5 Things To Do In Okinawa If You’re Visiting The ‘Hawaii’ Of Japan For The First Time

Okinawa is a popular city in Japan made up of a group of islands on the South of mainland Japan. They are best known for their beaches with clear blue seawater and various famous shopping spots such as the Kokusai Dori Street. If you’re looking for a getaway with scenic views and bustling shopping districts, Okinawa could be the perfect place for you.

If you are visiting the city for the first time, check out our list of top five places to visit in Okinawa, the ‘Hawaii’ of Japan!

#1 Go shopping at the Ashibinaa Okinawa Outlet Mall

Photo credit: Okinawa Travel Info

The Ashibinaa Outlet Mall is packed with famous designer brand stores such as Michael Kors, Kate Spade, and our all time classic, Gucci. Located at just a mere 15 minutes drive from the Naha airport, it is extremely convenient for you to drop by anytime. Be prepared to spend a ton of money here as the stores would all provide you with huge discounts, mostly ranging from 40% to 50%.

Address: 1-188 Toyosaki, Tomigusuku, Okinawa 901-0225, Japan

• #2 Visit the former Japanese Navy Underground Headquaters

Photo credit: Pinterest

If you’re a history nerd, this place is perfect for you! At a price of 400 yen (approximately SGD 5.12), you’re able to have a walk through a museum and the untouched underground tunnel which the Japanese Navy based their headquaters at. In order to avoid surrender, a Japanese General reportedly even committed suicide with his comrades inside the tunnel, with the use of a hand grenade. Till this day, the blood of the Japanese soldiers and the marks the explosion left on the walls are still clearly visible. Pay a visit to the headquaters for a first hand experience of the life of a Japanese soldier back in the World War II.

Address: 236 Tomigusuku, Okinawa 901-0241, Japan

#3 Visit the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Photo credit: Japan Guide

Home to various giant whale sharks and manta rays, the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium has the world’s largest tank till date, the Kuroshio Tank. This three storey sea aquarium is bound to bring you an experience like no other, as you walk through the dimly lit paths filled with gigantic fish tanks containing all different rare species of fish. You could even grab a meal by the Kuroshio tank and enjoy your food with the giant whale sharks swimming right beside you! Though a little bit far away from the city area of Okinawa, the Churaumi Aquarium is definitely worth a visit.

Address: 424 Azaishikawa, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan

#4 Visit the Mihama American Village

Photo credit: Japan Travel

Immense yourself in the California vibes at the American Village, filled with entertainment and amusement facilities such as a mini arcade and a Ferris Wheel. The American Village is also a great spot for your perfect Instagram shots as it is filled with vintage shops and nice decors. Be sure to head down to the bars and restaurants by the sea during sunset for the greatest view ever.

Address: 字美滨, Chatan, Nakagami District, Okinawa 904-0115, Japan

#5 Go shopping at the Kokusai Dori Street

Photo credit: Japan Travel

Located in Prefecture, the heartland of Okinawa, Kokusai Dori is the perfect spot for you to grab your beauty products, souvenirs, and Okinawa-limited snacks. Packed with various famous Japanese drugstores like the Sapporo Drug Store, you’re bound to get a great deal here. Remember to purchase some of the Okinawa-limited snacks home like the Benimo Sweet Potato Tart as well.

Address: 3 Chome-2-10 Makishi, Naha, Okinawa 900-0013, Japan

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📸 Featured Image: Pinterest, Annees-de-Pelerinage