20 Popular Nago Tourist Spots ~ Enjoy Fun Times with Your Lover or Family

Nago City, located in the northern part of Okinawa Prefecture, is the largest city among the municipalities on the main island. It's known as the venue for the "Tour de Okinawa" and the spring training camp of the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, but in fact, Nago has many theme parks and leisure facilities that make use of its vast land area.

Additionally, if you head further north from Nago, you'll find the rich natural area of "Yanbaru," where you can encounter rare plants and animals as well as breathtaking scenery you won't find anywhere else.

Now, let's take a look at some highly recommended tourist spots in Nago, a place full of attractions.

1. Rare Pineapples Too! "Nago Pineapple Park"

When it comes to tropical fruits in Okinawa, pineapples are particularly famous. Although pineapples are also produced in some parts of Kagoshima Prefecture, the quantity is extremely small. Out of Japan’s total production of about 8,000 tons, most come from Okinawa. One of Okinawa’s unique tourist attractions is "Nago Pineapple Park" located in Nago City.

As you enter the park, the first thing you’ll notice is the vast pineapple fields. You can ride the fully automatic "Pineapple Cart" that takes you around, or you can walk with a tour guide and observe the surroundings carefully.

There are about 2,000 varieties of pineapples, but only 200 are edible. While touring the park, you can learn about the differences between each type and how pineapples are used aside from being eaten.
After enjoying the pineapple fields, a tasting area awaits you! Of course, pineapples are all-you-can-eat! Not only can you enjoy the fresh fruit, but there’s also 100% pineapple juice, wine, sweets, and even cosmetics made from pineapples. Some exclusive items are only available here, making it a great place to shop for souvenirs.

2. Feel Nature from Around the World at "Neo Park Okinawa"

Neo Park Okinawa is a nature-themed zoo where you can experience the subtropical climate and the great outdoors of Yanbaru. The park stretches across an area about five times the size of Tokyo Dome. Here, you can interact with plants and animals from different regions of the world, such as the African Savannah, the Amazon, and Oceania.

The animals are freely roaming within large enclosures, giving visitors a chance to observe them in a setting close to their natural habitats. As you pass through the entrance, you’ll first see the "Flamingo Lake," modeled after Lake Nakuru in Kenya. Around 500 birds fly around, and if you hold out some food, they’ll flock to you!

While flamingos are often imagined as standing still on one leg, at "Neo Park Okinawa," you might witness them in flight—a surprisingly powerful sight that’s hard to imagine from their elegant pink appearance. It’s a must-see!

Inside the park, there’s also a 1.2km railway course with a train that replicates the old Okinawa light railway and the once-planned Nago Station. Not only will kids enjoy this, but adults are sure to be excited too! Reconnect with your inner child and enjoy exploring the park with the animals and a ride on the train.

3. Explore Underwater at "Busena Marine Park"

Busena Cape, where "Busena Marine Park" is located, is known for its crystal-clear waters. At "Busena Marine Park," there’s an underwater observatory where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the emerald-green ocean and even explore the underwater world through the observation floor.

The underwater observatory, surrounded by 24 windows, feels like a palace under the sea. As you watch the fish swimming by the windows, you might find yourself going around in circles! You can also see coral reefs and colorful tropical fish up close. If you prefer feeling the ocean breeze while watching the sea, the glass-bottom boat is recommended. Since the bottom of the boat is glass, you can look directly beneath you and observe tropical fish swimming below. Sometimes, you can even enjoy feeding the fish, depending on sea conditions.

The observatory is an all-weather facility, so you can visit even on rainy days. However, boat rides may be canceled due to sea or weather conditions, so it’s best to call ahead. There are also combo tickets for the observatory and the boat tour, so take advantage of them!

4. Create Your Own Glass at “Mori no Garasukan”

When it comes to classic Okinawa souvenirs, Ryukyu glass stands out with its vivid colors and unique shapes. The history of Okinawan glass dates back to the mid-Meiji era when it was primarily used for practical items like lamp covers and candy jars. After World War II, the full-scale production of Ryukyu glass began. It started by recycling empty bottles of cola and beer to make colorful glassware.

