Okinawa, Japan

Description — Okinawa, Japan

Naha is the administrative center and the largest city of Okinawa Prefecture in Japan. It is located in the southern part of Okinawa Island, on the coast of the East China Sea. Okinawa is the southernmost prefecture of Japan and consists of hundreds of small islands forming the Ryukyu Archipelago stretching over more than 1000 km. The city's area is 39,24 sq. km, population - 318 183 people (2014). Naha is the political, economic, and cultural center of Okinawa Prefecture. It is also the most important transport hub of the region.

In the 14th-19th centuries, the Shuri Castle stood in the city, serving as the capital of the Ryukyu Kingdom. In 1879, Japan annexed Ryukyu, incorporating it into Kagoshima Prefecture. Later, Okinawa Prefecture was established. On 20 May 1921, the city of Naha was founded on the territory of Shuri and in four other municipalities of the former kingdom, becoming the capital of the new prefecture.

During the Second World War, in the Battle of Okinawa, the city was almost completely destroyed. In particular, the historic part of the city was heavily damaged, as well as Shuri Castle, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

In addition to attractions included in the UNESCO list, colorful markets and traditional neighborhoods with bright houses, Naha even has a beach - Namii-no-Ue - the only one within the city limits. A blue sky, clear sea, white beaches, picturesque nature, the history of the Ryukyu dynasty, the birthplace of karate and Japan, completely unlike Japan. Thanks to the constant mild climate and connectivity with the mainland in the China area from ancient times, here have been preserved rarest representatives of flora and fauna. But most amazing of all is Okinawa's underwater world, which, with its diversity and vivid colors, attracts divers from all over the world year-round.

Climate

In Naha, there is a warm, humid subtropical climate with hot and humid summers and warm “winters”. The average daytime temperature in July (the hottest month of the year) is slightly above 31 °C, nighttime - about 26 °C. In January and February, daytime temperatures range around 19 °C, nighttime - about 14 °C. More than 2 m of rain falls on every square meter of the city each year; snowfalls are extremely rarely recorded.

Naha, Okinawa, Japan
Surprise Castle
King Sejong’s Royal Tomb (Tamaudun)
Nami-no-Ue Beach
Okinawa World Entertainment Park

Location on the map

Sights

Shuri Castle

In Shuri Castle lived the rulers of the Ryukyu state from 1429 to 1879. At the time, the castle was the kingdom’s internal political center and the most magnificent building on the entire Ryukyu island. In shape, it resembles an oval; its total area is about 46 square meters. Unfortunately, the castle was completely destroyed during World War II. After that, it took about half a century to restore it. In 2000, the castle was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Fund. Using the original 18th-century plans, the restorers recreated the castle buildings as they appeared in 1700. The main hall Seiden, previously used for ceremonial royal rites, and the entire castle complex are magnificent-this is a true masterpiece of restoration.

Royal Mausoleum Tamoedun

Tamaudun is a mausoleum of the royal family, built in the early 16th century. It consists of 3 halls: the left one is for kings and queens, the right one is for princes and princesses, and in the central hall the bodies were prepared for burial (the process took several years). Unfortunately, you cannot enter the burial chambers intended for the royal dynasty. You can only admire the Okinawan style: a building that looks more like a fortress.

What to see

Nami-no-Ue Beach

The favorite vacation spot for those vacationers in Naha is the only beach within the city limits, Nami-no Ue. Swimmers can watch ships arriving at the port and departing from it, as well as airplanes taking off and landing. The beach is equipped with sun loungers, showers, and lockers. The name of the beach can be translated as “on the crest of the wave,” but this place is more than safe and quiet. Giant breakwaters protect visitors from the waves, and a special net keeps away any marine life such as jellyfish.

Recommended excursions

Okinawa Excursion

In the first half of the day you will visit the main palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom - Shuri Castle. It is a true architectural masterpiece and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. At the Makishi Market you will immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a real Asian market. Everything is sold here! The sacred place of Seifa-Utaki is also included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. During the era of the Ryukyu Kingdom, important ceremonies were held here. The final stop on the tour is the entertainment park “Okinawa’s World”. Here you can stroll through the fruit orchard, watch the process of making cane sugar and snake vodka, and also visit the snake park, the famous stalactite cave, and enjoy the traditional, energetic Okinawan Eisa dance.

You can find a more detailed list of excursions and their prices after booking your cruise in your “Client Personal Account”.