[2025 Update] 8 Recommended Illuminations in Okinawa | Free, Hotels, and Hidden Spots Included
This time, Illuminations to enjoy in Okinawa Featured!
Southeast Botanical Garden, Kanucha Resort, American Village, etc. Okinawa is a place where you can see light displays that blend in with the nature and scenery unique to the tropics. There is an abundance of.
In addition,
Aside from the illuminations, here are some experiences that will allow you to fully enjoy Okinawa at night
Also introduced.
This winter,
Okinawa
Why not try this unique light experience?
table of contents
- 1 What is the appeal of Okinawa illuminations?
- 2 5 Recommended Okinawa Illuminations [Popular/Paid Events]
- 3 3 Recommended Okinawa Illuminations [Hidden Gems/Free Events]
- 4 Enjoy Okinawa's nightlife to the fullest! 3 recommended experiences other than illuminations
- 5 Enjoy a resort experience of light that can only be seen in Okinawa in winter!
- 6 Feature articles recommended by the editorial department
What is the appeal of Okinawa illuminations?
Winter in Okinawa is warmer than Honshu, Enjoy outdoor illuminations in comfort That's what makes it so appealing.
Light events held in tropical locations such as beaches, resort hotels, and botanical gardens is something you can't find in other areas, A special experience unique to Okinawa is!
A snowless Christmas and the lights that illuminate the tropical night This extraordinary combination warms the hearts of all who visit.
This is a great way to enjoy winter, whether it's a family trip or a date night for couples!
5 Recommended Okinawa Illuminations [Popular/Paid Events]
Okinawa
In this area, unique illumination events are held at botanical gardens, resort hotels, and other locations.
In the following,
A popular spot visited by many people every year
We will introduce a carefully selected selection of:
1. Southeast Botanical Gardens | Tropical illuminations
Japan's largest outdoor botanical garden Southeast Botanical Gardens "In Enjoy the fantastic illuminations that light up the tropical trees and flowers. !
Lighting with motifs of palm trees, lotus ponds, tropical plants, and the sea was carried out, Okinawa A beautiful scene unfolds, blending the natural beauty of the area with the brilliance of the illuminations.
"Illumination Awards" selected by night view tourism experts
1st place in the nation
It has a track record of winning awards, so it's definitely worth seeing!
1-DAY PASS
So why not take a stroll through the botanical gardens during the day and enjoy the illuminations at night?
At Activity Japan,
Tickets for the daytime performance can be reserved in advance.
!
You can make a reservation from the link below, so if you're interested, check it out!
Southeast Botanical Gardens Discount Admission Tickets | Instant Booking
| schedule | October 24, 2025 (Friday) - May 24, 2026 (Sunday) |
|---|---|
| address | 2146 Chibana, Okinawa City, Okinawa Prefecture |
2. Okinawa Zoo & Museum | Christmas Fantasy
A zoo and museum combined Okinawa Zoo & Museum "In The annual illumination event "Christmas Fantasy" is held !
Over 300,000 lights shine in the approximately 16 hectare park, and there are plenty of photogenic spots, including a tunnel of light and a giant Niagara. We are doing it.
In addition, during the period,
A super aurora attraction with sound, light and fireworks
" is held every day, and music, lasers, and fireworks light up the night sky, creating a spectacular sight!
Christmas Market
It's the perfect place to make some winter memories.
Below,
Pick up experiences you can participate in around Okinawa City
.
Please enjoy it along with Christmas Fantasy!
| schedule | Saturday, December 20, 2025 - Wednesday, December 31, 2025 |
|---|---|
| address | 5-7-1 Goya, Okinawa City, Okinawa Prefecture |
Even if you are new to crafts or resin art, you are welcome! A popular resin artist will teach you carefully. You will create an ocean using epoxy resin (two-component resin) on a design cutting board. This one-day trial class is aimed at resin beginners. "I have no idea what it's like, so I'll just give it a try."
This is a resin art experience taught by a popular resin artist. Even those new to crafting and resin art are welcome! You will create an ocean using epoxy resin (two-component resin) on a rectangular or round board. Why not try making your own miniature beach? This class is aimed at beginners and will cover sanding, painting, and resin wave art.