At Mori no Garasukan, you can experience making your very own Ryukyu glass. In the standard glass-making workshop, you’ll have the chance to blow air into molten glass placed in a mold and shape it, as well as finish the rim of the glass. Skilled artisans will guide you carefully, so even beginners or children can participate with ease. You can choose from regular colors, pink, yellow, beads, or glow-in-the-dark options.

Aside from glassware, Mori no Garasukan also offers various craft experiences like making accessories, photo frames, gel candles, and kaleidoscopes. Each session lasts about 30 minutes, making it an easy and fun activity. Create your one-of-a-kind Ryukyu glass craft while you’re here!

Inside the building is the “Ryukyu Glass Gallery,” showcasing glasses, plates, muddlers, chopstick rests, vases, ashtrays, and other Ryukyu glass items. They make perfect souvenirs or even interior decorations!

5. Taste Exquisite Sweets at “OKINAWA Fruits Land”

OKINAWA Fruits Land is a huge greenhouse complex divided into three areas: the Fruits Zone, Butterfly Garden, and Bird Yard. It’s an all-weather facility, so you can enjoy it even on rainy days without getting wet. Inside, there are dining areas, cafes, and shops, allowing you to spend a fun-filled day.

In the Fruits Zone, you’ll find tropical fruits unique to Okinawa, such as star fruit, dragon fruit, and passion fruit. The shop inside the facility even offers tastings of pineapples grown in the Fruits Zone—a must-try!

In the Butterfly Garden, you’ll see the “Idea leuconoe” butterfly, the largest in the danaid family. Its wingspan can reach up to 13cm, making it appear almost like a small bird. These butterflies are said to be attracted to the color red, so wearing red clothes might make you popular among them!

At the Bird Yard, you’ll be greeted by colorful rainbow lorikeets. Feeding them with cups of syrup (their food) is a favorite activity. These friendly birds will gather around you, offering great opportunities for close observation and photos.

Before leaving, relax at the Fruit Cafe. They serve delicious sweets made from subtropical fruits like mangoes and dragon fruit. One of the most popular items is the “Drinking Fruit Esthetic Bijiru Juice,” a seasonal fruit juice with tapioca and collagen. The rich flavor of the fresh fruits makes it worth trying!

6. Recommended for Sports Lovers: “21st Century Forest Park”

21st Century Forest Park is home to a variety of facilities, including baseball fields, rugby fields, tennis courts, and a stage. The park’s Nago City Baseball Stadium is well-known as the spring training site of the professional baseball team Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters. Besides sports facilities, you can also enjoy a leisurely walk through the park—perfect for sightseeing.

At 21st Century Forest Beach, there’s a small island in the middle, with paths dividing it into Play Beach, Community Beach, and Sunset Beach. The water is shallow and less affected by tides, making it safe and fun for kids. There are restrooms, showers, and barbecue areas that you can enjoy year-round!

After sweating it out playing sports or relaxing at the beach, enjoy a barbecue by the seaside as the sun sets—an unforgettable Okinawa memory. “21st Century Forest Park” is a great destination for both families and couples!

7. Visit the Summit Venue at “Bankoku Shinryokan”

Located at Busena Cape, Bankoku Shinryokan served as the main venue for the Kyushu-Okinawa Summit in July 2000. It’s a resort-style convention facility featuring the Summit Hall, Ocean Hall with panoramic sea views, and the Sunset Lounge, designed to foster international exchange.

The name Bankoku Shinryo means "Bridge Between Nations," symbolizing its role as a bridge that connects countries and cultures. Inside the facility, you can learn about the summit that once hosted world leaders. At the adjoining cafe terrace, you can enjoy Okinawan-inspired dishes and sweets.

The menu features Okinawan favorites like taco rice and Okinawa soba, as well as desserts like brown sugar parfait and hibiscus tea. The most popular item is the Ryukyu Tricolor Pancake, a sweet treat featuring Okinawan flavors like mango, purple sweet potato ice cream, and brown sugar ice cream—all in one dish!

The ocean spreads out in front of you, and the sea breeze enhances the flavor of the delicious meals. Amazingly, they also host weddings here, with only one ceremony allowed per day! Starting a new chapter of life at Bankoku Shinryokan, a place symbolizing connections between people, sounds wonderful.

