Okinawa: Recommended winter spots, hotels and activities
Winter Tourism in Okinawa
Featured
!
People often think that "Okinawa in winter is boring," but
Okinawa in winter also has plenty to offer
Yo!
This time,
Winter
Okinawa
You can enjoy
Activities and events recommended for families with children
Introducing
I will.
Activities and events you can only enjoy in winter in Okinawa
Only.
Be sure to use this article as a reference and plan a family trip to Okinawa this winter break.
table of contents
- 1 The benefits and attractions of going to Okinawa in winter
- 2 Okinawa Winter Recommended Activity 1: Whale Watching
- 3 Okinawa Winter Recommended Activity 2: Starry Sky Photography
- 4 Okinawa Winter Recommended Activities 3: Mangrove Canoeing/Kayaking
- 5 Okinawa Recommended hotel for winter: Kanucha Resort
- 6 Enjoy winter activities and events in Okinawa!
- 7 Feature articles recommended by the editorial department
The benefits and attractions of going to Okinawa in winter
When you think of Okinawa, you think of summer! There are many benefits to visiting Okinawa in the winter there is Yo.
| region | Average temperature in December 2023 | January 2024 Average Temperature | Average temperature in February 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Okinawa (Naha) | 19.7℃ | 17.9℃ | 19.8℃ |
In general Winter in Okinawa lasts from December to February. However, Average temperature: 19.7℃ - 19.8℃ It's warmer here than in other areas. .
Also,
Okinawa main island
The water temperature is 22-23℃
.
Even in winter
Wearing a wetsuit
If you do,
Snorkeling
or
diving
You can enjoy it just as much as in summer.
.
The winter sea The water temperature is low and plankton is declining. In order to Visibility improves, making Okinawa's beautiful ocean even clearer So, Marine sports Recommended for is.
Furthermore, winter tourism in Okinawa is
There are fewer people than in the high season.
Blue Cave
Popular spots such as
.
Winter activities and events also available
The fee is also
Prices are lower than in the high season, so you can enjoy great deals
Another nice point is that...
Okinawa is comfortable even in winter, but it's a good idea to bring outerwear such as a knitted sweater or a light jacket that blocks the wind.
Clothes that are easy to put on and take off
By choosing
It is recommended because it is easy to adjust the temperature.
is.
Mornings and evenings can be chilly, so as a measure to protect yourself from the cold
It's a good idea to bring a coat etc.
That's right.
Okinawa Winter Recommended Activity 1: Whale Watching
Whale watching
teeth,
Okinawa
A seasonal winter feature
.
Every year
Late December to early April
To,
You can observe whales that come to the Okinawan sea to breed.
.
Board the boat, A rare experience of observing whales up close It will surely be a wonderful memory of your family trip.
A spectacular jump with splashes of water
or,
Rising to the surface and exhaling
The sight of whales swimming dynamically through the ocean is truly impressive.
An experience that is sure to become a special memory for your children.
That's right.
Plans that can be booked through Activity Japan include: Drinks and snacks Or, Raincoat and rain boots rental There are also Photo shoot gift There are also Various free benefits for each plan but there is.
There are some months that are not covered, but in the unlikely event that you are unable to see whales, Re-challenge ticket " gifts and delivery to hotels in Naha city Free pick-up service etc. Plans with great services Yes there is.
Plans divided into morning and afternoon flights
It's easy to plan your sightseeing trips.
thing.
Also,
Whale watching on a large boat with toilets
This means women and children can also participate with peace of mind.
Set plan with ticket to Churaumi Aquarium It is recommended for families who want to enjoy both activities and sightseeing.
Choose the perfect plan from the wide range of plans available at Activity Japan and enjoy!
★ Captain Nakano, a fisherman with 40 years of experience who is "the best at spotting whales", is very popular! With his 40 years of experience and intuition, he can time his whales so well that they often surface right next to the boat! ① Small group size that makes it easy to see whales 360 degrees ┗ 40-person cruiser with a capacity of 30 people ┗ You can move around the boat freely so you can find the best position
★The whale guide who explains the ecology and behavior of whales is very popular★A long-established shop in Okinawa, founded 41 years ago! Special tours based on many years of experience★"Tours that will make your kids and your wallet happy" recommended for family groups★Stamp rally with prizes that kids will love & a completely non-smoking boat that is family-friendly + free for 0-5 year olds★Photos & pick-up & drop-off & raincoats & motion sickness prevention wristbands
A special winter-only deal! Every winter, humpback whales return to Okinawa to breed. The Kerama Islands are famous for whale watching in Okinawa, but you can also see many whales in the waters off our home ground, the headquarters. The whales' dynamic performance is simply moving! A ticket to the Churaumi Aquarium is also included in the set.
