Embark on a truly insider’s journey through Okinawa’s best-kept secrets – the hidden culinary gems and enchanting attractions that remain undiscovered by most non-Japanese travelers. From the heartwarming Okinawa Soba to the enticing sizzle of BBQ delights, we’ll unveil a world of flavors and experiences. Navigate through fusion eateries blending global flavors, and navigate the bustling seafood market like a local. Unearth Okinawa’s exclusive dining destinations on Tabelog (Japan top restaurant review site), setting the stage for an exploration beyond the ordinary.
Okinawa’s Flavorful Delights
Okinawa Traditional Cuisine
Okinawa Soba
Discover Soba noodle bliss in Naha! Tender meat slices, chewy noodles, and flavorful bonito-infused broth await. Don’t miss this culinary treasure!
Operating Hours: 11:00 – 15:00 PM, 17:30 – 20:30, Closed on Mondays to Thursdays
Phone: +81 980-89-2447
Address: 360 Ibaruma, Ishigaki, Okinawa 907-0332, Japan
Make sure you check out this classic Soba noodle shop in Naha! Their noodles have that perfect, satisfying chewiness, and the tender meat slices blend beautifully with the refreshing, flavorful broth. Infused with bonito flavor, the broth will pleasantly surprise your taste buds from the very first sip.
Operating Hours: 11:30 – 14:00 (Tuesday to Friday), Closed on Saturdays to Phone: +81 98-853-1060
Address: 4 Chome-5-2 Shikina, Naha, Okinawa 902-0078, Japan
Discover a must-visit, highly acclaimed Okinawan noodle shop! Tender, juicy meat and flavorful broth. Retro exterior, clean interior. Thick, chewy noodles. Delightful surprises await!
Operating Hours: 11:00 – 15:30 (Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri) / 11:00 – 16:30 (Wed, Sat, Sun)
Phone: +81 98-047-2887
Address: 5 Tokuchi, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture
BBQ
Don’t miss this viral spot! Their tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat paired with a sauce that enhances the flavor of Ishigaki beef is a must-try. And make sure to order shrimp direct from the source—its sweetness is simply amazing!
Operating Hours: 17:00~until sold out, closed on Wednesdays
Phone: +81 980-83-5641
Address: 2 Chome-5-18 Hamasakicho, Ishigaki, Okinawa 907-0013, Japan
Blending Global Flavors: Fusion Restaurants
Taco Rice Cafe Kijimuna
Operating Hours: 11:30-20:00 (Mon-Sun)
Phone: +81 98-851-3023
Address: Japan, 〒901-0233 Okinawa, Tomigusuku, Senaga, １７４−6
Cafe Curcuma (Thai Cuisine)
Operating Hours: 11:00 to 17:00 (Mon to Fri), 10:00 to 18:00 (weekend and Public Holidays)
Phone: +81 98-949-1189
Address: Chinen-1190 Chinen, Nanjo, Okinawa 901-1513, Japan
Fresh Catches & Ocean Views: Seafood Market
Itoman fishing cooperative Fish Center: Offers free seats, diverse ready-to-eat options, and less crowd. Near outlets and the airport.
Payao Market: Serene setting, known for grilled lobster. Located along the way to the Kaichu Rd and Katsuren Castle Ruins.
Tomari Iyumachi: Largest market with a variety of fresh seafood. Close to bustling Kokusai Dori street.
Recommendations:
- “Itoman fishing cooperative Fish Center” for ready-to-eat foods.
- “Tomari Iyumachi” for seafood lovers.
- “Itoman fishing cooperative Fish Center” for comfort.
- “Tomari Iyumachi” and “Itoman fishing cooperative Fish Center” for convenience.
Introduce Japan’s Top Restaurant Review Site: Tabelog
Tabelog is the top restaurant review website in Japan. Similar to Google Maps, Tabelog’s ratings range from 1 to 5 stars. Ratings between 3.0 to 3.4 indicate a decent establishment, while ratings above 3.5 stars signify a truly exceptional dining experience. Japanese people take their ratings seriously, and their discerning taste guarantees authentic and memorable dining experiences. Join the community of Japanese foodies as they share their delectable restaurant experiences.
Step 1: Choose your destination
Step 2: Choose the type
By clicking on “find details”, you will find out these filters. Adjust them based on your needs!
Okinawa’s Unmissable Attractions
Okinawa’s Pristine Beaches & Marine Life
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
It is one of Okinawa’s most famous attractions. With nearly 30,000 species of marine life, including tropical fish and giant whale sharks. Don’t miss the chance to touch sea stars and sea cucumbers in the interactive area.
Okinawa’s Treasures of the Past
Shuri Castle
Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to Okinawa’s rich history. Once a royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom, it offers a glimpse into the island’s cultural heritage. The intricate architecture and serene gardens make it a captivating destination. Explore the palace grounds and learn about Okinawa’s royal past.
Okinawa’s Hidden Gems
Iriomotejima Columbus
It is the largest gem in Japan’s Yaeyama Islands. Designated a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in 2021. Enjoy a unique “Water Buffalo Cart” adventure in Yubu Island, dive into the iconic “Star Sand Beach” for snorkeling, and savor the pristine beauty of “Ida Beach.” Experience nature’s wonders in this enchanting getaway.
