10-Day Romantic Japan Trip: Okinawa & Islands Exploration

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Day 1: Arrival in Okinawa & City Exploration

Morning: Arrive at Naha Airport and settle into your hotel. Start your trip with a visit to Kokusai Street, the bustling shopping and dining hub of Okinawa.

Afternoon: Explore Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Ryukyu Kingdom history and stunning architecture. Enjoy a traditional Okinawan lunch nearby.

Evening: Relax with a romantic dinner at a local izakaya featuring Okinawan cuisine, then take a stroll along Sunset Beach to enjoy coastal views.

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Day 2: Okinawa Island Activities

Morning: Visit Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, home to whale sharks and vibrant coral reefs. Wander through the Tropical Dream Center nearby.

Afternoon: Head to Emerald Beach for swimming and beach relaxation, soaking up the island atmosphere and clear waters.

Evening: Experience an Okinawan cultural show with live music and traditional dance to end the day memorably.

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Day 3: Island Hopping - Kerama Islands

Morning: Take a ferry to the Kerama Islands, famous for clear waters and superb snorkeling spots like Tokashiki Island.

Afternoon: Snorkel or dive together among vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish. Relax on pristine beaches like Aharen Beach.

Evening: Return to Okinawa main island and enjoy a cozy dinner at your hotel or local restaurant.

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Day 4: Transfer to Ishigaki Island

Morning: Fly from Naha to Ishigaki Island, gateway to the Yaeyama Islands. Check into your accommodation and explore Ishigaki city.

Afternoon: Visit Yonehara Beach for beautiful sands and calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Evening: Savor fresh seafood at a local restaurant specializing in Yaeyama cuisine.

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Day 5: Ishigaki Island Drive & Scenic Views

Morning: Drive to Kabira Bay, famous for emerald waters and black pearls. Take a glass-bottom boat tour to spot underwater life.

Afternoon: Visit Tamatorizaki Observatory to enjoy panoramic island views complemented by lush greenery and ocean vistas.

Evening: Relax with a sunset walk along the coast and enjoy a casual dinner at your hotel or nearby eateries.

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Day 6: Day Trip to Taketomi Island

Morning: Take a short ferry to Taketomi Island, known for traditional Okinawan village scenery and pristine beaches.

Afternoon: Rent a bicycle to explore quaint streets, visit Kondoi Beach, and relax on white sandy shores.

Evening: Return to Ishigaki for a quiet dinner and rest.

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Day 7: Leisure & Beaches in Ishigaki

Morning: Spend a relaxing morning at Sukuji Beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming in calm waters.

Afternoon: Discover local markets and shops in Ishigaki city, picking up souvenirs and treats.

Evening: Enjoy a romantic dinner featuring Okinawan soba and tropical cocktails.

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Day 8: Return to Okinawa & Explore Central Okinawa

Morning: Fly back to Okinawa main island and check into your accommodation near central Okinawa.

Afternoon: Visit Ocean Expo Park or Ryukyu Mura, a cultural theme park showcasing Okinawan crafts and traditions.

Evening: Have a quiet dinner at your accommodation and prepare for the next day's activities.

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Day 9: Morekerama Islands or Leisure Day

Morning: Option to take another day trip to the Kerama Islands for diving or beach activities, or spend a leisure day exploring other beaches nearby.

Afternoon: Enjoy optional snorkeling, kayaking, or relaxing spa treatments available at selected resorts.

Evening: Celebrate your last full day with a romantic dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

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Day 10: Departure

Morning: Enjoy a final stroll on the beach and breakfast at your hotel. Pack up and check out.

Afternoon: Transfer to Naha Airport for your departure flight, bidding farewell to Okinawa and the islands.

Evening: Arrive home with wonderful memories of your romantic Japan trip.

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Accommodation Options

  • Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa – Beachfront resort with spa, fine dining, and premium services.
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Palm Royal Naha – Convenient city location with comfortable rooms and amenities.
  • Budget: Guesthouse CamCam Okinawa – Cozy, affordable guesthouse ideal for couples seeking value.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Naha Airport Arrival & Kokusai Street: 3 hours, approx. ¥2,000 (meals & shopping)
  • Shuri Castle: 2 hours, ¥820 per person entrance fee
  • Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium: 4 hours, ¥1,880 per person
  • Kerama Islands Ferry & Activities: Full day, approx. ¥6,000 per person (roundtrip ferry + snorkeling gear)
  • Flight Naha to Ishigaki: 1 hour, approx. ¥10,000 per person
  • Taketomi Island day trip: 5 hours, approx. ¥3,000 per person (ferry & rentals)
  • Accommodation: Luxury ¥30,000/night, Mid-Range ¥15,000/night, Budget ¥5,000/night (per couple)
  • Total Estimated Cost (Mid-Range Option for 2 people): Approx. ¥280,000 including transport, accommodations, meals & activities.

Tips

For a shorter trip, consider focusing only on Okinawa Island and the Kerama Islands to reduce travel time and enjoy a more relaxed pace. To extend your vacation, add more days in Ishigaki and nearby islands like Iriomote for hiking and jungle exploration. Be mindful of weather in late November, which is generally mild but can sometimes be rainy—pack accordingly and book ferry and flight tickets in advance during the peak season.

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