8. Meet the Famous Sea Animal at Dugong no Sato

The dugong, a species designated as a Special Natural Monument of Japan, can be found in Oura Bay. Dugong no Sato is a facility offering nature activities around the bay, where you can enjoy glass-bottom boat rides to see coral and tropical fish, as well as try sea kayaking and diving.

The popular “Dugong Viewing Hill Tour” takes you to a hill where staff share valuable stories about the dugongs. The hill was once an observation point for Japan’s Ministry of the Environment. Unfortunately, due to environmental degradation, dugong sightings have become rare.

In front of the facility, you’ll find Oura Bay, home to blue coral colonies, hammer corals, and clownfish. One of the highlights is the Oura Bay Sea Kayak Experience, where, on clear days, you can see the coral and tropical fish even more vividly through the water’s surface.

There’s also a limited summer program where you can visit the uninhabited “Hirashima Island.” You’ll be amazed by the transparent water and white sandy beaches—perfect for those wanting to experience Okinawa’s untouched nature.

9. The Birthplace of Goya Tea at “OKINAWA Goya Park”

When you think of Okinawan specialties, goya (bitter melon) often comes to mind. OKINAWA Goya Park is a theme park where you can see and touch goya all year round, thanks to its unique hydroponic cultivation system.

Inside, you’ll find various types of goya, including the common green variety seen in markets, pure white “Taiwan Goya,” slender “Thai Goya,” and “Vietnam Goya,” which has large, star-like protrusions. It’s the only place in Japan where you can see so many different types of goya in one place!

After exploring the exhibition area, you’ll reach the Goya Shop, where shelves are packed with goya-based products—furikake, noodles, chips, chinsuko, tea, and more.

In fact, Okinawa’s famous “Goya Tea” originated here at OKINAWA Goya Park! The tea is made with 100% Okinawa-grown goya, without preservatives or additives. Free samples are available at the shop, so be sure to give it a try!

10. A Must-Visit for Sake Lovers! “Helios Distillery”

Kyoeda in Nago City is famous as a "Land of Famous Water." Amid this rich natural setting lies Helios Distillery, an old distillery. Here, they produce a wide variety of alcoholic beverages including awamori, beer, plum wine, and beni-imo (purple sweet potato) shochu. They offer daily factory tours at the awamori production facility. Best of all, the tours are free, and you can enjoy tastings afterward!

The old distillery, lined with oak barrels, is filled with the rich aroma of aged awamori. During the tour, you’ll get to touch the rice used in the process and see equipment like distillers and fermentation tanks—also used in whisky-making—guided by easy-to-understand explanations.

After learning all about awamori, it’s time for the much-anticipated tasting! The experience is surprisingly generous for a free tour, and if you find a favorite drink, they offer shipping services on the spot. Reservations are required for the tour, so be sure to check the website in advance. They also accept same-day reservations, so feel free to drop by.

11. Thrilling Adventures at “Doki Doki Yambarunture”!

Opened in 2015, Doki Doki Yambarunture offers thrilling buggy rides through the forests of Yanbaru. If you’re nervous about driving a buggy, don’t worry—over 90% of participants are first-timers!

The "Buggy Ride Tour" begins with a practice session to get you comfortable with handling the buggy. Once you’re ready, you’ll head into the forest. Midway through the tour, there’s a forest walk, which has become one of the most popular parts! A guide will explain the plants and animals of Yanbaru, and you can even catch and touch some insects up close.

While swimming and driving along Okinawa’s coastlines are great, why not soak up negative ions in the lush greenery for a change? Although it's a bit far from Naha City, the experience is well worth it! Enjoy this unique adventure in Nago City, close to Yanbaru’s forests.

12. Experience Okinawa’s Traditional Crafts at Kijimuna Studio

Okinawa’s traditional craft Bingata dyeing dates back to the 15th century. "Bingata" combines "bin" (colors) and "gata" (patterns), and the technique was introduced to the Ryukyu Kingdom through trade with China and Southeast Asia. With influences from Indian and Indonesian dyeing techniques, Bingata has a distinct Southeast Asian feel.

