Okinawa, with its stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage, offers a unique experience distinct from mainland Japan. The island’s blend of traditional Japanese culture and international influences creates a welcoming atmosphere for tourists. Renting a car, while not essential, makes exploring the island much easier. Here’s a look at my 3-day itinerary in this beautiful destination.
We arrived late in Okinawa, but our journey was smooth, with a pick-up car waiting to take us to the rental car center at the airport. After getting our rental car, we drove to A&V for dinner.
Post-meal, we explored American Village, a vibrant entertainment complex that truly comes alive at night. We enjoyed playing darts and having a few drinks. On weekends, you can also watch fireworks here.
Eventually, we headed back to the hotel for a good night’s sleep, eager to wake up early and make the most of our time in Okinawa.
On the second day, we woke up early to go to Kouri Island.
Things to Do on Kouri Island:
- Heart Rock: These coral rock formations are a signature landmark of Kouri Island, known for their unique and picturesque shapes. It was a wonderful spot for photos and enjoying the natural beauty of the island.
- Kouri Ocean Tower: This observation deck offered the best views of the island, providing a stunning panorama of the surrounding turquoise waters and lush greenery.
- Kouri Beach: A small but charming beach located next to the main bridge. The beach was unspoiled and serene, making it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the gentle waves and soft sand.
After a day full of exploration and relaxation on Kouri Island, we returned to our hotel, feeling refreshed and satisfied with our adventures.
In the morning, we visited Kokusai Street, known as “International Road,” one of the most famous tourist spots in Okinawa. The vibrant street is filled with shops, restaurants, and markets. We tried the famous purple sweet potato treats, a local delicacy known for its unique flavor and vibrant color. For lunch, we enjoyed taco rice, one of Okinawa’s most popular dishes. There were also plenty of opportunities to try other local foods, adding to the rich culinary experience.
In the afternoon, we headed to Naminoue Beach, a beautiful urban beach known for its clear waters and scenic views. We spent the afternoon relaxing on the soft sand and swimming in the refreshing sea. As the day drew to a close, we watched the stunning sunset over the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. It was a perfect end to a wonderful day.
First, we visited the zoo, which was fun. I also suggest checking out the famous Churaumi Aquarium—it’s a must-see. After that, we tried some delicious local food nearby.
Before the sun went down, we made our way to Senaga Island, one of my favorite spots in Okinawa. It’s a perfect place to relax with its beautiful beach and great restaurants. We even caught a performance while we were there.
One cool thing about Senaga Island is that it’s close to the airport, so you can watch airplanes flying in and out while you enjoy the island vibe.
Our last day was filled with good memories and unique experiences, making our trip to Okinawa unforgettable.
