Naha

Introducing Naha

Naha is the capital of Okinawa Prefecture and home to the ruins of Shuri Castle, the capital of the ancient Ryukyu Kingdom. As early as the mid-14th century, it was already a trading port and is now the largest political, economic, and cultural center of the Ryukyu Islands. Located on the west coast of southern Okinawa Island, Naha Bay faces the East China Sea.

Naha, the capital of Okinawa Prefecture, has beautiful scenery with many swaying palm trees and areca palms, lush and tall Ryukyu pines, and colorful flowers. Set against the azure sea and white cloud-filled sky, it exudes a southern landscape and is one of the rare subtropical tourist destinations in Japan.

The city houses the ruins of Shuri Castle, the residence of successive Ryukyu kings, whose Shureimon Gate is a symbol of Okinawa; there is also the Sogen-ji Temple, the national temple from the Ryukyu Kingdom era, whose stone temple gate has been designated a national treasure; and the Ryogoden, built in the 15th century.

Climate and best time to travel

Okinawa has a subtropical climate and is a warm and pleasant tourist area suitable for vacation all year round.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Okinawa Shurijo Castle Park

This building, destroyed and burned several times before being rebuilt in the Tang Dynasty style, is a symbol of the Ryukyu Kingdom. As one of the largest wooden structures on Okinawa Island, it exhibits a distinct Ryukyu style, blending elements of traditional Chinese and Japanese architecture. Its appearance and style are similar to those of southern Fujian in my country. The main hall was once the venue for important ceremonies within the Ryukyu Kingdom.

Every year from October 26th to November 4th, the Shuri Castle Festival is held, simulating the scene of the visit of Chinese envoys during the Ryukyu Dynasty.

Tickets

Regular ticket: 820 yen

Opening hours 08:30-18:00

Naminoue Shrine

Located in Naha City, Naminoue Shrine is one of the Eight Great Shrines of the Ryukyu Islands and serves as the "Head Guardian of Okinawa." The shrine is quite small and can be explored in about 1-2 hours. If you're interested in fortune-telling, you can try it for 600 yen. Afterward, your fortune sheet will be hung on a tree.

Next to Naminoue Shrine is Naminoue Beach, the only beach in Naha City. The water here is incredibly clean, appearing almost transparent. Nearby, there's also the Fukushuen Chinese garden and Gokokuji Temple, both worth a visit. If you have the time, a visit is a good idea.

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Most Popular FAQs for Naha

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Naha, the capital of Okinawa Prefecture, has a rich history as the center of the Ryukyu Kingdom, which thrived from the 15th to the 19th century. The city is home to Shurijo Castle, the royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Naha also played a significant role during WWII and is now a blend of modern city life and traditional Okinawan culture.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Naha is located on the southern part of Okinawa Island, Japan. The city is accessible by bus, taxi, or walking. The Naha Airport is about 10-15 minutes by taxi from the city center. The Yui Rail monorail connects Naha Airport to key points in the city, making it convenient for visitors.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The best time to visit Naha is during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when the weather is mild. Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid, while winter (December-February) is cooler but still pleasant. Most attractions like Shurijo Castle are open daily, with visiting hours from 9 AM to 5 PM.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Shurijo Castle is about ¥820 for adults, with discounts for students and children. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online. Many other attractions in Naha are free or have low fees, such as Kokusai Street and Tsuboya Pottery District.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For most attractions in Naha, booking tickets in advance is not necessary. However, it is recommended to book tickets in advance for specific events or tours, especially during peak tourist seasons or if you plan to visit Shurijo Castle.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can explore Naha in a day or two. A full day should be enough to visit the major attractions, such as Shurijo Castle, Kokusai Street, and the Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum. If you want to explore the beaches or enjoy local experiences like pottery making, an additional day would be ideal.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights in Naha include Shurijo Castle, Kokusai Street for shopping and dining, the Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum for cultural exhibits, and the Tsuboya Pottery District. You can also visit the peaceful Naminoue Shrine and the beach near the Naha city center.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available for Shurijo Castle and other historical sites. They are offered in English and Japanese. Audio guides are available at the castle and some museums in multiple languages, including English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoint in Naha is from the top of Shurijo Castle, offering a panoramic view of the city and surrounding areas. Kokusai Street is also great for street photography, capturing the vibrant atmosphere of the city. For beach views, head to Naminoue Beach or the Okinawa Prefectural Museum's outdoor area.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary in Naha is to start with Shurijo Castle in the morning, followed by a visit to the Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum. After lunch, explore the Tsuboya Pottery District and stroll down Kokusai Street for shopping. If time allows, relax at Naminoue Beach or visit Naminoue Shrine.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Shurijo Castle and other attractions typically close by evening, but Naha has a lively night scene with many restaurants and bars on Kokusai Street. While there are no special light shows, the city is vibrant at night, and local festivals often feature traditional performances.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Naha can get crowded during peak travel seasons such as Golden Week (April-May) and summer holidays (July-August). The least crowded times are during the winter months (December-February) and weekdays outside of holidays. Early mornings are also less crowded for popular attractions.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Most major attractions in Naha, like Shurijo Castle and the Okinawa Prefectural Museum, have toilets, food options, water fountains, rest areas, and souvenir shops. Kokusai Street is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, providing plenty of options for visitors to relax and dine.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Shurijo Castle and other attractions in Naha are mostly accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and elevators available in most places. However, some areas may have uneven terrain, so it's important to plan accordingly. Public transportation, like buses and the Yui Rail, is also accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely accepted in Naha, but many shops, restaurants, and attractions also accept credit cards and mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay. It's recommended to carry cash for smaller shops or more traditional locations.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Naha has many restaurants and cafes. Kokusai Street is filled with eateries offering Okinawan specialties like goya champuru, Okinawa soba, and fresh seafood. Recommended spots include Uraniwa for traditional Okinawan cuisine and Café Nirai Kanai for a relaxing coffee.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many restaurants, though Okinawan cuisine tends to focus on meat and seafood. For halal food, there are a few restaurants in Naha offering Middle Eastern or Indian cuisine, such as Café Dining Oshiro.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Recommended hotels in Naha include the Okinawa Grand Mer Resort, Hotel Aqua Citta Naha, and the Naha Tokyu REI Hotel, all offering easy access to major attractions and Kokusai Street.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, located about 2 hours away by car, is one of Japan's top aquariums.
• The American Village in Chatan is a popular shopping and entertainment area about 30 minutes from Naha.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are abundant in Naha, especially along Kokusai Street. Popular souvenirs include Okinawan pottery, local snacks like sata andagi (fried doughnuts), and Shisa lion-dog figurines, which are considered protective symbols in Okinawa.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Naha, you can continue your trip by taking a bus, taxi, or the Yui Rail monorail to other parts of Okinawa. If you're heading to another island in Okinawa, the Naha Port offers ferries, and the Naha Airport has flights to other Japanese cities.