30 Best Things to Do in Okinawa: Top Activities & Attractions

Okinawa, a cluster of tropical islands at the southern tip of Japan, offers a distinctive cultural tapestry that dramatically sets it apart from mainland Japan.

With its unique blend of traditional Ryukyuan customs, spectacular landscapes, and vibrant history, Okinawa promises unique things to do and tourist attractions at every corner. 

This blog will guide you through everything you need to know for your upcoming trip, from packing essentials to exploring the top attractions in Okinawa. Moreover, we'll assist you in discerning which travel insurance to buy, ensuring you're well-prepared for your journey. 

For those looking at travel insurance online, we will highlight how to select the best option to suit your travel needs.

Table of Contents

• Things To Prepare And Pack Before Your Trip
• Outdoor Activities
• Adventurous Things To Do
• Things To Do For Couples
• Things To Do For Family
• Cultural Things To Do
• Things To Do At Night
• Things To Do For Free
• Best Places To Eat And Drink
• Quirky And Unusual Things To Do
• How Much Should You Bring To Okinawa?
• Check Out All The Best Attractions In Okinawa Today!

Things to Prepare and Pack Before Your Trip

Okinawa's vibrant tourist attractions offer a plethora of activities, whether you're embarking on a romantic getaway with your partner, enjoying a family retreat, or venturing into the enriching experience of solo travel. 

To make the most of these opportunities, let's delve into your travel essentials list for your upcoming trip.

Clothes

Okinawa boasts a climate somewhat akin to Singapore's, characterised by its tropical warmth and humidity. However, as a resort island renowned for its eternal summer ambiance, Okinawa demands a specific approach to your wardrobe. 

You'll want to pack light and breezy clothing, perfect for the island's warm weather. Think along the lines of linen shirts, lightweight dresses, shorts, and comfortable sandals to match the laid-back, resort-island vibe. 

Dressing like a local in Okinawa means embracing both comfort and style. For men, light cotton or linen shirts paired with loose-fitting trousers or shorts can be ideal. Women might opt for flowing dresses or tops paired with capris, ideal for both the heat and fitting in with the local, relaxed fashion. 

Don't forget a hat and sunglasses to protect against the tropical sun!

Portable Wi-Fi

Navigating between the bustling streets renowned for rich cultural cuisines and exploring the picturesque countryside calls for reliable internet access. 

Portable Wi-Fi is a must-have to stay connected, allowing you to share real-time experiences and navigate with ease. It fulfils the need for constant connectivity, essential for both safety and convenience. 

Remember to keep your portable Wi-Fi device charged at all times, especially on days when your adventures might extend from early morning walks on the beach to late evening cultural festivals.

Travel Insurance

Japan, while renowned for its impeccable safety and advanced infrastructure, is also known for natural occurrences such as intense earthquakes, floods, and typhoons. 

These natural events, though often well-managed, highlight the unpredictable nature of travelling in this region. Elsewhere in Okinawa, the sea facing islands tend to experience typhoons more frequently than in other parts of Japan like Nara or Osaka.

For a destination like Okinawa, which is susceptible to typhoons, ensure that your Japan trip insurance policy covers accommodations in case of flight delays, cancellations, and emergency evacuations due to weather conditions. 

Enjoy your Okinawa trip without worries when you protect yourself with travel insurance

Travel Credit Card

Using a travel credit card is about making your money work for you, ensuring you extract as much value from every cent spent. Opt for a card that offers rewards on travel bookings, accommodations, and even dining out. 

These benefits can significantly enhance your travel experience, providing you with savings or rewards that can be used towards future travel or experiences. 

When choosing a travel credit card, look for one that offers perks aligned with your travel habits, especially one that maximises your rewards for the best experiences Japan has to offer.

Any Additional Travel Documents

Singaporeans planning a trip to Okinawa will be pleased to know that they do not need a visa for short tourist visits to Japan. However, it is essential to carry the proper travel documents. Ensure you have a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity upon your arrival in Japan. 

