You want to make the most of your trip to Okinawa and have an absolutely fantastic experience! But there's so much information out there, it's hard to choose... That's when locals come in handy.

This time, we asked Okinawan locals who know Okinawa inside and out for their "must-visit travel destinations." Hopefully, this will help you choose your next destination!

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1. Paikaji Kokusai-dori Kumoji Store
2. Rise Ishigaki Island - Snorkeling & Marine Sports Specialty Shop
3. KUSHIYAKI320
4. Okinawa Tonkatsu Restaurant Shimabutaya Kumoji Branch
5. Okinawa Diving Shop Sea Free
6. Grace
7. BLUE OCEAN STEAK
8. Naha Beachside Hotel
9. Kanucha Resort
10. Genka Genkichi Ryukyu Glass Studio

1. Paikaji Kokusai-dori Kumoji Store

If you're going to Okinawa, you'll want to fully experience the local culture... For those people, we recommend "Paikaji," an Okinawan folk song izakaya located on Kokusai Street!

The interior, based on the blue of Okinawa's sea and sky and the pink of bougainvillea, offers spacious cafe-style table seating, as well as sunken seating areas and private tatami rooms.

Enjoy live Okinawan folk music performances on the sanshin (Okinawan three-stringed instrument) at 7:30 PM and 9:00 PM every day. The Okinawan cuisine enjoyed while surrounded by pleasant music and island songs is truly exceptional!

With a total of 130 seats, it's great that it's easy to use even for group tours.

"Paikaji" means "southern wind" in the Okinawan language.
As the name suggests, you can enjoy a pleasant time as if you were being caressed by a tropical night breeze♪

In February 2020, the Kokusai-dori Makishi store also opened! Just like the Kumoji store, they hold live sanshin (Okinawan stringed instrument) performances every day.

★From an Okinawan★
Our dishes, made with an abundance of Okinawan ingredients, are popular even among locals! Experience Okinawa with awamori (Okinawan liquor), delicious food, and the sound of the sanshin (Okinawan stringed instrument).

[Paikaji Kokusai-dori Kumoji Store]
Address: 2F, Kumoji Sangyo Building, Naha City
TEL：098-868-8557
Opening hours: 17 PM - 24 AM (Last order 23 PM)
Regular holiday: No holidays
Access: 5-minute walk from Kencho-mae Station on the Yui Rail Line. Price: Sea grapes 680 yen, Rafute (Okinawan braised pork) 780 yen.
Official HP:https://paikaji.jp/

2. Rise Ishigaki Island - Snorkeling & Marine Sports Specialty Shop

For those who want to enjoy the sea in Ishigaki Island, we recommend "Rise Ishigaki Island".
Among the many tours available, the most popular is the "Phantom Island + Tropical Snorkeling + Unlimited Access to 16 Types of Marine Sports" plan!

The setting for this ocean adventure is an uninhabited island known as the "Phantom Island." In its crystal-clear, emerald-blue waters, you can encounter colorful fish and coral reefs.

Choose from a whopping 16 different water sports, including banana boating and wakeboarding! You can even try "flyboarding" as an option.

The free pick-up and drop-off service from the city center and free equipment rental are also great features!

★From an Okinawan★
Our staff are professionals when it comes to marine activities! They will check the sea conditions and choose calm spots, so you can enjoy yourself safely.

[Rise Ishigaki Island - Snorkeling & Marine Sports Specialist Shop]
Address: 2-1-12 Hamasaki-cho, Ishigaki City, Honmura Mansion 1F (Office)
TEL：0980-87-0136
Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Closed: Irregular
Access: Shuttle service available to each accommodation.
Price: Phantom Island + Tropical Snorkeling + Unlimited access to 16 types of marine sports plan: Adults 16,800 yen, Children 11,000 yen
Official HP:https://www.rise-ishigaki.com/

3. KUSHIYAKI320

If you want to enjoy ethnic cuisine in Naha, head to "KUSHIYAKI320" on Kokusai Street.

Our specialty is satay, the Southeast Asian grilled skewers! Marinated in our special sauce and slowly grilled over far-infrared heat, the skewers are irresistibly delicious. Enjoy them with our three kinds of ethnic sauces.
They also have dishes using Okinawan ingredients, so you can fully enjoy the "Okinawan feel"♪

The stylish interior creates a comfortable atmosphere where you can enjoy your meal at your leisure.
Tropical-style sours and cocktails overflowing with fresh fruit are also very popular!

★From an Okinawan★
Upon opening the entrance door, a spacious area unfolds! With semi-private rooms available, this restaurant is perfect for various occasions, from group get-togethers to celebrations. Be sure to check out their happy hour (until 19 PM) for surprisingly low prices!