This plan does not support English.
★No need to bother buying motion sickness medicine when you travel! Okinawa's best seasickness prevention plan★Large catamarans that are resistant to rocking are popular with people who are worried about seasickness★A full tour with reduced observation time and no return to port★Free photo gifts, raincoats, candy, and drinks★We will do our best to help you make the best memories of your time on the sea★Great
This plan does not support English.
↓For those who want to book the PM tour, click here! ↓https://activityjapan.com/publish/plan/56273＼Weekday discount is a good deal／¥500 discount from the regular price! Adults ¥6,000→¥5,500 Children ¥5,000→¥4,500＼Recommended points／★About 20,000 people are sent to Whale Watch every year★
Every winter, humpback whales return to Okinawa to breed. When it comes to whale watching in Okinawa, the Kerama Islands are famous, but you can also see many whales in the waters off the coast of Motobu. The encounter rate is high at 98% to 99%, and the dynamic performance of the whales is impressive. There are also morning and afternoon tours, so you can choose the one that suits you best.
[Naha departure / Kerama / 1 day] Snorkeling + uninhabited island landing or whale watching
This plan does not support English.
You can go whale watching from January to March! ☆You can land on uninhabited islands from April to December! ★There is a high chance of encountering sea turtles! ☆Super comfortable on a large or high-speed cruiser! ★A wide variety of marine sports! ☆Okinawan bento, drinks, and equipment rental are all free! ★Plans with great benefits ☆Benefit [1] Free download of photos taken on the day! Benefit [2] Season
This plan does not support English.
↓For those who wish to make a reservation for the PM tour, please click here! ↓https://activityjapan.com/publish/plan/56282★Great value set plan★Great value plan that includes whale watching and tickets to the Churaumi Aquarium♪＼Recommended points／★We have an annual track record of attracting approximately 20,000 customers★We have a long history of whale watching tours
[Half-day tour from Chatan, Okinawa] Whale watching tour - 2 trips per day ★ Over 20,000 passengers!
This plan does not support English.
Recommended points: ★ Approximately 20,000 people are sent every year ★ 17 years of experience in whale watching tours! Operated by the prefecture's largest optional tour company ★ Guided by a veteran captain A chance to meet one of the world's largest mammals! Departs from near Chatan American Village ♪ Recommended for guests staying in central Okinawa Island such as Chatan, Onna Village, and Yomitan ♪ --
Okinawa Winter Recommended Activity 2: Starry Sky Photography
Winter
Okinawa
Because the air is clear,
The stars look more beautiful
.
You can enjoy a more beautiful starry sky if you go to a place with fewer large buildings and streetlights blocking your view.
If you feel uneasy walking down the street at night with your children, Starry sky photo tour It is recommended to participate in is.
Orion (Betelgeuse)
or
Canis Major (Sirius)
,child
Canis (Procyon)
make"
Winter Triangle
"teeth,
Because it's winter
Visible constellations
.
Listen to stories about the stars while enjoying the fantastical atmosphere of Okinawa.
Why not capture your family memories in photos?
.
At Activity Japan,
Pick-up and drop-off plan
or
Plans that allow pets to participate
There are
Take great commemorative photos at hidden spots recommended by professionals
can.
Private plan for 1 group
and plans where you can listen to live sanshin performances.
Plans that allow you to experience special moments are also popular
is.
Naha City or Kouri Island , Miyakojima etc. Remote Islands for There are plenty of photo spots So, choose your favorite spot and enjoy stargazing.
Starry sky photography is popular on remote islands. But 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! You can also take photos at two basic locations, including a secret beach, for a completely private shoot for one group! Enjoy the starry sky and capture your memories. We are open after midnight. If you would like to take photos late at night,
[Okinawa, Kouri Island] Commentary by Dr. Black Hole! A starry sky photo tour
This is a tour to take commemorative photos under the starry sky on Kouri Island in the northern part of Okinawa's main island. The tour guide is a space expert who studied black holes during his university days! The night sky is a natural planetarium, and he will use a laser pointer to explain in detail which stars are in which constellations, so you can enjoy more than just taking photos. Afterwards, we will carefully edit the photos and send them to you.