It's also advisable to have a return ticket and proof of sufficient funds for the duration of your stay, as immigration officers may request to see these documents. Required Documents at a Glance:

• Valid passport with a minimum of six months validity
• Return ticket or onward journey ticket
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Travel insurance policy details
• Any required or recommended health documentation (such as vaccination certificates, if applicable)

Outdoor Activities

1. Bask in the sun on Sesoko Beach

Source: visit okinawa japan

Nestled just off the coast of Motobu Peninsula, Sesoko Beach is a picturesque getaway famed for its powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters, making it a prime location for relaxation and sunbathing. 

Just a short drive from the popular Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, Sesoko Beach is not only accessible but offers a variety of relaxing activities. Do try snorkelling here, as the beach's underwater labyrinth is a mesmerising haven for divers and snorkelers of all skill levels.

While the underwater labyrinth at Sesoko Beach is relatively safe, it never hurts to be prepared. Make sure your travel insurance covers adventure sports, especially diving, before taking the plunge into the beautiful depths of this aquatic wonderland.

• Address: Sesoko, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0227, Japan
• Price: Free access to the beach
• Opening hours: Open 24 hours, but snorkelling and diving are recommended during daylight hours
• How to get there: Reachable by car via the Sesoko Bridge from Motobu Peninsula; for public transport, take bus number 65 from Nago Bus Terminal to Sesoko Island

2. Go stargazing on Hateruma Island

Source: japawalk

Hateruma Island offers one of the most unique views under the stars. Located at the southernmost point of Japan, this remote island is home to the Hateruma Observation Tower, where the Milky Way can often be seen with naked eyes. Stargazing here is a transformative experience, and a must-do for any tourist visiting Okinawa.

• How to get there: Fly to Ishigaki Island, then take a ferry to Hateruma
• Ferry Times: Varies, typically morning to late afternoon departures
• Price: Round trip from Ishigaki to Hateruma approximately S$70
• Observatory Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 11:30 PM
• Observatory Price: Free

3. Stroll on the white sands of Yonaha Maehama Beach

Source: tripadvisor

Yonaha Maehama Beach, renowned for having some of the whitest sands in Japan, lies a convenient 20-minute drive from Miyako Airport, making it an easily accessible tourist attraction. 

Visiting Yonaha Maehama Beach is one of the things you can do to truly understand why it's touted as "the most beautiful beach in the East." Engage in water sports, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the serene landscape that stretches for nearly 7 kilometres.

• Address: Yonaha Maehama Beach, 1199-1 Shimoji Yonaha, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture 906-0305
• Price: Free access
• Opening hours: Open 24 hours, best experienced during daylight for water activities
• How to get there: Easily accessible by car from Miyako Airport; local buses also serve the area, specifically bus route 47 from Hirara Bus Terminal to Yonaha Maehama Beach stop

Adventurous things to do

4. Go Island Hopping

Source: jetstar

Island hopping in Okinawa isn't just a leisure activity; it's an exploration of diverse cultures and landscapes. Each island, from the bustling streets of Ishigaki to the serene beaches of the Kerama Islands, offers unique things you can only do in Okinawa. 

These islands host some of Japan’s lesser-known tourist attractions and provide a plethora of activities that are a must-add to your to-do list. Experience the blend of natural beauty, traditional culture, and unforgettable adventures as you hop from one island to another.

• How to get around each island: Rent scooters or cars, or use local buses where available
• Ferry Times: Varies between destinations; typically morning to late afternoon
• Price: Ferry prices range from S$30 to S$100 depending on distance and island
• Best Time of the Year to Island Hop: Late spring to early autumn for the best weather conditions

5. Explore Sacred Sites on Kudaka Island

Source: visit okinawa japan

Kudaka Island, a mere 15-minute ferry ride from Chinen Port on Okinawa's main island, is revered as a spiritual sanctuary. 