Okinawa’s Delight for All Ages: Family-Friendly Fun
American Village
American Village is a vibrant entertainment complex that appeals to all ages. Modeled after a typical American town, it offers shopping, dining, and various activities. Visitors can enjoy shopping for souvenirs, riding the Ferris wheel, and experiencing a blend of American and Okinawan culture.
Okinawa’s Night Out Spot
Kokusaidori Yataimura
“Kokusai Dori Yataimura,” located a 4-minute walk from Makishi Station on Kokusai Dori and close to Heiwa Dori Shopping Street, is a vibrant food park with 20 gourmet stalls. Focusing on local ingredients, it operates from 10 AM to 2 AM, offering diverse options like gelato, Izakaya, sushi, and teppanyaki. The venue features a small stage for island music and dance events. Enjoy Okinawan flavors with an Orion beer for an immersive experience of the region’s ambiance.
Okinawa Festival
*Please refer to the official announcement about dates and location.
Spring (March to May)
Naha Hari(dragon boat racing event)
Experience Okinawa’s grandest dragon boat race – the Naha Dragon Boat Race. Originally held for bountiful catches and safe voyages, it now attracts over 180,000 visitors annually. Witness spirited competition as local youth and adults paddle vibrant dragon boats, measuring 14.5 meters with intricately carved dragon heads. Enjoy rides, live music, sumo matches, and a stunning fireworks show. Don’t miss this action-packed cultural spectacle!
| Date | During Japan Golden Week |
| Price | Free |
| Address | 1-chōme-16 Minatomachi, Naha, Okinawa 900-0001, Japan |
| Parking Lot | 3-2-1 Tondocho, Naha, Okinawa 900-0035, Japan |
Summer (June to August)
Eisa Festival
Experience Okinawa’s lively “Eisa Taiko” folk dance during the vibrant mid-August Obon festival. Colorful costumes and energetic music from taiko drums and traditional instruments create a captivating spectacle. Don’t miss this cultural highlight at events like the Island-wide Eisa Taiko Festival and the Ten Thousand People Eisa Taiko Troupe!
| Date | To be announced(normally held on the weekend following the annual Okinawa Obon Festival) |
| Price | Free |
| Address | Visit official websites for updates. |
| Parking Lot | N/A |
Fall (September to November)
Naha’s Great Tug-of-War Festival
The Naha Tug-of-War Festival, with roots dating back to 1450. Recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s largest tug-of-war competition, it features an impressive 200-meter straw rope weighing 43 metric tons. This festival holds profound cultural significance in Okinawa, symbolizing aspirations for prosperity and peace while uniting the community in a powerful display of shared values.
| Date | To be announced(in October) |
| Price | Free |
| Address | Kokusai Street, Highway 58 |
| Parking Lot | 2 Chome-14 Makishi, Naha, Okinawa 900-0013, Japan |
Winter (December to January)
New Year’s Celebration
The celebration was a reenactment of a special New Year’s event that took place at Shuri Castle during the time of the Ryukyu Kingdom. It involved the king and other officials standing in an organized manner in the courtyard. They performed a grand ceremony that had elements of Chinese traditions, marking the start of the festivities. This was an exciting opportunity for everyone to experience the unique New Year celebrations of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
The next ‘New Year’s Feast’ is scheduled to be held in 2024.
| Date | To be announced on Shurijo Castle Park Official Website |
| Price | The price varies depending on the area you want to visit. |
| Address | 1-2 Shurikinjocho, Naha, Okinawa 903-0815, Japan |
| Parking Lot | Japan, 〒903-0815 Okinawa, Naha, Shurikinjocho, 1 Chome−1 |
Okinawa: Plan Your Road Trip
Introducing Seamless Cross-border Car Rental Platform- gogoout
gogoout offer transparent pricing and partner with local rental companies worldwide, making your mobility hassle-free and exploration limitless.
Reserve in Three Steps
- Open gogoout’s website and enter the location, date, and number of seats.
- Compare the different types and prices, and click on ‘Book Now.’
- Fill in your personal information, check the summary and store policy, then submit!
Undoubtedly, the most liberating way to get around the island is by renting a car for self-driving! Additionally, with certain attractions not always reachable by bus, and the potential constraints of bus schedules, how can you allow time to dictate your exploration during your Okinawa getaway?
👇👇Click to see benefits and precautions of renting a car in Okinawa.👇👇
Best Deals on Okinawa Car Rental Services – Find Cheap and Reliable Options for Your Trip!
Safe Driving
Traffic Signs
Traffic Light
In the top row, you’ll find the usual traffic lights, while the bottom row indicates signals for straight, left, and right turns.
Ex. If the top light is red, but the bottom light shows a right turn signal, it means you can still make a right turn on red.
Okinawa’s allure shines year-round with pristine beaches, historic gems, and family havens. Dive into marine marvels, uncover hidden gems. Seamlessly explore with gogoout’s car rental, ensuring safety and convenience. Let Okinawa’s charm make each moment unforgettable.
