Okinawa: The Secret Traveler’s Paradise With the Power to Heal & Restore
Welcome to Okinawa
When we as Americans think of typical travel destinations, what generally comes to mind are places like Disney Land, NYC, Las Vegas, and Miami. While these hot spots certainly do have their perks and charms, today we’re looking at a destination that’s a little more off the beaten path with the power to truly restore and revitalize the soul. We’re talking about the breathtakingly beautiful islands of Okinawa, Japan.
Okinawa (the name meaning “rope in the open sea”) is a group of sub-tropical islands in the south of Japan with a rich history, mind blowing scenery, and a genuinely authentic way of life . True, this particular destination probably isn’t on your summer travel list just yet, but it seriously needs to be. When you encounter a place that sparks the minds, delights the eyes, and relaxes the soul, it’s hard to imagine being anywhere else and this is exactly what travelers and locals alike are saying about the Okinawa islands.
If you don’t believe us just check out the video below for a firsthand account of the wonders of traveling through the stunning islands of Okinawa.
Must-See Okinawa Hot Spots
Zanpa Cape
Zanpa Cape thrusts out to the west from the middle of Okinawa Island. At the tip of the cape stands a tall white lighthouse, majestic in its solitary dignity. A huge Shisa lion-dog guards the entrance to the Zanpa Misaki Recreation Plaza. Here you’ll find a playground of bicycles, restaurants, shops, barbecue pits and more.
Kokusai Street / New Paradise Street
For wonderful shopping in Naha City, Kokusai Street and New Paradise streets behind the Matsui bus stop are the places to head for. Full of traditional and modern craft shops, souvenir shops, delightful cafés and restaurants serving tempting fare every few meters, the entire area is a magnet for shopping lovers.
Ishigaki Island
Ishigaki Island is a treat for all the senses. Lively markets tempt visitors with lines of food stalls selling the unique local Yaeyama islands cuisine, while magnificent natural scenery and stunning Kabira Bay provide an endless gallery of visual treats. The Tamatorizaki Observatory offers dazzling displays of hibiscus flowers for another dimension of natural pleasures.
Taketomi Island
Taketomi Island lies six kilometers southwest of Ishigaki. A tiny jewel, the island is totally flat and just nine kilometers round. With a warm and welcoming village community, and rows of charming houses with red tiled roofs and garden walls of coral stone alongside white sand-covered roads, Taketomi is a tranquil heaven on earth.
Planning Your Trip!
We’re sure that by now you’ve decided to drop everything and head over to Okinawa ASAP, and you should! But before you go here are a few tips for making your travel plans as smooth as possible!
Currency: Japanese Yen
Transportation: Regular flights from major domestic airports such as the Narita International Airport, Haneda Airport, Central Japan International Airport (Centrair), and Kansai International Airport to Okinawa’s gateway Naha Airport operate daily. Motor bike and car rentals are available once you’ve arrived.
Accommodations: Here’s a list of the best hotels and guest-homes to book for your stay. Check them out HERE.
Dinning: For an exotic tour of all the phenomenal cuisines Okinawa has to offer check out this list of can’t-miss restaurants and eaterys.
Sand and Surf: The beaches in Okinawa are some of the most pristine in the world, check out this comprehensive guide to Okinawa’s best beaches so you can start soaking up the sea and sun.
