I want to enjoy Okinawa 100% on a girls' trip! Introducing popular beaches and recommended activities

The popular "Women's Travel Destination" Okinawa ". In addition to enjoying marine sports in the beautiful emerald green sea, you can enjoy Okinawan gourmet food, experience making things, and try making traditional crafts. There are many spots in Okinawa where girls can play to their heart's content.

So this time, I would like to introduce some points you should know before traveling to Okinawa.

The next girl's trip is decided in Okinawa, which is full of healing and excitement!

Please tell me how to get to Okinawa!

The most used means of transportation from Tokyo to Okinawa is, after all, " airplane "is. There are many direct flights from each airport in Japan, making it a highly convenient means of transportation in terms of both travel time and fares.

On the other hand, " I want to take a leisurely cruise "" I want to add a special feeling to my usual girls' trip! If you think Traveling by ferry is also an option How about adding it to? The attraction of a cruise is that you can enjoy the movement itself while relaxing. You can enjoy a girl's trip with a little extravagant feeling.

In the following, "From Tokyo to Okinawa" airplane "" Shinkansen + ferry I will introduce each way. Please choose the means of transportation according to the time, price, and purpose of the girls' trip.

When flying from Tokyo to Okinawa

Tokyo Haneda Airport To get to Okinawa / Naha Airport from, take a direct flight from ANA / JAL / SKY. More than 30 flights a day Because it is, access is also good.
The time it takes to fly About 2 hours and 30 minutes .. If you add the time required for the procedure at the airport, About 4 hours from arrival at Haneda Airport to departure from Naha Airport Let's put it in.

The lowest airfare is One way 8,400 yen (* As of August 2021). Except for the tourist season, each company can go to Okinawa for less than 10,000 yen.

If you want to keep your travel expenses cheaper, book early and your ticket fare will be cheaper. Early purchase discount ", And the price of the plane and the hotel stayed as a set. Pack plan , Which operates from Narita Airport LCC (Low Cost Carrier) It is also one way to use.

"LCC (Low Cost Carrier)" has some restrictions such as no guarantee of absence and the possibility of not arriving and departing on time. One-way 5,000 yen level from Narita Airport to Naha Airport The exceptional price is attractive.

How to get from Tokyo to Okinawa by Shinkansen + bus + ferry

In the past, cruise ships operated from Tokyo's Ariake Port to Okinawa's Naha Shin Port, but unfortunately it was suspended in 2014. Therefore, the alternative route is Kagoshima New Port Liner departing from the port " Marix line It is a way to get on to Naha Port.
For those who have plenty of time, you can relax while gazing at the sea or sky, enjoy a meal at the restaurant on board, or A special experience that can only be experienced by ferry I can.

Also, if you want to go by ferry Take a tour of a travel agency It is also recommended to do it. Depending on the travel agency, while heading to Okinawa by ferry from Kagoshima Tour around remote islands or, Plan that can stay in both Okinawa and remote islands There are various ways to enjoy it.

When using a ferry, first Shinkansen Riding on From Tokyo Station to Kagoshima Central Station Head to. There is no direct line, so you need to change trains at Shin-Osaka Station or Hakata Station.
The time required from Tokyo Station to Kagoshima Chuo Station About 6 hours 30 minutes , Fares are unreserved seats 29,360 yen (* As of August 2020).

When you arrive at Kagoshima Central Station scheduled bus Ride on About 20 minutes Will arrive at Kagoshima New Port. By the way, you can fly between Tokyo and Kagoshima, and the fare is 5,000-20,000 yen degree. However, by bus from the airport to the port About an hour and a half takes.

From Kagoshima New Port to Naha Port The time required to reach About 25 hours .. The lowest passenger fare is One way 14,610 yen (* As of August 2021).

It is a dock for regular ships Naha Port Is the "Yui Rail" of the Okinawa City Monorail Asahibashi From the station 10 minutes on foot It's about there. Also, the "Prefectural Office" station next to Asahibashi station is also the closest station to the south entrance of the main street "Naha Kokusaidori Shopping Street" in Naha City. You can enjoy sightseeing as soon as you arrive in Okinawa ..

What are the recommended seasons and times for your trip to Okinawa?

The popular season for traveling to Okinawa is From July to August, Golden Week and Silver Week is. The number of tourists is the highest, and planes, hotels and tourist destinations are crowded with many people.

To fully enjoy the sea and marine sports of Okinawa, this time of summer is recommended. However, in Okinawa, which is warm all year round, Lots of "play" that can be enjoyed regardless of the season There is. Therefore, By purpose of travel Here are some recommended times for your trip to Okinawa.

What if you want to enjoy swimming in Okinawa?

Sea bathing Marine Sports If you want to enjoy, the rainy season is over From late June to September However, it is recommended.
However, in Okinawa from July to September, many typhoons are approaching. Typhoon season It is also. Therefore, after the rainy season and before the typhoon season begins Around the end of June is the "secret time" It is also said to be. During the typhoon season, there is a lot of rainfall, so in case it rains Planning indoor sightseeing It is safe to do.
* There is a gap every year after the rainy season and the typhoon season, so please consider it as a reference.

