City guides沖縄
Okinawa for first-timers
Subtropical islands with their own culture, food and some of Asia's best snorkelling.
Last reviewed · Sep 2026
Okinawa was the independent Ryukyu Kingdom until 1879, and it still feels distinct — in food, music and architecture. It's a 2.5-hour flight from Tokyo.
- Naha: Kokusai-dori, Shuri Castle (under restoration) and Makishi market
- Churaumi Aquarium in the north
- Kerama Islands by ferry for snorkelling
- Ishigaki and Miyako for quieter, clearer beaches
- Try goya champuru, Okinawa soba and awamori