Things To Do
in Nanjō

Nanjō is a charming city located in Okinawa, Japan, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes. It is surrounded by lush mountains and stunning coastlines, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. The city is also home to several historical sites and traditional Okinawan villages, offering a glimpse into the island's unique culture.

With its warm climate and friendly locals, Nanjō provides a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Okinawa World, a theme park that showcases the culture and traditions of Okinawa, including a tour of the impressive Gyokusendo Cave.

afternoon
:

Explore the Sefa Utaki, a sacred site and UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning natural beauty and spiritual significance.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya to experience traditional Okinawan cuisine and enjoy some local music performances.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Spend the morning at the beautiful Maehama Beach, known for its white sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Cape Chinen Park for breathtaking ocean views and a leisurely walk through the scenic trails.

evening
:

Enjoy a sunset dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and local dishes while watching the sun dip below the horizon.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍚Typical Meal$8
Cup of Coffee$3
🏨Hostel Bed$25
🚌Local Bus Fare$1.50
🛒Grocery Shopping$30/week

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and beaches.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent.
  • Some attractions may require travel time from the city center.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Nanjō

Visit one of these nice places.

Cape Chinen

Offers stunning panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding landscape, especially at sunset.

Sefa Utaki

A sacred site with beautiful natural formations and lush greenery, perfect for capturing the essence of Okinawa.

Maehama Beach

Known for its pristine white sand and turquoise waters, making it a perfect backdrop for beach photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nanjō

Nanjō offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes influenced by its unique culture and history.

Nanjō Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Okinawa Soba

A traditional noodle dish made with wheat noodles, served in a savory broth and topped with pork and green onions.

Must-Try!

Goya Champuru

A stir-fry dish featuring bitter melon, tofu, and pork, showcasing the island's unique flavors.

Rafute

Braised pork belly cooked in a sweet soy sauce, served with rice and vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nanjō Farmers Market

A vibrant market where locals sell fresh produce, homemade goods, and traditional snacks.

Yachimun Street

A street lined with stalls offering various Okinawan street foods like tempura and sweet potato snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nanjō has a subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. Summers (June to August) can be quite warm, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C and occasional typhoons. Winters (December to February) are mild, averaging around 15-20°C, making it comfortable for outdoor activities. The rainy season typically occurs in May and June, bringing increased humidity and rainfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Tradition

Always show respect when visiting sacred sites and follow local customs, such as bowing.

Quiet Public Spaces

Keep noise to a minimum in public transport and communal areas to respect others.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nanjō is considered a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, common safety precautions should be taken, such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables secure. Additionally, during the typhoon season, it's essential to stay updated with weather reports and follow local advisories.

Tipping in Nanjō

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and may even be considered rude; excellent service is expected.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having cash is advisable for smaller shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time to visit; cherry blossoms can be seen.

Summer

Hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C; perfect for beach activities, but be prepared for occasional typhoons.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and less humidity; a great time for hiking and outdoor activities.

Winter

Mild winter temperatures make it a pleasant time to explore, although some attractions may have shorter hours.

Nightlife Guide

Nanjō at Night

Nanjō's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities like Naha. However, there are charming izakayas and local bars where you can enjoy traditional Okinawan music and dance. Some beachfront venues offer live performances and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Nanjō

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiji Falls Trail

A scenic hike leading to a beautiful waterfall, surrounded by lush vegetation, suitable for moderate hikers.

Kijimuna Trail

A more challenging trail that offers stunning views of the ocean and is perfect for experienced hikers looking for a rewarding trek.

Airports

How to reach Nanjō by plane.

Naha Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Nanjō, Naha Airport is the main international gateway to Okinawa, offering flights to various domestic and international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nanjō is moderately walkable, with some areas featuring pedestrian-friendly paths and sidewalks. However, certain attractions may be spread out, so it's advisable to rent a bicycle or use public transport for longer distances. The beach areas and parks are particularly pleasant for walking and enjoying the scenery.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Okinawan Locals

The indigenous people of Okinawa have a distinct culture and language, with rich traditions and customs.

Tourists

Nanjō attracts visitors from around the world, particularly those interested in cultural experiences, nature, and beach activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Okinawa Karate

A traditional martial art originating from Okinawa, popular both locally and internationally.

Baseball

Baseball is a favorite pastime in Japan, with many local teams and amateur leagues throughout the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nanjō is generally light compared to major urban centers. Public transportation options include buses that connect various parts of the city and surrounding areas, though schedules may be less frequent on weekends. Renting a bicycle is a popular option for getting around town and allows for easy exploration of local attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nanjō.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be adjusted to accommodate vegetarians, but it's best to inquire at restaurants.

Gluten-Free Options

Some traditional dishes contain gluten, so gluten-free options may be limited; check with staff for alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Nanjō is generally good, with several clinics and hospitals available for residents and visitors. Many medical professionals speak some English, but it's advisable to have a translation app or phrasebook handy. In case of emergencies, dialing 119 will connect you to ambulance services.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide