Top Rated Attractions in Okinawa

Gala Aoiumi is a short drive from Okinawa, situated in the picturesque village of Yomitan. Located on the coast, this venue hosts workshops, classes and interactive activities like pottery making, glass blowing, stained glass painting and even salt making for all ages. There is a salt factory and museum on the premises and tours can be arranged. Explore the artificial reef on the premises where coral is grown to reintroduce into the Okinawan waters. There are several eateries and restaurants here as well. A visit here promises a fun experience for the entire family where you can see, eat and experience something uniquely local.

Before Shuri, Urasoe was the economic and cultural center of the Ryukyu Islands and still hosts a multitude of historic and cultural artifacts. The museum specializes in displaying exquisite pieces of Ryukyu lacquer ware and pottery, heavily influenced by trade with China. If you feel inspired to create, contact the museum to find out more about their pottery and wood carving classes. The museum is closed on Mondays.

This little strip of land jutting out into the azure waters is one of the most picturesque sights in Onna. The area round Cape Maeda is a popular diving spot in the region and attracts adventure enthusiasts. For those who simply want to enjoy the scenery, the plateau-like features of the cape offer sweeping views and leisurely hikes. Don't miss the spectacular sunset from here.

While the coastal village of Onna is home to a number of spectacular beaches, a high number of them are private properties belonging to luxury hotels. Fuchaku Beach however, with its pristine white sands and clear waters is the exception here. The beach is a little away from the touristy spots, yet sees a large number of visitors out here for fun. Apart from tourists, the beach is also frequented by a large number of locals.

Just north of Naha City in Urasoe, the National Theatre Okinawa was completed in 2004 to provide a space for the preservation of Okinawa's traditional performing arts. Kumiodori, an Okinawan play influenced heavily by Japanese noh and kabuki theater, takes center stage here. During the performance, audience members will see a beautiful example of a traditional bingata (textile dyed in Okinawan fashion) curtain serving as the backdrop to a dazzling display of costumes. The kumiodori plays contain dance, orchestrated music and singing, and depict the legends of the Ryukyu Islands.

In the busy city of Haebaru east of Naha City, Southern Hills Sports World provides a day of amusement for the sporty family. The facility includes an ice skating rink, a bowling alley, batting cages and a restaurant. Fees are different for each of the different activities, but range from JPY200 for the batting cages and JPY1400 for skates.