5 Unmissable Experiences To Have in Okinawa, Japan

 

Japan’s Okinawa prefecture is home to 160 stunning islands that boast astounding coastlines and a rich marine life, cultural landmarks, heritage treasures and a wealth of outdoor activities—making it an incredible destination to visit. 

We break through the clutter and bring to you handpicked experiences in this beautiful region that must not be missed. Read on to find what they are:

Explore Aji Amawari’s castle ruins

Referred to as an ocean gusuku, this stone-hewn bastion stands majestically on the wind-whipped Katsuren Peninsula, with the Pacific ocean on either side. The fortress ruins are known as the Katsuren Castle, and it is a UNESCO designated heritage site that inspires awe. According to Ryukyuan legend, the castle was built under the supervision of the powerful Aji Amawari between the 13th and the 14th Century. Visitors hike the staircase leading to the perch of the stone castle, which provides incredibly breathtaking vistas of Okinawa’s coastal scenery.

Visit Churaumi Aquarium

One of the world’s largest aquariums, the Churaumi Aquarium is located within Okinawa’s Ocean Expo Park. In its main display, "Encounter the Okinawan Sea," this wonderful aquarium, whose name translates to "beautiful ocean," brings to life Okinawa's diversely fascinating marine life. Visitors can spot whale sharks and manta rays in the main tank, the Kuroshio Sea, marvel at nearly 80 species of corals in the Coral Sea Tank, and gain insight into the breeding of tiger sharks and bull sharks at the Shark Research Lab.

Snorkel the waters at Okinawa’s famous cape

Tall ocean bluffs frame emerald waters at the spectacular Cape Maeda, one of Okinawa’s finest destinations for snorkeling and scuba diving. The shallow coral reef beneath the crystal-clear waters is home to vibrant marine life that ranges from damselfish and clownfish to the longfin batfish. Scuba divers must especially visit the blue cave hidden in the waters’ shadowy depths. This underwater grotto is bathed in sunshine that filters through the water, illuminating it in hypnotic blue hues. Diving in these waters is one of life's most remarkable experiences.

Visit Nanjo’s otherworldly forest

The cavernous limestone halls of the Valley of Gangala are overrun with time-honored forests and towering banyan trees. According to history, the valley was formed when a stalactite cave collapsed in on itself, preserving a wealth of petrified remains that were excavated years later. Learn all about the place’s natural history through the mandatory tour that also includes a freshly brewed cup of coffee prepared from the cave’s fresh subterranean water. 

Explore this sacred Ryukyu site

A spiritually significant site of the Ryukyu Kingdom exists deep in the town of Nanjo, where a collection of rocky outcrops overlook the tranquil Kudaka Island. A cobblestoned pathway bordered by natural trees takes visitors to Ufuguui, a vast hall. As one goes deeper, they will come across two huge boulders that stare out into the sea—one of the complex's main sites. A visit to this sacred site of the Ryukyu Kingdom is a great way to learn about Okinawa’s ancient history and heritage. 

Author Name
Advaita Raut