If you’re looking for the perfect place to get away, that isn’t Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, look no further than the white sandy beaches and natural beauty of Okinawa Prefecture. In this 10-day Okinawa itinerary, you’ll know where to go, what to do, and what to skip.
Why should you listen to me compared to all the other bloggers out there? Long story short, I spent three years in Okinawa as an English teacher on the JET Program and had the opportunity to immerse myself in the unique island culture.
I speak Japanese, play the Sanshin (a three-stringed snakeskin banjo native to Okinawa), and know Karate.
I’m not your run-of-the-mill backpacker who spent a week there and calls themselves an expert. I lived in the real Japan and believe in a slower-paced Okinawan way of life, which makes this perfect Okinawa itinerary.
A Little Bit About Okinawa Japan Before You Go
Okinawa is significantly different from the rest of Japan and boasts a unique culture and rich heritage. The best way to describe it is like the Hawaii of Japan.
The name in Kanji means “Rope in the Open Sea” because it comprises many different islands in the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Also called the Ryukyu Islands, Okinawa has a rich history.
The Ryukyu Kingdom’s reign lasted from 1429 to 1879. Their culture consisted of three primary Asian cultures: Mongolian, Ainu, and Malayan.
Their public transportation isn’t that great either, so I always recommend getting an International Driver’s License and renting a car.
How many days do you need in Okinawa?
Ten days isn’t enough time to visit this gorgeous island paradise. There’s always another secret beach to discover, tiny islands to hop around, and water sports to try.
If you only have five days to spend here, you’re getting a small taste of this incredible place. Check out my 5-day Okinawa Itinerary.
Who Is This 10-Day Okinawa Itinerary For?
This itinerary is for travelers who love history, culture, the city, and the beach. Okinawa has numerous fantastic places to enjoy in this tropical paradise.
This itinerary has a good mix of adventure, shopping, and exploration. I also provide additional activities to suit different interests.
Get Travel Insurance
A common question I get is, “What do I need to travel to Japan?” One of the best Japan travel tips I can give you is to book World Nomads Travel Insurance.
Life throws curveballs. Flights get canceled. You get sick. There’s a family emergency. It’s good to be prepared.
How To Stay Connected in Japan
Book an e-SIM card and download it directly to your phone. You can also order a 4G Wi-Fi box and pick it up at any airport of your choice in Japan.
How To Get Around Okinawa
Most flights fly directly into Naha, which is the international airport. The main island of Okinawa is not public transportation-friendly.
You will need a rental car for your first trip to Okinawa. To rent a car in Okinawa, you will need a valid driver’s license and an International Driver’s Permit (IDP).
Naha has a monorail that will take you as far as Urasoe. For more information on the Yui Rail and its destinations, visit their website.
Day One in Okinawa
On your first day, we’re going to get some culture in by exploring historical sites and souvenir shopping on Kokusai Dori aka International Street.
Visit the Historic Shuri Castle
Sadly, in 2019, a fire broke out and burned down Shuri Castle. To my knowledge, it is still being rebuilt, but you can walk around the castle grounds.
This is the main attraction of Naha, and you can participate in a guided tour. Rent a kimono or yukata to make the experience 10x better.
Kokusai Dori
Kokusai Dori (meaning International Street) is a diagonal street about a mile (1.6 km) long that runs through the heart of Naha. It is a short walk and is one of the most popular tourist spots. There are various souvenir shops where you can purchase Okinawa-themed merchandise.
For cool things to do in Okinawa, I suggest you go-karting like Super Mario on the main strip.
What to do on Kokusai Dori?
- Eat beni imo – This is Okinawa’s famous purple potato tart. Try it as a pastry or ice cream at Okashigoten Kokusai Street Matsuo.
- Makishi Public Market – This local market is nicknamed the “Kitchen of Okinawa”. The first floor is for seafood and traditional dishes.
- Try habushu – This is a traditional Okinawa rice liquor that has a poisonous snake at the bottom of the bottle.
