Shurijo Castle
Explore the historic Shurijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the unique Ryukyu culture and architecture.
Top Hotels in Okinawa
Top Flights to Okinawa
Top Activities in Okinawa
Highlights
Things to do in Okinawa
What travellers talk about most.
Tours
Cape Manzamo
Visit the breathtaking Cape Manzamo, known for its stunning ocean views and unique rock formations.
Shopping
Kokusai Street Shopping
Explore Kokusai Street, Okinawa's shopping hub, featuring a vast array of shops selling local crafts, souvenirs, and street food.
Outdoor
Snorkeling at Blue Cave
Experience the thrill of snorkeling in the Blue Cave, known for its luminous blue waters and vibrant marine life.
Ishigaki Island Hiking
Embark on a hiking adventure on Ishigaki Island, a paradise for nature lovers with lush trails and scenic views.
See it for yourself
Location videos
Reels and longer watches.
Featured for Okinawa
Traveller clips picked out for this place.
Watch & explore
Good to know
Practical info
Weather, costs and getting around.
When to go
Scored from each month’s typical high and its usual conditions.
GoodMixedAvoid
Best monthsOct – Mar
Worth avoidingApr – Jun, Sep
September · rainHigh 30°C Low 25°C
AvoidOkinawa has a subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Summers (June to September) are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F) and frequent rainfall due to the rainy season and typhoons. Winters (December to February) are mild and comfortable, with temperatures averaging between 15°C and 20°C (59°F to 68°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) offer pleasant weather, with warm temperatures and lower humidity, making these ideal seasons for travel. Rain can occur throughout the year, but it is more pronounced during the rainy season from late May to early June.
All 12 monthshighs, lows and conditions
Jan
19°14°
Feb
19°14°
Mar
21°16°
Apr
24°19°
May
26°22°
Jun
29°25°
Jul
31°26°
Aug
31°26°
Sep
30°25°
Oct
27°23°
Nov
24°20°
Dec
21°16°
Currency
¥ | JPY | Japanese Yen
Population
0.1 million
Density
2,858 / km²
Local time
Budget / day
¥5000 - ¥30000
Also known as
Kerama Islands, 沖縄県 (Okinawa Prefecture), Kumejima, 琉球群島 (Ryūkyū-gun-tō), Kunigami
Know before you go
Local guide
A deeper read on Okinawa.
What people love
Okinawa, located in Japan, is a popular travel destination with many advantages. Some of the pros of traveling to Okinawa include:
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Beautiful Beaches: Okinawa is known for its stunning beaches with crystal clear waters and white sandy shores. Visitors can enjoy relaxing by the beach, swimming, snorkeling, and diving in the vibrant marine life.
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Rich Culture: Okinawa has a unique culture influenced by its history and location. Visitors can explore traditional Ryukyuan architecture, sample local cuisine, and attend cultural performances such as Eisa dance and Sanshin music.
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Historical Sites: Okinawa has a rich history, with many historical sites and landmarks to explore. Visitors can visit Shurijo Castle, Nakagusuku Castle, and the Peace Memorial Park to learn about Okinawa's past.
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Outdoor Activities: Okinawa offers a wide range of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can go hiking in the lush jungles, explore mangrove forests, and even try water sports like kayaking and parasailing.
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Unique Wildlife: Okinawa is home to diverse wildlife, including the famous Okinawan dugong. Visitors can visit the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium to see a variety of marine life, including whale sharks.
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Relaxing Atmosphere: Okinawa is known for its laid-back and relaxing atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for those looking to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Overall, traveling to Okinawa offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, history, and outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for all types of travelers.
What to know
Traveling to Okinawa, Japan, like any destination, has its cons. Here are some potential drawbacks to consider:
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High Cost: Okinawa can be relatively expensive compared to other parts of Japan. Accommodation, transportation, and activities may be pricier in Okinawa due to its popularity as a tourist destination.
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Language Barrier: While many people in the tourism industry in Okinawa may speak some English, the overall level of English proficiency may not be as high as in major cities like Tokyo or Osaka. Communication could be a challenge, especially when trying to navigate rural areas.
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Weather: Okinawa is prone to typhoons during certain times of the year, particularly in the summer and early autumn. Typhoons can disrupt travel plans and activities, so it's essential to check the weather forecast before your trip.
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Crowds: Okinawa is a popular destination, especially during peak tourist seasons. This means that popular attractions and beaches can get crowded, detracting from the overall experience.
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Limited Public Transportation: While Okinawa has some public transportation options like buses and monorails, they may not be as extensive or convenient as in other parts of Japan. Renting a car may be necessary to explore the island fully.
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Cultural Sensitivity: As a unique region with its own distinct culture, it's essential for visitors to be respectful and mindful of local customs and traditions. Failing to do so could lead to misunderstandings or unintentional disrespect.
Please note that these cons may vary depending on personal preferences and travel styles. It's always a good idea to research and plan ahead to mitigate any potential challenges during your trip to Okinawa.