【KUSHIYAKI320】
Address: RJ Kokusai-dori B1F, 2-4-3 Asato, Naha City
TEL：098-963-9399
Opening hours: 17 hours to 24 hours
Regular holiday: Monday
Access: 3-minute walk from Makishi Station on the Yui Rail line.
Price: (Happy Hour) 2 Highballs + Assorted Skewers Set 990 yen
Official HP:https://kushiyaki320.owst.jp/

4. Okinawa Tonkatsu Restaurant Shimabutaya Kumoji Branch

There are many restaurants that serve Agu pork, a brand of pork produced in the prefecture, but we recommend the "Shimabutaya" chain.
Among them, "Okinawa Tonkatsu Shokudo Shimabutaya" is a popular restaurant frequented by Okinawans!

The tonkatsu, fried with breadcrumbs made from natural yeast, will surprise you with its crispy texture and the delicious flavor that spreads in your mouth.

Furthermore, the shabu-shabu, served with a specially prepared broth, is so delicious it will change your perception of what shabu-shabu is!
With its refreshing dipping sauce, you could eat endless amounts of this with fresh vegetables.

In addition, there's a wide variety of dishes unique to this specialty restaurant! You'll quickly become a fan of Agu pork.
Information about affiliated storesCLICK HERECheck from!

★From an Okinawan★
The pork loin is finely textured and tender, and although it's a generous 250g portion, it's an exquisite dish that you can easily finish in one sitting!

[Okinawa Tonkatsu Restaurant Shimabutaya Kumoji Branch]
Address: 2-10-20 Kumoji, Naha City, 101
TEL：098-988-3909
Opening hours: 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM / 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Closed holiday: irregular holiday
Access: 5-minute walk from Kencho-mae Station on the Yui Rail Line. Price: Yanbaru Island Pork Agu Pork Loin Cutlet 1800 yen
Official HP:https://okinawa-sinka.jp/

5. Okinawa Diving Shop Sea Free

For those trying marine activities for the first time, we recommend "Sea Free," a shop that's perfect for non-swimmers and beginners.

The popular "Mermaid Swim" is a package that combines a photoshoot on a beautiful beach with a swim experience – a truly fulfilling package!
You can take as many photos as you like during the experience, so enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience to the fullest!

They have a wide selection of equipment specifically for kids. It's the perfect shop for a child's first marine experience, so the whole family can enjoy the Okinawan sea!

★From an Okinawan★
Okinawa has many diving shops, but "Sea Free" is highly recommended due to its excellent customer reviews. Safety first when it comes to marine sports! Enjoy the Okinawan sea to the fullest with a safe and reliable shop.

[Okinawa Diving Shop Sea Free]
Address: 469-1 Maeda, Onna Village, Kunigami District (Meeting place)
TEL: 098-959-4950 Business Hours: 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Closed: Open every day Access: Approximately 10 minutes from Ishikawa IC (Search for "Maeda Cape Observatory Maeda Cape Park Toilet" on your car navigation system)
Price: Mermaid Swim (ages 2 and up) 8,000 yen
Official HP:https://okinawa-seafree.com/

6. Grace

I want to feel the memories of my trip to Okinawa in my everyday life! "Grace" is the product that can make that wish come true.
A distinctive feature of the items here is that the design subtly incorporates elements of Okinawa.

This ring is inspired by Okinawa's traditional craft, Minsaa weaving. Its simple design makes it perfect for everyday wear!

These small cube-shaped necklaces are available not only in silver, but also in white gold and rose gold.

There are also items with star sand embedded in them, so you can find your favorite from the wide range of products.

★From an Okinawan★
We have a great selection of accessories perfect for treating yourself. Why not buy one as a memento of your trip to Okinawa?

【Grace】
Address: 124 Maeganeku, Onna Village, Kunigami District (Onna Store) / 3-9-40 Makishi, Naha City (Naha Store)
TEL: 098-964-3422 (Onna store) / 098-861-5656 (Naha store)
Opening hours: 10 hours 30 minutes ~ 19 hours 30 minutes
Closed: Every third Wednesday of the month. Access: Approximately 6 minutes from Ishikawa IC (Onna store) / 5 minutes on foot from Yui Rail Makishi Station (Naha store)
Price: Classic (ring) 9,020 yen
Official HP:https://www.grace-shop.jp/

7. BLUE OCEAN STEAK

For those celebrating a special occasion in Okinawa, we recommend "BLUE OCEAN STEAK".
Check out our special set featuring steaks made with carefully selected beef and locally produced Wagyu beef, plus eight side dishes.
Our cooking methods prioritize the natural flavors of the ingredients, allowing you to enjoy not only juiciness but also the inherent deliciousness and richness of the meat.
The set includes high-quality meats such as seared sushi, pork shabu-shabu, and beef stew.
I was surprised by the reasonable price, starting from just 2,280 yen, considering the generous contents of the set.