At Kijimuna Studio, you can try Bingata dyeing yourself! You can dye T-shirts and bags provided by the studio, or bring your own fabric items to decorate. You can create an original Okinawan craft, one-of-a-kind in the world, by choosing your favorite colors and designs.

Once worn exclusively by royalty, Bingata is now part of everyday life in Okinawa, appearing on household items and accessories. Experiencing Bingata dyeing for yourself is a great way to connect with Okinawan tradition—and it makes for a perfect souvenir!

13. Dinosaurs Appear in Nago! “DINO Dinosaur PARK Yanbaru Subtropical Forest”

DINO Dinosaur PARK Yanbaru Subtropical Forest is a theme park located next to Okashi Goten, famous for its Okinawan sweet, Beni-imo Tart. Inside the park, you’ll find over 50 life-size dinosaur models, including movie favorites like Tyrannosaurus and Stegosaurus. It’s a popular destination for visitors of all ages, from kids to adults.

But don’t think they’re just statues! Some dinosaurs roar loudly and suddenly move, sparking your sense of adventure. Dinosaur eggs are hidden among the trees, so why not go on a little treasure hunt with your kids? Toward the end of the course, there’s a kids' play area featuring dinosaur cars and slides.

The park is also full of flowers that bloom throughout the year, offering beautiful seasonal views. You can take a break at one of the rest stops or shop for souvenirs at Okashi Goten. Don’t miss out on DINO Dinosaur PARK Yanbaru Subtropical Forest, a fun spot for both kids and adults!

14. Spectacular Views at Warumi Ohashi Bridge with a Roadside Station!

Warumi Ohashi Bridge connects the Motobu Peninsula of Okinawa’s main island with Yagaji Island. Since its opening in 2010, it’s made travel from Nakijin to Ogimi and Kunigami much more convenient.

There’s a parking area just before the bridge where you can stop and take in the beautiful scenery. Although it’s quite high and might feel a bit scary, the panoramic view is incredible. On clear days, you can even spot Kouri Bridge between Motobu Peninsula and Yagaji Island. This 315-meter bridge is perfect for a scenic drive!

In 2013, Hashi no Eki Rikarika Warumi opened near the bridge. This roadside station offers a variety of local products from Nakijin, including vegetables, crafts, and cosmetics. Their Sata Andagi (Okinawan donuts) are highly recommended for their rich egg flavor! There are also rest areas behind the shop and on the rooftop, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the views after your drive.

15. Experience Shisa Making at “Atelier43”

Located on Yagaji Island, Atelier43 offers visitors the chance to make and paint their own Shisa, the traditional guardian statues of Okinawa. Enjoy creating your very own Shisa while listening to Okinawan music and gazing at the beach from the workshop.

For those who want to craft their Shisa from scratch, the Shisa Making Experience is perfect. Using red clay, you can shape and fire your Shisa. Although the process can be tricky, you’re welcome to take your time to make something you’re proud of. It only takes about 10 minutes to bake, so you can take it home on the same day.
If you want to add color, try the Shisa Making and Painting Experience! You can choose from 14 colors and create either a cool or playful Shisa—it's totally up to you. It’s a fantastic way to create lasting memories of Okinawa.

Since Atelier43 is located within a small village and there’s no signboard to preserve the scenery, be sure to check the website beforehand for directions.

16. Panoramic Views of Haneji Inland Sea at Arashiyama Observatory

Arashiyama Observatory offers a sweeping view of Haneji Inland Sea, often called the “Seto Inland Sea of Okinawa.” From here, you can see the deep blue ocean, Yagaji Island, and many other small islands. The contrast between the sea and the green islands is stunning. You can even spot Warumi Bridge in the distance!

Haneji Inland Sea is part of Okinawa Kaigan Quasi-National Park and is famous for its scenic beauty. In spring, azaleas and Easter lilies bloom, and the view from the observatory changes with the seasons, providing different experiences year-round. It’s also a wildlife protection area, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching.

Arashiyama is also known for its pineapple production. From June to September, you can enjoy views of pineapple fields on the way to the observatory. Freshly harvested pineapples are sold at the shop on the first floor—perfect to take home as a souvenir!

