Even within Okinawa Island alone, the area is quite large, encompassing the northern, central, and southern regions.
Renting a car is the main mode of transportation, but driving in an unfamiliar area can be a bit daunting, right?

As someone interested in history, I'm exploring ways to efficiently visit historical sites in southern Okinawa...
When considering what would be the most economical and efficient way to sightsee, the conclusion I reached was "bus tours."

So, this time, I actually rode a sightseeing bus that allows you to visit five tourist spots in southern Okinawa in just one day!
Please take a look at what we saw while sightseeing within the allotted time!

Due to the Shuri Castle fire that occurred on October 31, 2019, there will be some changes to the A course starting November 1, 2019.

<Contents> 1. What is Naha Bus's regular sightseeing bus service? 2. I actually rode it! 2-1. From Naha Bus Terminal to Shuri Castle 2-2. Shuri Castle 2-3. Former Navy Bunker 2-4. Himeyuri Tower & Lunch 2-5. Peace Memorial Park and the Cornerstone of Peace 2-6. Okinawa World Culture Kingdom Gyokusendo Cave 2-7. From Okinawa World to Okinawa Miyako Hotel 3. Impressions based on the ride experience 3-1. Positive points 3-2. Areas where we almost succeeded 4. Introduction to other sightseeing bus routes offered by Naha Bus♪ 4-1. Churaumi Aquarium Full Enjoyment Course [Course B] 4-2. Churaumi Aquarium, West Coast [Course C] 4-3. Spectacular Scenery! Kouri Island, Nakijin, and the Beautiful Sea [Course D] Finally

1. What is Naha Bus's regular sightseeing bus service?

Naha Bus's regular sightseeing buses are sightseeing buses operated by Naha Bus Co., Ltd.
It operates 365 days a year, with the exception of some dates. (Service is suspended during the Naha Marathon and on days when tourist facilities are undergoing maintenance.)
We offer the following four tour courses for sightseeing on Okinawa Island.

• Shuri Castle, War Sites, and Okinawa World Course [Course A] *Lunch included ・Churaumi Aquarium Full Enjoyment Course [Course B] *Lunch included Churaumi Aquarium West Coast [Course C] *Lunch included ・Spectacular Scenery! Kouri Island, Nakijin, and the Beautiful Sea [Course D]

This course provides a well-balanced coverage of tourist destinations in southern, central, and northern Okinawa, allowing you to use it according to your purpose.
It's easy to get around, and you get a bus guide, so it's especially recommended for people visiting Okinawa for the first time!

Courses B and C have been renewed as of July 1st, 2019! All three courses now use new buses, which feature wide 3-row seating (30 seats) and footrests for a spacious and comfortable ride!
Features include a built-in multilingual audio guide system (8 languages), a USB jack for charging each seat, and free Wi-Fi access!

2. I actually rode it!

This time, I wanted to tour southern Okinawa.Shuri Castle, War Sites, and Okinawa World Course [Course A]Was selected.
Here's a look at our approximately 7-hour and 10-minute bus trip, where we visited historical buildings like Shuri Castle and learned a lot about Okinawa's history!
*As of February 2020, due to the fire that destroyed Shuri Castle's main hall and other structures, the itinerary has been partially modified.

2-1. From Naha Bus Terminal to Shuri Castle

First, let's start with our departure and then we'll show you what it was like on our way to Shuri Castle.

8:30 Arrived at Asahibashi Station on the Yui Rail.

We'll head to the east exit, where the Naha Bus Terminal is located.

 

 

As I headed towards the east exit, I could see the body of a Naha Bus!
Seeing the bus right in front of me made me even more excited about the tour.

We have finally arrived at the Naha Bus Terminal waiting area.
It's about a 5-minute walk from Asahibashi Station, the nearest station.
There are plenty of signs, so I think you'll be able to get there without getting lost.

 

The interior was predominantly white, creating a bright and cheerful atmosphere.
There were restrooms and vending machines, and the waiting area had sofas that could accommodate about 20-30 people.
The receptionist was always smiling and helpful, which left a very positive impression.