Another highlight is the open feel of the restaurant overlooking the East China Sea. If you go at sunset, you can enjoy watching the beautiful sunset while you eat. The restaurant also boasts a wide variety of drinks, making it a great place to relax and enjoy your meal.
It's also great that it's kid-friendly, so the whole family can enjoy it!

★From an Okinawan★
You can enjoy high-quality, specially selected beef while overlooking the sea. It's perfect for a special occasion!

【BLUE OCEAN STEAK】
Address: 51-2 Mihama, Chatan-cho, Nakagami-gun, 2nd floor
TEL：098-988-5625
Opening hours: 5:00 PM - 11:30 PM (Last order 10:30 PM)
Closed: Open every day Access: Approximately 10 minutes from Okinawa South Interchange
Price: Special Steak Set: ¥2,280~
Official HP:https://www.steak-okinawa.jp/

8. Naha Beachside Hotel

A recommended base for your trip is the "Naha Beachside Hotel," operated by Okinawa GRG Hotels.

It's conveniently located near Naminoue Beach, Kokusai Street, and the airport.
With parks offering BBQ and marine activities within walking distance, you're sure to have a fantastic time on your trip.

All five of the affiliated hotels are located in Naha City.
(The photo shows the beautiful European-style interior of Hotel Brion Naha.)

Booking through the official website earns you points equivalent to 5% of the accommodation fee – a great deal!
This hotel is recommended for both sightseeing and business trips.

★From an Okinawan★
Naha Beachside Hotel is only about a 10-minute drive from the airport via the Naha Umisora ​​Tunnel. It's convenient as you're less likely to get caught in traffic!

[Naha Beachside Hotel]
Address: 3-2-36 Tsuji, Naha City
TEL: 098-862-2300 IN/OUT: 15:00/10:00
Closed: Open every day Access: Approximately 10 minutes from Naha Airport
Price: Family plan (2-3 people) from 4000 yen/person
Official HP:http://www.nahabeachsidehotel.com/

9. Kanucha Resort

Located in the northern part of the main island, Kanucha Resort is a paradise resort embraced by abundant nature. You can relax and unwind while gazing at the beautiful ocean.

With its vast grounds, nine hotel buildings, a golf course, relaxation facilities, shops, and restaurants, this is one of the largest resorts of its kind in Japan, creating a vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of a small town. Enjoy a truly exceptional stay with its comprehensive facilities!

Kanucha Resorts truly excels at offering an extraordinary resort experience combined with heartwarming hospitality. You're sure to have an unforgettable experience that you can only find here.

★From an Okinawan★
Located at the gateway to Yanbaru, which is on the verge of being registered as a World Natural Heritage site, it's the perfect location to fully enjoy Okinawa's magnificent nature, including forests and the sea.

[Kanucha Resort]
Address: 156-2 Abe, Nago City
TEL: 0980-55-8880 IN/OUT: 14:00/11:00
定休日：ホテル2020/5/24(日)～5/28(木)、ゴルフコース2020/5/25(月)～5/29(金)
Access: Approximately 80 minutes by car from Naha Airport
Price: Simple plan (1 night with breakfast) from 9500 yen/4 people per room
Official HP:https://www.kanucha.jp/

10. Genka Genkichi Ryukyu Glass Studio

There are many Ryukyu glass workshops in the prefecture, but among them, "Genka Genkichi Ryukyu Glass Workshop" is where you can really feel the spirit of a skilled craftsman.

Our staff will teach you carefully, so it's OK even for young children or those who are clumsy!
Since only one group is allowed per time slot, you can feel at ease knowing that you'll receive thorough, one-on-one attention.

The works come in a wide variety of colors and are available in many types, including glasses, plates, and chopstick rests. They make perfect souvenirs.

In 2019, an incredible 2649 people participated in the workshop! It's a very popular workshop, so advance reservations are highly recommended!

★From an Okinawan★
Our sister store, "Chura Sanpin OKINAWA MART," is located on Heiwa-dori, close to Kokusai-dori, and you can purchase Ryukyu glass directly from the workshop. It's easy to stop by, so be sure to visit when you're shopping in Naha!

[Genka Genkichi Ryukyu Glass Studio]
Address: 1369-1 Zakimi, Yomitan Village, Nakagami District
TEL：098-982-9912
Opening hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Last registration for the experience is at 4:00 PM)
Closed: New Year's holiday
Access: Approximately 20-30 minutes by car from Ishikawa IC or Okinawa South IC.
Price: Ryukyu glassmaking experience (15 minutes or more) from 2200 yen
Official HP:https://genkagenkichi.jp

Final thoughts

How did you like our selection of 10 spots chosen by Okinawans? Choosing a destination from this list is sure to make your trip a memorable one!
Please enjoy yourself to the fullest!