Okinawa is a hidden and unknown island archipelago in Japan that doesn’t nearly get the attention it deserves. Travel writer and content creator Jeremy Drake explains firsthand why travellers should add this under-the-radar hotspot to their Asia wish list.
This visit starts on the Motobu Peninsula of the main island, also called Okinawa, one of 160 idyllic, palm-fringed islands in the Okinawa archipelago and prefecture of Japan.
We wander alone through the sandy streets in the calming seaside village of Bise among the towering native flora that locals call ‘happiness trees’.
With four nights and five days to explore the island (about 112km from north to south), you need a hire car to fully immerse yourself in the distinct Ruyuku culture, the Okinawan food and locally distilled Awamori spirit.
Most importantly, allow yourself time to visit tiny villages such as Jashiki, which will help you understand why people live longer on Okinawa Island than anywhere else in the world.
One of five ‘Blue Zones’ identified by anthropologists in 2009, much is written about the Okinawan diet, nature, climate, isolation and genetic lottery that potentially contributes to their longevity.
But like the trees of Bise, it’s got to be the distinctive happiness that makes people here live for so long.
The locals have smiles on their faces more expansive than the horizon of the East China Sea. Every Okinawan I meet also shares a desire to form human connections with each other and lucky visitors like me.
Here’s what to do on your next visit to Okinawa:
Enjoy nature & adventure
The Yanbaru forest in the island’s north is better known to locals as ‘Miracle Forest’, partly due to the concentrated birdlife percentage in such a small area. Join a naturalist on a breathtaking (easy-to-moderate) hike to one of the island’s largest single-drop waterfalls.
But if you’re after more action, grab a sea kayak from Sun Wave Kayaks and immerse yourself in the turquoise-blue water off both coasts. Founder Ryo Unten will also take you to one of his favourite private beaches for one of the best home-brewed coffees you’ll have in Okinawa.
Savour taco rice
Taco Rice is a local delicacy invented to appease hungry American soldiers during World War II. It consists of minced pork, beef and a chilli powder combination. Served on a bed of rice and finely chopped lettuce, it’s layered with fresh salsa and American orange-hued cheese. Make your own at C-Kitchen Cooking School.
Experience the local way of life
With options to suit every budget, two particular hotels will give context to the Okinawan way of life.
Koichi Takimoto, who came to Motobu after giving up his busy life in Tokyo, runs the six-room Hortonoki guesthouse. He’s created a shared space for explorers who dine on the fresh produce from the endemic garden.
At Hotel Nammei Shinshitsu in Jashiki, stay in a traditional timber Japanese home and experience village life under the guidance of a ‘sherpa’. This includes a shared dinner with one of the many octogenarians (and even centenarians) who call this village home.
Visit Naha City
The main island’s capital, Naha City, is like a miniature Tokyo with palm trees. This concentrated metropolitan centre is the perfect place to finish your visit.
Shop for kariyushi wear (aka the Okinawan version of the Hawaiian shirt and summer formal attire), kitchen and homewares in the famous Tsuboya Odori Pottery Street. Or uncover the city’s fascinating craft beer and distilling culture. Look out for Baku, a hidden craft beer house.
How to get there
China Airlines flies to Naha International Airport via Taipei from Brisbane, Melbourne or Sydney. This less-travelled route for Aussies travelling to Japan is a faster connection to the subtropical islands of Okinawa.
Send your clients to beautiful Okinawa today!
Don’t forget: you can learn more about all things Okinawa by visiting our dedicated Okinawa Okinawa Trade Page and visiting our official website visitokinawajapan.com.
You’ll not only learn how to sell this fascinating destination to your clients but also score yourself some sweet prizes.
And for the eye-candy inspo and up-to-date info, make sure you follow Visit Okinawa on Instagram and Facebook.
Content by Jeremy Drake. Find out more about Jeremy here or follow him on Instagram.
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