The east coast of Okinawa is home to an emerald blue ocean that looks like an upside-down jewel box. This underwater paradise, teeming with coral reefs and tropical fish, will be presented to you on a private luxury boat for a special experience just for you. Want to relax on board? Want to enjoy a special experience with your family? Want to take lots of photos? Want to get in the ocean, but...
3. Kanucha Resort | Stardust Fantasia 2025-2026 ~Odyssey~
" Stardust Fantasia "teeth, The vast resort area is bathed in hundreds of thousands of lights, creating a fantastical atmosphere. is.
The Mother Tree stands tall
Garden Pool Square
" and "A church surrounded by light at your feet.
Stella Park Avenue
There are illumination spots all over the premises, such as ", and there is plenty to see!
An experiential illumination program limited to 10 groups per day, where you can ride around in a cart
You can also spend a special time here.
Activity Japan has
Many sightseeing and activities around Nago City are listed.
.
Enjoy the sea and nature during the day, and spend a romantic time at the illuminated resort at night!
| schedule | Saturday, November 1, 2025 - Saturday, February 14, 2026 |
|---|---|
| address | 156-2 Abe, Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture |
Held offshore from Okinawa's No. 1 scenic spot, the hill where you can see dugongs ♪ Parasailing at the luxury resort "Kanucha Resort" in Nago, northern Okinawa. From about 100 meters above the 200m rope, you can enjoy beautiful views of the marine blue sea and Yanbaru forest. Anyone over 20kg in good health can try it. If you're lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle or dugong.
A star guide will explain the stars and the universe in an easy-to-understand way, convey the charm of the stars, and escort you to a special place in Kanucha, a planetarium in the great outdoors. This is the largest hotel in the prefecture, and is located at the entrance to Yanbaru. Although there are lights on the base, the environment is unique and you can relax. From April to October, you can enjoy the beach from 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM.
Recommended Feature Articles
4. Ryukyu Hotel | Moonlit Wonder Illumination
"Ryukyu Hotel & Resort Meijo Beach" Moonlit Wonder Illumination "teeth, A popular event that boasts one of the largest scales in the prefecture!
Approximately 300,000 light bulbs will illuminate the approximately 10,000 square meter pool area and the approximately 4,000 square meter lawn area, creating an extraordinary, sparkling world.
There are plenty of things to see, including the Ryukyu Castle, which is 34 meters long and 10 meters high, and a road lined with illuminated sculptures of sea creatures.
!
Live music and campfires are held every Saturday, making your resort stay even more special.
At Activity Japan,
We are also introducing experiences around Itoman City.
.
We recommend spending your time actively enjoying nature during the day and enjoying the illuminations at night!
| schedule | Friday, November 14, 2025 - Saturday, February 28, 2026 |
|---|---|
| address | 963 Meijo, Itoman City, Okinawa Prefecture |
In addition to the northern area, we also have plans for photo shoots around Naha. We will take as many photos of participants as time allows, at a location that is easy for everyone to get to, so you can pose like a model or show off your memorable commemorative photos. Couples, married couples, families, and friends can participate, and we will also provide a little explanation of the stars and the sky for surprises (confessions, proposals, birthdays, etc.).
This plan does not support English.
Held in Itoman City, southern Okinawa's main island ★ Exciting jungle exploration! Held 7 times a day! Participants from age 4 ♪ This is the best recommendation for first-timers and those who are nervous about driving! [Plan Features] ▼ Jungle exploration tour in the southern part of Okinawa's main island. Okinawa, with its subtropical climate, is a "treasure trove of living things." Ride a four-wheel buggy with a guide to discover a variety of plants and creatures that cannot be seen in the city.
Why not create some amazing memories with your family and friends in the world's most beautiful ocean? ♫ Just 30 minutes from the airport! The trip takes 1-2 hours. ♡ Even if you have small children or are new to the ocean, our instructors will provide full support and guide you with all necessary safety precautions!
5. Experience Kingdom Murasakimura | Ryukyu Lantern Festival
Yomitan Village
A winter tradition in
Ryukyu Lantern Festival
".