What if you want to aim for the best weather?

Compared to other prefectures, Okinawa, which has a subtropical climate, has more rain and cloudy weather, and the incidence of squalls is high, so the weather changes frequently even during the day. " I want to enjoy my trip to Okinawa when the weather is as nice as possible! I avoided the rainy season and typhoons. Recommended from March to April and October to December is.
Okinawa Sea opening Is fast Around early March From. There are some differences depending on the beach, Around November when the heat remains It is crowded with tourists who enjoy swimming in the sea. Also, diving or Snorkeling For marine sports where you wear a wet suit, Experience all year round regardless of the season It is possible to.

In order to refresh yourself under a clear clear sky, please also refer to the characteristics of the weather and climate of Okinawa.

What if sightseeing and indoor leisure are the main activities?

If you want to mainly enjoy sightseeing facilities and indoor leisure Winter trip to Okinawa is also recommended is. Okinawa is January-February Even so, the average temperature is around 17 to 20 degrees Celsius. Relatively warm Therefore, I think it is relatively easy for people visiting from outside Okinawa.
You can't swim in the sea, but " Naha Kokusaidori Shopping Street "or" Mihama American Village Enjoy shopping at "" Churaumi Aquarium You can enjoy your trip to Okinawa even in winter.

In addition, travel costs can be significantly reduced except for consecutive holidays and the year-end and New Year holidays. Great deals on Okinawa travel If you want to enjoy Winter time It is also good to plan aiming at.

Tell us what you want to bring with you on your trip to Okinawa!

It's a girl's trip that tends to be a large baggage, but it is difficult to move and sightseeing while moving the carry case packed with luggage. In the urban areas of the main island of Okinawa, there are supermarkets, convenience stores, and large shopping malls, so I will omit as much as possible the belongings that can be procured locally I recommend that.

While referring to the following inventory list, something to bring with "" What can be procured locally Let's summarize.

A standard item for traveling to Okinawa

・ Sunburn protection goods
Compared to the mainland The intensity of ultraviolet rays is about 1.5 to 2 times In Okinawa, where it is also possible, it is necessary to take measures against sunburn and UV rays not only in summer but also in spring and autumn. Be sure to bring sun protection goods such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat with UV protection.

・ Medicine (regular medicine, anti-sickness medicine, etc.)
Medicines I usually take If you have any supplements or supplements, don't forget to bring them with you. If you're on a boat or boat while traveling Sickness medicine It is safe to have it.

・ Hygiene products, sanitary products
When participating in marine sports, it is safe to bring adhesive plasters and disinfectants in case of emergency. Also, if you enjoy swimming or marine sports during your period, we recommend that you bring a tampon or menstrual cup in addition to a regular napkin.

・ Cash, credit card
In small private shops, markets, remote islands, etc. I can't use my credit card In many cases, it is safe to have a little more cash. Even if you think, "If you run out of cash, you can withdraw at a convenience store ATM." Convenience store itself is not nearby in some areas It is possible, so be careful.

・ License & ETC
When renting a car locally Driver's license required It will be. With ETC, payments on the highway will be smooth.

What to bring when bathing in the sea

・ Swimsuit, rush guard
Swimsuits are necessary not only to enjoy swimming in the sea, but also to participate in marine sports such as sea kayaking and diving. Be sure to put it on your swimsuit to prevent sunburn Rush guard Let's wear.

・ Beach sandals, marine shoes
There are many coral fragments and shells on the sandy beaches of Okinawa, so walking barefoot may cause injury. Amphibious Marine shoes Then you can reduce your luggage by one.

・ Goggles, snorkel
In the highly transparent sea of Okinawa, you can see tropical fish and coral reefs up close even if you dive a little. If you want to enjoy the scenery in the sea, Goggles and snorkel Let's bring it.

・ Sea bathing goods such as leisure sheets, floats, and umbrellas
These bathing goods are only available during the season Sometimes you can rent it locally There is. Let's check it well in advance.

·towel
Towels that you definitely want to bring with you when you go to the sea. The drawback is that it is a little bulky, but it is characterized by its high water absorption and excellent quick-drying properties. Swim towel (same towel) Is recommended because it can be stored compactly.

Goods for SNS

・ Selfie stick, smartphone stand
Selfie sticks and smartphone stands are also essential items for girls traveling to leave a lot of memories. But in some places Areas where selfie sticks are prohibited There are, so be careful when shooting.

・ Underwater shooting case, waterproof camera
Even if it's a waterproof smartphone Seawater containing salt is NG In most cases. If you want to shoot with tropical fish and coral reefs in the sea, bring an underwater shooting case or a waterproof camera.

What if I get lost in my accommodation? Introducing Okinawa by area!

The most important thing in choosing a hotel to stay in is " Good access to the places you want to visit Is in. So, Okinawa Southern "" Chubu "" Northern We divided them into three areas, and summarized their characteristics, recommended beaches, and popular tourist spots.

Southern area

mainly" Naha "" Itoman It can be divided into. It is the most prosperous area on the main island of Okinawa, and is the only railway in Okinawa prefecture in Naha city. Yui Rail Is also running.

