Discover the Best of Okinawa: A Guide for Ideal Destinations and Experiences

Okinawa, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches, and warm waters, offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. This guide aims to provide you with insights into the best things to do in Okinawa, including traditional experiences and must-visit destinations. For those looking to explore Okinawa beyond its main island, we recommend several hidden gems, such as Senaga Island and Taketomi Island. Join us as we embark on this journey to uncover the hidden treasures of this incredible place.

08 Must-Try Traditional Okinawan Experiences

1. Try on Traditional Okinawan Clothing: Experience the unique culture of Okinawa by dressing in traditional clothing, known as asa-ge. This traditional attire not only allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture but also offers a chance to photograph yourself in stunning traditional outfits. 2. Paint One of Okinawa's Legendary Guardians: Create your own masterpiece by painting one of Okinawa's legendary guardians known as Omote-sanshin. These fox spirits are an integral part of Ryukyuan folklore and reflecting on their stories can provide a deeper connection to Okinawan culture. 3. Learn to Play the Sanshin: The sanshin is a traditional Okinawan three-stringed instrument. Learning to play the sanshin not only helps you appreciate traditional music but also offers a fun and engaging experience. Many local schools and cultural centers offer classes for beginners. 4. Dance Kachashi: Participate in the traditional Okinawan dance style known as danshi (Kachashi). These dances often incorporate weapons such as the tonkun (short stick) and the chunrien (long stick). Watching or joining in these dances can offer an exciting and culturally rich experience. 5. Feast on Ryukyu Cuisine: Indulge in the rich flavors of Ryukyu cuisine, which includes dishes like churchase (a type of pancake made with taro), syokun (a dish made with konjac), and tamago (Okinawan soft-boiled eggs). Eating in a local ryotei (restaurant) is highly recommended for a true taste of Okinawan food. 6. Try Ryukyu Bingata Dyeing: Experience the traditional art of bingata, a unique form of Japanese batik. Create your own fabric using bold patterns and vibrant colors. This hands-on activity offers a delightful way to connect with Okinawan craftsmanship. 7. Create Traditional Yuntanza Hanaui Textiles: Engage in the traditional weaving technique known as yuntanza. This method involves weaving fabrics using a combination of warp and weft threads. The designs are often inspired by nature and local motifs. 8. Explore Okinawan Silk with Kumejima Tsumugi: Discover the art of Kumejima tsumugi, a traditional silk weaving technique. These intricate woven garments are known for their durability and beauty. Learning about the process and even trying your hand at weaving can be a fascinating experience.

Exploring Okinawa Beyond the Main Island

While the main island of Okinawa is a highlight, there are numerous other destinations that offer unique experiences. Here are a few recommendations:

Senaga Island

Located close to Naha Airport, Senaga Island is a popular spot for both locals and travelers. With its proximity to the airport, you can easily access this island and enjoy its many delicious restaurants. The island's location overlooking the ocean makes it a perfect place for relaxation and tranquility. Spend a day exploring the island, trying local foods, and enjoying the breathtaking views.

Taketomi Island

Recommended by someone from Ishigaki island, Taketomi Island is a smaller island near Ishigaki Island. It offers a variety of activities, including visiting historic water buffalo star sand houses with red-tiled roofs, exploring the beautiful sea, and enjoying diving experiences. Taketomi Island is a true gem for those seeking a more tranquil and culturally rich experience beyond the main island.

Day Tours by Bus and Island Hopping

For a comprehensive experience of Okinawa, consider a day tour by bus, which can take you to various destinations, such as:

A restored castle and battlefield areas in the south of the island, which includes a visit to the Aviation and Space Museum. Up north, visit the Kadena base and the Aquarium, which are well worth the visit and not too expensive.

Keep in mind that the commentary on the bus is only in Japanese, so some prior understanding of the language might be helpful.

Ideal Beaches and Diving Spots

For the ultimate beach experience, consider traveling to one of the islands off the main island. Some beaches can be reached by ship, while others require a plane. Research beforehand to find the perfect destination for your beach-loving needs. Long-time divers will attest to Okinawa’s status as one of the top diving spots in the world, with an average water temperature of 25°C (77°F) allowing for year-round diving. Keep an eye out for Hammerhead sharks, turtles, and unique fish species, which can provide unforgettable underwater adventures.

Student Perspectives and Blog Recommendations

Our guide wouldn't be complete without sharing insights from a local in Tokyo who has a deep love for Okinawa. They recommend short trips to the main island's surrounding islands, where you can revel in lesser-known but equally fascinating cultural and natural differences. They also provide a link to their blog post, List 300 - Secrets of Okinawa Scuba Diving: Is 1531045711 a Must?, which delves into the author's personal experiences and tips for diving in Okinawa.