Adjacent to Naha in Haebaru Town, the Haebaru Town Culture Center contains items that are dedicated to the local culture and relics from the Battle of Okinawa. The reproduction of Haebaru's military hospital within one of the exhibits allows visitors to imagine how the war impacted the lives of the people in this prosperous town. Traditional performances are staged occasionally, and the museum is closed on Wednesdays.
Shimuta translates to "Island Song," and the venue hosts a variety of folk performers every night of the week, though Nenezu is the house band. Come here to listen to Ryukyuan folk singing accompanied by sanshin (Japanese lute), drink some awamori (Okinawan sake), and eat some local traditional cuisine. Doors open one hour before the first set, and there are usually three sets a night. Visitors are welcome to take pictures, but cannot tape or record the performances. The venue can also be rented out. Check the website for details, schedules, and fares.
Jumbo Tours offers all-inclusive guided tours of Okinawa's most famous attractions, but also operates daily tours out to famous dive spots around the Kerama Islands for certified divers and beginners. Children who might be too young to dive can go snorkeling. The head office is in Naha City, but they've recently opened a branch in Chatan Town as well. Diving packages include transportation from your hotel to the diving site and full rental gear.
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.
Take a break from your regular city life and enjoy a family-outing by the bay at the Minna Beach. This beautiful beach boasts of picture-perfect views with its clear waters and white sand. Soak in the warm sun or enjoy a cooling dip in its water, you are sure to enjoy here. Thrill-seekers are in for a treat when at Minna Beach as this spot is famous for water sport activities like snorkeling, scuba-diving and others. Being a popular tourist spot, the island has several accommodation facilities and restaurants for your convenience.
At a time when the island of Okinawa needed protection from the vicious Lord Amawari, legendary Ryukyuan commander Gosamaru built the Nakagusuku Castle. Gosamaru was one of the leaders of the army that served Ryukyu Kingdom in the mid-1400s. The castle was built in 1440, and was attacked in 1458, when it fell to the attacking warlord. Many centuries later, the famous British explorer Matthew C. Perry visited the castle and was impressed by the sturdy walls that seemed able to resist cannon fire. Sadly, the castle has since fallen into disrepair, though its impressive stonework is as imposing today as when it was constructed. The ruins have been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage site and draw crowds each year that come to explore the parts of the castle that remain.