Northern Okinawa Tourism Guide | A comprehensive guide to popular and hidden gems, plus sample itineraries
This time Okinawa main island Northern Tourism Information We will feature it!
The spots we introduce range from classic spots that you should visit at least once to hidden gems.
Driving courses and power spots
,
Recommended itineraries (half-day/full-day)
We've also picked out some other items!
Next Okinawa Why not visit the fascinating northern area during your trip?
table of contents
- 1 What is Northern Okinawa like?
-
2
8 must-see tourist spots in northern Okinawa
- 2.1 1. Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium (Motobu Town)
- 2.2 2. Kouri Island & Kouri Bridge (Nakijin Village)
- 2.3 3. Cape Maeda/Blue Cave (Onna Village)
- 2.4 4. Cape Manzamo (Onna Village)
- 2.5 5. Nakijin Castle Ruins (Nakijin Village)
- 2.6 6. Ryukyu Mura (Onna Village)
- 2.7 7. Sesoko Beach (Motobu Town)
- 2.8 8. Okinawa Fruit Land (Nago City)
- 3 Two Hidden Spots in Northern Okinawa
- 4 Recommended itinerary for sightseeing in northern Okinawa
- 5 Enjoy sightseeing in northern Okinawa
- 6 Feature articles recommended by the editorial department
What is Northern Okinawa like?
Experience the rich subtropical nature and Ryukyu culture Okinawa main island Northern area of .
Yanbaru, a World Natural Heritage Site Most of the area is mountainous, Rare endemic species live here, and coral reefs stretch out along the coastline. There are also plenty of nature spots where you can experience untouched nature.
The pace of development as a tourist destination is slower than in the southern and central areas, Okinawa You can enjoy your trip while feeling the peaceful and calm atmosphere.
Although there are route buses, they are infrequent,
When sightseeing, renting a car is a must!
It's also fun to go for a drive along the recommended model route described below.
8 must-see tourist spots in northern Okinawa
In the following,
A popular tourist spot in northern Okinawa
Introducing!
We have picked from a variety of genres, including nature, culture, and history.
1. Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium (Motobu Town)
Okinawa
Not only in the north,
One of the most popular tourist spots on the main island
is!
Based on the concept of "Encountering the Sea of Okinawa," the exhibits mainly focus on the East China Sea, the Pacific Ocean, and the waters of the Nansei Islands.
"Coral Sea" where coral reefs sparkle in natural light or, "Sea of Tropical Fish" where colorful tropical fish swim , The Kuroshio Sea, where whale sharks swim with their huge bodies twisting and turning etc.
Be sure to check out the aquarium exhibit, which lets you experience the tropical ocean world virtually!
The good thing about this facility is that most of it is indoors, so you can encounter the beautiful ocean and its creatures whenever you visit Okinawa.
is.
Churaumi Aquarium admission ticket reservations Click the link below!
Churaumi Aquarium Admission Ticket (Motobu Town, Okinawa Prefecture)
Recommended activities you can participate in in the surrounding area Manufacturing experience We also pick them up together.
![[Maimai Shisa] A specialty shop where you can paint cute shisa and experience making shisa.](http://img.activityjapan.com/wi/lazy-dummy_1x1.gif)
This plan does not support English.
[Take home the most moving memories and souvenirs of Okinawa] ★Great! Last minute reservations accepted ★Free cancellations on the day are also available! Highly rated and popular restaurant [1 minute by car from Churaumi Aquarium] Located on the main road, all seats overlook the ocean, in a bright and cheerful restaurant filled with smiles, and a comfortable, air-conditioned space with the sound of the sanshin playing. There are also tatami rooms, diaper changing stations, and toys available, perfect for families with children.
This plan does not support English.
This is a clear kayak (glass canoe) plan that is extremely stable and can be enjoyed safely by anyone, regardless of age or gender! An ultimate and moving experience in the hidden Yanbaru region of Okinawa!!! Our hospitality-loving staff will do their best to make you enjoy the ultimate ocean experience! [About this plan] A 90-minute glass canoe plan in Nakijin, a northern part of Okinawa that is still unknown to many people!
Address: 424 Ishikawa, Motobu-cho, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Prefecture
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2. Kouri Island & Kouri Bridge (Nakijin Village)
There is the Churaumi Aquarium
Motobu Town
East of.
Kouri Island
is an inhabited island that is easily accessible!
The Kouri Bridge, which stretches from the neighboring Yagaji Island, is one of the longest bridges in the prefecture.
.
If you cross the bridge on a fine day,
A breathtaking view of the emerald green sea on both sides
You can enjoy it!