Known as the "Island of the Gods," this small island enchants visitors with its rich history and legends, making it a vital cultural tourist attraction. The peaceful atmosphere and sacred sites scattered across its modest expanse invite a deeper understanding of Okinawa's spiritual heritage.

• How to get there: Ferry from Chinen Port
• Ferry Times: Ferries run every hour from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Price: Approx. S$15 round trip

6. Spot Wildlife on Iriomote Island

Source: islands of japan, ippei & janine naoi

For those drawn to unique adventures, Iriomote Island offers an experience akin to stepping into another world. Its lush landscapes, filled with dense mangroves and jungles similar to Singapore’s, contrast sharply with mainland Japan’s usual ecosystems. 

Here, spotting rare wildlife like the Iriomote cat becomes a must-do activity. This unique adventure, one thing you cannot miss, invites you to immerse yourself in a biome that captivates with its mystery and Okinawa’s natural beauty.

• How to get there: Ferries from Ishigaki Island
• Ferry Times: Several departures daily, from early morning to late afternoon
• Price: Approx. S$30 round trip depending on the service

7. Go Splash Canyoning at Iriomote Island

Source: omakase

After spotting wildlife, why not add an adrenaline-pumping activity to your to-do list? Canyoning in Iriomote Island's natural obstacle course is what you really want to do if you're looking for the best summer adventure. 

Navigate through river beds, slide down water-polished rocks, and jump into crystal clear pools to your heart’s content. It’s something you might never experience in other parts of Okinawa, or Japan for that matter.

If you’re going canyoning, it's best to be insured. Make sure your travel insurance covers adventure sports, particularly canyoning, before you jump in.

• Price: Adult: S$120; Child (10-17 years): S$90
• How to get there: Accessible via ferry from Ishigaki Island; local transport available from Uehara or Ohara ports

8. Walk Across the Ocean Bed in Onna Village

Source: travel67

Onna Village, nestled on the west coast of Okinawa's main island, is not just a resort destination but a place where you can walk across the ocean bed. 

This unique activity, combined with relaxing at tourist destinations and enjoying the attractive sea view from their resorts, makes Onna a must-visit. The village's clear waters and abundant marine life provide a serene backdrop for a plethora of water activities.

• Address: Onna Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
• Price: Ocean walking experience approximately S$65
• Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• How to get there: Bus 120 from Naha Bus Terminal to Onna Village

9. Go Blue Cave Snorkeling and Diving

Source: fun! japan

From the relaxing resorts of Onna, dive into the adventure of Blue Cave snorkelling and diving. 

Located within the clear azure waters along Okinawa’s pristine coast, Blue Cave offers a unique underwater view that is beginner-friendly and enchanting for all levels of divers. 

Witnessing the marine life illuminated by the natural light filtering into the cave provides one of the best views and is one thing you mustn’t miss when visiting Okinawa.

As with any underwater activity, it's best to check your travel insurance coverage. Do ensure your travel insurance covers adventure sports, especially diving, before embarking on your underwater adventure.

• Address: Blue Cave, Onna Village, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
• Price: Snorkelling: S$50; Diving: S$120
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (weather permitting)
• How to get there: Bus 120 from Naha to Onna Village; followed by a short boat ride to the cave site

Things to do for couples

10. Go for Pottery Workshops in Yachimun no Sato

Source: okinawa hai

Located in the quaint village of Yomitan, Yachimun no Sato offers a unique couple activity steeped in rich Japanese history. Here, you can dive into the world of Okinawan pottery, which is renowned for its distinctive techniques and styles. 

This is one thing you can’t get anywhere else—make a unique, one-of-a-kind souvenir that you and your partner will remember forever. Do give it a try and immerse yourself in the creative process of crafting traditional Ryukyuan pottery.