- Shop for souvenirs – This is one of the best places to purchase Okinawa-themed souvenirs.
Eat Taco Rice at Amigo Tacos
If you didn’t eat this charming Japanese and Tex-Mex fusion have you even lived? American culture made this a famous dish in the 1960s to cater to American tastes.
Taco rice features seasoned ground beef served over a bed of white rice, topped with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and a generous dollop of salsa.
Optional: Gyokusendo Cave or Sefa Utaki
Gyokusendo cave stretches five kilometres and boasts a host of spectacular rock formations. It’s a great way to escape Okinawa’s intense heat during the day.
You also have the option of visiting Sefa Utaki which is a sacred place where people pray. Leaders of the native faith were all women and access to the site was strictly off-limits to men, with the exception of male members of the royal family.
Optional: Okinawa World
Okinawa World is a touristy theme park about Okinawan culture. The park’s main attractions are a massive natural cave, a craft village, and a snake museum.
Okinawa Peace Memorial Park
A good way to learn the history of Okinawa is to visit this museum. This museum is a must-visit for first-time visitors to Okinawa.
You can also visit the Himeyuri Peace Museum, which has many photographs from the Battle of Okinawa and World War II.
Days Two & Three in Okinawa
The best way to get to the outer islands off Naha is by North Pier (Hokugan) | Tomari Okinawa Port. To make a reservation, call 098-868-7541 one day in advance.
The receptionists speak some English, so speak slowly and clearly. Check your calendar for Japanese holidays and book in advance.
The slow ferry takes about 70 minutes, and you can bring your car aboard. The high-speed boat takes about 40 minutes.
- A solo round trip is 3,160 yen ($22 USD).
- A round-trip ticket plus a car ferry costs 13,100 yen ($91 USD).
- A round-trip ticket plus a scooter costs about 5,180 yen ($36 USD).
Day Trip to Tokashiki Island
One of the best things to do is take a day trip to Tokashiki Island and Zamami Island. These two are part of the Kerama Islands and one of the top tourist attractions for a beach holiday and scuba diving.
Aharen Beach is my favorite, and if you swim out far enough, you can enjoy the vibrant coral reefs.
Fun fact! Did you know Tokashiki is now a National Park in Japan? Sea turtles often go to lay their eggs there.
What to do on Tokashiki Island?
- Aharen Beach – You can easily go snorkeling and see brightly colored fish. There are many rental shops for snorkeling gear around the island.
- Tokashiku Beach – Also known as Turtle Beach, you can swim among sea turtles here.
- Tokashiki Island Snorkeling & Turtle-Finding in Okinawa
- Tokashiki Island Day Tour With Lunch
- Kerama Islands Diving Experience
Day Trip to Zamami Island
Two of the most popular things to do on Zamami Island are to see humpback whales and dive. I’m personally afraid of diving, but I do enjoy snorkeling.
What to do on Zamami Island?
- Furuzamami Beach – This is one of the most popular white sand beaches in Okinawa, thanks to social media.
- Ama Beach – Less popular but also worth a visit!
- Takatsuki Observatory – This is about a 30-minute walk from Zamami Port. It stands on the hill above Zamami Village, offering views of the village.
- Aka Island and Geruma Island – Nishibama Beach is located on Aka and is my all-time favorite beach. It’s one of the best beaches in Okinawa.
How to get around Zamami?
The best way to get around Zamami Island is via bike. You can also bring your car around the island.
Day Four in Okinawa
Yomitan is a central location to base yourself in for your Okinawa trip! I lived here for three years, and it will forever be one of my favorite places.
Cape Manzamo
Your last day is what you make it! This is a gorgeous lookout, especially for sunrise or sunset. It doesn’t take long to walk around, so you can snap some photos and go on to your next location.
Optional: Ryukyu Mura Theme Park
Okinawan cultures are fascinating, and the Ryukyu Mura theme park is a good way to indulge if you didn’t go to Okinawa World. If you’re not into theme parks, you can skip it. It features a recreated village from the time of the Ryukyu Kingdom, and you can enjoy traditional live music.
