Introduction

Many of you are probably planning to create some unforgettable memories during your student days, a time you'll never get back, right?
But money is still the first thing you need. You can save up a certain amount through part-time work, but don't you wonder if there isn't a more reasonable way to do it?
So, in this article, we'll introduce how to choose a reasonably priced tour for students traveling to Okinawa.

<Table of Contents>
1: Popular time of year for student travel
2: Recommended Model Itinerary for Student Travel 1
3: Recommended Model Itinerary for Student Travel (Part 2)
4: Recommended Model Itineraries for Student Trips (Part 3)
5. Recommended hotels and resorts in Okinawa for student travelers
Final thoughts

The answer is simply "summer vacation" and "winter vacation."

Summer vacation varies depending on the university, but it's generally around two months, from August to September. Of those months, many people choose September, when travel costs are relatively lower, because August is the most expensive month.

Then comes winter break. Many people choose Okinawa for their graduation trip, but one thing to keep in mind is that "February is extremely crowded." This is because there are many sports training camps, including professional baseball camps, J.League soccer matches, and university teams. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid February (especially the first half to the middle) and consider late January or early to mid-March instead.

In the next section, we will introduce a model itinerary for those wondering, "Where should I actually go when I get to Okinawa?"

If you go without a plan, you might end up disappointed, such as finding a tourist spot you didn't like, or incurring unexpected expenses.

I've included only recommended spots for your trip to Okinawa, so please use this as a reference!

The southern part of Okinawa is dotted with some of the most powerful spiritual spots and places where stories of the original Okinawa are still told.
At the same time, there are many places where tragic stories from the war remain.
This is a fulfilling model course that allows you to enjoy the authentic Okinawa while also incorporating places you'll want to seriously explore at least once.

2-①: Seifa Utaki

Seifa Utaki is a well-known and popular power spot.
This is a place where various religious ceremonies are said to have been held during the Ryukyu Kingdom era.

Among the many sacred sites (utaki) in Okinawa, the one considered the most sacred of the Ryukyu Kingdom is a place well worth visiting.

2-②: Okinawa World

Okinawa World is a place where you can experience Okinawa firsthand.
The "Super Eisa" and "Habu Show," performed daily, are incredibly impressive! There are also plenty of other things to enjoy, such as workshops where you can experience various aspects of Okinawan culture, and the mystical world of the Gyokusendo Cave.

Take your time and enjoy lunch here. You can enjoy a healthy lunch buffet featuring seasonal island vegetables, herbs, seafood, and other ingredients unique to Okinawa!
You should be completely satisfied with both the quality and quantity.

2-③: Himeyuri Tower

Himeyuri Tower is a memorial tower for the Himeyuri Student Corps, a group of female students who perished in Okinawa, the only place in Japan where ground combat took place. Originally, there was a hut on this site, and the tower was built on its former location.

The story of those who continued to provide nursing care on the battlefield but ultimately died has been made into movies and songs.
This is an essential spot to visit, as it continues to tell the story of the tragedy that took place here and helps us appreciate the blessing of peace.

The Himeyuri Peace Memorial Museum is also located on the premises, so why not take the opportunity to learn about the war that we must never forget?
Fresh flowers are sold near the entrance, so you can offer them as a tribute.

2-④: Kyan Cape

Located at the southernmost tip of Okinawa Island, Cape Kyan offers a spectacular view of the sea where the Pacific Ocean and the East China Sea meet.
It is a nationally designated scenic spot and natural monument offering views of the Kiyan Coast and Arasaki Coast.

At the same time, the "Peace Tower" was erected as part of the Okinawa War Memorial National Park to commemorate the spirits of approximately 1 islanders and soldiers.
There is a tragic history here that people who had nowhere else to go ended up throwing themselves to their deaths.

Standing on this cape after visiting Himeyuri Tower might give you a sense of what the students of your generation were feeling.
Just like with the Himeyuri Tower, there's no need to visit with a heavy heart. I think that simply seeing people building a bright future and living in peace makes all the sacrifices made worthwhile.

2-⑤: Shuri Castle Park

Shuri Castle Park is one of Okinawa Island's most representative tourist attractions.
I imagine many students would be quite interested in the history of the Ryukyu Kingdom era.

This location served as the command center for the Shuri royal government, handling diplomacy and trade primarily in Southeast Asia. It can be considered a witness to history. In December 2000, it was registered as Japan's 11th World Heritage Site.

The architectural style and stonework techniques, which showcase a high level of technical skill, are also noteworthy.

If you have time... head to Kokusai Street at night.

After enjoying sightseeing, it's a great idea to head out to Kokusai Street, Okinawa's main entertainment district, at night.
There are plenty of souvenir shops and fun spots to enjoy, including the Kokusai-dori Yatai Village, which opened in June 2015!

The Chubu region is dotted with famous World Heritage sites that are definitely worth seeing. Our suggested itinerary for Chubu is packed with historical sites! We've put together a special itinerary that allows you to visit three sites in just one day.

3-①: Nakagusuku Castle Ruins

Located in the central part of the region, Nakagusuku Castle Ruins is a castle where many remains are preserved as they were in those days.
It is said that this building was constructed by a renowned architect named Gosamaru, and the high level of skill evident in the building's construction using three different types of stonework is evident.