Once you cross the bridge onto Kouri Island,
There are many attractions, including white sand beaches and love power spots popular with couples.
.
The island is about 8km in circumference, so it's compact enough that you can drive around it in about 10 minutes!
Why not stop by during a drive sightseeing tour of northern Okinawa and enjoy some relaxing island time with your partner?
In the waters around the island, Snorkeling or Parasailing such as, Okinawan marine activities You can participate.
Find the perfect plan from the links below and enjoy the tropical ocean to the fullest!
An amazing snorkeling spot discovered by COCONUTS CLUB. This tour randomly selects snorkeling spots from the many snorkeling spots on Kouri Island depending on the weather and sea conditions of the day. You can enjoy marine activities (banana boat, marble jet) to the snorkeling spot, so you can have fun even while traveling. *Glasses
This is our most popular plan for touring Kouri Island! Ride the Big Marble and enjoy the special experience of seeing Heart Rock, a popular power spot for couples, from the sea, passing under the Kouri Bridge, and watching the ocean change color. *The Big Marble can accommodate up to 4 people. *The maximum number of people is only a guideline. *All tours may vary depending on the situation.
"Kouri Island Parasailing" Take a walk in the air over the spectacular emerald green scenery with your family, couples, or friends ☆ Our shop is the only professional parasailing shop in the Nakijin Village/Kouri Island area. We will guide you to a spectacular view that can only be experienced here, with safety and security as our number one priority, so that you can create the best memories for your customers. Enjoy a blissful moment with your loved ones.
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,
Address: Kouri, Nakijin Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture
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3. Cape Maeda/Blue Cave (Onna Village)
A classic nature spot in northern Okinawa
is!
Onna Village
・
Cape Maeda
is an entry point for diving and snorkeling, known for its excellent water quality.
Popular activity spot " Blue Cave It is also the starting point for .
The extraordinary view of the sparkling blue sea surface is sure to be a memorable experience!
In the following,
Recommended experience tours for visiting the Blue Cave
is currently being posted.
diving ・ snorkel ・Set tour Enjoy the mystical experience of blue in a style that suits your taste.
This plan does not support English.
[Very popular] We also hold the Blue Cave Pukupuku Snorkeling tour, open to people aged 2 to 70! → https://activityjapan.com/publish/plan/18400 Another plan: [All-day unlimited fun in the Blue Cave] Equipment rental service is now open! → https://activityjapan.com/pu
This plan does not support English.
[Blue Cave Diving and Parasailing] is now available as a set course! Underwater and flight photo data will be provided on the spot for free! *Underwater photos will only be provided to iPhone. For Android, a microSD card is required. During parasailing, please leave your cell phone or digital camera with the staff and we will take photos for free from the boat.
Whether it's a two-year-old summer or a five-year-old summer, it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This snorkeling plan is popular with families with small children, whether you're traveling with family, a couple, or friends, and want to make it the best memory of your trip to Okinawa. Even if you're worried about your small children, or it's their first time in the ocean, or even if mom and dad can't swim, it's okay! The instructors in charge will be happy to help you with everything from your children to your grown-ups.
☆COVID-19 Countermeasure Store☆Okinawa Blue Cave Beach Experience Diving★Please take a look at our five-star reviews♪ We treasure the messages we have received from many customers! We are proud of it!! Photos and videos taken underwater will be transferred to your smartphone immediately after the dive! It is said that the latest GoPro footage already exceeds the capabilities of the human eye.
Address: 469-1 Maeda, Onna Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture
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4. Cape Manzamo (Onna Village)
Cape Manzamo
Like Cape Maeda,
A view spot located in Onna Village
is!
From a cliff 20m high,
A spectacular view of Ryukyu limestone cliffs, cobalt blue sea, and natural green grass
You can enjoy.
There is a walking path along the cliffs, which takes about 20 to 30 minutes, so you can enjoy the spectacular views while you stroll.
The view of the water's edge from the sidewalk is thrilling!
If you want to take a photo that stands out uniquely in Cape Manza,
We recommend taking a photo with the unique cliff shape reminiscent of an elephant's trunk in the background.
.
In the following,
Experiences and activities you can participate in around Cape Manza
Now posted!
Indoor event
from
Marine Activities
We have picked out a wide range of items, from the most popular to the most popular.
◆Experience Details This is a resin art experience where you can make your own original keychain, one of a kind in the world. You can freely enclose parts and glitter in clear resin, and leave a memory of your trip in a tangible form. ✨ It's fun for everyone from small children to adults, and is very popular with families! You can take home the finished product right away ◎◆Recommended for: ・People with children
This plan does not support English.