Zakimi Castle Ruins
This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a great view of Okinawa. The stone walls still stand today.
These ruins aren’t very large, so expect to spend an hour here.
Yachimun No Sato (Yomitan Pottery Village)
Okinawa has a six-thousand-year history of pottery. The traditional “yachimun” style of earthenware was influenced by trade with Japan and other Asian countries.
It is so priceless that several artists are designated as a national treasure of Japan. The Yomitan Pottery Village features ceramic shops, including those specializing in noborigama, as well as pottery workshops.
They have tableware, painted tiles, and many beautiful hand-crafted items.
Dechibica For Lunch
To anyone who will listen… Dechibica is one of the best vegan restaurants I’ve ever been to in my life!
Okashigoten
If you missed the main souvenir shop in Naha, this is also a great place to get them. You can also check out their bakery to try beni imo pastries.
However, if you feel like going on a field trip, Joie Joie 326 was one of my favorite pâtissiers in Yomitan and is probably your better bet.
Zanpa Lighthouse
If you climb the Zanpa Lighthouse you can enjoy gorgeous views of Yomitan Village. It is also the westernmost point of Okinawa and the last place the sun sets over the island.
Zanpa Beach
Zanpa Beach is a well-maintained facility with showers and beach rentals such as umbrellas and chairs. It’s great to spend the afternoon there.
Ocean’s Pizza For Dinner
The main draw to this buffet restaurant in Yomitan is the amazing views (particularly for sunset).
Day Five in Okinawa
Southeast Botanical Gardens
At the Southeast Botanical Gardens, you can play with spider monkeys and capybaras.
Sunabe Seawall
There are many tasty restaurants located along the seawall. There are many foreign restaurants to cater to both the foreign community.
I recommend Gordie’s for burgers, Roll Up for Mexican burritos, and Morning Bowls for acai and poke bowls. Bella Napoli is also a brick oven pizza place where you can watch the sunset. My favorite Greek food place on the seawall is also Sunabe Gyros.
What to do at the Sunabe Seawall?
Japanese nail art is also second to none. Get a pedicure at Cocok’s Nail Salon, which is on the seawall.
I also recommend the seawall for snorkeling, where you can see brightly colored coral and fish.
Explore American Village
Located right across the street from the Kadena Military Base, you can find anything and everything from here. I also recommend enjoying Blue Seal ice cream with traditional Okinawan flavors, such as Shikwasa, Beni Imo (purple potato), and Chinsuko (Okinawan cookies).
While exploring, be sure to visit two of the most popular beaches, Sunset Beach and Araha Beach.
Dinner at Kinpa Ginpa
Depending on what you want from your last day, either is an excellent choice. The Kinpa Ginpa has amazing ramen and even more delicious Chu-his.
Day Six in Okinawa
Let’s explore northern Okinawa! You’ll just be coming back from an outer island so you can take it a bit easier from here.
Ryukyu Glass Works
This is a quick workshop, but totally worth it for the money. Ryukyu glass draws inspiration from the colors of the beautiful sea and sky, as well as the flowers that grow abundantly in Okinawa.
They use their own special techniques which makes this a unique and special gift to take home.
Early Lunch at Captain Kangaroo
Hands down, Captain Kangaroo is one of my favorite burger places on the island. They’re pretty popular so go right when they open at 11am. If you get there by 1pm, good luck… They will most likely be sold out.
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is the coolest aquarium I’ve ever been to. You can see Okinawa’s coral reefs and marine life. Here you can see whale sharks swimming with tropical fish around in an enormous tank!
Tropical Dream Center
I highly recommend this arboretum with tropical and subtropical flowers, fruit trees, and year-round orchids.
Pizza in the Sky
This place is aptly named for its scenic views from a traditional Okinawan house situated on a hilltop, offering stunning views of the island, sea, and sunset. Not to mention, they have amazing pizza!
Kouri Island
Kouri Island is so small that it is a short drive. It is also famous for the rock formations in the shape of hearts.
