How to Plan Your Okinawa Tour to Naha, Churaumi Aquarium and Kouri Island?

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Okinawa, Naha, Churaumi Aquarium, and Kouri Island – then you’ve come to the right place. Here’s how to plan your tour:

Step 1: Hire a Private Hiace Van with a Driver

To explore the best of the Okinawa region, you need a reliable mode of transportation. Hiring a private Hiace Van with a driver is an excellent choice for a personalized experience. You can customize your itinerary with your English-speaking driver and create a tour that suits your interests.

Step 2: Customize Your Itinerary

When you book a private Hiace van with a driver, you get to choose the attractions that interest you the most. Naha is the capital city of Okinawa, offering a perfect blend of modernity and traditional values. You can visit the lovely Okinawa Prefectural Museum, historic Shuri Castle, and peaceful Tamaudun Mausoleum with your guide. You can even visit Kokusai Street, the shopping and dining hub of Naha. Then take a leisurely drive up to Cape Manzamo, a natural rock formation on the coastline offering a spectacular view of the ocean.

Step 3: Visit Key Landmarks

Churaumi Aquarium is one of the top attractions in Okinawa, situated on the island’s northern coast. It houses over 100,000 marine creatures, from tropical fish to sea turtles and whale sharks. The aquarium features four main tanks, each representing a unique oceanic environment. Every tank has interactive stations, information boards, and audio recordings that offer a deep insight into the marine world. Your guide will tell you all about the histories of each place. Kouri Island is a beautiful tropical island situated in the north of Okinawa. It is connected to Yagaji Island by the famous Kouri Bridge, a 1960-meter toll bridge offering stunning views of the ocean beneath. The island is famous for its white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and beautiful coral reefs. You can take a stroll or sunbathe on the beautiful beach, try snorkeling or scuba diving in the beautiful sea or wind down with some delicious local cuisine at the souvenir shops.

Step 4: Enjoy a Personalized Experience

When you book a private Hiace van with a driver, you have the freedom to schedule your tour as per your convenience. You can take as much or as little time as you want at each destination, and you don’t have to worry about any inconveniences.

Step 5: What’s included:

Your 8-hour car rental with English/Chinese/Japanese driver includes entrance tickets to your chosen locations. Still, food and other personal expenses are not included and should be budgeted separately.

Step 6: How To Book:

If you’re interested in booking this tour, visit the Viator website for more details.

Book Your Tour Now

There you have it: a step-by-step guide on how to plan your tour of Naha, Churaumi Aquarium, and Kouri Island. Book your private Hiace van tour and enjoy the comfort and convenience of guided transportation. Explore the best of Okinawa at your own pace with personalized attention from your guide. You’re sure to have an unforgettable experience!

Frequently Asked Questions About Naha

If you are planning a trip to Naha, Japan, here are some frequently asked questions that will help you better prepare for your journey.

1. Where is Naha?

Naha is the capital city of Okinawa Prefecture, a group of tropical islands located in southwestern Japan. It is situated on the main island of Okinawa, approximately 1773 km (1102 mi) southwest of Tokyo.

2. What is the climate like in Naha?

Naha has a humid subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The summer months (June to September) are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 26°C (79°F) to 32°C (90°F). The winter months (December to February) are mild, with temperatures ranging from 17°C (62°F) to 21°C (70°F).

3. What are the top attractions in Naha?

Naha has many cultural and historical sites, including:

• Shuri Castle
• Okinawa World
• Tsuboya Pottery District
• Kokusai Street
• Naminoue Beach
• Naha City Museum of History

4. What is the best way to get around Naha?

The most convenient way to get around Naha is by renting a car, especially if you plan to visit sites outside of the city center. However, if you prefer not to drive, there are several public transportation options including buses, monorail, and taxis.

5. What is the currency in Naha?

The currency in Naha is the Japanese yen.

6. What is the language spoken in Naha?

The official language of Naha is Japanese. However, many people also speak English, especially in tourist areas.

