Golden Week Trip to Okinawa ♪ Highlights & Things to Watch Out For!

Golden Week is something we look forward to every year. In the first half of 2025, Showa Day (April 29th), a national holiday, falls on a Tuesday, so it won't be a long holiday. However, many people are certain that the second half will be a four-day holiday from May 3rd to 6th.

Now, for those of you planning a trip to Okinawa, I'll say this first because it's important.
For Golden Week in 2025, the most expensive days will be May 3rd and 4th, and May 5th and 6th (for returning home).
Conversely, shifting the above dates by one or two days will significantly change the cost of the trip.
Prices rarely drop at the last minute, so it's wise to arrange your vacation time early, plan your trip, and book everything in advance.

I know I've said some rather graphic things, but first, I'd like to introduce some of the highlights and ways to enjoy your trip to Okinawa during Golden Week.
We will also share some things to be aware of, such as traffic congestion and crowds, which are unavoidable during long holidays, so please use this information as a reference!

Table of contents
1. What will the temperature be like in Okinawa during Golden Week? (Will it be warm enough to swim in the ocean?)
2. Must-see sights in Okinawa during Golden Week
3. Events in Okinawa during Golden Week
4. Things to be aware of when traveling to Okinawa during Golden Week
Final thoughts

1. What will the temperature be like in Okinawa during Golden Week? (Will it be warm enough to swim in the ocean?)

From the Japan Meteorological Agency

The graph above shows the temperatures for the 2015 fiscal year (April 28th to May 10th).
Basically, the average temperature is around 21 to 25.5 degrees Celsius, and the maximum temperature is in the range of 24.5 to 29.5 degrees Celsius.

For daytime wear, summer styles like short-sleeved shirts and shorts are perfectly fine!
A lightweight cardigan can also be used for sun protection, so it's reassuring to have one on hand.

Most beaches on Okinawa Island officially open for swimming by around Golden Week, and the number of people enjoying the sea increases significantly.
If you're going during Golden Week, you'll want to enjoy a taste of summer a little early, right?

2. Must-see sights in Okinawa during Golden Week

~Tree lizards that live on Bios Hill~

When do you feel like something is "crowded"?
That usually assumes that people will be concentrated in one place, and you won't be able to fully appreciate what you want to see.

But what if there were a large number of people on a vast site?
This allows for applications such as saying, "It's crowded here, so let's go play somewhere less crowded for now."

So, here are some must-see spots that are popular but also spacious enough to allow you to enjoy yourself without stress!

2-1. "Bios Hill" - A place to play and learn about nature in a subtropical forest.

Bios Hill is located in Uruma City, Okinawa Prefecture, and is a botanical garden that can be enjoyed by three generations, based on the concept of "playing and learning in a subtropical forest."
It's a place that focuses on activities that take advantage of nature, and it teaches you that there are countless things you can do.

There are a total of 18 different experiential programs, including those where you can see, touch, and ride!
On a vast site of approximately 75,000 tsubo (about 248,000 square meters), you can also enjoy forest bathing.

It's home to animals that children adore, and there's even a special corner where you can interact with goats, cows, and other animals native to Okinawa Prefecture.
And because it incorporates Ryukyu culture in just the right amount, you can also experience the good old days of Okinawa!

Now, among all the attractions at Bios Hill, the most popular is the Jungle Cruise (lake sightseeing boat).

This tour involves walking across the lake while listening to a guide's explanations, allowing you to see subtropical plants, wild orchids, and animals that inhabit the forest up close.
The guide was also unique and entertaining, and he skillfully entertained the passengers with his engaging storytelling.

The fact that it doesn't just provide explanations is what makes it so appealing.
It's easy to see why it's so popular.

Another popular attraction, thanks to the engaging commentary from the guides, is the water buffalo cart ride.
Here, you'll be pulled by a real water buffalo, so you can have a truly unique Okinawan experience!

The park is quite large. If you get tired of walking around in the forest, you can take a leisurely stroll in a water buffalo cart.
The staff will tell you about the park and chat with you, so we recommend sitting as close to the front as possible!