The park, which recreates the streets of the Ryukyu Dynasty, is decorated with lanterns and paper lanterns, transforming it into an exotic space.
.
"
Murasakimura Experience Kingdom
"for,
Ryukyu culture and craft experiences
There are many facilities where you can
We recommend enjoying the Ryukyu culture experience during the day and enjoying the lantern lights at night.
!
This event is popular with couples as well as families.
Activity Japan has
Activities and cultural experiences you can enjoy around Yomitan Village and Chatan Town
We have a large number of listings.
Be sure to check out the link below!
| schedule | December 1, 2025 (Monday) - March 31, 2026 (Tuesday) |
|---|---|
| address | 1020-1 Takashiho, Yomitan Village, Nakagami District, Okinawa Prefecture |
This plan does not support English.
This is a diving tour where you can swim with whale sharks without a license! Of course, there are many first-time visitors, so our experienced guides will be on hand to guide you from start to finish! This whale shark tour is extremely popular in Yomitan Village on Okinawa's main island! An amazing Okinawa experience, perfect for social media!
[Near American Village, Chatan Town/Yomitan Village] Newly opened! Monitor plan
Enjoy the ocean in the middle of the central area of Okinawa's main island, which has many tourist attractions! This plan is easy to access and allows you to enjoy the limited time you have in Okinawa to the fullest, even if you just want to take a quick dip near your hotel after sightseeing. The low price is a special plan that was made possible by maximizing the efficiency of staff labor costs for preparation and transportation.
This plan does not support English.
We have received many reservations saying, "I chose this place after seeing the quality of the photos and the reviews!" Thank you so much to all our guests and repeat customers for your reviews and referrals m(_ _)m 100% excitement and 200% thrill! It's also very popular at the Churaumi Aquarium! Swim with the world's largest fish, the whale shark ♪ You'll be amazed by the overwhelming size of the whale shark.
Recommended Feature Articles
3 Recommended Okinawa Illuminations [Hidden Gems/Free Events]
Okinawa
for
A hidden spot where you can enjoy illuminations for free
There is also.
Below we will introduce some recommended illumination spots that are perfect for stopping by while walking around town or after dinner.
1. Mihama American Village | Christmas illuminations
"
Mihama American Village
"
Illuminated all year round
However, during the holiday season, an even more spectacular world of lights appears!
Colorful illuminations and Christmas-themed objects line the streets, creating an exotic atmosphere for a special night out.
.
There are also many photo spots, so you can take great photos while shopping or eating!
Activity Japan has
Activities and tours you can enjoy around American Village
Contains many.
We also recommend a plan that lets you enjoy the whole day, playing in nature during the day and strolling around the illuminations at night!
| schedule | Mid-November 2025 to mid-February 2026 (planned) |
|---|---|
| address | Mihama, Chatan Town, Nakagami District, Okinawa Prefecture |
・Skywalker's exclusive trademarked sound parasailing ♪ Music reverberates through the air, creating a refreshing feeling! It also helps to ease the tension of children and those who are afraid of heights. ・All you have to do is board a boat specially designed for parasailing, put on a life jacket and harness, and take off from the boat! Even if you can't swim or don't have much stamina, you can still enjoy the sky and sea of Okinawa! Rise steadily
[Reservations can be made up to 2 hours before the tour start time!] Free tour images will be provided ☆ Ease is the shop closest to the mangrove forest of the Hija River, the largest river on Okinawa's main island! You can always check the field conditions and we will guide you to the best tour! Set off on an expedition to explore Okinawa's mangrove forests by kayak! Mangrove kayaking tours are popular not only in Japan but also overseas.
[Reservations can be made on the day] Free tour photos will be given as a gift ☆ A kayak tour held at sunset time when the setting sun paints the sky and sea of Okinawa red. The highlight of the sunset tour is undoubtedly the beautiful sunset over the East China Sea. The sunset seen from the kayak on the sparkling water surface will be a memory for a lifetime. It is a double bargain tour as you will also be able to observe mangroves and wildlife.
2. Okuma Private Beach | Okuma Illumination
"
Okuma Private Beach & Resort
"but,
Okui Illumination held every winter
!
The soft light that blends in with the tropical nature romantically illuminates the hotel garden and front rotary.