9:00 Board the bus

While I was waiting and organizing my documents, the bus guide herself made an announcement: "Naha Bus's regular sightseeing bus, Course A."
The guide will check your ticket, and you will take your assigned seat after looking at the seating chart posted at the entrance.
This bus with its rainbow-colored pattern is absolutely adorable.

 

By the way, the seating chart looked like this. It was completely sold out on the day.
The participants included people of various ages.

 

As soon as I went inside, the first thing that caught my eye was this cute dolphin-patterned chair!
The ocean-themed design, adorned with colorful dolphins, will lift your spirits on your trip!

 

The footrest area of ​​the seat looks like this.
At 154cm tall, I was able to stretch my legs comfortably and sit in a seat that wasn't too cramped.
(Since this is a front-row seat, you can stretch your legs a bit more if you're in a seat in the second row or further back.)

 

As you can see, there are lots of customers!
If you want to sightsee efficiently, the bus is definitely the most convenient option.

 

Once a sufficient number of people have gathered,
・Naha Bus's regular sightseeing bus brochure
・Notice regarding today's important information
It was distributed.

Here is today's pamphlet.
Being able to visit five tourist spots in southern Okinawa is truly a luxury!

 

Read the instructions carefully.
Punctuality is crucial when working in a group, isn't it?

9:15 Departure from Naha Bus Terminal

The bus departed the terminal right on time!
A staff member came outside and waved goodbye until the bus was out of sight.

9:20-9:25 View of Kokusai Street from the car window

Our bus guide introduced us to Kokusai Street, a popular tourist spot in Naha City, at the perfect moment!

 

Kokusai Street

Naha's main street stretches for approximately 1.6 kilometers.
Each store is packed with Okinawan souvenirs.
Many shops are open from 10:30 to 23:00, and it seems they are busier in the evenings.

9:40 Arrived at Miyako Hotel

We stopped here to pick up people joining the tour.
Two passengers boarded the vehicle.

9:45 Departure from Miyako Hotel

The bus guide confirmed the number of passengers once more, and we set off for Shuri Castle.
The distance from Miyako Hotel to Shuri Castle is approximately 2-3 minutes by bus.

2-2. Shuri Castle

9:50 Arrived at Shuri Castle

We arrived at Shuri Castle in no time at all from the Miyako Hotel.
The sightseeing tour lasted 60 minutes. An announcement was made that we would meet again at 10:50.

 

The meeting place is area A11 on the B2 floor.
They warned that it's quite a distance from Shuri Castle and easy to get lost, so be careful.
(Apparently, 1-2 people get lost each time.)

Now, we actually started sightseeing at Shuri Castle!

 

* Shureimon Gate

"Shurei" means "to uphold etiquette," and the plaque bears the inscription, "Ryukyu is a country that upholds etiquette."
This is a representative gate of Shuri Castle, built in the Chinese style of a paifang (archway).

It was designated a national treasure in 1933 (Showa 8) but was destroyed due to the effects of the Battle of Okinawa.
The current gate was restored in 1958 (Showa 33) and is featured on the 2,000 yen banknote.

Here is a map showing the actual route I took from Shureimon Gate to the main hall. (Estimated time: approximately 20 minutes)

Shureimon Gate ➡➡➡ Kankaimon Gate ➡➡➡ Rokokumon Gate ➡➡➡ Kofukumon Gate ➡➡➡ Hoshinmon Gate ➡➡➡ Entrance to the Main Hall and South Hall

When I actually walked the route, I found that there were slopes and steep stairs in places, which made it a bit tiring. (It was raining, so I moved even more cautiously.)
This bus tour involves quite a bit of walking.We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes!

* Entrance to the main hall and south hall

I paid the entrance fee (not included in the tour price, 820 yen extra) and since I was there, I took a look inside as well!

This is the main hall, the main attraction of Shuri Castle. It is the largest wooden structure in the Ryukyu Kingdom.
The vibrant red color, a symbol of Okinawa, stood out beautifully, even in the rainy weather.

