Okinawa

Japan

Okinawa is Japan's tropical paradise - a chain of islands stretching between Japan and Taiwan with distinct Ryukyu Kingdom heritage. Famous for pristine beaches, world-class diving, unique cuisine like soba and goya champuru, and the longest-living people on Earth. From historic Shuri Castle in Naha to the remote beaches of Ishigaki, Okinawa offers a completely different side of Japan.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay7 days
Budget$80/day
Mid-range$150/day
Luxury$350/day

Known For

okinawajapanryukyubeachesdivingtropicalislandshuri-castlekeramaishigaki

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต Country Information: Japan

CapitalTokyo
CurrencyJapanese yen (ยฅ)
LanguageJapanese , English,Korean,Chinese
Phone Code+81
Electricity100V (Type A, B)
Tap WaterSafe to drink

Tipping

\* Tipping is not common and may be considered rude

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available
  • Credit cards accepted in cities but less so in rural areas
  • Cash is still common
  • No black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Bowing is a common greeting
  • Shoes must be removed indoors
  • Talking on phones in trains is frowned upon

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. LGBTQ+ rights are improving, but legal marriage is not yet recognized

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • Legal drinking age is 20
  • Drug laws are very strict, even for small amounts of marijuana

Special Laws

  • Tattoos may bar entry to hot springs
  • No public smoking outside designated areas

Common Phrases

HelloKonnichiwa (koh-nee-chee-wah) ใ“ใ‚“ใซใกใฏ
Thank youArigatou (ah-ree-gah-toh) ใ‚ใ‚ŠใŒใจใ†

Climate

Subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Rainy season mid-May to mid-June. Typhoon season July-October. Ocean swimmable March-November. Summer hot and humid (28-32C).

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Okinawa Soba must_try

Distinctive wheat noodles in pork-based broth topped with stewed pork belly, fish cake, and pickled ginger. Not like mainland soba at all.

Rafute must_try

Okinawan braised pork belly simmered for hours in awamori, soy sauce, and brown sugar until meltingly tender. A royal court dish.

Goya Champuru must_try

Stir-fried bitter melon with tofu, egg, and pork. Champuru means 'mixed' and this healthy dish epitomizes Okinawan longevity cuisine.

Taco Rice street_food

Tex-Mex meets Japan - seasoned taco meat, cheese, lettuce, and salsa over rice. Born from US military base influence, now beloved island-wide.

Awamori beverage

Okinawa's traditional distilled spirit made from Thai rice. Aged versions are prized and often enjoyed with water or in cocktails.

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

๐Ÿ”ด Must Book in Advance

Resort Hotels (Peak Season) Accommodation
Book 2-6 months in advance

Okinawa is Japans top domestic beach destination. Golden Week, Obon, and summer holidays see Japanese tourists flood the islands.

Rental Car Transport
Book 2-8 weeks in advance

Essential for exploring Okinawa main island. Limited inventory runs out during Japanese holidays.

๐ŸŸก Recommended to Book Ahead

Churaumi Aquarium Attraction
Book 1-7 days in advance

One of Japans most popular aquariums. While walk-ups possible, peak season sees long queues.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling tour_or_activity
Book 1-4 weeks in advance

Kerama Islands, Ishigaki, and Miyako have world-class diving. Reputable operators book up in peak season.

Fun Facts

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