We also have plans for photo shoots in the Naha area, in addition to the northern area. We will take as many photos of participants as time allows, at a place that is easy for everyone to get to, so you can pose like a model or show off your memorable commemorative photos. Couples, spouses, families, and friends can also participate in surprises (confessions, proposals, birthdays), and we will explain the stars and the sky a little.
Kouri Island, located in Nakijin Village in the north of the main island, is an inhabited island with a diameter of about 2km and a circumference of about 8km, and is a spectacular spot with one of the most beautiful seas on the main island. The Kouri Ohashi Bridge, built over the emerald green sea, is free to use. It is 1960m long and connects the main island and Kouri Island. Kouri Island is also known as "Love Island" and is a popular island for couples. There is a heart shaped bridge on the north side of the island.
Starry sky photo tours are extremely popular with women, couples, and families! As we do not take photos in dangerous locations, people of all ages and genders can participate. We also guide you to hidden spots, so you can enjoy the starry sky of Miyakojima at your leisure even after the photo shoot without worrying about the eyes of others.
☆Let's go see the shooting stars! ☆A special experience that you can't find anywhere else, only with our company. The starry sky tour from the sea is surrounded by overwhelming beauty that you can never get in the city. A popular tour that has been talked about on SNS. You can take photos that you've never seen before that will make you want to press "like" ☆About the starry sky tour☆This tour is mainly about photography.
I'm a photographer from Miyakojima! The blue sea, the magnificent starry sky. I started to want to take pictures of this wonderful scenery that I didn't notice when I was little. How about taking pictures of the wonderful starry sky in Miyakojima? Couples, families, friends The Milky Way in summer, Orion in winter Make this trip a lifelong memory ☆ The number of photos you take is at least 12 for two people, and 13 on average.
This plan does not support English.
It's like a natural planetarium! Starry sky bathing tour at Ishigaki Island's "Starry Sky Farm"! The horizon spreads 360°, and you're surrounded by a starry sky full of stars...! Why not try starry sky bathing at a starry sky spot with a panoramic view? <Points> ・Certified starry sky guides will explain the constellations and stars, as well as talk about Yaeyama's star culture and the universe! ・Free rental of binoculars and reclining chairs
This plan does not support English.
Ishigaki Island is less affected by city lights. It is an island where the sky is filled with stars, something you can't see in the city. In March 2018, part of Ishigaki Island was certified as Japan's first starry sky protected area (International Dark Sky Association). Why not soothe your soul with Okinawa's unique sanshin while gazing at the beautiful starry sky? You can enjoy a starry sky guided tour and live sanshin performances by a certified starry sky guide.
Okinawa Winter Recommended Activities 3: Mangrove Canoeing/Kayaking
mangrove
teeth,
A general term for plants that grow in brackish waters where seawater and river water (freshwater) mix.
So in Japan
Kagoshima
and
Okinawa
It is a rare item that can only be seen in a few places.
The primeval mangrove forest
The river flows calmly
that's why,
Canoeing and Kayaking
We recommend you enjoy it to the fullest.
is.
Activity Japan has:
Okinawa main island
or
Ishigaki Island
,
Iriomote Island
There are mangrove canoe and kayak tour experience plans available in your favorite area.
Plans for ages 2 and up
from,
Great deals with family discounts
There is also one.
You can view the uniquely shaped mangroves from various angles, and observe the small fish, crabs and other creatures that are active near the base of the mangroves at low tide.
An extraordinary natural experience
Recommended activities for families with children
is.
The experience time,
1–2 hours
,
2–3 hours
,
3–4 hours
,
6+ hours
There are a variety of plans available, so you can choose one that suits your sightseeing schedule.
Also,
Mangrove Kayaking on Iriomote Island
and
Yubu Island
Sightseeing set plans,
Ishigaki Island
Sunset tour at
Great value deals
I also recommend it.
Other photos taken during the tour
photograph
・
Video data gift
or,
Pick-up service available
,
Exclusive use
etc.
Plan with benefits
There is also.
Come enjoy mangrove kayaking with your family.
This plan does not support English.
★A tour that everyone of all ages can enjoy together♪★A wonderful photo of your memories will be given to you for free on the day♪★Land on a private beach♪It's fun because everyone is together. Let's go on an adventure. Kayaking in Okinawa is popular because it can be enjoyed regardless of the season or age. Slowly move through the mangrove forest and enjoy the scenery around you. If you have no experience in kayaking,
《One child is free for two or more adults! Half price for the second person and onwards!》 (Applicable period) 2024 July 13th to August 31st, December 20th to January 19th. Great value for families! Make the most of this opportunity to create special memories with your family in Okinawa♪ Normally it is a two-seater, but small children can ride with two adults for a total of three people(*^^*)--
This plan does not support English.
