Things To Do
in Ginowan

Slow-braised Okinawan pork belly in a sweet-savory sauce; commonly available at local izakayas and family restaurants.

Must-Try!

A bitter melon stir-fry with tofu, egg, pork or spam — a staple Okinawan home dish found in small diners and set lunches.

A popular Okinawa fusion — seasoned taco meat on rice with cheese and lettuce — often sold at casual shops and food courts near base areas.

Okinawan deep-fried sweet donut; widely available from markets, bakeries and festival stalls.

Remove shoes when entering homes, some ryokan, temples and certain traditional restaurants; look for shoe racks and follow locals.

Keep voices moderate on public transport and in residential areas; respect elder residents and avoid loud phone calls.

A small bow, eye contact and polite phrases go a long way. Say 'arigatou' (thank you) and 'sumimasen' when needing help or apologizing.

Avoid photographing restricted areas, checkpoints or personnel around U.S. bases; obey signs and security staff requests.

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be confusing—excellent service is built into prices. If you feel compelled to show extra appreciation, present cash in an envelope and offer it politely; in most situations it's unnecessary.

Cash (Japanese yen) remains widely used, especially at small eateries and stalls. Credit cards are commonly accepted at hotels, larger restaurants and shops; IC transit cards like OKICA and some national cards (Suica/Pasmo) may work in parts of Okinawa but acceptance is less universal. ATMs at convenience stores and post offices typically accept international cards; plan ahead for cash when visiting smaller vendors.

Hot, humid and rainy at times with temperatures often in the high 20s–30s°C (mid-80s–90s°F). Beach season is in full swing, but be aware of typhoon risk (especially Aug–Sep) and occasional strong sun—use reef-safe sunscreen and watch for jellyfish warnings.

Warm and pleasant with lower humidity and fewer tourists after summer; still a chance of typhoons early in the season but generally good weather for outdoor activities and photography.

Mild winters with temperatures rarely dropping below 10°C (50°F); comfortable for hiking and sightseeing though sea water is cooler for swimming. Expect quieter beaches and lower hotel rates.

Warm, blooming season with comfortable humidity, pleasant sea breezes and increasing tourist activity. Late spring transitions into hot summer, so plan accordingly.

Short hikes around the historic Nakagusuku Castle ruins with stone walls and panoramic views of the coast — an easy cultural-hiking combination close to Ginowan.

Scenic coastal walks near the cape with dramatic cliffs, a lighthouse and seaside photo opportunities; modest walking paths rather than strenuous trails.

Longer drive to northern Okinawa for more forested hikes and waterfalls such as Hiji Falls; ideal for nature lovers wanting a more rugged hiking experience.

The island’s highest peak located in the north—best as a day trip for experienced hikers interested in island-wide vistas and subtropical forest environments.

The main civilian airport for Okinawa Prefecture located in Naha, about a 25–40 minute drive from Ginowan depending on traffic; offers domestic and international flights and good transport links by taxi and buses.

A large U.S. Air Base located northwest of Ginowan; not a civilian airport but prominent in the area and relevant for local logistics and transportation — public access is restricted.

Local Ryukyuan/Okinawan people with strong cultural traditions and community ties; many families have lived on the island for generations.

A significant presence due to nearby bases — influences some local businesses, housing and cultural exchange.

Visitors from mainland Japan and abroad who come for beaches, culture and military-related travel; tourism spikes in summer and holidays.

Older residents and expatriates who appreciate the mild climate and slower pace of life.