 

Although time was limited, I went inside.

 

Visitors can tour recreated rooms that were used in the Ryukyu Kingdom.

 

You can see the Usasuka (a type of altar) on the second floor up close.
*The throne where the king sits.
It's a truly magnificent sight, complete with golden dragon pillars!

 

A model of Shuri Castle was on display near the exit.
Once again, it's amazing that such a magnificent building is made of wood!

 

*restaurant

There was also a restaurant inside Shuri Castle.

 

The menu mainly features Okinawan dishes such as Okinawa soba and taco rice.

10:50 Departure from Shuri Castle

I was deeply moved to see Shuri Castle, a World Heritage Site, with my own eyes.
We departed Shuri Castle right on time and are now heading to our next destination, the former naval bunker!

[Basic Information: Shuri Castle]
Address: 1-2 Shuri Kinjo-cho, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture
TEL：098-886-2020
Hours:
April to October 4:6 to 8:00
April to October 7:9 to 8:00
April to October 10:11 to 8:00
April to October 12:3 to 8:00
*The operating hours for the paid areas will be 30 minutes shorter than the times listed above. (Applicable facilities: Main Hall, Hoshinmon Gate, South Hall, Guardhouse, Study, Kusari-no-ma Room, Golden Palace, Yorimitsu, Attendants' Quarters, Inner Study, North Hall)
Closed days: The first Wednesday of July and the following day.
*As of February 2020, due to the Shuri Castle fire, entry beyond the Hoshinmon Gate is not permitted.
Admission fee: Adults 810 yen, high school students 620 yen, elementary and junior high school students 310 yen, children under 6 years old are free.
URL:http://oki-park.jp/shurijo/

11:25 Arrived at the former naval headquarters bunker.

Perhaps due to the effects of walking around Shuri Castle, I fell asleep on the bus...
Before we knew it, we had arrived at the former naval headquarters bunker.

 

* Memorial Tower

Upon arrival, we immediately visited the memorial tower.
This tower was built in 1958.
Okinawa Kaiyukai
- Committee for the Construction of a Memorial Tower for Naval War Dead
Established through the cooperation of the two organizations mentioned above.

On clear days, you can apparently see Shuri Castle and the cityscape of southern Okinawa.

 

* Former Naval Headquarters Bunker Museum

At the entrance to the museum, there were photographs of the war.
Each photograph depicts the scene from that time, and looking at them is heartbreaking.

 

You can see the navy personnel risking their lives to save as many residents as possible.

 

A painting was displayed halfway up the stairs leading to the museum.
Actually, they're all made from 1,000 paper cranes.

 

We immediately went to visit the museum.
These are models and paintings of ships used by the Imperial Japanese Navy at the time.

 

I'm going inside.

 

These are the combat uniforms and weapons used by naval personnel at the time.
The museum displays firearms and spears that were used in war.

 

Photographs and accounts that convey the raw reality of the Battle of Okinawa.
This is an event that we should never forget, no matter how much time passes.

 

* Former Imperial Japanese Navy Headquarters Bunker

After learning about the history of the Battle of Okinawa at the museum, we went to see the caves.
*Dove... An air raid shelter used as the headquarters of the Imperial Japanese Navy during the Battle of Okinawa.

 

At the entrance, there were displays of flowers and origami cranes, symbolizing wishes for peace.

 

Descend approximately 20 meters of stairs. (Please be careful as the stairs are wet and slippery.)
It's a valuable experience to actually go inside the trench and feel the history.

 

Upon entering, I found a floor plan of the trench.
Approximately two-thirds of the original structure has been restored, and the interior stretches for 300 meters. (It was apparently 450 meters long at the time.)

 

Following the steps in order, I discovered the 'Staff Room'.
The traces of the suicides committed by the staff officers during the harsh circumstances of the time are still clearly visible. (As they were then)

 

Walking down the dimly lit corridor, I discovered a painting near the exit depicting a scene of sortie.
You can catch a glimpse of the raw reality of that time.