The walking trail is well-maintained and the inclines aren't too steep, making it a great place for some moderate exercise! (The total length is approximately 2km.)
Tree lizards are surprisingly common, so try looking for them.

There's even a plaza with nostalgic playground equipment!
There are so many playground equipment items that are hard to find these days, like stilts, goalposts, and pine cones!

These are all things that can captivate even adults!

Canoeing is very popular with couples!
Enjoy working together while soaking up negative ions!

~~Bios Hill~~
Address: 961-30 Ishikawa Kadekaru, Uruma City, Okinawa Prefecture
Phone: 098-965-3400
Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 18:00 PM *Last entry at 17:00 PM
Closed: Open all year round
Admission fee: Adults (junior high school age and older) 2,200 yen, Children (ages 4 to elementary school age) 1,100 yen
*Includes boat ride fare on the lake.
URL:https://www.bios-hill.co.jp/

2-2. A forest stroll in Yanbaru♪ "Hiji Great Waterfall"

The northern part (Yanbaru) is home to many lush, natural landscapes.

Located in Kunigami Village, right in the heart of Yanbaru, Hiji Falls is the perfect spot for enjoying negative ions during this time of year when the greenery is lush.
The path to the waterfall is well-maintained and easy to walk, making it enjoyable for everyone.

Looking for a place to relax away from the crowds? This is the perfect spot for you!

First, you complete the registration process at the entrance to the campsite and walking trails.
Make sure you're fully prepared, such as applying insect repellent before entering the forest!

No matter how well-maintained the area is, sneakers are still the right choice for footwear.

Continue along the path, and once you pass the halfway point, a red suspension bridge will appear.
Crossing a bridge that's 50 meters long and 17 meters high is incredibly thrilling!

Even adults get excited when they see a natural obstacle course, right?
But the excitement will definitely outweigh any worries!

By the way, the Hiji River, which has a large volume of water, flows directly beneath this bridge!
Many different kinds of plants and animals live in the clear stream, so if you have some time, take a look!

The final destination, Hiji Falls, is the largest waterfall on Okinawa Island, standing at a height of 25.7 meters.
Spending time in crisp, dry air, feeling the pleasant breeze, is quite a luxury...

Bringing snacks like sata andagi (Okinawan doughnuts) would be a good idea too.

Whether you love trekking or are a little hesitant, this is a great option as you can enjoy a leisurely stroll at your own pace!
Above all, there's that great sense of accomplishment you get from reaching the finish line!

When I see how much water is overflowing from the mountains, I feel grateful for the blessings of magnificent nature.

Let's soak up plenty of negative ions along with the exhilarating sounds and feel energized.
*The pool at the base of the waterfall is deep, so even if you're a confident swimmer, please stay away from it.

If you're returning from Hiji Falls, you absolutely must try this "special zenzai" (sweet red bean soup).
At Hiji Cafe, you can enjoy a truly unique zenzai (sweet red bean soup) made with organic ingredients.

How about soothing your tired body with something sweet, listening to the babbling of the river, and savoring the lingering feeling of having just seen the waterfall?

~~Hiji Campsite (Hiji Great Waterfall)~~
Address: 781-1 Hiji, Kunigami Village, Okinawa Prefecture
Phone: 0980-41-3636
Opening hours: Summer (April to October) 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Last entry/gate closing at 6:00 PM)
Closed days: Hiji Cafe is closed every Tuesday.
Admission fee: (For those residing outside the village) Adults 500 yen, Children 300 yen
(For those residing in the village) Adults 100 yen, Children 50 yen
URL:https://hiji.yuiyui-k.jp/

3. Events in Okinawa during Golden Week

So, what kind of events await us in Okinawa during Golden Week?
So, I'd like to introduce you to two of the most famous festivals: the Naha Hari and the Iejima Lily Festival!

Naha Hari, a prestigious traditional event in Okinawa.

Naha Hari is a festival held by local people with the hope of a bountiful catch and safety at sea.
There are several Hari events, but the largest in Okinawa is the "Naha Hari."

