Neighborhood guide
Where to Stay in Okinawa
The 4 areas worth basing yourself in Okinawa, Japan — ranked by our editors, with walking distances from the center. First-timers: start with Naha / Kokusai-dōri.
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Top pick
Naha / Kokusai-dōri
The capital's eat-drink-shop mile plus Makishi market's fish counters.
5 min walk from center
#2
Motobu Peninsula
Aquarium, Emerald Beach, and the island's best resort strip.
#3
Onna Coast
Mid-island resort row — Blue Cave diving, Cape Manzamō.
26 km from center
#4
Kerama Islands
Day-trip archipelago — Zamami's absurdly clear water.
Getting around
A car is essential outside Naha — the monorail covers Naha only. Ferries reach the Kerama Islands in 35–50 minutes.
Drive on the left; allow ~2 hours Naha→Churaumi. Book the aquarium for late afternoon when tour buses leave.