11:55 Departure from the former Navy Headquarters Bunker

After about 30 minutes of sightseeing, we departed.
I was very satisfied to learn about and experience the history of the navy, which is deeply connected to Okinawa.

Next up, it's finally time for lunch and to visit Himeyuri Tower!

[Basic information: Former Navy Headquarters Bunker]
Address: 236 Tomigusuku, Tomigusuku City, Okinawa Prefecture
TEL：098-850-4055
Hours: 8: 00 ~ 17: 30
Closed: Open all year round
Admission fee: Adults 450 yen, Children 230 yen
URL:http://kaigungou.ocvb.or.jp/top.html

2-4. Himeyuri Tower & Lunch

12:25 Arrived at Himeyuri Tower

After a drive of about 30 minutes, we arrived at Himeyuri Tower.

When we got off the bus, there were umbrellas ready near the bus door for everyone.
Small acts of kindness are so appreciated.

First, we'll travel on foot to visit the Himeyuri Tower.

* Himeyuri Tower

The Himeyuri Student Corps was a group of caregivers composed of female students from Okinawa.
More than 200 people lost their lives in the Battle of Okinawa.
There was also an air-raid shelter in front of the tower, and many student soldiers perished there.

We observed a moment of silence to commend their valiant efforts.

*Himeyuri Tower on a clear day.
The air raid shelter is located on the right side of the photo.

Additionally, the Peace Memorial Museum is located near the Himeyuri Tower.
(This is not included in this bus tour. Those wishing to visit will need to pay a separate entrance fee of 300 yen.)

After the moment of silence, we will have lunch at "Yubido".
(※Venue may change depending on the day: odd-numbered days: Himeyuri Tower; even-numbered days: Yubido)

Under the guidance of our bus guide, we head to the lunch venue.

Once you sit down, you'll find Okinawan dishes like Okinawa soba and Jushi!
It's great that you can fully enjoy Okinawan cuisine even on a bus tour!

<Menu> Okinawa soba (with sea lettuce) ・Juicy ・ Mozuku Vinegar Goya Champuru ・Kimpira burdock Bitter melon miso Pumpkin-filled Thunder Andagi

The main dish, Okinawa soba, comes with 'aasa' sea lettuce!
The light bonito broth soup pairs perfectly with the flavors of the sea.
The noodles were of normal thickness, and the meat on top was delicious!

For dessert, we had homemade pumpkin-filled thunder andagi (Okinawan doughnuts).
It seemed like it had just been fried, as the inside was still warm and moist.
The outside was crispy and it was absolutely delicious!

The Thunder Andagi I received earlier is, as mentioned before, actually handmade in the shop.
I heard that it has been popular for many years, and that locals often come to buy it.

The smile of the staff member who assisted me was absolutely lovely.

During the summer season, we also offer a workshop where you can experience making thunder andagi (Okinawan doughnuts).
(This is a popular spot every year, so it's best to book early.)

On the way from the entrance of Yubido to the restaurant, there is also a spacious souvenir shop.

Most confectionery shops have a tasting corner.
Being able to taste it beforehand is a big advantage, isn't it?

Recommended for those who want to buy souvenirs in bulk!
Giving us a box of sweets as a bonus is very generous of them.

There are also some small snacks available near the exit.
Suppaiman and Mimiga Chips make great souvenirs for yourself.

13:25 Departure from Himeyuri Tower

It was a very satisfying hour, visiting Himeyuri Tower, having an Okinawan-style lunch, and browsing for souvenirs.
Next time, I'd like to visit the museum and try making thunder andagi (Okinawan doughnuts) myself!

