Okinawa Island Travel Tips

Highly Recommended

—

3 of 5 in Okinawa Prefecture

Okinawa Main Island (沖縄本島, Okinawa Hontō) is the vibrant heart of the former Ryukyu Kingdom and the largest island in Okinawa Prefecture. As a bustling transportation hub, it boasts the capital city Naha and is home to numerous U.S. military bases. While the central region is urbanized, the island offers serene escapes in its less populated southern tip and northern third, where you can experience the authentic charm of local fishing and farming villages.

Nature lovers will adore the Yanbaru Region in the north, characterized by lush forests and scenic hills. Explore the island’s rich culture, stunning beaches, and historical sites that capture the essence of Okinawa's unique heritage. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Okinawa Main Island has something for everyone.

Getting around

Okinawa Honto has a decent bus system that serves Naha and other urban areas. However, for exploring areas outside the city, renting a car is the best choice. Rental car offices are available at Naha Airport and in major cities. Keep in mind that traffic can get heavy, especially during rush hours in Naha and central Okinawa. To travel to the northern part of Okinawa, you can take the Okinawa Expressway, which leads from Naha to Nago, with tolls costing around 1000 yen one way.

Public transport in Okinawa mainly consists of buses, with the exception of the Okinawa Monorail in Naha. The bus system is widespread but can be tricky to navigate, with some routes being infrequent. The Naha Bus Terminal is the main hub for bus services, and you can also catch buses from the airport. Two important bus lines, numbers 111 and 117, connect Naha Airport and the bus terminal to northern Okinawa. The Yanbaru Express and Okinawa Airport Shuttle are express buses that go to popular spots like Churaumi Aquarium. There are also ferries that run from Naha to Toguchi Port, taking about 75 minutes for 1000 yen.