You may even encounter sea turtles at Cape Manzamo in Onna Village! There's also a little-known Blue Cave in the area! The Blue Cave at Cape Manzamo is spacious and unpopulated, so you won't have to wait in line for a stress-free experience (^.^) *Please note that this is not the Blue Cave at Cape Maeda. The latest GOPRO action cameras and professional-grade high-definition cameras are available.
Address: Onna, Onna Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture
5. Nakijin Castle Ruins (Nakijin Village)
Before the unification of the Ryukyu Islands, the castle was built by the Hokuzan King who ruled the northern part of the island.
Nakijin Castle
".
It is said to have been a sturdy fortress with 10 enclosures, making full use of the hilly terrain.
The architectural beauty of the beautifully curved stone walls is still alive and well today!
The majestic sight combined with the greenery of the hills, rich in nature, is a magnificent historical sight that you will want to take a photo of as a memento of your visit to Okinawa.
is.
If you climb to the top of the castle ruins, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the East China Sea!
There are some steep ups and downs in various places, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and avoid heels on the day.
Check out the link below for information on experiences and activities taking place around the Nakijin Castle ruins!
Marine Activities
・
Photo Tour
・
Visiting power spots
etc.
A wide range of plans perfect for sightseeing in Okinawa
is.
In front of the Nakijin Castle Ruins, a World Heritage Site, a starry sky photographer will take as many photos of participants as time allows, so you can pose like a model or show off your memorable commemorative photos. Couples, married couples, families, and friends can participate and have fun taking photos, so they are sure to look great on Instagram ☆彡 Surprises (confessions, proposals, birthdays) can also be photographed as commemorative photos.
This plan does not support English.
Enjoy a pleasant cycling trip around Nakijin Village in the northern part of Okinawa's main island, near the World Heritage Site Nakijin Castle. Explore hidden gems and power spots (mountains, shrines, etc.) near the World Heritage Site Nakijin Castle, and visit beaches with blue ocean. Explore the buraku, one of only two important cultural landscapes in the prefecture, and discover new discoveries you've never noticed before. Learn how to compare and appreciate buraku with other buraku.
Why not enjoy some marine sports on the remote island of Sesoko, which is easily accessible by car? Choose two from three activities: banana boat, big marble, or giant thriller! Nearby are popular Okinawa tourist spots like the Churaumi Aquarium, the Bise Fukugi Tree Avenue, the Nakijin Castle Ruins, a World Heritage Site, and the remote island of Kouri, which is also accessible by car.
Address: 5101 Imadomari, Nakijin Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture
6. Ryukyu Mura (Onna Village)
A theme park where you can experience Okinawa in the Ryukyu era is!
On the grounds, you can tour traditional Japanese houses that are 100 to 200 years old and were relocated from various parts of the prefecture.
Free guided tours are also available.
You can casually learn about the lifestyle and culture of the time.
.
The old houses have stone walls, red tile roofs, shisa lions, and many other scenery and photo spots that give you a taste of old Okinawa!
Why not rent a traditional Ryukyu Bingata kimono and enjoy a glamorous time-travel experience?
After enjoying the good old Ryukyu, We recommend watching the emotional Eisa and Ryukyu dance performances. is!
In the following,
Recommended sightseeing tours to visit Ryukyu Mura
Now posted!
Be sure to check out the recommended plans available in the surrounding area.
This plan does not support English.
This price includes admission to Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium (¥2,180), Ryukyu Mura (¥2,000), and one drink at Banta Cafe. Recommended points: ● [Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium] Spend about 2.5 hours here! We also recommend watching the Okichan Show (dolphin show). ● [Okashi Goten] Stop by Okashi Goten, famous for its purple sweet potato tarts. ● [Manzamo] A view of the raised coral rocks.
This plan does not support English.
[Guidance] Bring your smartphone and earphones to use the voice guidance! (Japanese, English, Korean, Chinese) ★ What is automated voice guidance? ★ It is a system that provides information about various locations when you pass a point designated by GPS. You will need a smartphone and earphones, so please bring them with you if you wish to use it. This is a service, so please note that it may not be available due to malfunctions, etc.
Address: 1130 Yamada, Onna Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture
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7. Sesoko Beach (Motobu Town)
An inhabited island located west of northern Okinawa.
Sesoko Island
Popular beaches in
is!
The island can be accessed by a bridge
Therefore, you can drop in on the spot while sightseeing by car in northern Okinawa.