[Basic Information: Himeyuri Tower]
Address: 671-1 Ihara, Itoman City, Okinawa Prefecture
TEL：098-997-2100
Hours: 9: 00 ~ 17: 30
Closed: Open all year round
Admission fee: Adults 450 yen, high school students 250 yen, elementary and junior high school students 150 yen, children under 6 years old are free.
*Admission is free on June 23rd (Memorial Day).
URL:http://www.himeyuri.or.jp/JP/top.html

[Basic information: Yubido]
Address: 372-2 Ihara, Itoman City, Okinawa Prefecture
TEL：098-997-3443
Hours: 8: 30 ~ 17: 30
Closed: Open all year round
URL:http://www.yubido.jp/

2-5. Peace Memorial Park and the Cornerstone of Peace

13:30 Arrived at Peace Memorial Park and the Cornerstone of Peace.

It was only about a 5-minute bus ride from Himeyuri Tower. We arrived in no time at all.

A stylish glass sign and a Shisa statue welcome you.

• The foundation of peace

First, our bus guide showed us the Cornerstone of Peace.
The names of approximately 20 people (both domestic and international) who died in the Battle of Okinawa are inscribed on the monument.

After being given a tour, I was once again struck by the sheer scale of the damage caused by the Battle of Okinawa.

Next, they showed us the "Flame of Peace."
On one side of the Flame of Peace, there is a map of Japan with Okinawa as its base.

- Akajima Island, Zamami Village, the first landing site during the Battle of Okinawa. - The "Flame of Peace" in Hiroshima City - Nagasaki City's "Flame of Vows"

The fire is being lit using fires collected from the three locations mentioned above.

After touring the Cornerstone of Peace, we went inside the museum.
The souvenir shop was selling candles shaped like the Flame of Peace.

It seems that thousands of paper cranes are being sent from all over the country as a token of prayer.

There was even a kissing area inside.
The content is designed to give you an easy way to learn about world affairs, and I think adults will find it quite enjoyable as well.
*I actually visited the site myself, and I found it very informative because I was able to learn about world affairs in easy-to-understand language.

14:00 Departure from Peace Memorial Park and the Cornerstone of Peace

Following our visit to the former naval headquarters bunker and Himeyuri Tower, this was another great opportunity to learn more about the Battle of Okinawa.
As it's the site where the Battle of Okinawa ended, I felt that the visit was worthwhile because it allowed me to see the story behind the Battle of Okinawa.

[Basic Information: Peace Memorial Park]
Address: 577 Mabuni, Itoman City, Okinawa Prefecture
TEL：098-997-2765
(About the Peace Memorial Park Museum)
Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 17:00 PM (Last reception at 16:30 PM)
Closed: December 29th - January 3rd
Admission fee: Adults 300 yen, Children (elementary school age and older) 150 yen, Children under 6 years old free
URL:http://kouen.heiwa-irei-okinawa.jp/index.html

2-6. Okinawa World Culture Kingdom Gyokusendo Cave

14:15 Arrived at Okinawa World Culture Kingdom Gyokusendo Cave

After a 15-minute drive, we finally arrived at the last stop on our bus tour: Okinawa World!
I'm so excited to hear that I'll actually be able to go inside Gyokusendo Cave and experience Okinawan culture!

At the entrance, a Shisa statue greeted us with a "Mensore" (welcome) ^^
The sheer size of the grounds gives you a sense of the scale of this tourist destination.

Once inside, the bus guide gave us an explanation of the facilities.
"It's really big, so be careful not to get lost," they said.
I'll tell you this just between us, but I, someone with a terrible sense of direction, felt a little uneasy.

This is an overview of Okinawa World.
We're about to visit Gyokusendo Cave, which is about 900 meters long!
I'm excited to see what kind of world awaits me.

Even after entering the building, I spotted a sign that said "Mensore" (welcome).
You can see the spirit of hospitality everywhere you look.
It was a bit humid that day, probably because it had been raining.

・Gyokusen Cave

Now, let's head to our first spot, Gyokusendo Cave.
The Gyokusendo Cave inside the building is made entirely of natural coral, making it a rare sight that can only be seen here.
As I was going to a cave for the first time, my heart was filled with excitement at the prospect of encountering an unknown world.

This is the overall diagram.
There's a wealth of useful information about stalactites, including fun facts and their history.
As you can see, things you actually experience are more likely to stick in your memory.

