Want to know more about where Okinawa is located? You’ve come to the right place. You know that feeling when you stumble upon a place that wasn’t in your plans, but ends up being one of the highlights of your trip? That’s exactly what happened to us with Okinawa.
We were on our second round-the-world trip, with more than 50 days planned to explore Japan from north to south. Since we were coming from Taiwan, it made perfect sense to start in the south — and that’s how Okinawa popped up on our map. Literally — we looked at the map and said: “why don’t we start right here?” Okinawa’s location, between Japan’s main islands and Taiwan, made it the perfect starting point.
We didn’t know much — just that it was a Japanese island with tropical beaches and its own distinct culture. Only later did we realize that Okinawa is more than just an island: it’s one of Japan’s subtropical gems. And if you’re also looking for unique destinations across the Japanese archipelago, trust us — this island deserves a spot on your itinerary.
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Geographical Location of Okinawa
Okinawa is in a strategic and fascinating spot — right in the middle of the East China Sea, between mainland Japan and Taiwan. The main island lies about 640 km from Japan’s coast and around 500 km from Taiwan. According to official data from the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), this geographic proximity makes Okinawa a natural bridge between Japan and the rest of East Asia.
Additionally, as detailed in a recent Expresso article, Okinawa holds strategic geopolitical importance, especially due to the presence of U.S. military bases in the region, maintained since the end of World War II.
From an environmental and tourism standpoint, Okinawa represents the warmer, tropical side of Japan. It’s one of the few regions with a subtropical climate — making it a top choice for travelers in search of sun and sea.
Okinawa in the Context of the Ryukyu Islands
When people talk about the Japan Islands, most think of Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku. But there’s an island chain that often goes unnoticed: the Ryukyu Islands.
This island chain forms an arc stretching from southern Kyushu to northern Taiwan, with Okinawa at its center. According to Britannica, the Ryukyu Archipelago includes over 100 islands, divided into three major groups: Amami in the north, Okinawa in the center, and Sakishima in the south — home to the well-known Miyako and Ishigaki.
Japan Travel highlights Okinawa as the ideal hub to explore the rest of this island chain — whether by ferry or short flights. Sitting in the heart of the Ryukyus, Okinawa isn’t just an island — it’s a gateway to Japan’s tropical and lesser-known side.
Islands Accessible by Boat from Okinawa
One of the best things about visiting Okinawa is this: you’re surrounded by paradise islands, many of which are easy to reach by boat. If you love exploring, you’ll love the freedom of hopping from island to island.
- The Kerama Islands, like Tokashiki, Zamami, and Aka, are perfect for a day trip from Naha. According to Japan Travel, these islands are known for crystal-clear waters and coral reefs — ideal for snorkeling, diving, and even whale watching during the right season.
- Further north, Ie Island is a great option if you’re staying in Motobu. It’s small, flat, and perfect for cycling. Meanwhile, the more remote Kume Island offers secluded beaches and a preserved local culture — ideal for truly disconnecting.
- If you’ve got more time and want to dive deeper into the archipelago, the Miyako and Yaeyama Islands (like Ishigaki and Iriomote) are true tropical paradises. According to the official Travel Japan website, you can reach them by flight from Naha, and they also have ferry connections between them.
Boat travel times between Okinawa and nearby islands
To help you plan better, here’s a handy summary of travel times between Okinawa and some of the main nearby islands — confirmed by sources like Rome2Rio and GetYourGuide.
| Destination | Departure & Duration | Where to buy tickets |
|---|---|---|
| Kerama Islands (Tokashiki, Zamami, Aka) | Between 30 minutes (high-speed boat) and 1h50 (regular ferry) from Tomari Port in Naha. | Kerama Shuttle |
| Ie Island | About 30 minutes by ferry from Motobu, in the north of the main island. | Ie Island Ferry |
| Kume Island | Ferry from Naha takes 3 to 4 hours, depending on the type of vessel. | Kume Line |
| Miyako and Yaeyama Islands | Usually accessed by plane, but between islands like Ishigaki and Iriomote there are high-speed boats taking 40 to 50 minutes. | Travel Japan |
Helpful tip: ferry tickets sell out quickly during peak season, so it’s a good idea to book in advance — especially if you’re bringing a car.
Okinawa’s subtropical climate
Okinawa stands out on Japan’s map not just for its geography, but also for its weather. The region has a humid subtropical climate, with long summers, mild winters, and temperatures that rarely drop below 16 °C — according to the Japan Meteorological Agency.
From June to October, temperatures hover around 32 °C. In winter (December to February), they stay between 15 and 20 °C, making it a very pleasant time to explore.
However, there are two seasonal phenomena to keep in mind:
- The rainy season, which runs from mid-May to the end of June;
- The typhoon season, which can occur between June and September — as noted on the official Visit Okinawa Japan website.
The best times to visit Okinawa are May to early June, or September, when the weather is stable and prices are more affordable.