It might be interesting to explore the differences in stonework and staircase widths in the castle walls of the first and second baileys where the main hall once stood, as well as in the castle walls of the north, west, and south baileys.

There is also a grave for Gosamaru, so if you find it, please pay your respects.
However, in some areas the stone walls are fragile and access is prohibited. Please observe proper etiquette while visiting.

3-②: Katsuren Castle Ruins

Katsuren Castle Ruins are said to be the oldest castle ruins among the Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
Its most distinctive feature is its varied elevation, and it is famous for being the residence of Amawari, a local lord who prospered through trade at the time.

Admission is free, but there is a charge if you request a guide from the Historical Site Guide Association.
If you'd like to learn more, please give it a try.

Also, there's a system near the entrance where you can access a QR code to experience what the situation was like back then, so be sure to use it.

3-③: Ryukyu Village

Ryukyu Village is a place where you can fully experience Ryukyu culture.
The building recreates timeless traditions, giving you the feeling of having traveled back in time.

Another attraction is the opportunity to experience various crafts and learn to play the sanshin (Okinawan stringed instrument).
This is also a great place for lunch. They offer a wide variety of dishes, from reasonably priced options like taco rice and Okinawa soba to traditional Ryukyu cuisine, so you're sure to find something that will impress your taste buds.

3-④: Zakimi Castle Ruins

Zakimi Castle Ruins (Zakimigusuku) is a castle built by Gosamaru, whom we introduced earlier when discussing Nakagusuku Castle.
Standing on a small hill just over 120 meters above sea level, it is said to be one of the finest examples of fortresses from the Sengoku period (Warring States period).

It is said that many people visit this castle to take commemorative photos, as it is one of the best-preserved historical sites and the only castle where visitors are allowed to climb the castle walls.

Furthermore, admission is free and there are no set opening hours, so you can enjoy its magnificence to your heart's content.

3-⑤: Mihama American Village

If you have the time, you should definitely visit Mihama American Village.
After visiting historical sites, it might be fun to return to the present and enjoy an American atmosphere.

There are tons of places to have fun, from vintage goods and T-shirts to food and dart bars.
It's not a bad idea to enjoy a beer while reminiscing about your travel memories, is it?

The Motobu and Nago areas are home to many famous spots, including the Churaumi Aquarium, historical sites, and the currently very popular Kouri Island. With minimal travel time between locations, you can really pack in some sightseeing!
So, while keeping in mind the must-see spots, we'll introduce some recommended tourist destinations that are especially enjoyable for large groups.

4-①: Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, a quintessential Okinawan tourist spot, is a popular destination that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, from children to adults.
However, it gets crowded during the day, so it's recommended to visit early.

The "Kuroshio Sea," a highlight of the aquarium where whale sharks and manta rays roam, boasts an impressive 7,500 m³ of water, making it one of the largest in the world. Visitors can also see deep-sea creatures and fish native to the waters off Okinawa.

4-②: OKINAWA Fruit Land

OKINAWA Fruit Land, as its name suggests, is a facility that offers an abundance of fruits from tropical Okinawa.

There are plenty of things to see, including a tropical fruit orchard overflowing with mangoes, pineapples, and other tropical fruit trees you've never seen before, a butterfly garden where great white butterflies flutter about, and a bird zone where you can interact with adorable parakeets.

On the same premises, there's a lunch buffet where you can enjoy vegetables lovingly grown by local farmers, so your meal is definitely on the menu! Immerse yourself in the tropical atmosphere and fully experience the South Pacific.

4-③: Nakijin Castle Ruins

After a satisfying meal, how about a stroll around the ruins of Nakijin Castle, a famous castle in Okinawa?
Excavations have unearthed ceramics and other artifacts, suggesting that trade with Southeast Asia, particularly China, was thriving.

When viewed from the top, the castle's structure boasts a magnificent curve reminiscent of the Great Wall of China. You can admire its robust construction, which stretches for a total length of 1.5 km.
Furthermore, the contrast with the sea stretching out below is absolutely stunning.

4-④: Kouri Island

After a day of sightseeing, take a leisurely drive and enjoy a relaxing trip to a scenic spot.

A 20-minute drive from Nakijin Castle Ruins will take you to Kouri Bridge, which offers panoramic views of the sea and islands.
Enjoy the journey to the island while gazing at the exceptionally clear blue sea on both sides.

If you want to take your time and enjoy the view, you can also relax and enjoy a smoothie at "Chura Terrace," located just before the bridge on the left.

4-⑤: Amajabal Rural Park

Here's a secret spot where you can see a spectacular sunset.

You can reach Amajabara Rural Park by cycling around Kouri Island, where you'll see a sign for "Amajahubaru Rural Park." The route involves cycling up steep hills and through fields.

Originally the site of a lookout post, if you manage to reach it, a truly spectacular view awaits you.
Just watching the sea and islands bathed in the sunset with your friends will make you feel that the trip was worthwhile.

Final thoughts

What did you think?
Making memories through travel during your student years is actually a very important thing.
Once you become a working adult, it becomes difficult to take long vacations, and if you have a family, it becomes even harder to get together with close friends.
So, we highly recommend creating some wonderful student memories in Okinawa.

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