of Okinawa. It aims to educate future generations about the conflict and promote global peace through powerful exhibits and displays. The museum itself is located in a stunning setting with expansive views of the ocean and the peace park.
Gushikawa Castle
Castle
4.2
Gushikawa Castle is an abandoned and partially destroyed castle ruin perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean. The site offers a unique glimpse into Okinawa's historical past and provides breathtaking views of the coastline. It's a peaceful and picturesque spot, perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers.