Okinawa Prefecture, which comprises of the main island and over 150 smaller ones, is an often-overlooked region of Japan famous for its topaz waters, laidback way of life and abundant wildlife. Not sure where to start? Here are 10 activities to put at the top of your list.
1. Head beneath the waves
Known as the Galapagos of the East, Okinawa is one of Japan’s richest destinations in terms of wildlife, and many of its most fascinating creatures (not to mention hundreds of types of coral) live below the waves. Kerama Shotō National Park has 90,475 hectares of ocean within its boundaries, and is one of Japan’s top diving spots. Head beneath the waves and you’ll discover rainbow-hued coral walls (over 60% of Japan’s coral species are found here), a dazzling variety of marine life and some of the clearest waters in Asia.
2. Take in some culture
From mid-15th century for approximately 450 years the Kingdom of Ryukyu ruled over Okinawa. Its influence is still seen today across the region with castle ruins, gardens and world heritage sites to explore. The performing arts and crafts from this time can also be enjoyed – offering a blend of ancient Chinese and Japanese cultures and customs. A highlight must be Kumiodori - which UNESCO recognises as an ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage’. A definite curiosity to catch.
3. Sunbathe
You simply can’t visit Okinawa without a spell sprawling on its white sand beaches. Even those who’ve drooled over Instagram snaps of its breathtaking coastline will be wowed by its real-life beauty – glass-clear water lapping at endless stretches of powdery sand. The top spots to unfurl your beach towel include Manza Beach, on the northern tip of Okinawa Island and Furuzamami Beach on the densely forested Zamami Island (there’s a regular ferry service connecting it with Okinawa Island).
4. Enjoy park life
As much as we love Japan’s neon-drenched cities, the country’s got some spectacular rural areas too, and Okinawa is one of the best examples. Take the time to explore its wildlife-filled forests and its three national parks: Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park (a primeval subtropical forest flanked by ocean and coral reefs), Yambaru National Park (which is incredibly popular with hikers) and the aforementioned Kerama Shoto National Park, famous for its sparkling seas and abundant marine life.
5. Eat. A lot.
Busting the myth that Japanese cuisine is all about sushi is hard work in Okinawa, simply because this is where you’ll find some of Japan’s best. However, it’s a brilliant place for seafood in general. An abundance of tuna means you’ll find excellent sashimi here, and at Naha’s Tomari Iyumachi fish market, a dedicated viewing window allows you to watch freshly-caught, enormous tuna being carved up and sold to local chefs and shop owners. Itoman’s Osakana Center is a great place to purchase everything from raw oysters and cod milt to shrimp and tuna cutlets, which can all be purchased pre-cooked, so you can eat them on the spot.
6. Celebrate plant power
The region’s sub-tropical climate means Okinawa is one of Japan’s most fertile spots, a reminder of which is the Southeast Botanical Gardens, where you’ll find thousands of plants (including 1,300 species of tree) and beautifully-manicured lawns. There are canals, bridges and winding walkways, along with a small petting zoo – head here to pet various species, such as goats and capybaras.
7. Sign up for some karate fun
Okinawa is regarded as the birthplace of karate. The philosophy of the island was integral to the development of this martial art that cultivates a tough body and spirit through rigorous training, while at the same time building peace-loving character. Karate is a part of a culture that Okinawans are proud of and the region is dotted with stone monuments paying tribute to this ancient form of martial art, along with a packed calendar of tournaments, including the annual Okinawa Traditional Kobudo World Tournament.
8. Take a subterranean selfie
The southern islands of the Prefecture are mostly made from super-soft limestone, hence the huge number of caves. One of its most famous is Gyokusendo, a five-kilometre-long stalactite and stalagmite-filled cavern formed 300,000 years ago. You’ll find it near the entrance to the Okinawa World theme park – guided tours last around one hour.
9. Get crafty
Okinawa has strong connections with various art forms, many of which date back to the Ryukyu Kingdom which governed Okinawa between the fourteenth and nineteenth centuries. Local artisans still produce ‘Yachimun’ (pottery) in styles typical of these times. Tsuboya Yachimun Street, located around 20 minutes from the airport, is the place to catch a glimpse of the Okinawa of old, with expert potters displaying their best Yachimun. Some shops also offer pottery-making experiences, making this a great spot to make both memories and souvenirs!
10. Embark on a health kick
Everyone knows how healthy the Japanese are, but Okinawans take it to a new level. The islands have the highest concentration of people aged over 100 and there’s an ongoing study (the Okinawan Centenarian Study) to investigate this longevity. Fancy an Okinawan health kick? Start by sampling the local salt – its nutritional value (it contains 21 different minerals) has earned it a Guinness World Record. Make sure you feast on local produce, too. An abundance of green vegetables, soybeans, tofu, fish and seaweed is believed to be the reason so many Okinawans live beyond 100, and this healthy cuisine is the reason locals say “kusui naibitan” (“to become medicine”) after meals, in honour of Okinawa’s rich culinary offerings.
Plan your trip
Okinawa offers something for everyone – from its incredible beaches and wildlife, to stunning historical sites and its famed ’Nuchigusui’ life philosophy.
Experience this other side of Japan with Cathay Pacific’s daily flights from London or Manchester from £619 return. Getting to Okinawa is easier than ever with UK flights via Hong Kong International Airport, consistently voted one of the world’s best. It’s also got a whole load more comfortable with Cathay Pacific’s award-winning inflight service and affordable Premium Economy class that balances budget and relaxation. For best rates book direct through the Cathaypacific.com flight booking tool.