Experience kayaking or SUP in the mangrove forests of the Fukido River, a natural monument of Ishigaki Island and a designated cultural asset of the city! The river flows very gently, and this tour prioritizes safety so that beginners and small children can enjoy kayaking or SUP. It's a course for beginners, but it still gives you a taste of nature! On the way under the mangrove arch,
This plan does not support English.
Are you ready to be amazed? This is a special tour guided by an islander, and it is only available once a day. It is longer than other companies' tours. ★Rapidly growing in popularity★An original plan that combines a sunset tour, starry sky tour, and night mangrove tour♪★Experience both the ocean and the river!!★Experience both the spectacular ocean of Ishigaki Island and the mangrove river, a natural monument!!★Plan for beginners
This plan does not support English.
This is a course recommended for those who want to canoe but also want to sightsee on Yubu Island! For mangrove canoeing, the guide will choose the most enjoyable course from Pinaisara, Sangara, or Maila River, taking into consideration the weather conditions and crowding. Of course, you can also play in the waterfalls, so those who want to play in the water can enjoy themselves to the fullest.
★Over 300,000 participants! A safe and secure tour! ★Recommended for beginners! ★Photo data, equipment rental, and hot showers are free♪★Participant benefits (coupons for restaurants, etc., information on hidden spots) included! ★Day trips from Ishigaki Island are possible! [Mangrove SUP/Canoe (Kayak)] Water for SUP or Canoe (Kayak)
Okinawa Recommended hotel for winter: Kanucha Resort
" Kanucha Resort Nicknamed " Hotel Kanucha Resort Kanucha Bay Hotel & Villas " is the gateway to Yanbaru, In the northern part of Okinawa Nago City Resort Hotels in is.
A vast site of approximately 267,000 square meters that makes the most of untouched nature for, 8 accommodation buildings Centered on Restaurants and Bars , Relaxation facilities , Golf Course You can enjoy a luxurious resort atmosphere.
In winter illumination or firework Also held It has been done.
You can enjoy Okinawa's special night to your heart's content.
Experience activities you can enjoy at Kanucha Resort
This plan does not support English.
Graduation trip support project 2/1~3/31 U18~U25 10% off UV resin accessories (2 items from key chain, necklace, bracelet, hair tie) Coasters are also available Or you can choose to make a telescope by hand and participate in the workshop at Kanucha Workshop in Kanucha Resort twice a day at 16:00 and 17:00
★The lowest price set of the most popular marine sports and the Churaumi Aquarium ticket♪★Churaumi Aquarium ticket is 1300 yen for adults (2180 yen)♪★High school students (1440 yen) 700 yen♪★Elementary and junior high school students (710 yen) 100 yen♪ A great deal that includes the popular marine sports parasailing and a ticket to the Churaumi Aquarium. Morning parasailing
Held off the coast of 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 40 meters in the air, you can enjoy beautiful views of the marine blue ocean and Yanbaru forest. Anyone who weighs over 20 kg and is in good health can try it. If you're lucky, you might even encounter sea turtles and dugongs.
This is an easy-to-use experience fishing plan departing from Kanucha Bay Resort at the entrance to Yanbaru National Park, a World Heritage Site. There are various low-cost option menus available. Enjoy the dynamic nature of the Pacific Ocean with ease. The target fish are damselfish, wrasse, grouper, etc., but also southern black sea bream and oval horse mackerel. *Catch and release.
★This is a great value set plan that includes a banana boat ride (one of the following: parasailing, flyboard, or hoverboard). *Payment for this menu must be made on-site (cash or credit card). [Banana Boat] Duration: 10 minutes Location: Heeppy Beach, Happiness Marine Club 10 minutes from Ginoza Interchange. Kanuchi
This plan does not support English.
★This is a great value set plan that includes a snorkel tour with one of the following: parasail, flyboard, or hoverboard. ★You can also book the parasail, flyboard, or hoverboard and the snorkel tour on different dates. Example: Parasail on the first day, snorkel tour on the second day [Snorkel Tour] Experience time: 120 minutes Location
Kanucha Resort Winter Event 1: Illumination "Stardust Fantasia"
The vast Kanucha Resort A winter event decorated with illuminations Stardust Fantasia " .
