Naha, Okinawa City Experience - 7 Day Itinerary in June 2023

1. Day 1: Shuri Castle
   21 minutes (5.7 km) from Naha Airport

   In the morning, explore the restored Shuri Castle that served as the seat of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Take part in the Changing of the Royal Guards ceremony in the afternoon. Visit the nearby Kokusai Dori for some souvenir shopping and have a bowl of Okinawan soba for dinner.

2. Day 2: Okinawa Prefectural Museum and Art Museum
   18 minutes (6.1 km) from Shuri Castle

   Morning: Explore the Okinawa Prefectural Museum and learn about Okinawa's history, culture, and nature. Afternoon: Visit the Okinawa Prefectural Museum of Art to see the works of local and international artists. In the evening, try the Okinawan dish Rafute (slow-cooked pork belly) at a local restaurant.

3. Day 3: Tamaudun Mausoleum and Naminoue Shrine
   11 minutes (3.1 km) from Okinawa Prefectural Museum of Art

   Visit the Tamaudun Mausoleum in the morning, a UNESCO World Heritage site that houses the tombs of the Ryukyu royal family. Next, head to Naminoue Shrine and enjoy the ocean view from the cliff. Afterward, visit Makishi Public Market for lunch and shopping. End the day with a sunset stroll at the Tomari Port.

4. Day 4: Hacksaw Ridge and Peace Memorial Park
   1 hour 40 minutes (38.3 km) from Tomari Port

   Take a day trip to Hacksaw Ridge and Peace Memorial Park in Itoman City. Learn about the Battle of Okinawa and pay respects to the fallen soldiers at the Memorial. Visit nearby Itoman Fish Market for lunch and try the fresh seafood. Return to Naha in the evening.

5. Day 5: Ryukyu Mura and Murasaki Mura
   38 minutes (21.5 km) from Naha City Center

   Experience traditional Okinawan culture at Ryukyu Mura in the morning and visit the recreated Ryukyu village. Head to Murasaki Mura in the afternoon to see a traditional Ryukyu dance performance and try your hand at glassblowing. End the day with a stroll at the nearby Yomitan Pottery Village.

6. Day 6: Kouri Island and Ocean Expo Park
   1 hour 20 minutes (56.7 km) from Naha City Center

   Take a day trip to Kouri Island and enjoy the beautiful beaches and clear waters. Visit the Kouri Ocean Tower for a panoramic view of the island. Next, head to the nearby Ocean Expo Park and explore the Churaumi Aquarium, one of the largest in the world. Return to Naha in the evening.

7. Day 7: Shikinaen and Fukushu-en Gardens
   13 minutes (4.8 km) from Naha City Center

   Morning: Visit Shikinaen Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site that served as a residence for the Ryukyu royal family. Afternoon: Explore Fukushu-en Garden and see the Chinese-style architecture and landscape. End the day with a sunset view at the Umikaji Terrace and have a dinner of Okinawan Agu pork.

Recommendations

Take a day trip to Zamami Island or Aka Island for some of the best beaches in Okinawa. Join a traditional Okinawan music and dance show at Ryukyu Kaikan. Be sure to try Okinawan Orion beer, awamori (local liquor), and Beniimo tart (purple sweet potato tart).

Time and Costs Estimates

• Shuri Castle (2 hours, 820 yen)
• Okinawa Prefectural Museum and Art Museum (3 hours, 700 yen)
• Tamaudun Mausoleum and Naminoue Shrine (2 hours, free)
• Hacksaw Ridge and Peace Memorial Park (5 hours, free)
• Ryukyu Mura and Murasaki Mura (4 hours, 2000 yen)
• Kouri Island and Ocean Expo Park (7 hours, 4000 yen)
• Shikinaen and Fukushu-en Gardens (3 hours, 540 yen)
• Total Estimated Costs: 8560 yen