7. What is the best time of year to visit Naha?

The best time to visit Naha is from April to June or from September to November when the weather is mild and pleasant. The summer months can be very hot and humid, while the winter months can be rainy.

8. What is the food like in Naha?

Naha offers a variety of local dishes such as Okinawa soba, goya champuru, and Okinawan sweet potato. They also have a cultural drink called awamori, which is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from rice.

9. What should I pack for my trip to Naha?

When visiting Naha, it is advisable to pack light and comfortable clothing, especially during the summer months. Additionally, remember to pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes for outdoor activities.

10. What are some cultural customs to be aware of in Naha?

When visiting Naha, it is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. For example, removing your shoes before entering a private home or temple, and bowing as a sign of respect are common customs in Japan.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Naha

Naha is the capital city of Okinawa prefecture, Japan. As the political, economic, and cultural center of the island chain, Naha has a lot to offer to its visitors. The city boasts a rich history, unique culture, and beautiful scenery that attracts tourists from all over the world. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Naha.

1. Explore the Historic Sites

Naha is home to many ancient and historic sites that are worth a visit. One of the most popular sites is Shuri Castle, located in the northwest part of the city. The castle was the residence of the Ryukyu Kingdom kings and served as a political and cultural center of the kingdom. The castle was restored in 1992, and today, it is a registered UNESCO World Heritage Site. Another historical site to visit is Tamaudun, the royal mausoleum of the Ryukyu Dynasty. Tamaudun comprises of three tombs and is home to the remains of 32 members of the royal family, including three kings. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is located in the southern part of Naha.

2. Tour the Local Markets

Naha is home to some of the most vibrant markets in the world. One of the most popular is the Makishi Public Market, located in the downtown area. The market is a labyrinth of various vendors selling fresh seafood, meat, vegetables, and fruits. You can also find local delicacies such as Okinawan soba noodles and lots of seafood. The market is open every day from early morning to late at night. Another market to visit is the Kokusai Street Market, which is also located in the downtown area. The market is a two-kilometer street lined with various shops, restaurants, and souvenir stores. You can find anything from traditional Okinawan clothing to souvenirs to bring back home.

3. Visit the Parks and Beaches

Naha has some of the most beautiful parks and beaches in Japan. One of the most popular is the Shikinaen Royal Garden, which used to be a royal villa of the Ryukyu Kingdom. The garden is located in the southern part of the city and has a wide range of flora and fauna, including traditional Okinawan pine trees and a pond filled with colorful koi fish. Another park worth visiting is the Naminoue Beach Park, located in the western part of Naha. The park is home to a beautiful beach with clear waters and golden sands. You can also find various restaurants and cafes around the park to enjoy a meal while overlooking the beautiful scenery.

4. Try the Local Cuisine

Okinawan cuisine is distinct from mainland Japan’s cuisine, and Naha is the perfect place to try it. The most famous dish is Okinawan soba noodles, which are made from wheat and are different from mainland Japan’s soba noodles made of buckwheat. Another famous dish is the Goya Champuru, a stir-fried dish with bitter melon, tofu, and pork. You can also try the Rafute, which is a braised pork dish that melts in your mouth.

5. Learn About the Local Culture

Naha has a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring. One of the best ways to do this is to visit the Okinawa Prefectural Museum and Art Museum, located in the northern part of Naha. The museum showcases the cultural history of Okinawa, from ancient times to modern days. Another way to learn about the local culture is to watch a traditional Ryukyu performance. One of the best places to do this is at the Ryukyu Dance Theater, which is located in the central part of Naha. The theater showcases unique dances and music that are special to Okinawan culture.

Book Your Tour Now

In conclusion, Naha has a lot to offer its visitors. From its rich history to its beautiful beaches and unique culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy. By exploring the historic sites, touring the local markets, visiting the parks and beaches, trying the local cuisine, and learning about the local culture, you will have an unforgettable experience in Naha. Don’t forget to create a detailed itinerary and plan your visit in advance to get the most out of your trip.