10 Things to Do On Vacation in Okinawa
Given that I've been asked to make a list of activities for visitors, and given that I have two couchsurfers coming in on Jan. 1, there's no time to do this like the present. So, without further ado, here are 10 suggested fun things for vacationers.
1. Shuri Castle
The old seat of Ryukyuan government has been burned and rebuilt again and again, but the current version is a breathtaking combination of old and new. It's worth spending an entire day walking the stone walls, seeing authentic and replica versions of Okinawan artifacts, and checking out the view of Naha City.
2. Snorkeling or Scuba Diving
If you're not Scuba certified, you can make that happen in a couple of days. If you don't want to do that, spending a few hours floating off the coast with a mask and snorkel is mandatory. See hundreds of types of coral and reef fish, the type I've posted on the blog. Here are some suggested sites.
3. Small local bar
At least once on your trip -- preferably early -- go into a small local
bar and order a beer. If no one has tried to strike up a conversation
with you in five minutes, say a few words to anyone who looks friendly.
Let matters transpire. Before you know it, magic will happen. You'll be
offered a trip on someone's deep sea fishing boat, or offered a guided
tour of the local bingata workshop, or ... you don't know until you go.
So go.
4. Peace Memorial Park
History buffs will want to see the World War II memorial, but everyone should visit here at least once. Besides being moving, the monuments are awe-inspiring architecture. You can also see the world's largest lacquerware Buddha. I think being the site of a horrendous battle, but then erecting a monument to all of the war dead -- on both sides -- says a lot about Okinawan culture, especially since neither side exactly paid attention to Okinawa's welfare.
5. Churaumi Aquarium
I'm not big on aquariums or zoos, but I've been to this place three times and I'd go again tomorrow. It's simply the best aquarium I've ever seen, with whale sharks, mantas, sea turtles, manatees and much, much more. A must.
6. Kokusai Street
If you love the smell of commerce in the morning, check this place out. Don't miss the nearby Tsuboya district's pottery museum and local artisan shops.
7. Take a hike, especially in the Yanbaru forest
After you've come commercial, come natural with a trek. The link provides a list of hikes, ranging from easy walks to strenuous workouts. Whatever you're in the market for, there's something for you in Okinawa. I recommend Yanbaru, the last great rainforest on the main island.
8. Nakagusuku Castle
After you've seen Shuri, which has been rebuilt, take a trip to Nakagusuku, which hasn't. Both are impressive; both provide a different experience, two alternative windows into the Ryukyuan past.
9. Cape Maeda
You can snorkel nearby, take in breathtaking views, watch farmers at work in cane fields, take walks, and even bring fishing gear. Or, just pack a picnic lunch and watch the rock formations.
10. Henoko and Oura bays
Why these two beautiful bays above the countless others on the island? In the next few years, their landscape will be irrevocably altered, perhaps devastated completely. See them before they're gone.
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