An escape to a sun-soaked sub-tropical paradise is something that we all dream of, particularly when it feels like work in the city is never-ending. Okinawa, a wonderfully accessible island just off of Taiwan, was my first ever experience travelling to Japan. It gave me everything I’d hoped to experience, from amazing beaches, breathtaking views from atop capes and an indulgent few days of relaxation.
Although Okinawa is one of forty-seven of Japan’s prefectures, it is not typical of the Japan we all know and expect. It has its own history, culture, language and way of life that are entirely different than that of mainland Japan. From my three weeks on the island, I learned a few invaluable lessons that I feel are essential for those looking to make the most of their visit to Okinawa in the future. Here are 5 wonderful things you can do in Okinawa.
Cape Maeda
Cape Maeda is located near Onna Village (Coral Village), a village that sits on the northwest coast of Okinawa. The village is well known for its coral reefs and is the number one spot for both scuba divers and snorkelers.
One of the frequently mentioned things about Cape Maeda (Maeda Misaki) is that there are several vantage points to enjoy the views from; one being from the top of the cliff, formed from raised coral reefs and if you look over you’ll see an apparent hue of the cobalt blue views of the ocean. Beneath these raised coral reefs, you’ll also be able to snorkel or scuba dive through clear emerald-green waters where the coral reefs actually lie. Discovering the “Blue Cave” (Kumagaa Gama) will be the highlight.
A walk here can be enjoyed with beautiful scenery while soaking in the ocean breeze. Kayaking is also another way you can enjoy the cape where you can access the “Blue Cave” and enjoy a different scenery from the surface.
Get to Know The Ryukyu Kingdom at Shuri Castle
Before I travelled to Okinawa, I really had no idea that there was quite a significant influence of the Chinese dynasties; one being the famous Ming Dynasty we all know about in our history books (and sometimes in movies). Before there was a Ryukyu Kingdom, there was the Sanzan Period also known as the Three-Kingdom Period. Back then there was a gradual consolidation of powers under the Shō family who at the time ruled the middle kingdom, Chuzan. But Shō Hashi the last King of Chuzan in his conquest to take over the Kingdoms of Hokuzan in the north and Nanzan in the south, later unified the three kingdoms to become the Ryukyu Kingdom.
Though the kingdom was independent, the Kings of the Ryukyu Kingdom paid tributes to the rulers of China until the Satsuma domination in 1609. Many of the Ryukyuan officials are descended from Chinese immigrants, being born in China or having Chinese grandfathers. This was partly due to the Ming Dynasty having sent 68 Chinese families at the request of the Ryukyu Kingdom to manage Oceanic matters in the kingdom.
The rulers of the Ryukyu kingdom may be long gone but many of their finest works and legacy remain in splendid condition in the royal palace; Shuri Castle (首里城, Shurijō). A visit to this site should be included in your Okinawa itinerary – whether you’re into the history or not.
Want to know more about Okinawa before you visit, find out Everything You Need to Know here.
Fly through the Sky With Zip Slides
Forest Adventure Onna is located in Onna Village and it is almost in the centre of the Okinawa Prefecture. It’s also the only forest adventure in Okinawa that serves as the perfect opportunity to experience Okinawan wilderness at its fullest; while traversing from tree to tree with zip lining and bridge crossings. One of the longest zip slide course stretches 100 meters and were built overlooking the beautiful view of the turquoise ocean.
Top recommendation ~ If you are looking to explore Okinawa from up top with an eagle eye’s vantage point of the forest and the ocean, I recommend the Adventure course which includes the Jungle Trip course.
The Details
The Adventure course is the most difficult course in Forest Adventure Onna. It takes about two and a half hours, however, there are shortcuts to end the course midway to accommodate your physical strength.
There is a flat rate for adults and children; ￥3,800 per person but if you are taking the zip courses with a group of eight, it is ￥300 less.
Stroll Through a Botanical Garden
Pack your camera, because you’re going to be glad you brought it with you. The South East Botanical Gardens grow Alexander Palm trees of up to 25 meters. In mainland Japan, it can only grow in greenhouses. As you walk through the trees, the cool atmosphere will surely be felt and the sense of calmness as you breath in the air brings out your appreciation for this exotic plant. It is the perfect place to explore for nature lovers.
Before entering the botanical gardens, it rained and I had an episode of mosquito attacks, like I always do. Ironically my friend strolled through the gardens without a single bite. So if you plan to visit, best to apply a mosquito repellent or bring along tiger balm ointment. You’ll be thankful that you did.
The botanical gardens is not just home to palm trees, but it is home to farm animals and many other amazing plants like the lotus, baobab and the dragon blood trees. We were fortunate to witness the white and pink lotuses blooming in the ponds. At night, if you’re lucky, you may enjoy the gardens when it’s lighted up. I say lucky because they only light up the place at night twice a year.
Savour the Views from Zakimi Castle
Many have fallen for the charms of Okinawa and its unique history, and all of you reading this in anticipation of visiting will eventually succumb to its allure too.
Zakimi Castle was built in the 1400s by the Chuzan Kingdom where they once ruled over central Okinawa Honto. After the Chuzan Kingdom defeated the Hokuzan Kingdom in the north, the castle served as a defence structure against the rebels from the north. Eventually, the Chuzan Kingdom united both the islands and formed the Ryukyu Kingdom.
Today, what’s left of Zakimi Castle are ruins with impressive views of the ocean, Shuri Castle and Naha Port in the distance. It’s located on a hill in central Okinawa Honto, which is not far from Cape Zampa.
You may encounter fleeting interactions with other visitors with cameras hanging over their necks and maybe even glance and nod to a couple of newlyweds. Their hired photographer snaps candid photos of them as you gaze in awe at stone wall ruins; which is one of several UNESCO sites of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
You’ll know that there truly is something special here. Travel slowly, observe the serendipitous views of the subtropical summer of Okinawa, get lost rather than ticking off a bucket list, and get curious about the castles’ past and its stories. Stay until sunset, inhale the salty air and find the magic in those short moments before the day fully retires.
Fun Facts About Okinawa
1. Okinawa was the birthplace of Karate. Remember Mr Miyagi from the 1984 movie “Karate Kid”? The character is from Okinawa.
2. Okinawa has a language of its own called the Uchinaghuchi along with another Okinawan language that was born on the islands. Uchinaghuchi is most notable Okinawan language. After World War II, Japan took over the Ryukyu Islands and Okinawans were forced to only speak Japanese, as mainland Japanese were not able to understand the language at all.
3. It’s known for its tropical climate, broad beaches, beautiful coral reef and it’s World War II sites.
4. Okinawa is the largest island in the Ryukyu chain of islands south of mainland Japan.
5. The Shisa dogs usually come in pairs. One dog has its mouth open to ward off evil spirits out of homes and business buildings. The other dog has its mouth closed to keep the good spirits in homes and in business buildings. It is a common site to see a Shisa dog statue at every house and business buildings in Okinawa.
6. Okinawan is known for its longevity myth. There have been many types of research and debates about Okinawans having the highest life expectancy. The myth, however, have yet to be proven.
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