For almost half a millennium, Okinawa was an independent nation—the autonomous Ryukyu Kingdom. While now fully integrated into Japan, this laid-back, semi-tropical archipelago known for its unique Indigenous culture and sugar-white shorelines still feels like a different world. Most visitors stick to Naha, but Okinawa boasts more than 48 inhabited islands. Things to do in Okinawa encompass coastal activities like snorkeling or beach-hopping, taking in a traditional pottery or textile-weaving demonstration, getting a peek at whale sharks in Churaumi Aquarium, and exploring mangrove jungles in Iriomote or Ishigaki.
Thanks to its subtropical climate, Okinawa stays warm throughout the year. The rainy season, however, lasts from early May to early June, and the rest of the summer can be oppressively hot and humid; there are often typhoons in July and August. The best times to visit are the spring and fall (from March until early May, and from late September to November).
The main island of Okinawa has an efficient public transportation that includes both buses and monorails. Ferries and planes can connect you to other islands around the archipelago. Some islands are small enough that you can explore them on foot or by bicycle, but renting a car or booking a tour will let you see more sights and venture off the beaten path.
Okinawa’s main island hosts a number of colorful festivals throughout the year. If you can cope with summer’s heat and humidity, you can catch two of the biggest in August: the Naha Giant Tug of War and the Okinawa Zento Eisa Matsuri. Both holidays include festive decorations as well as lots of music, dancing, and street food. If you visit in May, you can catch the Naha Dragon Boat Race.