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the
Further upgrade
.
The main venue's "
Garden Pool Square
" Stardust Fantasia's symbol,
Mother Tree
The towering tower is decorated with sparkling illuminations that brighten the area.
The event time is 18:00 - 23:00 (Admission hours are 17:30-20:30, last admission at 20:30).
At the stand on the beach, Nuggets and fries or Fish and chips Snacks such as alcohol , Soft drinks There is a wide variety of menu items that can be enjoyed by both children and adults. Yo.
There is a fee, but non-guests can enter as well.
.
Enjoy a special evening with the whole family.
| Location (venue name) | Kanucha Resort Kanucha Bay Hotel & Villas |
|---|---|
| Event period |
Friday, November 1, 2024 - Friday, February 14, 2025 *However, there will be no admission for visitors on the three days of December 21st (Sat), December 22nd (Sun), and December 31st (Tue). |
| Event time |
18:00-23:00 * Admission times are 17:30-20:30 (last admission 20:30) |
| address | 156-2 Abe, Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture |
| Fee | 3,000 yen per car (free for guests staying at the hotel) |
Kanucha Resort Winter Event 2: Fortune Tours "The Key to Happiness 2024-2025"
At Kanucha Resort Popular digital stamp rally " Keys to Happiness 2024-2025 " but, Starting Friday, November 1, 2024 It has been done.
The stamp rally begins when you scan the QR code at the "Arch of Luck" with your smartphone.
Then, in any order you like,
Six lucky arches
Visit all the attractions and collect stamps.
.
Once you have collected all the stamps, show the screen to the staff at the front counter.
Get the "Key to Happiness"
can
Yo.
The key to happiness is
Lucky items to pray for good luck in the year
.
Stamp rallies are events that even small children can enjoy
that's why,
Recommended for families
That's right.
Enjoy the illuminations and collect all the stamps with your family.
| Location (venue name) | Kanucha Resort Kanucha Bay Hotel & Villas |
|---|---|
| Event period |
Friday, November 1, 2024 - *The event will end when all the "Happiness Keys" are gone. *Each person is limited to one "Key of Happiness." *The contents of the gift are subject to change. |
| address | 156-2 Abe, Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture |
| Fee | free |
Kanucha Resort Winter Event 3: Ryukyu Sea Flame Festival WINTER
Located in the great outdoors of Yanbaru,
A fireworks event that brightens up the winter night sky.
Ryukyu Sea Flame Festival WINTER
"
.
Latest Technology
By making full use of
Music and fireworks in one
And so,
Approximately one hour of fantastic entertainment
will be done.
The fireworks were designed by
World-renowned designer Junko Koshino
.
The launch timing is controlled by a computer.
The moment when the precise and dynamic fireworks burst into flames in the night sky is a spectacular sight.
is!
Besides fireworks, the Ryukyu Kingdom has a history of its own. Karakuri Fireworks " and Okinawa's ancient traditional performing arts Performance of "Kumiodori" You can also enjoy:
Make sure you arrive at the venue with plenty of time to enjoy the event to the fullest.
| Location (venue name) | Kanucha Resort Kanucha Bay Hotel & Villas |
|---|---|
| Event period | Sunday, December 22, 2024 |
| Event time | 18:00-19:00 (scheduled) *Doors open at 15:00 (scheduled) |
| address | 156-2 Abe, Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture |
| Fees (free area) |
Early bird rate (November 1st to November 30th)
Adults (junior high school students and above) 4,400 yen / Middle school students (elementary school students) 2,200 yen / Children and preschoolers (0-5 years old) free / *Free for guests staying at Kanucha Resort Regular price (December 1st to December 21st) Adults (junior high school students and above) 5,500 yen / Middle school students (elementary school students) 2,750 yen / Children and preschoolers (0-5 years old) free / *Free for Kanucha Resort guests Same-day price (December 22nd) Adults (junior high school students and above) 6,500 yen / Middle school students (elementary school students) 3,000 yen / Children and preschoolers (0-5 years old) free / *Free for Kanucha Resort guests) |
Enjoy winter activities and events in Okinawa!
This time, Activities and events you can enjoy in Okinawa in winter Commentary on I did.
Winter Okinawa for, Charms and ways to enjoy things you can't find in summer There is .
Why not plan a trip to Okinawa this winter break and create some wonderful memories with your family?
*The content of this article is current as of December 2024.
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