On top of that, the mild weather and high humidity contribute to the island’s lush greenery — making it a true ambassador of the subtropical Japan concept.
Unique nature and landscapes
If you think Japan is only temples, busy cities, and bullet trains, Okinawa will prove you wrong. This island — or rather, this archipelago — shows you a much more tropical, laid-back, and natural side of Japan.
Okinawa is famous for its white sand beaches and turquoise sea, but also for the coral reefs stretching along the coast — some of them among the richest in biodiversity in the Pacific. According to the Japan National Tourism Organization, it’s one of the best places in the country for diving and snorkeling.
In the north of the main island, you’ll find the Yanbaru subtropical forest, a natural reserve with trails, waterfalls, and endemic species — including the Iriomote wild cat (which only exists on the island of the same name, further south). The area’s biodiversity is so important that it was designated a UNESCO Natural Heritage Site in 2021, as reported by MOFA Japan.
If you’re into untouched nature, venture out on these trails. It’s really worth it.
Okinawa as a Blue Zone
One of the things that fascinated us most about Okinawa was discovering that it’s considered a “Blue Zone” — one of the rare places in the world where people live longer and healthier lives.
According to a study published by National Geographic, in collaboration with researchers like Dan Buettner, Okinawa has one of the highest concentrations of centenarians per capita on the planet. But it’s not just about longevity — it’s about quality of life. The traditional diet is based on natural, local foods like vegetables, seaweed, tofu, fresh fish, and purple sweet potato (beni imo).
On top of that, life runs at a slower pace, the community is close-knit, and social bonds are strong. This lifestyle — known locally as yuimaru (mutual cooperation) — is one of the secrets behind the population’s lasting health and happiness.
If you want to learn more about this way of life, the website Voyapon shares stories from travelers and locals that show how life in Okinawa is different — and inspiring.
Cultural Differences from Mainland Japan
You’re in Japan, but something about Okinawa feels… different. And you’ll notice it right away — in the architecture, the food, the music, and even the pace of life.
For centuries, Okinawa was an independent kingdom: the Ryukyu Kingdom, which maintained trade and cultural relations with China, Korea, Southeast Asia, and Japan. According to Nippon.com, this external influence shaped a unique culture, distinct from Japan’s main islands.
It was only in 1879 that Okinawa was officially annexed to Japan, and even after that, it kept its unique traditions: music played with the sanshin (a local string instrument), bingata textiles, eisa dances, and spiritual rituals led by priestesses called noro.
Even the local language isn’t traditional Japanese — the Ryukyuan dialects, now endangered, are still spoken in some communities, as pointed out by UNESCO.
This cultural heritage makes Okinawa more than just a beach destination — it’s a journey into Japanese history itself, full of identity, pride, and authenticity.
Local customs and spirituality
One of the first things you notice when arriving in Okinawa is the strength of traditions and spirituality in daily life. Even if you’re just passing through, you’ll feel the deep respect for nature, ancestors, and the cycles of life.
Local spirituality has animist roots — it’s believed that everything has a spirit, from trees to rocks. According to Visit Okinawa Japan, small altars called utaki are scattered throughout the island, often in natural places like forests or by the sea.
Women play a key role in spiritual practices. The noro, or local priestesses, conduct ceremonies and maintain the connection between the living and their ancestors. Even today, in many older communities, these women are respected as keepers of tradition.
And then there are the festivals — full of color, music, dance, and community spirit. The most famous is the Eisa Matsuri, with drum groups parading through the streets to the sound of the sanshin. The Kadena Air Base even provides free cultural guides that explain these celebrations to newcomers.
Food and language
Food in Okinawa is a fusion — and that says a lot about the island’s history. Chinese, Japanese, American, and local influences have created unique dishes you won’t find anywhere else in Japan.
The most famous dish is Okinawa soba, a soup with thicker noodles and slowly simmered pork. Then there’s goya champuru, a stir-fry with vegetables and goya (a type of bitter melon locals love), tofu, and eggs. Eating seaweed, local tofu, and purple sweet potato is also essential to the local diet — as highlighted by the Japan Guide.
And since the island was under U.S. control for decades, there are also quirky dishes like taco rice — rice topped with ground beef, lettuce, tomato, and cheese. Sounds strange? It’s actually delicious.
Linguistically, besides standard Japanese, Okinawa has its own traditional languages: the Ryukyuan dialects, such as Uchinaguchi. While few young people speak them today, you can still hear them from elders in rural villages. According to UNESCO, these languages are at risk of disappearing, but there are local efforts to preserve them.
American influence and World War II
It’s impossible to talk about Okinawa without mentioning its recent history and the American presence, still visible in many aspects of the island.
During World War II, Okinawa was the site of one of the bloodiest battles in the Pacific. According to Travel Japan Australia, over 100,000 civilians died, and the island was almost completely destroyed.