Kouri Island is near Nago. You can also book a cruising tour of Haneji Island, which also has excellent snorkeling.
Optional: Yanbaru National Park & Cape Hedo
I’m not a huge fan of national parks and hiking. However, if this is more your speed, then consider skipping the Tropical Dream Center and Kouri Island.
On your way over there, take a dip in Tanaga-gumui or Aha Falls.
Day Seven in Okinawa
Ishigaki Island
It is possible to do a day trip here, but I wouldn’t recommend it if you really want to enjoy Ishigaki and all it has to offer. If you’d like to spend longer on the island, check out my Ishigaki Travel Guide.
Ishigaki is the next-largest island from the Okinawa mainland and is a popular spot to enjoy white sand and stunning blue waters. The flight time from Naha is about 45 minutes.
What to do on Ishigaki Island?
- Yonehara Beach – There’s amazing snorkeling to be done here.
- Sukuji Beach – Sukuji is another great spot for snorkeling, and there’s also a netted area for safe swimming.
- Osaki Beach – Osaki is a rocky beach with a jungle-like backdrop, which is best visited at high tide.
- Kabira Bay – It’s considered one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Japan and also great for buying black pearls.
- Tamatorizaki ObservationPlatform – This elevated observation structure offers sweeping views of the bay, the reef, and lush surroundings.
- Hirakubozaki – Sweeping views of the ocean are offered at this scenic spot overlooking the Hirakubozaki Lighthouse.
Try Ishigaki Beef
- Ishigaki Beef MARU – The meat here is also a Japanese barbecue-style.
- Yamburger Ishigaki – The most delicious hamburgers are made with Ishigaki beef.
Where To Stay on Ishigaki Island
- Sandriver Hotel Ishigaki Island (mid-range) – Located in Ishigaki City, it is designed to be your home away from home. Rooms feature amenities such as refrigerators, TVs, and microwaves.
Day Eight in Okinawa
Taketomi Island and/or Phantom Island
To make the most of your day, the best place to start is by taking a trip to Taketomi Island. It’s one of Ishigaki’s smaller islands and so beautiful!
You can book a Taketomi and Phantom Island Day Tour. Another popular day trip is to Iriomote in its mangrove forests.
Day Nine in Okinawa
Miyako Island
Miyakojima is also a beach lover’s paradise, boasting pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s about a 50-minute plane ride from Naha with plenty of adventure!
Check out the two most popular beaches, Yonaha Beach and Sunayama Beach, which have the most blue water I’ve ever seen! There are various Miyako Islands to explore with white sands and dreamy vibes.
Also, be sure to explore the Yaeyama Islands, an archipelago.
What to do on Miyako Island?
- Shigira Gold Onsen – Unwind in the natural hot springs of the Jungle Pool, amidst a lush green landscape.
- SEASKY HAKUAI – Dive into the enchanting underwater world aboard a semi-submersible boat.
- Shigira Lift – Reach new heights at Okinawa’s first and only pair lift, across 283 meters between the sea and a nearby hill.
- Kurima Island – With a circumference of 9 kilometers, it offers fashionable cafes, stores, and the beautiful Nagamahama Beach.
- Ryugujo Observatory – Climb to the top of the three-story Ryugujo Observatory for a rewarding panoramic view of the surrounding sea.
Where to eat on Miyako Island?
- Ocean’s Vista – With amazing views of the ocean, also try the original Miyako Miso Soba.
- Sea View – They specialize in Okinawan cuisine, such as Miyako soba or the soft-simmered pork rafute gozen lunch set.
- Rakuen no Kajitsu – This restaurant specializes in Miyako Island wagyu beef rice bowl as well as seasonally available organic fruits.
Day Ten in Okinawa
After all that Okinawa exploration, you’ll be tired and want to take a break before your flight. For today, keep it chill and enjoy some yakiniku (Japanese barbecue) at BBQ Teruma, taking in the incredible views.
