A day relaxing on a beach, having a glass of beer and BBQ with your friend is a great way of spending your weekend in Okinawa. Or if you are a shutter bug, you may have a hard time making a choice between the nostalgic scene of sugarcane roads and the vibrant color of hibiscus lined in front of resort hotels.
A short drive from Murasaki Mura are two caves with historical significance: Chibichiri Gama and Shimuku Gama. These caves were used during World War II and now provide a glimpse into what happened in the early days of the Battle of Okinawa.
Back in its heyday, Zakimi Castle in Okinawa was a stronghold for the Chuzan Kingdom in its defense from the north. Today, the ruins of the castle maintain this stronghold, but now it’s over the dozens of tourists that visit for the stunning views every year.
For a taste of old Okinawa, Yomitan Village’s Yachimun no Sato is one of the best on the island. The quaint, old-style buildings of this area serve as pottery studios where skilled artisans make the village’s signature traditional craft: “Yachimun,” pottery in Okinawan dialect.
Known for its historical sites, incomparable ocean views and unique pottery style, Yomitan Village on the west side of the Yomitan island is chock full of places to visit. The village is easily accessible to Torii Station and Kadena.
It’s time again for the famous Naha Dragon Boat Race! A highlight of Okinawa’s Golden Week, this is the 45th installment of the race and will take place May 3-5.
Yomitan Village on the west side of island is known for its historical sites, amazing ocean vistas and pottery. The village is easily accessible to Torii Station and Kadena. You can spend a day here and not run out of fun activities for everyone in your group. Below are three great spots to some quality time and grab a nice bite to eat. Get out...
Continuing on my journey past Maizuru, a port city heavily influenced by its naval history, and Amanohashidate, known to be one of the three most scenic spots in Japan, I arrived at the north end of Tango Peninsula.
An early, two-hour ride on the bullet train brought me to one of the most postcard-worthy cities in the world. After hastily dropping off the bags at the hotel, I set off to enjoy the first rays of sun sipping through the bamboo forest of Arashiyama and wrapped up the day savoring matcha in a tea house of Gion.
Near Yomitan Village’s coastline, you’ll find a theme park which offers something curious to both history buffs and arts and crafts fans. At Murasaki Mura, take a walk back to Naha’s old Chinatown and see a park dedicated to Okinawa’s history and culture.
They may not be Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Safari Park, or even the Okinawa Zoo, but there are places on the island where you can bring the kids to hang out with animals. And, often, these small zoos, ranches or farms are free.
Spring is in full swing and as the cherry blossom front starts its decent to the north, Easter is right around the corner. Although it is a religious holiday, there are many different ways to celebrate Easter, which falls on April 21 this year, in Japan.
Although Torii Station may not stand out when comes to its size and the number of servicemembers it hosts, the small Army base is home to a beachside recreational area that will leave a big smile on your face: Torii Beach.
White Beach Naval Facility is not just for ships making port calls to replenish their food supply and load up troops. The U.S. base is also a great place for servicemembers and families to enjoy some recreation and rejuvenation on Okinawa.