The approximately 800m long white sand beach and emerald green sea give it a tropical feel! The water is one of the most transparent on the main island It is said that, Marine Activities It is also held frequently.
Activity information around Sesoko Beach
Click the link below.
Classic
diving
Refreshing from
Parasailing
There are endless ways to enjoy this beautiful tropical beach!
*If there are openings, same-day reservations are welcome♪ Sesoko Island is an isolated island that can be easily reached by car. Connected to the main island by bridge, Sesoko Island is easily accessible and is conveniently located about 10 minutes by car from the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, making it popular for its ease of inclusion in travel itineraries! The island boasts crystal clear waters and a beautiful white beach! The event will be held at Sesoko Beach on the backside of the island. The beach is a white sand beach.
[Okinawa, Sesoko Island] Parasailing Course [Parasailing & Banana Boat 10-minute Set]
The vast Okinawan sky is all yours... Feel the wind on your skin and get a panoramic view of Sesoko Island and Minna Island. You'll be amazed by the feeling of flying through the sky and the crystal clear waters! Get a great deal by combining this with a banana boat ride.
※If there is availability, same-day reservations are welcome♪L Sesoko Island is an isolated island that can be easily reached by car. It is connected to the main island by bridge, making it easily accessible. It is conveniently located about 10 minutes by car from the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, making it popular for its ease of inclusion in your itinerary! There are seven flights per day, so you can choose your preferred time. The first flight departs at 9:00 and the last flight departs at 15:00. Flights on the day
Sesoko Island is an isolated island that can be easily reached by car. Connected to the main island by a bridge, Sesoko Island is easily accessible and is conveniently located about 10 minutes by car from the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, making it popular for its ease of inclusion in travel itineraries! The event will be held at Sesoko Beach on the backside of the island. The beach has a wide expanse of white sand, and in front of it you can see Iejima and Minna.
Address: 5583-1 Sesoko, Motobu-cho, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Prefecture
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8. Okinawa Fruit Land (Nago City)
A unique theme park centered around an orchard is!
The sweet-smelling orchard is filled with tropical fruits, from familiar varieties such as bananas and mangoes to the world's largest fruit, jackfruit You can see a variety of fruits, large and small, in their natural state.
In addition to the orchard,
There are plenty of attractions, including the Bird Yard where you can feed colorful birds and take commemorative photos, and an original story stamp rally booth.
.
Okinawa
Enjoy the sweet world of fruits in a way that suits your group!
If you're not satisfied with just looking at the fruits, be sure to visit the "FRUIT CAFE" inside the garden.
Made with lots of tropical fruits,
Limited edition sweets weighing 1.5kg
And you'll have a blissful time!
Okinawa Fruit Land discount ticket reservations
Please click the link below.
Get your tickets at a great price and enjoy a fruit-filled Okinawa experience!
[Okinawa, Nago] Okinawa Fruit Land Discount Admission Ticket
This plan does not support English.
This is a great value admission ticket that gives you 10% off the admission fee.
Address: 1220-71 Tamemata, Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture
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Two Hidden Spots in Northern Okinawa
In the following,
Hidden gem tourist spots in northern Okinawa
Introducing!
Avoid the crowds
Okinawa
We have picked out some spectacular nature spots where you can enjoy the scenery to the fullest.
1. Minna Island (Motobu Town)
Minna Island teeth, An inhabited island located west of the aforementioned Sesoko Beach (Sesoko Island) is!
The island is very compact, with a circumference of about 4km.
From its distinctive crescent-shaped silhouette,
Croissant Island
He is also known by the nickname ".
A popular beach with white sand and blue sea.
Minna Beach
" is perfect for experiencing the atmosphere of a tropical resort!
In the coral reef waters surrounding the island,
A variety of marine activities, including snorkeling
You can participate.
Below are the
Popular tours you'll want to join on Minnajima Island
Now posted!
We especially recommend tours that depart from the main island and allow you to quickly visit Minna Island.