Now, we're finally going inside.
The entrance is generally wet, so please be careful where you step.

Descending the stairs, you enter a cavernous world filled with stalactites and stalagmites.
The building is kept at a constant 21 degrees Celsius year-round, but the high humidity made it feel much cooler than it actually was!

These are photos I actually took of the inside of the building.
Stalactites of various sizes line the street.
Incidentally, it seems they only grow about 3-4 cm per year.
You can really feel the history of the larger ones, spanning hundreds of years.

In some places, the stalactites are even illuminated.
Colorful lights, such as red and blue, illuminate the stalactites.

While walking through Gyokusendo Cave, I discovered the "Ground Smoke Waterfall" about halfway through the course.
The sheer power of the stalactites and the force of the waterfall are truly breathtaking!
I was so captivated by it...

As I mentioned earlier, the ground inside Gyokusendo Cave is wet and very slippery, so please be careful.
It's best for young children to hold onto the handrail while moving around.

The "Blue Spring," with its rows of stalactites and blue light, is truly a fantastical sight.
Its appearance is reminiscent of the "Blue Grotto."

Near the exit, we discovered a "silver aurora," a formation of stalactites clustered together like the aurora borealis.
The long, stalactites illuminated by white light create an indescribably wonderful atmosphere.

Our exploration of Gyokusendo Cave, which lasted approximately 30 minutes and covered about 900 meters, is now complete.
Next, I explored the facilities inside Okinawa World♪

• Various hands-on activity corners

I will report on my experience of actually visiting the museum.

– Fruit farm

The first place we visited was a fruit farm located very close to Gyokusendo Cave.
Here, you can see about 10 kinds of tropical fruits that are famous in Okinawa.

There was also a vanilla tree, which seemed to emit a sweet fragrance.
They actually had vanilla beans on display, and we were able to enjoy the scent that reminded us of ice cream.

– Fruit Kingdom

Next, we visited "Fruit Kingdom," a shop selling Okinawa's tropical fruits and processed fruit products.
It's packed with appealing features, including pineapples, mangoes, fruitcakes, and even an eat-in space.

They were also selling fresh coconut juice!
Enjoying fruit in this way in Okinawa might be a great idea.

– Bukubuku Tea House

A coffee shop where you can enjoy Okinawan tea, "Bukubuku Tea".
*Bububuku Tea... Made from hot water brewed with roasted rice and tea leaves (jasmine tea). It apparently won't foam unless the water is hard water containing coral reefs from Okinawa.
A distinctive feature of this dish is that it's often served with crushed peanuts sprinkled on top, if desired.

- Kingdom History Museum

A museum where you can fully appreciate the history of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
You can catch a glimpse of life in the Ryukyu Kingdom through actual clothing and tools that were used.

– Ryukyu costume and dressing experience

This is the most popular activity in the facility: the Ryukyu costume dressing experience.
It's said to be a quick and easy experience that takes less than 10 minutes, and there were many people lining up on the day of the bus tour.
(I wish I had the time to try it too...)

– Ryukyu glassmaking experience

Next, we moved a little further to the hands-on experience corner.
Apparently, you can actually create your own original Ryukyu glass here.

You only see a few varieties in souvenir shops, but there are actually about 25 different kinds!
Actually making it will probably make you feel even more attached to it.

I also stopped by the souvenir section.
Around this time of year, you can find Ryukyu glass for the "Halloween" event on October 31st.
They were all so cute, I couldn't help but take pictures.

Classic Ryukyu glass is lined up everywhere.
Choose your favorite color and shape to suit your needs!

– Ryukyu Pottery Experience

In addition to Ryukyu glassmaking, you can also experience pottery making!
There are various types, including Shisa statues and pottery made on a potter's wheel.

- Alcoholic beverages

Next, I took a look at the alcohol section♪
You can enjoy Okinawan craft beer right there...a dream come true for beer lovers!

The souvenir section also boasts a wide selection of items.
They have everything from Awamori (Okinawan distilled liquor) to Habu sake (snake wine), fruit liqueurs, and even 35 Coffee Liqueur...
We have a range of options from sweet to slightly bitter, so I think we can cater to a wide range of ages.