You’ll be exploring Uruma City today with some lesser-known beaches. Take a drive through Mid-Sea Road Beach. Go island hopping and explore to your heart’s content. End your exploration at Oodomari Beach, where you can relax.
How To Get to Okinawa
Most tourists arrive in Japan via Narita or Haneda Airport. You may be wondering how to get to Okinawa from Tokyo or how to travel to Okinawa. There are daily direct flights.
How To Get To Okinawa From Tokyo
Japan’s Okinawa Island is just a two-and-a-half-hour plane ride from Tokyo. Domestic flights are the best way to travel to the beautiful islands of Okinawa.
It’s closer to Taiwan than it is to mainland Japan. Okinawa is a cluster of islands, and you will land in the capital city of Naha.
What To Pack For Okinawa (10-Day Itinerary)
Japan is super STRICT when it comes to luggage restrictions and regulations. Pack as lightly as possible so that when you buy all your favorite Japanese products, there will still be room in your suitcase.
My favorite travel suitcase brand is Béis. I’m obsessed with their weekender bag, carry-on, and checked luggage.
I also have A Complete Okinawa Packing List for every season.
Travel essentials for what to pack to Okinawa:
- Unlocked phone – Book a SIM card if you have an unlocked phone, or rent a portable Wi-Fi router if you don’t.
- Toothpaste – Japanese toothpaste sucks PERIODT. Bring your own from home.
- Essential Documents – Bring any critical medical documents in case of an emergency.
- Passport – Make a copy of your passport and store it in your suitcase, and leave the original on your fridge at home.
- Credit/Debit Cards – Many big shopping malls and restaurants now accept credit cards.
- Cash – Japan is still primarily a cash-is-king society.
- Medication – Don’t forget your essential medicine, because I guarantee it will be a nightmare for you to navigate the hospital and then find a pharmacy.
Where To Stay in Okinawa (10-Day Okinawa Itinerary)
Most people who visit Okinawa tend to stay in the Naha area. There are so many great Okinawa attractions you can get to if you don’t stay in Naha.
While bigger cities like Naha offer convenience, I encourage you to tap into your adventurous spirit. To help you decide, check out my complete guide on where to stay in Okinawa.
Luxury Hotels in Okinawa
- Aqua Citta (Naha) – This upscale hotel offers pristine views of the city center from its rooftop pool and Tomari Port. Aqua Citta is 15 minutes away from Naha Airport.
- Hotel Nikko Alivila (Yomitan) – With its enormous pool, beautiful private beach, stunning views, and exceptional service, this is a place I highly recommend. While I lived in Okinawa, many year-end parties were hosted here and I had incredible experiences every time.
- ANA Intercontinental Manza Beach (Onna Village) – This place is literally like its own little city and is so convenient, you don’t even have to leave the property. Guests can enjoy a mini-golf course, shops, and rent bicycles, canoes, and jet skis.
Mid-Range Hotels in Okinawa
- Mr. Kinjo (Naha) – Conveniently located outside Asahibashi Station, the location is excellent, and breakfast is included in your stay.
- Ocean View Araha (Chatan) – Set in Chatan, 2.5 km from Sunset Beach and 2.8 km from Mihama American Village, Ocean View Araha offers garden views and free Wi-Fi.
- Hotel Sunset Zanpa (Yomitan) – Located in Yomitan, Hotel Sunset ZANPA offers accommodations with private balconies. The property is situated 5 km from Zakimi Gusuku Castle, 2.5 km from Murasakimura, and 2.1 km from Cape Zanpa.
Budget Hotels in Okinawa
- Guest House Umikaji (Naha) – This two-star guest house is attractively located in the Naha City Centre district of Naha, and set 2 km from Yachimun Street.
- La’ Gent Hotel (Chatan) – Set 1.2 km from Sunset Beach, La’gent Hotel Okinawa Chatan / Hotel and Hostel offers rooms with air conditioning in Chatan. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage space, as well as free Wi-Fi. The property is non-smoking and is situated within a 1 km radius of Mihama American Village.