• Address: 2653 Zakimi, Yomitan, Nakagami District, Okinawa 904-0301, Japan
• Price: Workshops start at around S$40 per person
• Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• How to get there: Bus number 28 from Naha to Yomitan Village Office, followed by a short walk

11. Pray for Children on Hamahiga Island

Source: visit okinawa

Hamahiga Island, known as the "God Island," is a revered place in Okinawan culture, especially prominent for its Shirumichu shrine. The island's deep spiritual history makes it a tourist attraction that you must not miss. 

Visiting with your partner provides a meaningful and tranquil experience, where you can explore and respect the ancient rituals and prayers for prosperity and fertility that have been performed here for centuries.

• How to get there: Drive to Kaichu-Doro Parking from central Okinawa, then cross the bridge to Hamahiga
• Ferry Times: No ferry needed, accessible by road
• Price: Free entry to the island and shrine

12. Make Your Own Ryukyu Glass

Source: voaypon

Visit the Ryukyu Glass Village to explore the colourful and vibrant world of Okinawan glassblowing. This cute couple activity allows you to create your own glass pieces, a hands-on experience that represents the best thing about visiting local craft centres in Japan. 

Not only do you learn about the traditional glassblowing technique unique to Okinawa, but you also get to take home a personalised souvenir. Add this to your to-do list for a memorable and artistic day out.

• Address: 169 Fukuji, Itoman, Okinawa 901-0345, Japan
• Price: Workshops start at around S$50 per person
• Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• How to get there: Bus number 89 from Naha to Itoman Bus Terminal, then a short taxi ride

13. Make DIY Beni Imo Tarts

Source: good luck trip

Beni Imo tarts, with their unique purple hue and sweet, creamy flavour, unique to the purple sweet potato, a staple in Okinawa's culinary landscape. When you bite into a Beni Imo tart, you're greeted with a creamy, rich filling that's both sweet and subtly nutty, encased in a flaky, buttery crust. 

Instead of just buying them, why not try doing a workshop together while touring the area with your partner? Participating in a beni imo tart-making workshop is not just a fun activity; it's a thing that lets you delve deeper into the local cuisine.

• Address: Multiple locations, including major confectionery workshops in Naha
• Price: Workshops start at around S$30 per person
• Opening hours: Varies by location, typically 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• How to get there: Specific location details vary; typically accessible by local bus routes in Naha

Things to do for family

14. Learn about Nemo at the Busena Marine Park Underwater Observatory

Source: okinawa film office

Dive into the clear blue waters of Busena Marine Park without getting wet at its famous Underwater Observatory. Located near Nago City, this observatory offers a spectacular 360-degree view of vibrant marine life. 

If you are attracted to marine life, it’s a delightful addition to your to-do list. Watch tropical fish, corals, and maybe even a clownfish or two—just like Nemo! It’s a magical experience that showcases the diversity of Okinawa’s underwater world.

• Address: 1744-1 Kise, Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture 905-0026, Japan
• Price: Adults: S$15, Children (6-12 years): S$8
• Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• How to get there: Bus 65 from Naha to Nago Bus Terminal, then transfer to bus 66 towards Kise Beach

15. Spend a Day at the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Source: japan national tourism organisation

What’s a romantic getaway without an aquarium date? Visit the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world, located near the Ocean Expo Park. Marvel at the massive Kuroshio Sea tank, home to whale sharks and manta rays—truly a must-see tourist attraction. 

The aquarium's vast array of marine life and beautifully designed exhibits are reasons enough to fall in love all over again at this majestic marine mega-attraction.

• Address: 424 Ishikawa, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture 905-0206, Japan
• Price: Adults: S$30, Children (6-15 years): S$15
• Opening hours: 8:30 AM - 6:30 PM
• How to get there: Direct buses available from Naha Bus Terminal to the Ocean Expo Park

16. Race to Your Heart’s Content at Gorilla Kart Okinawa

Source: klook

Why walk when you can zoom? Experience Naha in high-speed style with Gorilla Kart Okinawa. This activity isn’t just fun—it’s an electrifying way to explore the city with your partner. Don the costumes provided and race through the streets in whimsical fashion. Did we mention this is a thing you won’t forget? It’s a unique way to tour the city while laughing together at every turn.

