Awesome Places in Okinawa
Okinawa is so full of amazing places that you could live here for decades and not visit them all. Ancient castles and gravesites, beautiful caves, natural parks, beaches, scenic lookouts, hiking trails and fascinating urban walks are all here waiting to be explored. Some of the cost a bit to enter, but a lot of them are free. On this page, we feature a growing collection of articles about Okinawa’s natural and historical wonders.
Kin Kannon-ji Temple and Nisshudo Cave
Kin Kannon-Ji Temple and Nisshudo Cave offer a quiet retreat for spiritual communion and deep healing.
Ou Island (Oujima), Okinawa
Ou Island in Nanjo offers delicious tempura, cultural enrichment, and cats.
Nuchimasu Salt Factory in Okinawa (and Kafu Banta)
Nuchimasu Salt factory on Miyagi Island produces the most mineral-rich salt in the world.
Cape Manzamo Okinawa: An Iconic Cliff, Ocean Views and Rich Cultural Heritage
The ‘Elephant Trunk’ Cliff of Cape Manzamo is one of Okinawa’s most famed natural landmarks.
Okukubi River Mangrove in Kin: Mangroves of Okinawa Part 2
The Okukubi River Mangrove in Kin Town is one of the best preserved coastal wetlands in Okinawa.
Tsuken Island in Okinawa
Tsuken Island is an amazing day-trip only a short ferry ride from Okinawa main island.
Umi no Isukia Cafe: A view from the gods
Umi no Isukiya is a charming fusion restaurant offering delicious food, a tranquil healing atmosphere and a commanding view of Okinawa’s southern ocean.
Mangroves of Okinawa: Wansaka Oura Park
The mangroves of Wansaka Oura Park are teeming with beautiful wildlife and the village offers a peaceful encounter with rural Okinawa.
Shooting Cherry Blossoms in Okinawa
Where to enjoy cherry blossoms in Okinawa and tips for taking the best blossom pictures.
Aha Dam Kohan Park
Aha Dam (and Kouhan Park) in Kunigami is a little-known spot that offers world-class views of jungle covered mountains.
Cape Hedo Okinawa: History and Scenery
Cape Hedo, a spectacular viewing point, is the northernmost point of land on Okinawa main island.
A Day at Nago Pineapple Park in Okinawa
Nago Pineapple Park is one of the most popular experiences in northern Okinawa. It may look like another tacky tourist trap, but prepare to be impressed.
Todoroki Falls in Nago, Okinawa
One of the most visited waterfalls on the Okinawa main island, Torodoki Falls an the park around it make for an easy refreshing getaway.
The Majestic Fukugi Trees of Bise in Okinawa
Tall, stately rows of fukugi trees line the rustic streets of Bise, a tiny hamlet in the Motobu peninsula, Okinawa.
Cave Okinawa – A Natural Wonder in Uruma City
Cave Okinawa is an easily accessible subterranean wonder right in the middle of the Uruma City.
The Ancient Grave of an Okinawan Queen (and other sites in Kitanakagusuku)
Mere steps from the road in Kitanakakusuku rests an Okinawan queen in her ancient grave. Walk this peaceful forest path and others nearby to discover a true Okinawan power spot.
Okinawa Comprehensive Athletic Park
With a beach, surprisingly abundant nature and lots of room to play, Okinawa Comprehensive Athletic Park is an oasis of green at the edge of Okinawa City.
The Steps at Nakagusuku Park
(Easy) The wooden-plank walkway through the forest in Nakagusuku park offers a fun trek up the hillside that can be enjoyed without going too far out of your way.
Igimi Hakinzo Observation Deck in Ogimi, Okinawa
Igimi Hakinzo Observation Desk in Ogimi Township offers a great view of the oceans and the mountains in Okinawa’s north.