.
Why not enjoy a relaxing time surrounded by a world of light in the tranquility that only a beach resort can offer?
In the link below,
Activities you can participate in around Okuma Private Beach & Resort
Pick up!
Please enjoy it together with Okumi Illumination!
| schedule | Saturday, November 1, 2025 - Saturday, February 28, 2026 |
|---|---|
| address | 913 Okuma, Kunigami Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture |
This tour will take you to the northern Okinawan seas with our shop's representative, a local fisherman, to fish for the prefectural fish Gurkun (fuselage fish) and bottom fish (sokomono). Families, couples, and groups of friends who love fishing are all welcome. This is a course that you can enjoy empty-handed. For first-timers, you will be fishing for Gurkun. Before boarding, we will teach you how to use a fishing rod, so please make sure you remember it and enjoy lots of fishing.
This plan does not support English.
Very popular! Perfect for couples and friends! Full of fun ☆ Deserted Island Exploration Team. A vast shallow reef made of coral spreads out, and a deserted island floats within the reef. The water is so clear that you can see the various shapes of coral and colorful fish, and it is a beautiful sea that is also visited by sea turtles. Once you arrive, you can snorkel and observe the coral reef and tropical fish. On the island,
[Northern Okinawa / Okuma] Yanbaru Interesting River Trekking
This plan does not support English.
[Groups, Couples, Families, Friends] River Trekking | Yanbaru River Trekking in the northern part of Okinawa's main island, designated as Yanbaru National Park. *Starts with a minimum of two people. Enjoy river climbing and observe various plants and insects. Walk around slowly while soothed by negative ions. A very satisfying river trek where you can fully absorb the power of Okinawa.
Recommended Feature Articles
3. Okinawa Kariyushi Beach Resort | Kariyushi Dream Fantasy
" Kariyushi Dream Fantasy " is a popular winter event held at the Okinawa Kariyushi Beach Resort Ocean Spa hotel!
2025 is "
Kariyushi Dream Fantasy, enveloped in sparkling light
"The theme is
Tropical illuminations reminiscent of a tropical resort
will appear.
Also noteworthy are the eco-friendly LED lights and decorations that incorporate local culture and materials!
At Activity Japan,
Activities and tours you can enjoy around Onna Village
We are currently introducing many of the following.
If you want to enjoy the entire surrounding area, be sure to join us!
| schedule | Saturday, November 1, 2025 - Saturday, February 28, 2026 |
|---|---|
| address | 2591-1 Yashirohara, Nakama, Onna Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture |
Recommended Feature Articles
Enjoy Okinawa's nightlife to the fullest! 3 recommended experiences other than illuminations
Okinawa Night
In addition to the illuminations, there are many other special things to enjoy at the festival.
starry sky
,
Nature experience in the night forest
Through these activities, you can experience the charm of Okinawa that is different from the daytime.
1. Stargazing and Starry Sky Photo Tour
Okinawa has many areas that are less affected by city lights and the air is clear, making it the perfect location for stargazing. !
At Activity Japan,
Okinawa main island
・
Ishigaki Island
・
Miyakojima
Stargazing tours are being held in various places, such as
We have posted the following.
Be sure to check it out depending on your travel plans.
[Okinawa, Miyakojima] Starry Sky Photo Tour ★ Recommended for couples and girls' trips! Same-day reservations accepted! ----Starry Sky Photo Shoot Plan---- [1 person] 6,000 yen per person Limited-time discount! 3,500 yen per person [Elementary school students and younger (7 years old and younger)] 3,000 yen per person Limited-time discount! 2,000 yen per person Photo shoot time 10-15 minutes
Starry sky photography is popular on remote islands. Did you know you can take it on the main island too?! In the northern part of the main island, you can even see the Milky Way with the naked eye! In addition, we have two basic locations, including a secret beach, for a completely private photoshoot for one group! Enjoy the starry sky and capture your memories in a physical form. We are open after midnight. If you would like to take photos late at night,
TABIWAKU's starry sky photo tours carefully guide each group through the night of Miyakojima. Miyakojima, with almost no city lights, is a famous starry sky spot where, when the conditions are right, you can even see the Milky Way clearly. We will take you to starry sky spots that are not well known to tourists. As it is a completely private tour for just one group, you can enjoy the night view to yourself without worrying about other participants.
