Okinawa

One of Japan’s 47 prefectures, Okinawa comprises more than 160 islands located south of Honshu, the main island of Japan. Its unique climate and geography allowed the region to develop its own culture and heritage. The city of Naha, on the main island of Okinawa — rebuilt after the devastation of World War II — is the prefecture capital and its cultural and economic hub. Visitors to Okinawa enjoy beautiful beaches, subtropical rainforests, historic sites, an evolving wellness food culture, vibrant shopping spots and more.

Citadel on a Hill:

Shuri Castle

PHOTO: © SEAN PAVONE | DREAMSTIME.COM

GETTING THERE & AROUND

Naha Airport connects Okinawa to various regions in Japan and major international gateways and offers direct flights to neighboring Kagoshima Prefecture, Amami ŌShima and Yoro Shima. Yui Rail monorail serves 19 stations from Naha Airport to Tedako-Uranishi Station. Public transportation on Okinawa island includes monorail, buses and taxis. For unlimited monorail rides, purchase one-day (about $7.50) or two-day (about $13) tickets. Okinawa taxis are cheaper than those in mainland Japan; you can also book a sightseeing taxi with a guide. Rental cars offer a convenient option for those who want to move about on their own.

LODGING

Hiramatsu Hotels & Resorts Ginoza

Retreat to Okinawa’s enchanting east coast where this gourmet resort hotel serves up views of the rising sun, a luxury spa, and villas and guestrooms with private pools.

1425 Matsuda, Ginoza-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa 904-1301, Japan, tel 81 98 968 5600 www.hiramatsuhotels.com/ginoza

JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Naha

Inspired by the serenity of Okinawa’s sea and sky, the resort blends traditional Japanese culture with modern design. Don’t miss the breakfast buffet with 60 dishes featuring local ingredients.

2 Chome-16-1 Makishi, Naha, Okinawa 900-0013, Japan, tel 81 98 861 8700 www .jrk-hotels.co.jp/Naha

Kariyushi Urban Resort Naha

Unwind in the Jacuzzi, sauna, spa and multicuisine restaurant. Guestrooms feature elegant décor and soft lighting; nightwear and slippers are provided.

3 Chome-25-1 Maejima, Naha, Okinawa 9000016, Japan, tel 81 98 860 2111 kariyushi-urban.jp

DINING

Danryumansai Restaurant

Indulge in healthy Okinawa specialties or Japanese dishes as well as Chinese, French and Italian cuisine in a relaxed setting.

Kariyushi Urban Resort Naha, 3 Chome-25-1 Maejima, Naha, Okinawa 900-0016, Japan, tel 81 98 860 2111 kariyushi-urban.jp

Hiramatsu Hotels & Resorts Ginoza Dining

Gaze out over the endless ocean and delight in a culinary adventure that blends fresh Okinawan ingredients with French cuisine.

1425 Matsuda, Ginoza-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa 904-1301, Japan, tel 81 98 968 5600 www.hiramatsuhotels.com/ginoza

NUCHIGAFU

NUCHIGAFU serves healthy, beautifully presented Ryūkyūan and local Okinawan dishes in an old folk house. Enjoy lunch, dinner or afternoon tea featuring traditional Okinawan bukubuku tea. Reservations required.

1 Chome-28-32 Tsuboya, Naha, Okinawa 902-0065, Japan, tel 81 98 861 2952 bukubuku.okinawa

ATTRACTIONS

Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum

Exhibits and hands-on activities provide a deeper understanding of Okinawa’s history, the culture of the Ryūkyū Kingdom and the effect of World War II on the area.

3 Chome-1-1 Omoromachi, Naha, Okinawa 900-0006, Japan, tel 81 98 941 8200 okimu.jp

Shuri Castle

On a hill overlooking Naha, the striking, red-tiled castle and UNESCO World Heritage site symbolizes the culture of the Ryūkyū Kingdom. Walk the grounds to view ceremonial gates, shrines, stone paths and scenic ponds.

1 Chome-2 Shurikinjocho, Naha, Okinawa 903-0815, Japan, tel 81 98 886 2020 oki-park.jp/shurijo

Tsuboya Yachimun Street

For an introduction to the history and beauty of this centuries-old Okinawan craft, stroll the winding alleys of Naha’s pottery district, boasting workshops handed down for generations and boutique cafés serving fine tea and coffee in colorful crockery.