Ryukyu culture, markets & island hopping
Naha
那覇 · Gateway to Okinawa
The sun-soaked capital of Okinawa and heart of the former Ryukyu Kingdom. Naha mixes a distinct island culture, a lively market street and castle history with easy access to the turquoise beaches and reefs of Japan’s tropical south.
Top sightsSights
Shurijo Castle
The vivid red former royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom, under restoration after a fire.
Kokusai-dori
Naha’s mile-long main street of shops, izakaya and Okinawan crafts.
Makishi Public Market
A colorful market of tropical fish and Okinawan produce — buy and eat upstairs.
Tsuboya Pottery District
A charming lane of traditional Okinawan ceramic workshops.
Cape Manzamo
A dramatic elephant-trunk sea cliff, a short trip up the coast.
What to eatFood
Okinawa soba
Wheat noodles in pork broth topped with stewed pork belly.
Goya champuru
A stir-fry of bitter melon, tofu, egg and pork — Okinawa’s signature.
Taco rice
Taco toppings over rice, a beloved local fusion dish.
Good to know
- Rent a car to reach the best beaches and the aquarium up north.
- Okinawa is warm year-round; typhoon season peaks late summer.
- The monorail links the airport, Kokusai-dori and Shurijo.
Getting there
Naha Airport (OKA) with direct flights from across Asia; a monorail connects the airport to the city.
Next city
Tokyo