When you think of Okinawan local T-shirts, many people probably picture designs from Orion Beer or Blue Seal ice cream. But in addition to these classics, there are many other attractive T-shirts available locally that you'll want to pick up right away. Some can be found in supermarkets, while others are easily available at convenience stores. This time, we'll introduce some local T-shirts recommended by Okinawan residents.
Just 45 minutes from Chatan! Enjoy a day trip to Nagannu Island, Okinawa's popular "uninhabited island resort," for a relaxing swim. The first Chatan-based tour will begin in September 2026.
Swimming in the ocean on the outlying islands easily accessible from Okinawa Main Island is a classic activity for anyone traveling to Okinawa. Among them, Nagannu Island, located at the entrance to the Kerama Islands, is a popular spot known for its white coral sand and crystal-clear waters.
Until now, day trips to Nagannu Island were only available from Naha's Miejo Port, but a new route departing from Chatan will be launched in September 2026. Nagannu Island will be accessible in approximately 45 minutes from Chatan Fisherina, adding a new option for travelers based in Chatan or the central and northern parts of Okinawa Island to visit the remote islands.
Cafe Ten no Fune | A cafe resembling a spaceship that suddenly appears in Motobu Town, Okinawa Prefecture
Cafe Ten no Fune is located in the mountains of Motobu Town, Okinawa Prefecture, surrounded by the Yanbaru forest. After following a single road surrounded by greenery, you will come across a white, disc-shaped building that looks like a spaceship.
The building has an open atrium in the center, offering a panoramic view of the blue sky. On either side are glass-enclosed cafe spaces and the residences of the owner couple, making for a truly unique architectural design.
The cafe serves homemade galettes made by the owner, who lived in France for many years. You can enjoy a unique dish incorporating ingredients from Yanbaru while feeling the forest scenery and the breeze.
This time, we'll introduce the architecture of "Cafe Ten no Fune," which blends seamlessly into nature, and their exquisite galettes.
Naha's hidden T-shirt shop "Nanyo Gensou" | NEO Okinawa souvenirs in the back alleys
A little away from the hustle and bustle of Kokusai Street, down an even narrower alley off Ukishima Street, you'll find Nanyo Gensou, a T-shirt shop offering a new option for Okinawan souvenirs, just as you might wonder, "Is it really up here?"
The shop, housed in a renovated traditional Okinawan house, features original items inspired by Okinawan food, plants, and culture. Its appeal lies in its unique designs that retain an Okinawan feel.
"If I'm going to buy a T-shirt, I want to choose one that's a little different from everyone else's." For those people, we'd like to introduce a hidden gem in Naha that will make even the time spent searching for one a memorable part of your trip.
Just four steps from the restaurant is the beach! Enjoy Okinawan soba at "Ryujin" while gazing at the ocean | Uppama Beach, Nakijin Village
Located in northern Okinawa, in Nakijin Village, is Uppama Beach. This beach, long said to be home to a dragon god and cherished by the locals, is where "Okinawa Soba Ryujin" is situated.
Just four steps down from the terrace seating, you'll find yourself on the pristine white sands of Uppama Beach. Of course, you can also enjoy ocean views from inside the restaurant, and with Okinawan folk music playing in the background and the sound of waves, it's the perfect Okinawan experience.
Enjoy Okinawan soba while feeling the sea breeze, or take a break after playing in the ocean. We'll introduce you to the charm of "Ryujin Soba," a restaurant with an exceptional location and lovingly prepared soba noodles made by the owner couple.
Subakoni Juffito Kitchen | A cafe nestled on a mountaintop that delights both body and soul.
▲Yanbaru Young Chicken Butter Chicken Curry / Agu Pork Hand-Kneaded Hamburger Plate▲
Nakijin Village, located in the northern part of Okinawa Island, is a place where abundant nature thrives.
Stepping off the bustling street and heading along a lush, green mountain path, you'll suddenly come across a small 20-foot container house.
The cafe we're introducing today, "Subakoni Juffito Kitchen," was built from the ground up by a shop owner who was captivated by Okinawa during his travels and decided to move there. After gaining culinary experience in Kyoto and Osaka, he opened a cafe in Kitanakagusuku Village, and then moved to Nakijin Village in search of an even more ideal location.
Upon opening the door, you'll find yourself in a secluded hideaway filled with the mountain breeze and delicious aromas. Enjoy a luxurious moment that will delight both your body and soul, savoring the blessings of Okinawa's nature, carefully selected by the owner.
"Haneji Station Yanbaru Tamago" is famous for its "newhalf" (transgender) staff! A popular spot where Yanbaru gourmet food gathers.
Located in the northern part of Nago City, "Haneji no Eki Yanbaru Tamago" is a direct sales store where you can enjoy fresh agricultural products, local specialties, and regional gourmet food all in one place.
Located about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Naha Airport and about 20 minutes from the Kyoda Interchange on the Okinawa Expressway, it's close to popular tourist spots such as Kouri Island, Neo Park Okinawa, and Janglia, making it a perfect stop during a drive through Yanbaru.
This article introduces the unique charms of Yanbaru, including the famous "newhalf" (transgender women) that you can only find here.
A family trip to the Yanbaru Forest Toy Museum! Information on the renovated museum's highlights, admission fees, and discounts.
The Yanbaru Forest Toy Museum, which reopened in 2026 after renovations, is an interactive museum where visitors can experience the rich nature and culture of Yanbaru, a World Natural Heritage site, through play.
The facility features a warm and inviting atmosphere thanks to the abundant use of wood sourced from Okinawa Prefecture, and offers a variety of activities incorporating Okinawan motifs.
This time, I actually visited the facility with my 2-year-old daughter and will provide a detailed report on the renovated interior, the attractions of the play area, and the crowd situation.
12 cafes and restaurants in Chatan where you can enjoy live music, sunsets, and fireworks to enhance your travel memories.
The joys of a trip to Okinawa aren't limited to sightseeing. Enjoying meals while gazing at the beautiful ocean, experiencing Okinawan culture through live performances, and spending time at restaurants where you can fully enjoy the relaxed atmosphere unique to a resort are also important memories that will enrich your trip.
The Chatan and Mihama areas, in particular, are attractive for their exotic streetscapes and seaside location. In addition to Okinawan cuisine, you'll find a diverse range of restaurants offering authentic steaks, craft beer, seafood, and cafes, as well as plenty of spots where you can enjoy "food plus more" experiences such as sunsets, fireworks, and magic shows.
This article introduces 12 cafes and restaurants in Chatan that will make your trip even more special. From lunch to dinner, find your favorite spot to suit your travel needs.