Okinawa World has just released a new product: the "Ryukyu Habu Ball".
The unique flavor of the snake, combined with the refreshing citrus flavor, is said to be excellent!
If you're interested, please check it out!

*Please wait until you are 20 years old before drinking alcohol!

Inside the building, we also discovered a banyan tree, unique to Okinawa.
It stood there quietly, but its presence was immense.

I had been walking for about 100 minutes, so I decided to take a short break and went to a snack bar.
The red tiled roofs are so typical of Okinawa.

This is what the ordering counter inside the store looks like.
We have everything from sweet to spicy!
I was craving something sweet, so I ordered Blue Seal ice cream.

I decided to be greedy and order a double!
Top: Blue Wave (Ramune flavor + pineapple ice cream)
Bottom: Salted Chinsuko (vanilla ice cream + salted chinsuko)

The refreshing Blue Wave ice cream and the slightly richer Salted Chinsuko ice cream were finished in an instant.
I feel like my fatigue has been relieved.

This concludes our stay at Okinawa World.
In addition to those mentioned above,
Eisa dance
Hub Show
Segway riding experience, etc…

There are still so many fascinating places to discover!

For more information,Official websiteso!

[Basic Information: Okinawa World]
Address: 1336 Maekawa, Tamagusuku, Nanjo City, Okinawa Prefecture
TEL：098-949-7421
Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 18:00 PM (Last appointment at 17:00 PM)
Closed: December 29th - January 3rd
Admission fee:
• Free pass (Gyokusendo Cave, Kingdom Village, Habu Museum Park): Adults 1,700 yen, Children 850 yen
・Gyokusendo Cave & Kingdom Village: Adults 1,300 yen, Children 650 yen
Kingdom Village: Adults 620 yen, Children 310 yen
• Habu Museum Park: Adults 650 yen, Children 350 yen
*Children are defined as those aged 4 to 14; those 15 and older are charged the adult rate. (All prices include tax)
URL:http://www.gyokusendo.co.jp/okinawaworld/

2-7. From Okinawa World to Okinawa Miyako Hotel

16:15 Departure from Okinawa World

After two hours of sightseeing, the bus tour finally came to an end.
We were able to fully experience Okinawan culture, from visiting limestone caves and fruit farms to seeing Ryukyu glass.

On the way to our destination, the Okinawa Miyako Hotel, our bus guide gave us a musical gift (accompanied by a shamisen).

During the tour,

- Providing interesting Okinawan anecdotes • Courteous guidance ・Recommendations for tourist spots, etc…

Your handling of various situations was excellent!
It was a short time, only 7 hours and 10 minutes, but thank you so much for everything!

16:40 Arrived at Okinawa Miyako Hotel

25 minutes from departure from Okinawa World.
We have arrived at our drop-off point, Okinawa Miyako Hotel.

I watched the bus disappear from view from the hotel entrance.

3. Impressions based on the ride experience

Here are my impressions of the sightseeing bus tour I took this time, the "Shuri Castle, War Sites, and Okinawa World Course [Course A]".

3-1. Positive points

○ I was able to make good use of my time and visit tourist spots in the south!

There are many tourist attractions in southern Okinawa, so it was great that I was able to visit five of the main ones in one day.
In particular, the way I toured the former naval headquarters bunker, Himeyuri Tower, and Peace Memorial Park was meaningful to me personally because it told a story related to the Battle of Okinawa.
There was enough time to buy souvenirs, and I thought that even people who don't have much time to stay in Okinawa can sightsee efficiently.

○ The bus company staff and bus guide were very polite and helpful.

From the initial confirmation of the bus reservation to the bus tour itself, I felt the warmth of human kindness everywhere I went.
When you depart for the bus tour, a staff member will see you off outside.
The bus guide kept the atmosphere lively throughout the trip with interesting facts about Okinawa and shamisen music.
I was also impressed by how both of them patiently answered the questions I was worried about.