17. Start Your Trip with Information Gathering at Michi-no-Eki Kyoda Yanbaru Product Center

If you’re sightseeing in Nago by car, you’re likely to pass by Kyoda I.C. Right near the exit is Michi-no-Eki Kyoda Yanbaru Product Center, Okinawa Prefecture’s very first roadside station, which opened in 1994. It’s so popular that it now attracts about 1.5 million visitors annually and has been ranked No.1 among roadside stations in Japan.

The specialty product section is stocked with fresh vegetables and fruits from Okinawa, awamori (local liquor), sweets, beauty goods, and more. There are also local specialties from 12 towns and villages in northern Okinawa, arranged by region, so you can find your favorite items. Don’t miss the limited-edition souvenirs that can only be purchased here! In early summer, pineapples, mangoes, and dragon fruits fill the shop with a sweet fragrance.

One of the must-tries here is the local gourmet food. There’s a food court, a bakery, a snack bar, and a deli, perfect whether you want a full meal or just a quick break. You’ll find Okinawan favorites like sata andagi (Okinawan donuts), Okinawan tempura, and tacos—everything is delicious!

In addition to shopping, Michi-no-Eki Kyoda also serves as a tourist information center. They offer discount tickets for tourist attractions, making it a great place to gather information before starting your sightseeing adventure.

18. Discover Orion Beer at “Orion Happy Park”

Orion Beer is one of Okinawa’s most famous local beers. To share its story with more people, Orion Happy Park was established in Nago City. The park includes a factory tour, tasting area, exhibition space, restaurant, and shop.

The Orion Beer production process consists of eight steps: milling, mashing, fermentation, maturation, filtration, packaging, product inspection, and shipping. On the tour, you’ll get to see the entire production line in action! You can even touch and smell the malt and hops used in brewing.

Previously, the packaging process for kegs and cans wasn’t open to visitors, but after renovations, these areas are now part of the tour. Afterward, head to the Yanbaru Forest Restaurant for tasting time! At the beer counter, staff will pour you freshly brewed beer straight from the tap. Pair it with a delicious meal for the full experience.

This is the only Orion Beer factory open for tours, and it often gets crowded with group tours, so making a reservation in advance is highly recommended.

19. Experience High-Quality Ryukyu Glass at “Ryukyu Glass Workshop Glass Art Ai”

Since its founding in 1998, Glass Art Ai has blended traditional Okinawan craftsmanship with innovative designs, offering elegant, high-quality Ryukyu glass. Operated by female artisans, their glass pieces are praised for their sophisticated beauty. These fashionable Ryukyu glass items make wonderful gifts and souvenirs.

You can try three different activities here: Glass Blowing Experience, Accessory Glass Crafting, and Gel Candle Making. Working inside the studio can be a bit nerve-wracking, but the staff are friendly and provide full support, so you can enjoy the process with ease.

Note that the glass blowing experience is limited to participants aged 7 and above. However, the accessory and gel candle workshops are open to younger children, making it a perfect family-friendly activity!

20. Jewels by the Sea: “Sea Glass Beach”

Have you ever heard of “Sea Glass”? These are glass pieces found on beaches, smoothed and frosted by waves over time. Sea Glass Beach in Toyohara, Nago City, is famous for its abundance of these colorful glass fragments.

Originally discarded bottles and glass items, they have transformed over years of tumbling in the sea into jewel-like treasures. You’ll find beautiful sea glass in shades of green, blue, white, and orange. If you bring them to a workshop, you can make accessories or candle holders with them.

There are also pottery and metal fragments on the beach, so make sure to wear beach shoes when walking. Along the coast, pandanus trees provide shade, acting like natural beach umbrellas. After collecting sea glass, sit back and relax by the ocean.

◎ Summary

We’ve carefully selected and introduced the most attractive tourist spots in Nago City. Just looking at the photos makes you want to go right away, doesn’t it? Nago City offers plenty of programs and theme parks where you can fully experience nature, making it a perfect destination for family trips with children or romantic dates with your partner. There are also many islands in the northern part of Okinawa, so be sure to extend your trip and explore them too!