Things To Do
in Naha
Naha is the capital city of Okinawa Prefecture in Japan, located on the southern coast of the island of Okinawa. It is known for its vibrant blend of modern amenities and traditional Ryukyuan culture. Visitors can explore historic sites such as Shuri Castle, enjoy delicious Okinawan cuisine, and shop for souvenirs at bustling markets.
The city also boasts beautiful beaches and stunning ocean views, making it a popular destination for both tourists and local residents.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Shurijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy the beautiful gardens and learn about Ryukyu history.
Head to Kokusai Street for lunch and shopping. Experience local cuisine and buy unique souvenirs.
Relax at a nearby izakaya and savor traditional Japanese dishes. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront at Sunset Beach.
Spend your morning at Naminoue Beach, the only beach in Naha. Swim and unwind on the sandy shore.
Visit the nearby Naminoue Shrine for some cultural exploration. Take in the ocean views and serene atmosphere.
Enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant near the beach. Take a sunset walk along the shoreline to end your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and heritage, including the Shuri Castle and traditional Okinawan music.
- Beautiful beaches and tropical climate, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.
- Delicious Okinawan cuisine, known for its unique flavors and health benefits.
- Friendly and welcoming local community, offering a sense of belonging for visitors.
- Opportunities for water sports such as snorkeling and diving due to clear waters and marine life.
- Higher cost of living compared to other parts of Japan, especially in terms of housing.
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries, which may not attract all professionals.
- Public transportation options may be less extensive compared to mainland Japan cities.
- Typhoon season can affect travel plans and local activities during certain times of the year.
- Language barrier, as English is not widely spoken outside of tourist areas.
Best Activities in Naha
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic Shurijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about Okinawa's rich cultural heritage.
Visit Seifa Utaki, a sacred site of the indigenous Ryukyuan religion, and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding forest.
Relax on the beautiful Naminoue Beach, located near Naha, and soak up the sun and ocean views.
Tours
Uncover the best of Naha with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Naha
Visit one of these nice places.
Historical castle site with panoramic views of Naha city and the surrounding areas.
A limestone cave with stunning rock formations and unique photo opportunities.
Vibrant shopping street with opportunities for capturing the city's bustling atmosphere and local culture.
Food in Naha
Naha Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular stir-fry dish featuring bitter melon, tofu, egg, pork, and vegetables. It's a unique blend of flavors and textures.
Must-Try!
Braised pork belly simmered in soy, sake, and sugar until tender. It's a beloved local comfort food.
A distinctive noodle soup made with thicker wheat noodles and a clear, umami-rich broth typically topped with pork, green onions, and red pickled ginger.
A fusion dish consisting of taco-flavored ground meat served on a bed of rice, topped with cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes. It's a popular casual meal.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Naha better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh seafood, produce, and local food stalls offering classic Okinawan snacks like sata andagi (sweet deep-fried doughnuts) and umibudo (sea grapes).
A vibrant street food village where you can sample an array of local treats such as jimami tofu (peanut tofu), goya champuru, and soki soba (noodles with stewed pork rib).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Naha, Japan, it is customary to bow as a sign of respect when greeting someone, particularly when meeting someone for the first time or in a formal setting.
It is respectful to remove your shoes before entering someone's home, traditional ryokan, or certain other indoor spaces in Naha.
In Naha, quiet and polite behavior is highly valued, and being mindful of speaking softly and attentively listening to others is considered respectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Naha with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Naha
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Naha, Japan. In fact, it may even be considered rude in some situations. Service charges are often included in the bill at restaurants and tipping is not expected in hotels or taxis.
In Naha, Japan, cash is the dominant form of payment, and credit cards are widely accepted, especially in major establishments. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash when visiting smaller shops and local eateries, as they may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Naha.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Naha as the weather is mild and cherry blossoms are in bloom, creating a picturesque and vibrant atmosphere.
Expect hot and humid weather with occasional typhoons. The beaches are popular during this time, offering opportunities for water activities.
Enjoy pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage. This season is great for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of Naha.
Mild winter with temperatures rarely dropping below 15°C. It's a good time for exploring historical sites and enjoying local festivities.
Naha at Night
Hiking in Naha
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful trail located near the ruins of Gusuku, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the ocean.
A scenic hiking path that leads to a stunning waterfall. The trail passes through lush subtropical forests and offers a refreshing escape.
An accessible park with hiking trails that feature panoramic views of Naha and the surrounding coastline.
A relatively easy hike that takes you through a forested area, leading to a picturesque waterfall perfect for a mid-hike break.
A historic site with hiking paths that explore the ruins of an ancient castle, offering great views of the East China Sea.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Naha through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Naha by plane.
The main airport serving the city of Naha, located in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. It is an international airport with a variety of domestic and international flights.
An international airport located on an artificial island in Osaka Bay, serving the Kansai region including Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe.
An international airport located in Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture, serving the Nagoya metropolitan area.
One of the two primary airports serving Tokyo, located in Ota, Tokyo. It handles a large number of domestic and international flights.
Located near Narita, Chiba, it is the other major airport serving the Tokyo area and primarily handles international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest group consisting of native Japanese people, primarily of Okinawan descent, residing in Naha.
This includes expatriates and immigrants from various countries who have settled in Naha.
Visitors from different parts of Japan and around the world who travel to Naha for tourism.
Local indigenous groups that may have distinct cultural attributes within the larger Japanese demographic.
The Soul of Naha
Discover the essence of Naha through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional martial art originating from Okinawa, known for its powerful strikes and self-defense techniques.
A widely popular team sport in Naha, with local clubs and a passionate fan base.
One of the most popular sports in Japan, with many local high school and amateur leagues in Naha.
Gaining popularity in Naha, with several clubs and teams participating in local leagues.
Taking advantage of the coastal beaches, beach volleyball is a popular recreational sport in Naha.
Common in schools, with various competitions taking place in Naha throughout the year.
A common martial art and sport in Naha, with local clubs and schools promoting judo practices.
Although not as prevalent as in other parts of Japan, sumo has a cultural significance and local tournaments in Naha.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Naha.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Okinawan cuisine heavily features seafood and pork, some restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan versions of local dishes or alternative plant-based options influenced by the island's ingredients.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find some establishments accommodating their needs, especially in areas that cater to international tourists.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Naha with these cultural adventures.