Safety is paramount, and engaging in extreme sports like go-karting will be even safer when insured. Make sure your travel insurance covers extreme sports, including go-karting, before revving your engines.

• Address: 3-29-41 Maejima, Naha, Okinawa Prefecture 900-0016, Japan
• Price: S$80 per person for a 2-hour tour
• Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
• How to get there: Easily accessible by local transit; bus 24 stops near Maejima, followed by a short walk

Travel Okinawa stress-free when you protect yourself with travel insurance.

Cultural things to do

17. Explore the Nakagusuku Castle Ruins

Source: japan travel

Delve into the echoes of the past at Nakagusuku Castle Ruins, an impressive testament to Ryukyu Kingdom's mediaeval architecture and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Located centrally near the city of Okinawa, the ruins offer a glimpse into the life of the legendary Ryukyuan lord Gosamaru and the historical battles that shaped this region. Walking through these ruins, one can almost hear the things left unspoken, the silent stories of ancient Japan. This tourist attraction is a must-do for anyone fascinated by history.

• Address: 503 Oshiro, Kitanakagusuku, Nakagami District, Okinawa 901-2314, Japan
• Price: Adults: S$6, Children: S$3
• Opening hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
• How to get there: Bus 30 or 32 from Naha to Nakagusuku Castle entrance

18. Go for Coral Dyeing at Shuri Ryusen

Source: okinawa convention visitor bureau

Experience a piece of Okinawan tradition unique to this island by engaging in coral dyeing at Shuri Ryusen. At Shuri Ryusen, you can dye fabrics using patterns made from actual coral pieces, preserving an artistic tradition that is as beautiful as it is unique. This craft is not only one of Japan’s many culturally-rich things to do but also a creative way to connect with the local heritage. 

• Address: 1-54 Shuriyamagawacho, Naha, Okinawa 903-0825, Japan
• Price: Starting at S$30 for basic courses
• Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• How to get there: Bus 7 or 8 from Naha Bus Terminal to Shuri Ryusen

19. Rent Traditional Ryukyu for a Photoshoot

Source: kkday

Did you know that kimonos in Okinawa are quite different from those on the mainland? The local version, called Ryusou or Uchinaasugai, features lighter fabrics and vibrant patterns, reflecting Okinawa's tropical climate and spirited culture. 

After visiting Ryukyu Village for glassmaking, why not rent a Ryukyu style kimono for a unique photoshoot? It's a perfect way to immerse yourself further into the local culture and create lasting memories.

• Price: Rentals start at around S$50

20. Paint Your Own Shisa

Source: rakuten travel experiences

Shisa are lion-dog statues that adorn rooftops and gateways across Okinawa, believed to ward off evil spirits. Painting your own Shisa is not only a unique tourist experience but also a way to bring a piece of Okinawan spirit home with you. Workshops allow you to paint these mythical creatures in your style, adding a personal touch to this traditional guardian. 

Once you’re done, you’ll have not just a souvenir, but a story to tell.

• Address: Various locations including major craft centres and tourist sites in Okinawa
• Price: Typically S$25 to S$50 depending on the size of the Shisa
• Opening hours: Most workshops are open from 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• How to get there: Available at many tourist sites, especially around Naha and northern Okinawa; local buses frequently run to these areas

Things to do at night

21. Check out the Chatan Town Hamby Night Market

Source: okinawa island guide

For a vibrant evening filled with local flavours and fun finds, the Hamby Night Market in Chatan Town is a must-visit tourist attraction. Located near the American Village, this market stands out for its eclectic mix of food stalls, thrift shops, and live music, encapsulating the lively spirit of Okinawa. 

