9 must-visit tourist spots in Onna Village ◎ More than just marine sports!

Onna Village, known as one of Okinawa’s premier resort destinations, is home to many popular attractions such as Maeda Cape and the Blue Cave. With its vast coral reefs and stunning natural scenery, it is a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. However, even those who aren’t fond of the sea can still enjoy plenty of attractions here. In this article, we will introduce nine must-visit tourist spots in Onna Village that you won’t want to miss.

1. Onna Village’s Iconic Scenic Spot: "Manzamo"

When it comes to iconic tourist spots in Onna Village, Manzamo is one of the most famous. Known as a scenic area on the western coast of the main island, Manzamo features a roughly 20-meter-high cliff formed from coral reefs, with a rock that resembles an elephant’s trunk. The sea seen from Manzamo is an incredibly clear, beautiful blue, so much so that you can see the rocky seabed below. The contrast between the ocean and Manzamo is breathtaking.

The name "Manzamo" is said to have originated in the 18th century when King Shō Kei of the Ryukyu Kingdom visited the area and described it as a "field (grassland) spacious enough for ten thousand people to sit." Due to its height and proximity to the sea, families with young children should be cautious, but it is certainly a sight worth visiting.

2. A diver’s sanctuary: "Maeda Cape"

For those who love diving and snorkeling, Maeda Cape (Maeda Misaki) is a top choice. Located nearby is the famous "Blue Cave," which becomes a bustling tourist spot during peak season. The Blue Cave is a naturally formed cave created by seawater erosion, and it gets its name from the mystical glow of its water, caused by sunlight reflection.

If you plan to snorkel at the Blue Cave, joining a guided tour is the safest option. For those who want to explore deeper and reach the ocean floor, diving is highly recommended. Some tours also offer the opportunity to feed fish during the experience.

3. Roadside station: "Onna no Eki Nakayukui Market"

Located along National Route 58, the roadside station "Onna no Eki Nakayukui Market" is a popular tourist spot offering fresh fruits, vegetables, and various souvenirs. The market stalls display pre-cut local Okinawan fruits, making them irresistible to visitors. You can find fresh tropical fruits such as snack pineapples, oranges, and juicy Okinawan melons.

The market also boasts a wide variety of souvenirs, including long-lasting sweets, dressings, teas, and more. Be sure to try the exclusive gourmet foods available only in Onna Village while you're there.

4. A beach with Emerald green waters: "Kariyushi Beach"

With well-equipped facilities, Kariyushi Beach is highly recommended for families with children. You can rent parasols, beach mats, and other essentials, allowing you to enjoy the beach without bringing much. Guests staying at the "Kariyushi Beach Hotel" or "Marriott" can also take advantage of a convenient free shuttle bus from their hotel.

Aside from admiring the beautiful waters while diving, visitors can also enjoy various marine activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, flyboarding, hoverboarding, wakeboarding, and jet skiing.

The beach offers courses suitable for beginners to advanced participants, with water depths ranging from 4 to 15 meters. The Okinawan beach season starts with the annual opening in March, allowing for a long period of enjoyment. Many activities require prior reservations, so it’s best to check the website for schedules in advance.

5. A hidden gem with pristine waters: "Diamond Beach"

Known as a hidden beach in Onna Village, "Diamond Beach" boasts crystal-clear waters where you can even spot fish while simply walking along the shore. The sandy beach is also home to hermit crabs, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Since it is not a crowded beach, it is perfect for those who want to relax.

Unlike typical swimming beaches, Diamond Beach does not have lifeguards or jellyfish prevention nets. Visitors must take full responsibility for their own safety, and those with small children should be especially cautious. Nearby cafés offer coffee and light snacks, making it a great spot to enjoy a peaceful beachside break.

6. Experience Okinawan culture at "Ryukyu Village"

Ryukyu Village is a popular tourist attraction where visitors of all ages can experience and learn about Okinawa’s unique culture and performing arts. There are various hands-on activities, such as crafting Shisa (Okinawan guardian lion statues), playing the Sanshin (a traditional Okinawan instrument), and making Sata Andagi (Okinawan deep-fried doughnuts). Since all these activities are held indoors, you can enjoy them even on rainy days.

The village also offers opportunities to rent traditional Ryukyu attire for photo sessions, watch Okinawan folk music performances, and savor authentic Okinawan cuisine at its restaurants. With so much to explore, you may find yourself wanting to spend an entire day here. Learning about the rich history of Ryukyu culture will undoubtedly make your Okinawa trip even more meaningful.

7. Enjoy craft-making at "Okinawa Craft Village"

At Okinawa Craft Village, visitors can take part in various craft workshops, including glass-making, mug-making, and the creation of Tonbo-dama (glass beads essential for jewelry-making). Among the most recommended crafts is Ryukyu glass, which beautifully captures the essence of Okinawa’s ocean with its vibrant colors. These handmade items make perfect souvenirs or personal keepsakes.

A mini-gallery on-site showcases works by renowned craftsmen, including individuals recognized as national treasures. While Ryukyu glass existed before World War II, it was after the war that returning Okinawans incorporated techniques they had learned on the mainland, giving rise to the modern Ryukyu glass tradition. Today, Ryukyu glass is a beloved local craft and a popular souvenir among tourists.

Glass-making workshops are conducted under the guidance of professional artisans, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for beginners. The chance to create a one-of-a-kind piece makes for an unforgettable Okinawa travel memory, whether you visit as a couple, with friends, or as a family.

8. Adventure in nature at "Forest Adventure"

Forest Adventure is an outdoor activity park where visitors navigate through the forest using specialized harnesses. Taking advantage of Okinawa’s vast natural landscape, the park offers 33 different adventure activities suitable for both children and adults. If you love adventure, this is a must-visit! Onna Village’s course is particularly special because it allows you to enjoy treetop walks while gazing at the beautiful ocean. The view of the sea from this unique perspective is truly worth experiencing. While Okinawa is often associated with the ocean, activities like these that immerse you in lush greenery are just as appealing.

9. Learn about space at "Okinawa Space Communications Center"

Did you know that Okinawa is home to a JAXA facility? The "Okinawa Space Communications Center," recognizable by its massive parabolic antenna, features a variety of exhibits, including a scaled-down model of the H-IIA rocket, satellite imagery from the Himawari weather satellite, and experiments conducted during the development of Japan’s broadcasting satellite, Yuri. Twice a year, on "Space Day" (September 12) and during "Science and Technology Week" (mid-April), the center holds special public open-house events. If you’re interested in space, planning your visit around these events will enhance your experience.

◎Summary

Onna Village is a popular resort destination that attracts numerous tourists throughout the year. It offers a different experience from Okinawa’s central hub, Naha. For those looking to relax, staying at one of the beautiful resort hotels in and around Onna Village is highly recommended.

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9 must-visit tourist spots in Onna Village ◎ More than just marine sports!