Okinawa Prefecture offers a variety of travel experiences: in the north of Okinawa Island, Yanbaru National Park represents subtropical nature, Kerama Islands National Park is known for seascapes and coral reefs, and in Naha, Shurijō offers a glimpse into the history of the Ryūkyū Kingdom. When looking for a hotel, you can start by deciding whether nature, the sea or culture will define your stay. The places below offer different experiences and travel information.

Nature and activities in Yanbaru

Yanbaru National Park is in the north of Okinawa Island and was designated Japan’s 33rd national park on September 15, 2016. Activities in this subtropical natural setting include trips to viewpoints, trekking, canoeing, river experiences and drives. These options offer different ways to engage with the landscape: viewpoints, exercise and riverside experiences, as well as drives. Hiji Falls is considered the largest waterfall in Okinawa Prefecture and is located roughly midway along the Hiji River in Yanbaru Forest. In addition to the activities, it offers a specific natural attraction for anyone interested in river landscapes.

Seascapes and seasonal timing on the Kerama Islands

Kerama Islands National Park features clear seascapes and coral reefs with dense coral growth. While snorkeling, you can observe coral reefs and marine life up close in the clear sea known as “Kerama Blue.” The shallow waters of Ama Beach are suitable for swimming, and sea turtles can be seen nearby. Be sure to check seasonal lifeguard arrangements separately.

Whale watching has its own approximate season: humpback whales can be seen around the Kerama Islands from around January to March. Confirm local conditions with local whale-watching operators. From Tomari Port on Okinawa Island, Kerama Islands National Park can be reached by high-speed boat in about 35 to 50 minutes. This is an approximate travel time; check current ferry services before your trip.

Shurijō and the history of the Ryūkyū Kingdom

Shurijō in Naha offers a historical focus. Since the unification of the Ryūkyū Kingdom, the castle served as the king’s residence and as a political, diplomatic and cultural center. The World Heritage site “Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu” represents 500 years of Ryūkyū Islands history, from the 12th to the 17th century. It comprises nine components: two stone monuments, five castles and two cultural landscapes.

From Naha Airport, take the Yui Rail to Shuri Station; from there, it is about a 15-minute walk to Shurijō Castle. Check current train services before setting out. The journey therefore consists of a train ride followed by a walk.

Choose a focus for your hotel search

When choosing a hotel, it helps to match the travel information to your preferred focus: for Shurijō, the relevant route is the Yui Rail to Shuri followed by a walk, while for Kerama, it is the high-speed boat from Tomari. These details cover different legs and modes of transport, so plan them separately. If the sea and whale watching are to shape your stay, also take into account the approximate season from January to March and confirm local conditions. If you prefer nature, you can take inspiration from the outdoor activities mentioned for Yanbaru.

Discover more destinations: Naha, Ishigaki, Tomigusuku, Itoman, Yaeyama, Nago, Yonaguni, Miyakojima, Fuchaku, Uza, Uruma, Shimajiri, Nakasone, Okinawa, Nakijin, Iheya-Jima, Yomitan, Kunigami District, Shimajiri District, Yaeyama-Gun, Nakagami District, Ginowan, Nanjō, Nakagami District, Kunigami District, Kumejima, Urasoe, Tokashiki, Motobu, Kin, Taketomi, Ie

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