If you love food and thrifting, you’ll find plenty of things to enjoy, do, and discover here, from local Okinawan dishes to unique second-hand treasures. 

• Address: 58-1 Mihama, Chatan, Nakagami District, Okinawa 904-0115, Japan
• Price: Free entry; prices vary per item
• Opening hours: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM, primarily on weekends
• How to get there: Bus 20 or 28 from Naha to American Village; short walk to the market

22. Go for a Night Walk in Southeast Botanical Gardens

Source: tripadvisor

Add a visit to the Southeast Botanical Gardens to your to-do list for a magical evening in Okinawa. Located just north of Okinawa City, these gardens transform into a luminous wonderland at night, with stunning illuminations that light up the diverse collection of flora. The peaceful pathways and the shimmering lights offer a tranquil retreat from the bustling city, making it a perfect evening outing.

• Address: 2146 Chibana, Okinawa, Okinawa Prefecture 904-2143, Japan
• Price: Adults: S$15, Children: S$8
• Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Illuminations start after sunset)
• How to get there: Bus 20 or 120 from Naha to Okinawa City, then a short taxi ride

23. Go for a Photo Tour with Starry Sky Studio

Source: klook

Explore Okinawa’s best spots for photography with a guided tour from Starry Sky Studio (沖縄星空スタジオ). Known for their expertise in capturing attractive night views, this photo tour will take you on a journey through Okinawa's scenic landscapes, from stunning coastlines to historic sites. Capturing one shot after another as you tour, you’ll learn about the island’s beauty and how to photograph it effectively under various lighting conditions.

• Price: Photo tours start at around S$120 per person
• Opening hours: Tour times vary; typically evening to late night for night photography
• How to get there: Meeting points vary by tour, usually accessible by local bus or taxi from major areas in Naha

Things to do for free

24. Take a Stroll in Yaedake Sakuranomori Park

Source: visit okinawa

Yaedake Sakura No Mori Park, nestled in the northern region of Okinawa near Motobu, is a breathtaking tourist attraction, especially during the cherry blossom season. The park earns its name "Sakuranomiya" (Forest of Cherry Blossoms) from the stunning spectacle of pink blossoms that cover the area each spring. 

The panoramic views from Yaedake offer a mesmerising backdrop for leisurely strolls and memorable picnics under the blooming cherry trees—a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike.

• Address: Yaedake, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0205, Japan
• Price: Free entry
• Opening hours: Open 24 hours, best visited during daylight for cherry blossom viewing (typically late January to February)
• How to get there: Bus 65 from Naha to Nago, then transfer to a local bus towards Motobu or rent a car for more flexibility

25. Go Window Shopping at Okinawa Outlet Mall Ashibinaa

Source: good luck travel

Located just south of Naha, Okinawa Outlet Mall Ashibinaa is a shopping paradise that features a wide array of international and Japanese brands at discounted prices. This premier outlet mall is not just about great deals; it's also equipped with accessible payment options, allowing you to shop without the hassle of currency exchange. 

Whether you're looking for fashion, accessories, or souvenirs, Ashibinaa offers a delightful shopping experience in a beautifully designed space.

• Address: 1-188 Toyosaki, Tomigusuku, Okinawa Prefecture 901-0225, Japan
• Price: Free entry; shopping costs vary
• Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
• How to get there: Bus 55 from Naha Bus Terminal to Ashibinaa Outlet Mall, or a short taxi ride from Naha Airport

Best places to eat and drink

26. Try Authentic Okinawa Soba at Restaurant Hanagasa

Source: shockin’ japan

If indulging in local cuisine is on your to-do list, then a bowl of Okinawa Soba at Restaurant Hanagasa is a must-try. 

Located conveniently near Shuri Castle in Naha, this dish, also known as Soki Soba, features thick wheat noodles submerged in a meaty broth, topped with tender pork ribs. The hearty, flavorful soup and chewy noodles offer a warming insight into Okinawa's culinary traditions and why this dish is a cornerstone of local cuisine.