Why not create some wonderful memories of your trip under the beautiful night sky of Okinawa? Our experienced local Okinawan photographers will guide you to some wonderful stargazing spots and will do their best to help you create some wonderful memories of your trip to Okinawa! Our shop offers a one-time service with the hope that our customers will be able to "take their time and enjoy the beautiful starry sky while taking satisfying photos."
Recommended Feature Articles
2. Night Jungle Tour
Daytime jungle tours are also attractive, The atmosphere of the jungle at night changes completely. You'll also have a chance to encounter nocturnal creatures unique to the tropics!
In the following,
Ishigaki Island
or
Miyakojima
Popular tours held in
We are currently introducing the following.
Why not go on a night adventure to look for rare creatures and plants while gazing at the starry sky?
★Over 300,000 participants! A safe and secure tour! ★Recommended for beginners! ★Free equipment rental♪★Meet nocturnal creatures unique to the tropics! ★If the weather is good, you can also enjoy the natural planetarium! ★Participant benefits (coupons that can be used at restaurants, etc., information on hidden spots) included! Head out to Ishigaki Island at night and see creatures unique to the subtropics.
This plan is becoming increasingly popular! It's exclusive to our shop! You won't find it anywhere else! We put safety first and will guide you to ensure your satisfaction! Enjoy the nightlife of Ishigaki Island to the fullest! Experience the three most popular night tours at once: [Starry Sky Photo] x [Night Safari to Search for Coconut Crab with a 99% Encounter Rate] x [Mangrove Exploration] ⭐️If you don't see any coconut crabs, we'll refund your money!⭐️
This plan does not support English.
COCO Miyakojima "Starry Sky x Jungle Night Tour" is a classic night tour that combines a starry sky with exploring the jungle of Miyakojima! While gazing at the starry sky, go in search of many creatures and plants that are unique to Miyakojima, including endemic species, coconut crabs, owls, stick insects, land hermit crabs, and more! Take commemorative photos under the starry sky! At COCO Miyakojima
Recommended Feature Articles
3. Night snorkeling
Okinawa
The sea offers a fantastic sight that can only be seen at night.
Night snorkeling
So,
You can observe the mysterious light emitted by bioluminescent plankton and nocturnal fish.
Children and beginners can also enjoy the dive with an experienced guide!
In the following,
Okinawa main island
or
remote islands
Night snorkeling plan that you can participate in
Introducing!
If you want to enjoy the sea at night, be sure to give this a try.
☆Five features of the plan☆ [1] Full amenities and comfortable store facilities that women will love [2] Enjoy the spectacular view of bioluminescent plankton and the starry sky [3] Free photography with a professional camera [4] Experience the feeling of adventure with cave exploration [5] Watch the sunset from the observation deck beyond the sugarcane fields [6] Excellent location & excellent access ☆ Recommended
This plan does not support English.
We have received many reservations saying, "I chose this place after seeing the quality of the photos and the reviews!" We are truly grateful to all our guests and repeat customers for their reviews and referrals m(_ _)m Enjoy a soothing starry sky and bioluminescent night snorkeling experience in the Blue Cave ♪ Even if you're afraid of the ocean at night, don't worry. Our experienced staff will provide you with a thorough escort.
This plan does not support English.
What do the fish that swim energetically during the day do at night? A professional guide will guide you through the world of the sea at night in a fun and detailed way! "The setting sun," "A starry sky," "Glowing bioluminescent plankton," "Sleeping fish," "Creatures that are only active at night"... Would you like to experience these mystical things? [Schedule for the day]◇Meeting Please come and meet us at our shop.
Enjoy a resort experience of light that can only be seen in Okinawa in winter!
Okinawa in winter is a place where you can enjoy a comfortable night out without worrying about the cold.
Illuminations unique to the tropics but also starry sky ・ Night Tour Experiences that can only be found in Okinawa is waiting.
Be sure to enjoy the nighttime as well and make your trip to Okinawa a memorable one!
*The content of this article is current as of November 2025.