The Naha Hari, which will be held for the 49th time in 2023, is a major event that typically attracts more than 20 spectators during its run.
The most important point is that it will be held over three days during the Golden Week holiday in May.

Typically, these events are held throughout Okinawa on the 4th day of the 5th month of the lunar calendar.
However, in Naha, the festival is held between May 3rd and May 5th in the new calendar, coinciding with Golden Week, because the organizers want visitors to experience traditional events along with sightseeing.

The competitions change daily.
On the first day, there will be school-versus-school competitions for junior high school students in Naha City, as well as some competitions for workplaces. On the second day, tourists can also participate in the "Hari General Experience Boat Ride," and on the final day, there will be workplace competitions, the Ogan Hari, and the Hon Hari.

The second day's Hari boat experience is a very popular event where participants can learn how to row the sails and ride the boat for free.
After seeing the thrilling Harley race, you'll probably want to try it yourself, won't you?

And the highlights aren't limited to just Harley.
The outdoor stage will host a variety of events, including Eisa dance performances, comedy shows, live music, sumo wrestling tournaments, fireworks displays, and more.

There are tons of events from morning till night, so you'll have a great time!

No need to worry about meals at the event venue!
Watch the game while eating Okinawan soba, yakisoba, okonomiyaki, and other Okinawan dishes.
Let's get completely immersed in Harley!

~~ Naha Hari ~~
Venue: Naha Port New Port Wharf
For inquiries, please call: 098-862-1442
Event period: May 3rd - May 5th
Time: Free admission
URL:http://www.naha-navi.or.jp/nahahari.html

Why not take a trip to an island sometime? "Iejima Lily Festival"

Have you ever crossed over to Ie Island, which can be seen across the sea from the grounds of Ocean Expo Park, where the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is located?
Actually, it would be a waste to just look at it at this time of year.

The reason is... because the "Iejima Lily Festival," where lilies bloom in abundance on Iejima Island, is being held!

The Iejima Lily Festival features a wide variety of lilies, from familiar ones to rare ones, including the "teppo lily," a flower unique to Okinawa.

These lilies were carefully cultivated by local elementary and junior high school students months before the festival began.
It's magnificent, as if the flowers are repaying kindness by blooming!

Even though we simply say "lily," there are actually quite a few different varieties.
You can also admire rare lilies that are difficult to find even by searching online!

And as for the important matter of food, there are absolutely no problems during the festival!
At the stalls set up for the festival, you can enjoy "island food" that is unique to Ie Island.

Enjoying the May weather and the sight of lilies in full bloom, while listening to the sound of the sanshin (Okinawan stringed instrument) from the stage, makes for a truly delightful experience.

Why not spend some relaxing time playing with lilies on Ie Island, a place you've only ever seen from afar?

~~ Iejima Lily Festival ~~
Venue: Ie Village Lily Field Park
For inquiries, please contact: 0980-49-2906 (Iejima Lily Festival Executive Committee)
Event period: Typically from late April (Saturday) to Golden Week.
URL:https://www.iejima.org/document/2023012700032/

4. Things to be aware of when traveling to Okinawa during Golden Week

Now, it would be a shame if your trip to Okinawa, which you've been looking forward to, ends up being ruined because you think, "This wasn't what I expected!"

Therefore, I've put together a few things to be aware of that might happen during Golden Week.
I hope you can make good use of this information and enjoy your days.

4-1. Trends in travel costs

Now, for those of you who want to go to Okinawa during Golden Week, the high cost of travel is probably a major concern, right?
For your reference,"Departure from Haneda Airport, 2 nights/3 days at a resort in central Okinawa Main Island, with rental car included, 4 people per room"I searched for the cheapest tour prices for May 1st, 2nd, and 3rd, and the total tour prices (basic price for 4 people) were as follows:

Departure on May 1rd: ¥310,400
Departure on May 2rd: ¥422,000
Departure on May 3rd: ¥466,000

*Incidentally, because it was the cheapest option, the flights were inconvenient, with the outbound flight departing in the afternoon and the return flight departing in the morning. Changing to "better times" would have added approximately 10 yen to the price for each leg of the journey.

