JP · Okinawa Prefecture · 26.48°N 127.93°E

okinawa

Japan's tropical side: clear blue water, Churaumi Aquarium's whale sharks, taco rice.

Best time
Late March to early May, and October to November, are warm and fairly dry. The rainy season runs roughly May to June, and typhoons can hit from July to October. Winter is mild but too cool for most swimmers.
How long
4–5 days
Getting there
There are few direct flights from KL, so most people fly to Naha with one stop, usually via Taipei or a mainland Japanese airport. A monorail runs from Naha Airport into town.
Save postcard
JP · Okinawa Prefectureokinawa26.48°N 127.93°Egowherelah.com
Dear group chat,Japan's tropical side: clear blue water, Churaumi Aquarium's whale sharks, taco rice.— gowherelahTo: whoever’s drivingOkinawaJP, Okinawa Prefecture
KLokinawa
≈ 3,814 km from KL, as the crow flies
Kokusai-dori (Kokusai street), Naha, Okinawa prefecture, Japan

Photo: 663highland · CC BY 2.5

1 / 5

Photos: Wikimedia Commons, credited on each.

The main island of Japan's subtropical south, with its own Ryukyu history, food and culture. Expect clear water and beaches, a big aquarium, castle ruins and wartime memorials, all within a day's drive of Naha.

Makan

  1. Okinawa sobaThick wheat noodles in a light broth, usually topped with pork.Map ↗
  2. Taco riceTaco fillings piled on rice, an Okinawan creation from near the US bases.Map ↗
  3. Goya champuruStir-fried bitter gourd with tofu and egg, often with pork or Spam.Map ↗
  4. Sata andagiRound Okinawan doughnuts, crisp outside and dense inside.Map ↗

Things to do

  1. Okinawa Churaumi AquariumWhale sharks and manta rays in one of the world's biggest tanks, up on the Motobu Peninsula.Map ↗
  2. Kokusai-doriNaha's main street of souvenir shops and eateries, with covered market arcades just off it.Map ↗
  3. Kouri IslandDrive across a long bridge over turquoise water to a small island with beaches.Map ↗
  4. Kerama IslandsA ferry ride from Naha for some of Japan's clearest water and best snorkelling.Map ↗
  5. Okinawa Peace Memorial ParkA quiet park on the southern cliffs remembering the Battle of Okinawa.Map ↗

Good to know

  • Rent a car to get beyond Naha. Japan drives on the left like Malaysia, but you need an International Driving Permit from JPJ.
  • In summer, swim at beaches with jellyfish nets and lifeguards.
  • Pork is in many local dishes. Look for halal or Muslim-friendly signs if you need them.

Last checked October 2026. Things change, so check opening times, fees and transport before you go.