In early February 2025, I had the chance to spend 3 days and 2 nights in Okinawa. My adventure began with a video I came across online—of a whale shark swimming gracefully in a massive glass tank. The sheer size of the creature was mesmerizing, and I couldn’t help but think, “How incredible would it be to see that in person?” That was the moment I decided to book my flight and head to Okinawa.
The day of the trip arrived, and as my plane descended toward Naha airport, I could see dark clouds gathering in the distance. I knew rain was on its way, but I refused to let it ruin my excitement. When I finally stepped off the plane, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of exhilaration—I’d made it to Okinawa!
After picking up my rental car, I kicked off my journey with a visit to Naminoue Shrine. The black torii gate and vibrant red shrine were so striking, creating a peaceful atmosphere. I took a quiet moment to offer a prayer, hoping for good fortune. While wandering around, I could hear the sound of waves in the distance, so I followed the sound and stumbled upon Naminoue Beach. I was amazed to find the shrine perched on a cliff, offering a beautiful view of the ocean below. The beach was small and serene—perfect for a peaceful walk. As I soaked in the calm, light rain began to fall, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.
Next, I headed to Local Cuisine KOKO, a restaurant I had seen recommended on Twitter. The reviews promised delicious food and lovely live performances, so I was eager to try it. When I walked in, the staff greeted me warmly, and soon after, a singer began performing at each table, making the experience feel even more special. The atmosphere was lively and inviting, and I really enjoyed my meal.
If you visit Okinawa, you’ve got to try Goya Champuru, a local dish made with stir-fried bitter melon. Normally, I’m not a fan of bitter flavors, but this dish was surprisingly delicious—somehow, they managed to tone down the bitterness and turn it into a flavorful, satisfying meal. Another must-try is Jimami Tofu, a soft, pudding-like tofu served with a soy sauce and brown sugar syrup. It was so smooth and tasty, and I have to say, it’s now my new favorite tofu dish!
After dinner, I took a stroll down Kokusaidori, Naha’s main shopping street. The rain had picked up a bit, but that didn’t stop me from exploring. The street is lined with all sorts of shops—clothing stores, restaurants, souvenir shops, and ice cream parlors. I couldn’t resist stopping for a scoop of Blue Seal Ice Cream. It was so creamy and just the right amount of sweet. As the rain grew heavier, I decided it was time to head back to my hotel and rest up for the next day.
The following day, I had originally planned to skip Shurijo Castle since I’d read it was under renovation until 2026. But when I got there, I was curious about seeing the restoration process firsthand, so I changed my mind and went in. I’m so glad I did! The red Shurijo Castle, once the seat of the Ryukyu Kingdom, was still impressive. The 400 yen admission fee was absolutely worth it, not only to see the castle but to witness the intricate work being done to preserve it. The stone walls and the craftsmanship from the Ryukyu era were incredible—such a testament to the skill of those who built it. Although the original castle was tragically destroyed by fire in 2019, it was fascinating to see how they are restoring it, and I even got to learn that it took 18 months to apply 18 layers of paint to the building! The level of dedication is truly mind-blowing.
Okinawa is also the place to see Japan’s earliest sakura blooms, which usually appear in mid-January to early February. I was lucky enough to see some of the most beautiful deep-pink sakura I’ve ever laid eyes on, and it was truly stunning!
After visiting the castle, I set off on a two-hour drive to the highlight of my trip: the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium. By the time I arrived, the dolphin show was about to begin. The crowd was lively, and the dolphins were playful and intelligent—jumping and dancing in the water. It was such a fun and engaging experience!
Once the show ended, I made my way into the aquarium building, my heart pounding with excitement. I couldn’t wait to see the enormous whale shark. As soon as I entered the main hall, I was greeted by a school of fish, followed by manta rays and black manta rays—each one more impressive than the last. And then, I spotted it: the whale shark! It was massive and majestic, almost surreal to see in person. I could have spent the whole day just watching the fish swim by. It was such a calming and satisfying experience, and it truly made the trip worthwhile.
To wrap up my Okinawa adventure, I visited the Itoman Fishing Cooperative Fish Center. I had been craving fresh seafood, and this place, just a short drive from the airport, was perfect. Although it’s not a huge market, it had everything I wanted: fresh fish, shrimp, otoro (fatty tuna), sea urchin, lobster, crab, freshly made sushi, and grilled unagi. The seafood was so fresh, and every bite was a treat. Just a heads-up—since the dining area is outdoors, it can get pretty chilly on windy days, so make sure to dress warmly if you’re visiting in the cooler months.
My 3-day adventure in Okinawa was a delightful mix of stunning sights, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences. From visiting peaceful shrines and witnessing the breathtaking sakura blooms, to exploring the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium and enjoying fresh seafood, every moment was a joy. Okinawa’s beauty and charm made this trip an absolute highlight, and I can’t wait to return.
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