While there are many options for flights and hotels when traveling to Okinawa, the timing of your trip becomes a major factor, especially during long holidays like Golden Week.
I'd like to shift my travel expenses by a day or two to maximize the amount I spend on entertainment during my trip.

4-2. About traffic congestion and congestion

So, where exactly are traffic jams and congestion concentrated during Golden Week?
The following are things that are almost 100% likely to happen.

★Congestion at rental car pick-up and return

Okinawa Island has by far the highest number of passengers in the entire Okinawa region.
Naha Airport is already extremely crowded from early in the morning.
To be honest, crowds are unavoidable, but there are ways to lighten the burden as much as possible.

For example, you could send any luggage you won't need on the day of departure to your hotel in advance, leaving you with only carry-on baggage.
However, this is only possible if the hotel is willing to accommodate such a request.

Doing the above reduces the time spent waiting for your luggage to come off the carousel and collecting it, saving you at least 30 minutes in this step alone.
It's a good idea to check this beforehand when deciding on a hotel for your trip!

Eliminating the baggage claim process means you'll be ahead of others who arrived on the same flight, potentially making the rental car process a little smoother.

Incidentally, if the process proceeds as usual, with passengers waiting for their luggage at the baggage claim carousel, hundreds of people who were on the plane will likely head to their rental cars all at once, so it's reasonable to assume that all movements will take an extra hour.

We also offer a car rental service that picks up cars at the airport.
Since 2020, there has been a serious shortage of rental cars in Okinawa, so it's best to book your rental car at the same time as your flight and hotel reservations.

★Traffic congestion around Churaumi Aquarium and Kouri Island

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium has now become an unmissable spot for anyone traveling to Okinawa.
Since it's located within Ocean Expo Park, you have to be prepared for heavy traffic on your way there.

Normally, you would take Route 449, but if you're coming from Naha, there are tourist spots scattered all along the way to Churaumi Aquarium, creating a vicious cycle of increased traffic congestion.
Therefore, if you're planning to visit Churaumi Aquarium, I recommend leaving extremely early in the morning, including time for traffic. It's much more relaxing to wait until the aquarium opens than to wait in traffic!

And even if you manage to arrive safely, the building will be crowded with people, so you need to hold small children's hands tightly to prevent them from getting lost.
You might think that strollers are safe, but actually, it's safer to leave them at home.

That's because it could get so crowded with people that you can't move forward at all.
Therefore, my recommendation is a baby carrier.

It's incredibly convenient when Mom needs to use the restroom, as you don't have to worry about where to put the stroller or where to wait in line. It's also great for when you want to quickly pass by a rest area!

As for Kouri Bridge, many cars head there to take in the magnificent view.
The biggest cause of traffic congestion is "driving slowly on bridges."

Drivers are often captivated by the beauty of the sea and tend to get distracted, but this is extremely dangerous during traffic jams.
Make sure to see it before you reach Kouri Bridge, or after you've crossed to the island!

If you go down to the beach, you can admire the bridge to your heart's content, so please enjoy the view!

★Traffic congestion when heading to the airport

And the biggest problem is the traffic jam on the way home, right?
Expressways, of course, but also Route 58 which connects to Kadena and resorts, and in Ishigaki Island, the road to Ishigaki New Airport, are inevitably congested.

In the worst-case scenario, you might even miss your flight!
I strongly recommend leaving for the airport with plenty of time to spare.
As a suggestion, on the day before your last day, move to a hotel in Naha City, return your rental car at the same time, and then spend your last day sightseeing in Naha City on foot, by tour bus, or by taxi.
There are many places to visit, such as those where you can enjoy street food in the market or those accessible by the Yui Rail monorail, so using those options might be a good idea.

Final thoughts

We hope you enjoyed our introduction to sightseeing spots and events in Okinawa during Golden Week!
Also, many beaches in Okinawa have already opened for the season, so we recommend enjoying swimming, marine sports, and getting a head start on enjoying summer!

In any case, since it's a vacation, I hope you'll take your time, relax, and enjoy the Okinawan lifestyle!