After the war, Okinawa was under U.S. administration until 1972. Several U.S. military bases are still in operation today, which continues to generate protests and debate among locals, as reported by BBC News Brasil.
At the same time, this influence created a unique cultural fusion: neighborhoods with American-style architecture, signs in English, diner-style restaurants, burgers next to sushi on the menu, and shops selling U.S. imports.
This duality between tradition and modernity, between Japan and America, is part of Okinawa’s present identity. An island that suffered, but reinvented itself with resilience and pride.
How to get to Okinawa
Even though it seems remote, Okinawa is well connected. The most common way to get there is by plane. There are direct flights from Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and other Japanese cities with airlines like ANA, JAL, Peach, or Jetstar Japan. If you’re in other parts of Asia, such as Taiwan, Hong Kong, or Seoul, there are also direct flights to Naha Airport (Japan Travel).
From Naha, you can explore the main island or catch another flight to the Miyako or Ishigaki islands (that’s what we did), operated by JTA (Japan Transocean Air) and RAC (Ryukyu Air Commuter). These domestic connections are frequent and often affordable if booked in advance.
How to get around the island
The best way to explore Okinawa is by renting a car. Outside of Naha, public transport is limited and infrequent. If you want to visit beaches, nature trails, or the north of the island, having a car gives you freedom and saves time. We used Klook and had a great experience — you can also use DiscoverCars as a reliable alternative.
Within Naha, there’s a monorail (Yui Rail) that connects the airport to downtown and key sights like Shuri Castle. There are also regional buses, but keep in mind: schedules are sparse and navigation can be tricky if you don’t speak Japanese.
To visit nearby islands, take ferries from Tomari Port (in Naha) or Motobu Port (in the north). You can check schedules at Visit Okinawa Japan.
Where to stay in Okinawa: north or south?
It all depends on the type of trip you’re planning:
- Southern area (Naha and surroundings): perfect if you want to explore local markets, museums, restaurants, and urban life. It’s also more convenient if you have limited time or early flights. The Kokusai Dori district is the liveliest.
- Northern area (Motobu, Nago): perfect if you’re looking for nature, peace, and beaches. You’ll find resorts here, the famous Churaumi Aquarium, and the stunning Emerald Beach. The Onna region is also popular among divers.
If you have more than four days, it’s worth splitting your stay between the north and the south to truly experience the contrast and enjoy the best of both worlds — that’s what we did in our Okinawa itinerary: two days in Naha and three days in Nago.
Check the best areas and accommodations where to stay in Okinawa in our guide.
What you can’t miss
Okinawa has a vibe of its own — here are the must-see places to truly feel it:
- Beaches: Emerald Beach, Manza Beach, Mibaru, Kouri Island, and the incredible Sunayama Beach (in Miyako) stand out for their white sand and crystal-clear water.
- Culture and history: visit Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; explore the ruins of the Ryukyu Kingdom and stop by the Makishi Public Market in Naha to taste the local food.
- Nature: head to the Yanbaru Forest, walk through Gyokusendo Cave, hike to Hiji Waterfall, and check out the southern mangroves.
- Marine life: the Churaumi Aquarium is one of the largest in Asia, and snorkeling trips to the Kerama Islands are out of this world.
Extra travel tips
- Avoid typhoon season: from June to September. Visit in May, early June, or late September.
- Book everything in advance: ferries, domestic flights, and accommodation — especially in high season.
- eSIM card: Holafly offers unlimited data for your Okinawa trip, essential for maps, translations, and calls.
- Travel insurance: HeymoHeymondondo is always with us on our trips, and Japan is no exception. Healthcare for foreigners can be expensive.
- Comfortable shoes: you’ll walk a lot — both in cities and nature.
- Interact with locals: they’re friendly, and there’s a lot to learn from Okinawan culture.
Is it worth including Okinawa in your trip?
Absolutely. Okinawa isn’t “just” an island — it’s a whole different Japan. Tropical, laid-back, with deep history and a strong identity. If your goal is to go beyond the Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka classics, this island is for you.
With paradise beaches, rich culture, delicious food, and a relaxed pace of life, Okinawa is the perfect place to slow down, take a deep breath… and just live.
FAQs
Is Okinawa safe for solo travelers?
Yes, it’s extremely safe. Even at night, in quieter areas, the risk is very low.
Do I need a separate visa to visit Okinawa?
No. Okinawa is part of Japan. If you have a valid Japanese visa or don’t need a visa to enter Japan, you’re all set.
Is it easy to communicate in English?
In tourist areas, yes. Outside of them, not so much — but locals always try to help. Use translation apps to make things easier.
What’s the best way to explore nearby islands?
Ferries to closer islands (Kerama, Ie, Kume) and flights for the farther ones (Miyako, Ishigaki). Book in advance.
Is it a good destination for families with kids?
Yes! Safe beaches, easy trails, a huge aquarium, great food, and family-friendly stays. Perfect for traveling with kids.