3-2. Areas where we almost succeeded

× The weather was not favorable.

On the day I took the train, it was raining heavily, which is unusual for Okinawa. (It wasn't a typhoon.)
Since there were many outdoor tourist attractions such as Shuri Castle and Peace Memorial Park, it was tiring to move around with an umbrella.
(I felt bad about getting on the seat while soaking wet...)
I thought that if you bring a raincoat or something similar, you can still enjoy sightseeing even if it rains.

× (Ideally) I would have liked a charger inside the car.

Currently, each seat is equipped with a USB charging jack.
Since we visited five tourist spots that day, I had many opportunities to take photos at the photo spots in each location.
I thought it would be even better if I could enjoy the bus tour without having to worry about charging my phone.
(I think this would be convenient for young people who use their mobile phones frequently.)

Regular sightseeing bus tour: Shuri Castle, war memorials, and Okinawa World course [Course A]
[Price]
Adult: 5,500 Yen
Children (6-11 years old): 3,000 yen
*An additional entrance fee to Shuri Castle's main hall is required for those who wish to enter (Adults: 820 yen, Junior High/High School Students: 620 yen, Elementary/Junior High School Students: 310 yen, Children under 6: Free). Currently closed
[Time required]
7 hours 10 minutes
*Information as of April 2016, 10.
*Operating times are subject to road conditions.

★For more details about this bus tour...herePlease take a look!

4. Introduction to other sightseeing bus routes offered by Naha Bus♪

As I briefly mentioned earlier, here are three other regular sightseeing bus routes offered by Naha Bus!

4-1. Churaumi Aquarium Full Enjoyment Course [Course B]

A bus tour visiting Churaumi Aquarium, Nago Pineapple Park, and the Forest Glass Museum. (Admission fees to each facility are included; lunch is not included.)

We'll have 3 hours and 30 minutes at Churaumi Aquarium, so you'll have time to watch the popular dolphin show!
You can fully enjoy Churaumi Aquarium, starting with the whale sharks!

At Nago Pineapple Park, you can get Okinawan specialty pineapples, and at the Forest Glass Museum, you can get Ryukyu glass!

Click here for course details!

4-2. Churaumi Aquarium, West Coast [Course C]

This is a bus tour that takes you around popular tourist destinations in central and northern Okinawa.
You can visit many attractions in one day, including Ryukyu Village, Manzamo Cape, Okashi Goten (Onna branch), and Churaumi Aquarium.
(In addition to the above spots, we will visit "Nago Pineapple Park" on odd-numbered days and "OKINAWA Fruit Land" on even-numbered days.)

This bus tour is a great value, especially for tourists as it includes lunch!

*Please note that admission fees to Churaumi Aquarium and Ryukyu Village are at your own expense.
Churaumi Aquarium: 1,800 yen, Ryukyu Village: 1,500 yen (both adult regular prices)

Course detailsherePlease refer to the!

4-3. Spectacular Scenery! Kouri Island, Nakijin, and the Beautiful Sea [Currently Closed Tour]

A bus tour where you can enjoy Okinawa's sea and history all at once. (Includes admission fees to each facility)

You can enjoy breathtaking ocean views from Kouri Bridge, and learn about history at the Nakijin Castle Ruins.
This tour also includes a visit to the Churaumi Aquarium, making it highly recommended for those who want to enjoy a variety of tourist attractions!

Click here for course details!

Author's Impressions

We've been talking about sightseeing tours of southern Okinawa on Naha Bus's regular sightseeing buses. What did you think?
For me, someone who can't drive, the southern part of Okinawa was a difficult place to get to.
However, being able to travel efficiently and affordably by tour bus expands your range of activities, allowing you to spend your day more meaningfully and giving you a feeling of having gotten a good deal.
One of the biggest takeaways was being able to actually learn about the Battle of Okinawa, something I don't usually have many opportunities to learn about.

For efficient sightseeing, why not try using Naha Bus's regular sightseeing bus service during your trip to Okinawa?

Please make your hotel reservation here.

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