[Recommended beach] in the southern area

Toyosaki Seaside Park Toyosaki Chura SUN Beach
It is an artificial beach adjacent to Toyosaki Seaside Park. Although it is a 15-minute drive from Naha Airport and has excellent access, the total length is about 700 m. The largest area in the prefecture I am proud of. Because it is close to the airport, you can see airplanes flying over the sea up close, SNS shining spot It is also famous as.

[Recommended sightseeing spots] in the southern area

Chubu area

About 30 minutes by car from Naha Airport. mainly" Yomitan "" Chatan "" Koza "" Uruma "" Ginowan "" Urasoe "" Onna Village It can be divided into.
The charms of old and new Okinawa are concentrated in the ruins of a castle where you can feel the history of the former Ryukyu Kingdom and the complex facility where you can enjoy shopping and gourmet food.

[Recommended beach] in the Chubu area

Onna Village Seaside Park Nabee Beach
Located in "Nabee Beach Park", which is also known as one of the best resorts in Japan Citizen beach is. Even in the sea of Okinawa Top class transparency The area boasts a clear view of colorful tropical fish and coral reefs.

[Recommended sightseeing spots] in the Chubu area

Northern area

About 2 hours by car from Naha Airport. mainly" Yambaru (Kunigami Village, Ogimi Village, Higashi Village) , " Motobu Peninsula (Motobu Town, Nakijin Village) , " Nago It can be divided into. Above all, the area called Yanbaru is a subtropical jungle, and the unspoilt nature spreads out.

[Recommended beach] in the northern area

Kouri Beach
Popular as a remote island that can be reached by car Kouri Island It is a beach in. The heart-shaped rock "Heart Rock", which has been known as "Koishima" for thousands of years, has been built over thousands of years. Power spot for fulfilling romance It is also famous as.

[Recommended sightseeing spots] in the northern area

Recommended activities for women's trips to Okinawa!

If you want to actively enjoy girls' trips Marine Sports You can't remove it! Then, we recommend that you can fully enjoy the beautiful emerald green sea of Okinawa. Marine Sports Introducing.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling Is a marine sport where you wear underwater glasses, snorkels, and fins (foot fins) and swim as if you were floating in the sea.
No special technique such as "ear removal" is required. I will wear a life jacket during the experience, so Even people who are not good at swimming or who are not confident in their physical strength can enjoy it with confidence. .. The photos and videos taken by the tour staff during the experience will surely be a lifetime memory! Let's enjoy the beautiful sea world of colorful tropical fish and coral reefs right in front of you.

diving

diving Many people think, "I don't have a license, but is it okay?" Experience tour Then, because a professional instructor will guide you clearly Even beginners are OK! During the experience, you will wear a buoyant wetsuit, so even those who are not good at swimming can enjoy it with confidence.
The plan to feed tropical fish and swim with wild sea turtles is popular with girls!

Sea kayaking

" Sea kayaking "Is on a small boat Cruise on the water while paddling It is a marine sport to do. Take a sea kayak to explore the untouched wilderness Mangrove tour And "departing at dusk" Sunset tour ] Etc. are popular.
Also, the hull is made of transparent material. Clear kayak Then you can see the seabed from your feet! On the beautiful emerald green sea, you can experience a mysterious experience as if you were floating in the air.
Unlike other marine sports, it doesn't soak in the sea, so you don't have to worry about makeup breaking after the experience.

Recommended manufacturing experience for girls traveling in Okinawa

In Okinawa, where unique culture and customs remain, it has been handed down from ancient times. A workshop where you can make traditional crafts by hand Are scattered a lot. You can buy it at the souvenir shop, but if you have a lot of trouble Try to make matching crafts with your friends Looks fun too!
Then, I would like to introduce a recommended manufacturing experience that you definitely want to try when you go to Okinawa.

Making shisa

"A classic souvenir from Okinawa" Shisa Is a guardian deity that has been handed down from ancient times in Okinawa. A workshop where you can make shisa by hand in Okinawa You can experience various things from a full-scale pottery shisa making plan using Ryukyu soil to a painting plan that you can enjoy even in a limited time.
In recent years, a ceramic art experience that has been gradually booming among girls. Why don't you take this trip to Okinawa as an opportunity to step into the world of ceramic art?

Making accessories

To commemorate the trip to Okinawa, we all have a match Handmade accessories Why don't you try it? There are few difficult processes to make accessories, and the time required is as short as about 1 hour, so Experience in a little spare time between sightseeing The ease with which it can be done is also popular.

Accessories using coral and shells caught in Okinawa should remind you of a fun trip to Okinawa every time you wear it!

Ryukyu glass making

If you want to experience a unique manufacturing experience, make it with the same manufacturing method as Ryukyu glass. Ryukyu glass How about making it?
Ryukyu glass is a popular craft as a souvenir, but its history is still short. Postwar Okinawan glassmaking technology and American culture are mixed Was born. The vivid colors with an American taste and the characteristically shaped Ryukyu glass are fashionable even when used as wine glasses or vases.

* Information such as plans, prices, timetables, and phone numbers is as of August 2020.