region of japan

Okinawa沖縄

Subtropical islands with their own history and food.

Okinawa is a chain of subtropical islands far south of the main islands. It was once the Ryukyu Kingdom, with its own culture, music and food, and that still shows. Naha is the gateway, with Shuri Castle and lively markets. The outer islands, such as Miyakojima and Ishigaki, have some of Japan's clearest water and coral reefs. It is warm most of the year, but summer is typhoon season.

Places to go

NahaOkinawa's warm, busy gateway city.Miyakojima local favoritePowder-white beaches and long bridges over blue water.Ishigaki local favoriteCoral reefs and the gateway to the Yaeyama islands.

Through the year

springNaha's cherry trees bloom in winter, opening around January 16, and by April the sea is warming up.
summerThe rainy season usually runs from about May 10 to June 21, then it is hot, with typhoons possible.
autumnOctober is still warm, around 25°C in Naha, and good for the beach.
winterMild, around 17°C in January, but windier and cloudier, with cooler water.

Don’t miss

  • NahaShuri Castle, markets and the main airport.
  • MiyakojimaWhite-sand beaches and long bridges to small islands.
  • IshigakiCoral reefs and a hub for the Yaeyama islands.
  • IriomoteJungle rivers and waterfalls, best with a guide.
  • Kume IslandHatenohama sandbar, reached only by boat.

What to eat

  • Okinawa sobaWheat noodles in a light broth with pork.
  • Goya champuruStir-fried bitter melon with tofu and egg.
  • RafutePork belly simmered in soy and awamori.
  • Sata andagiOkinawan doughnuts, crisp outside.

Getting there

Tokyo (Haneda) → Naha: about 2h25–2h45 by air. Naha → Miyakojima: about 45 min by air.

Good for: Beach lovers, Divers and snorkelers, Families

psst — Rent a car for the islands, and keep a flexible day in typhoon season in case flights or ferries are canceled.