• Address: 2-35 Shuri Sakiyamacho, Naha, Okinawa Prefecture 903-0801, Japan
• Price: Approximately S$12 per bowl
• Opening hours: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
• How to get there: Bus 8 from Naha Bus Terminal to Shuri Castle Gate, followed by a short walk

27. Get Yourself Some Purple Sweet Potato Kitkats

Source: amazon

Okinawa's unique flavour profiles extend even to popular snacks like Kitkats, featuring the island's staple purple sweet potato. These Kitkats encapsulate the rich, earthy taste of the local sweet potatoes, mixed with the creamy sweetness of white chocolate, making these sweet things deliciously unique. 

If you're doing a supermart crawl in Okinawa, you must give the Purple Sweet Potato Kitkat a try—it's a delightful way to experience local flavours in a familiar format.

• Price: Approximately S$5 per pack

28. Savour Mozuku Seaweed

Source: kokoro cara packages

Mozuku seaweed is not just a popular snack in Okinawa; it's a health powerhouse, packed with nutrients that locals swear by for longevity and wellness. This slimy, vine-like seaweed is often served in vinegar as a side dish or appetiser. 

Its health benefits, combined with a unique texture and taste, make it a fascinating addition to your culinary to-do list. If you see mozuku seaweed during your travels, don't hesitate to try this local delicacy.

• Price: Around S$2 to S$4 for a serving

Quirky and unusual things to do

29. Explore the Naval Underground Headquarters

Source: okinawa mice navi

Delve into a pivotal piece of World War II history at the Naval Underground Headquarters in Okinawa. Located near the Peace Memorial Park, this extensive network of tunnels was once a bustling command centre during the Battle of Okinawa. 

Today, it stands as a unique tourist attraction, inviting visitors to explore the sombre corridors and rooms that tell tales of the past. Highlights include the preserved relics, murals, and other historical things that offer a poignant glimpse into Japan's wartime history.

• Address: 236 Tomigusuku, Tomigusuku City, Okinawa Prefecture 901-0241, Japan
• Price: Adults: S$7, Children: S$3.50
• Opening hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
• How to get there: Bus 89 from Naha Bus Terminal to Tomigusuku, then a short taxi ride

30. Visit the Clinton Home Replica

Source: stars and stripes

Nestled in the heart of Okinawa is an unexpected slice of American history—a precise replica of Bill Clinton's boyhood home in Arkansas. Located near the American Village, this structure reflects the deep admiration and connection between Okinawa and the former U.S. President, who is fondly remembered in Japan for his efforts in strengthening U.S.-Japan relations. The home serves as a symbol of international friendship and is a curious attraction for those interested in the unique cultural ties between the two nations.

• Address: Near American Village, Chatan, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
• Price: Free entry
• Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• How to get there: Bus 28 or 29 from Naha to American Village, Chatan

How Much Should You Bring to Okinawa?

Transportation is likely to be a major contributor to your expenses in Okinawa, especially with the frequent ferry rides necessary to explore the beautiful archipelago. 

While Okinawa may not be a shopping haven like Tokyo, your spending will still add up due to the unique experiences and attractions that are unlike anywhere else in Japan.

Estimated total fees for a holiday in Okinawa:

Check Out All The Best Attractions in Okinawa Today!

From the historical depths of the Naval Underground Headquarters to the vibrant nightly bustle at Hamby Night Market, Okinawa offers a diverse array of attractions that cater to every taste and interest. 

As you plan your itinerary, remember the importance of securing travel insurance, ensuring peace of mind as you delve into the unique activities and tourist experiences that Okinawa has to offer. 

So pack your bags, prepare your adventure list, and set out to explore the enchanting island of Okinawa. Enjoy your holiday and make memories that will last a lifetime!

Plan ahead for your Okinawa trip with the best travel insurance.