[Okinawa 2021] Introducing the Latest Spots on Each Island!

Introducing the Latest Information on Spots Across Okinawa’s Islands! Okinawa is a tropical resort that attracts many tourists every year. The numerous spots full of exotic charm are all landmarks that are rarely seen on mainland Japan. By venturing to each of the surrounding islands, even more attractions await. What kind of characteristics and spots do the islands of Okinawa have? Let’s take a quick peek!

Okinawa Main Island

When you think of Okinawa, you might be referring to Okinawa Main Island. Okinawa Main Island, where Naha Airport is located, is known as a major hub where the culture and historical sites of the former "Ryukyu Kingdom" remain vividly intact, and Okinawa's unique cuisine thrives. Many visitors heading to the surrounding islands often enjoy Okinawa Main Island first.
Focus on Naha City, Okinawa's largest city. It’s perfectly accessible by the only train in Okinawa, the "Yui Rail," which makes it easy to travel around. You can visit popular shopping destinations such as Kokusai Street and Shurijo Castle, the symbol of the Ryukyu Kingdom, by riding the Yui Rail. Shurijo Castle, which was severely damaged in a fire in 2019 (the main hall and the north and south halls were burned down), is currently offering paid tours of the remaining structures as of March 2021.
Most of the island is connected by National Route 58, and the northern part of the island features famous scenic spots like Manzamo and the Churaumi Aquarium. If you want to see it all, you’ll need more than a day, making it a truly captivating place full of attractions.

Ishigaki Island

Ishigaki Island is one of Okinawa's most famous outer islands. It’s famous for many must-see spots, and as of 2021, it’s considered one of Okinawa’s two major islands, along with Miyako Island.
One of the key spots on Ishigaki Island is Kabira Bay, where you can enjoy a glass-bottom boat cruise, offering spectacular views of the beautiful sea. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery you’ll never want to leave. Don’t miss "Hirakubo Point," located at the northernmost tip of the island.
Ishigaki Island has many other viewpoints and attractions, which you can explore by following the link below.

Taketomi Island

Taketomi Island is even closer to Ishigaki Island, just about a 10-minute trip away. Because it’s so close, it’s easy to visit on a day trip from Ishigaki Island. While it’s not as widely known as Ishigaki, it’s an undiscovered gem, designated as an Important Traditional Buildings Preservation District, offering a scenic and tranquil atmosphere.
The townscape with its distinctive architecture is fascinating to look at. This is an especially recommended spot for those who want to spend a peaceful day.

Kerama Islands

The Kerama Islands are known for their beautiful seas, often referred to as "Kerama Blue," a breathtaking sight that divers from all over the world dream of. The Kerama Islands form the largest national park in Japan and consist of about 20 islands, large and small, floating approximately 40 km west of Okinawa Main Island. The largest island in the Kerama Islands is Tokashiki Island, followed by Zamami Island and Aka Island. These three islands are connected to Okinawa Main Island by high-speed ferries, making access quite convenient.
As for stunning views, there are many notable spots to enjoy the beautiful sea. One must-see spot is the Megane no Saki Observatory, which offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the famous Kerama Blue. If you're visiting the Kerama Islands, this is a spot you definitely want to check out.

Iriomote Island

Iriomote Island is about an hour away from the Ishigaki Island ferry terminal. It’s the second largest island in Okinawa Prefecture, and 90% of the island is covered by lush jungle, making it a natural paradise. The scenery feels like it could be from a completely different country, unlike any other island in Japan.
Iriomote Island is ideal for those who enjoy jungles and natural adventures. A highly recommended activity is the jungle cruise, offering an exciting, out-of-the-ordinary adventure in this tropical paradise. You’re sure to have an unforgettable experience during your stay.

Miyako Island - One of Okinawa’s Best Scenic Areas!

One of the highlights of enjoying Okinawa is gazing at its beautiful seas. There are unique, breathtaking spots that you can only find in Okinawa, and it’s a must to see them at least once.
For those looking for stunning views unique to Okinawa, Miyako Island is the perfect choice. It’s an island formed by coral reefs and is full of breathtaking scenery. The white sandy beaches and the Miyako Blue and transparent emerald green seas are among the island’s major attractions. What makes it even more special is that Miyako Island is connected to three other islands by long bridges. Not only does this make traveling between the islands convenient by rental car, but the exhilarating experience of crossing the bridges and the magnificent views are unforgettable.
Some of the representative spots of Miyako Island include Higashi-Hennazaki, the Imugya Marine Garden where you can enjoy the view of the bay and the vast ocean, and Shimoji Island, which is full of observatories and viewpoints. There are so many spots that you’ll want to visit! Additionally, the coral reefs around Miyako Island create a complex underwater landscape, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.

Hateruma Island

About an hour by high-speed ferry from Ishigaki Island, Hateruma Island is the southernmost inhabited island of Japan. "Nishihama" Beach, which has been selected as one of Japan's best beaches, is famous for its white sandy shore and shallow emerald green waters. As you gaze further out to sea, the color of the water transitions into deep blue, offering a stunning view.
You’ll want to visit the scenic spot, Takana-zaki, where four monuments, including the "Southernmost Point of Japan Monument," are located. Take a stroll along the walking path on the cliffside grassland and feel the significance of standing on the southernmost point of Japan. Hateruma Island is the second island in the Yaeyama Islands to be inhabited, following Iriomote Island. The indigenous people of the island have lived there for centuries. Okinawa is a region where Japanese, Ryukyu, and Chinese cultures are mixed, but Hateruma Island is distinctively influenced by Indonesian culture. Despite being part of Japan, the island has a deep connection with a completely different cultural background, making it a fascinating point of interest.

◎ Summary

We introduced the various islands in Okinawa. Each island offers its own unique charm, and you’ll need more than one visit to fully experience the many attractions they offer.
The number of visitors to airports in Naha, Ishigaki Island, and Miyako Island continues to grow. You can unwind in Okinawa's refreshing natural environment, enjoy marine activities, visit many historical spots like castles (gusuku), and immerse yourself in traditional culture. Don’t forget to savor Okinawa’s unique cuisine. From Ishigaki Island, you can easily hop on a high-speed ferry and visit the charming outer islands. Okinawa Prefecture is vast, so why not plan a trip with a focused itinerary and visit multiple times?
There are many unique islands, so take the time to discover the different attractions each one has to offer.

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[Okinawa 2021] Introducing the Latest Spots on Each Island!