★★★ Packed with great benefits ★★★ [Advance booking benefits] ◆ Get even more value by booking marine sports options such as Big Marble in advance! ・Tube rides (Marble, Thriller, etc., 4-person capacity) Regular tour price ¥2,000 → ¥1,500! ・Experience jet tour Regular tour price ¥3,000 → ¥2,500! ・Island tour (banana boat, jet
★★★ Packed with great perks ★★★ [During your stay on Minna Island] [1] Free beach umbrella rental for one group (basically one umbrella for four people) (If there are four or fewer people applying for the same group, we will only rent one umbrella) [2] Banana boat ride is free for one time only, 500 yen per person. Please let us know if you would like this service when making your reservation! [3] Download photos for the blog
★★★ Packed with great perks ★★★ [During your stay on Minna Island] [1] Free beach umbrella rental for one group (basically one umbrella for four people) (If there are four or fewer people applying for the same group, we will only rent one umbrella) [2] Banana boat ride is free for one time only, 500 yen per person. Please let us know if you would like this service when making your reservation! [3] Download photos for the blog
"Minnajima Island" is a remote island with one Michelin star. You must experience "Minnajima Island Snorkeling" and "Minnajima Island Parasailing" to enjoy a panoramic view of the crystal clear ocean from the sky. This luxurious and popular No. 1 plan!! No need to arrange boarding tickets or prepare meals. Snorkel at a spot that can only be reached by boat. Parasailing with a spectacular view that can only be experienced on Okinawa's remote islands.
Address: Sesoko, Motobu-cho, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Prefecture
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2. Asumui Hikes (Kunigami Village)
Main island
A nature spot located in the northernmost area of
is!
You can take an audio guided walk around Asumui, the setting of mythology that appears in Okinawa's oldest historical book, the Chuzan Seikan.
Along the way, Steep rock formations, mysterious banyan trees, and stunning views overlooking the ocean There are plenty of attractions that are unique to Yanbaru, where lush greenery remains, such as:
You can also try the "Art of Nature" series, where you can find rocks that resemble animals, which may look a little animal-like.
Enjoy a hike unique to northern Okinawa while feeling the power of nature with your whole body!
The required time is
The shortest route takes about 90 minutes
.
If you have time, you can go to the "
Stone Museum
You can also enjoy viewing the exhibits and shopping for original souvenirs at the museum.
Information on activities held around Asmuy
Click the link below!
If you find a plan that interests you, why not join one before or after your unique hiking experience?
[Recommended Points] ▼Registered as a World Natural Heritage Site▼Enjoy the abundant nature of Yanbaru, which spreads across the two Yanbaru villages of Kunigami Village and Ogimi Village! Admission fees are included at all stops♪ Let's head to Yanbaru! A course to enjoy the nature of Yanbaru National Park, touring the Rail Forest and Mount Daisekirin.★A must-visit! Efficient and easy sightseeing in Yanbaru, the northernmost point of Okinawa's main island♪★<神秘的な穴
This plan does not support English.
The fee is for 4 hours, and a helmet and smartphone holder are included in the price. We currently have 4 50cc bikes. For 2-4 people, there is a discount of 550 yen per person. [Morning] 9:00 - 13:00 [Afternoon] 14:00 - 18:00 ① Outside business hours 8:00-9:00, 18:00
Address: 1241 Ginama, Kunigami Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture
Recommended itinerary for sightseeing in northern Okinawa
In the following,
Recommended itineraries for sightseeing in northern Okinawa
Now posted!
Visit popular spots efficiently with half-day and full-day tours available.
A half-day tour of northern Okinawa (approximately 5 hours)
| Time Zone | itinerary |
|---|---|
| 9:00 | Naha or Onna Village Depart from (rental car) |
| 10:00 | Ryukyu Mura (60 minutes) |
| 11:15 |
Manzamo
(half an hour) → Take stunning photos at a cliffside scenic spot overlooking the East China Sea |
| 12:00 |
Cape Maeda/Blue Cave
(60-90 minutes) → If you have time Snorkeling experience Also recommended |
| 13:30 |
Nearby seaside cafe or Lunch at the roadside station / Check-in to accommodation |
A one-day tour of northern Okinawa (approximately 9 hours)
| Time Zone | itinerary |
|---|---|
| 9:00 | Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium (90 minutes) |
| 10:45 | Sesoko Beach (30-45 minutes) |
| 12:00 | Kouri Island and Kouri Bridge (90 minutes) |
| 14:00 | Nakijin Castle Ruins (45 minutes) |
| 15:30 | Start heading south towards Onna Village (approx. 60 minutes) |
| 16:30 | Cape Maeda or Manzamo (60 minutes) |
| 18:30 | Naha ・ Onna Village Arrival at the accommodation or disbandment |
Enjoy sightseeing in northern Okinawa
This time Northern Okinawa Tourism Information We featured about!
The northern area of the main island has many attractive points, from classic tourist spots with plenty of things to see to the beautiful tropical sea and natural beauty.
Please refer to this special feature and Okinawa Enjoy sightseeing in the north on your trip!
*The content of this article is current as of October 2025.
Featured image provided by:
PIXTA
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