- Holiday House Ryuky-an (Yomitan) – Located just a 12-minute drive from Cape Maeda, famous for its beautiful scenery, clear waters, and snorkeling, Holiday House Ryuky-an offers a self-catering holiday home with free Wi-Fi access.
What To Eat in Okinawa
One of the reasons Okinawans live long is because of their diet. Local dishes usually contain pork, fish, rice and veggies (especially goya). I also have an in-depth guide for what and where to eat in Okinawa.
I also highly suggest taking a traditional cooking class. With this class, you will get a choice of making goya chanpuru or Okinawa soba (two very staple dishes).
- Okinawa Soba – This dish features buckwheat noodles accompanied by pork belly, scallions, fish cake, and boneless pork ribs.
- Beni Imo Taruto – Purple potato tart is one of my all-time favorite sweets in Okinawa. They originated in Yomitan.
- Goya Champuru – This dish is made with goya (bitter melon), tofu, egg, and pork belly. It’s a popular and classic dish that you need to try.
- Okinawan Sea Grapes – My first thought was.. Ew gross, but they’re delicious. The taste is slightly salty with an ocean freshness to it.
- Taco Rice – This is Okinawa’s take on a Tex-Mex taco, featuring rice as the base and topped with cheese, meat, lettuce, and salsa.
- Yaki Niku – This is a Japanese-style barbecue dish that should definitely be on your must-eat list. You receive raw cuts of various meats and cook them at the table yourself.
When is the best time of year to visit Okinawa, Japan?
Okinawa has a subtropical climate and typically doesn’t drop below 15°C (64°F) in winter. Whenever you visit, it will be great because there is so much to visit, beautiful beaches besides.
January to March in Okinawa
Because the main Okinawa island is so warm, they are the first prefecture in Japan for the cherry blossoms to bloom. January and early February have similar temperatures of 19°C (66°F) during the day and 14°C (57°F) at night.
March starts to warm up, with average daytime highs of 21°C (70°F) and nighttime temperatures dropping to 15°C (60°F).
Popular Events:
- Nakijin Cherry Blossom Festival (January)
- Nago Cherry Blossom Festival (January)
- Motobu Yaedake Cherry Blossom Festival (January)
April to June in Okinawa
April starts to warm up, with daytime temperatures rising to 23°C (74°F) during the day and 18°C (65°F) at night. May continues this upward trend, with daily highs of 26°C (79°F) and nighttime lows of 21°C (70°F).
June feels like summer with temperatures soaring up to 29°C (84°F) during the day and 24°C (76°F) at night. This month also marks the beginning of typhoon season.
Popular Events:
- Ie Island Lily Festival (April)
- Ryukyu Kaiensai Fireworks Festival (April)
- Naha Hari Festival (May)
July to September in Okinawa
A word of caution if you’re traveling to Okinawa during the summer, the humidity is intense. In my experience, you’ll catch the most typhoons, although the season sometimes lasts until November.
July temperatures hit highs of 31°C (88°F) and lows of 26°C (79°F). August daytime highs get up to 30°C (87°F) and 25°C (78°F). September offers a break from the heat, with temperatures dropping to 30°C (86°F) during the day and 25°C (77°F) at night.
Popular Events:
- Ocean Expo Park Summer Festival (July)
- Yonabaru Great Tug of War Festival (August)
- Orion Beer Fest (August)
October to December in Okinawa
October daytime temperatures are more comfortable with the highs being 27°C (81°F) and 22°C (72°F) at night. November sees temperatures drop down to 24°C (75°F) during the day and 18°C (66°F) at night.
December temperatures fall even further to 21°C (69°F) during the day and 16°C (60°F) at night.
Popular Events:
- Southeast Botanical Garden Illuminations (October)
- American Village Winter Illuminations (November)
- Ryukyu Lantern Festival (December)
In Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed learning about the tropical paradise of Okinawa with its stunning beaches and subtropical climate. It will forever be a travel favorite of mine.
You’re going to have a great time here! I promise!
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