New Year's in Okinawa: How Are Celebrations Different Than in Mainland Japan?
Here are a few things you can experience at the start of the New Year on the beautiful Ryukyu islands, which differ from mainland O-shogatsu.
December 30, 2018
Okinawa is officially part of the Kyushu area, but it deserves a section of its own. It is the southernmost prefecture of Japan, and is known for having a unique culture and history. The area is famous for its beautiful coral reefs, and scuba diving is a popular activity.

Here are a few things you can experience at the start of the New Year on the beautiful Ryukyu islands, which differ from mainland O-shogatsu.
December 30, 2018
Anyone who comes here with kids quickly realizes that Okinawa is pretty much one big playground. Parks, parks, everywhere! And they are HUGE! I'm talking ropeways, slides with vertical drops, trampolines, jungle gyms to climb up and through, ziplines, rock climbing, and the list goes on and on. And all completely free and open to the public!
November 27, 2018
Welcome to the Great Tug-of-War, the highlight event of the Naha Matsuri, the biggest annual festival in Okinawa, Japan, which offers three days of fun activities and cultural events.
July 14, 2018
Yagaji Beach Camp has everything you need for a comfortable stay on the beach – a gorgeous waterfront view, hot showers, clean toilets, ample space, and total peace and quiet. All you need to do is bring your own tent, and you're good to go.
July 7, 2018
With its semi-tropical climate, warm surrounding ocean and extensive, rare and protected coral reefs, Ishigaki is probably the best location for snorkelling in the whole of Japan. Indeed, many would argue there is little else to do there, but the year-round warmth and relaxed pace the island offers makes it equally ideal for those simply seeking respite from the hubbub of city living.
June 30, 2018
This one-day itinerary relies on the monorail, starts from the furthest point, and ends in the heart of downtown, so that after a long day of sightseeing, you can kick back, watch the sunset at the beach, and maybe even take a dip before going out to enjoy some nightlife.
CultureFood & DrinkTravel TipsOkinawa
March 26, 2018
Thanks to Okinawa's southern location and warm climate, it enjoys the country's earliest hanami season, usually starting by the end of January and going into the first two weeks of February.
January 12, 2018
If you love the season, but don't like the cold, the Ryukyu Islands invite to a mild but non-the-less eventful Christmas. Here are five things to do on Okinawa-honto this December.
December 8, 2017
The fortress was built in a style unique to the island known as Gusuku, incorporating Chinese design with local characteristics and materials. These Gusuku were built across the island between the end of the 12th century and the beginning of the 14th, in response to both internal island conflict and threats from across the seas.
October 23, 2017
The Peace Memorial Park Itoman is a must visit when you come to this beautiful island and it will not disappoint.
September 23, 2017
Kawaii is a measure of cute, and Nago Pineapple Park has it in spades.
July 28, 2017
Kakazu is such a famous historic battle ground, that regularly tour groups visit and explore the area. The extremely steep hills of the area were defended by the Japanese troops during the war.
July 8, 2017
My life here in Okinawa has improved so much since. Every Saturday I join their free conversational Japanese class that is held at the local Oki-koku-dai College.
June 16, 2017
And when it is time to leave, you realize that you didn't really have time to relax or took advantage of the hotel pool.
June 10, 2017
Here, the legend claims, a goddess, in some versions she is called an angel, came down from the heavens to bathe. She took off her celestial robe, (hagoromo) and...
May 16, 2017
I had the privilege to live in Okinawa for some time and I hope to share my love for this beautiful island through this list!
CultureFood & DrinkNatureShoppingSightseeingOkinawa
April 1, 2017
I couldn't believe it was possible. Not just that I already live on a Japanese tropical island, but going to an even more secluded spot in paradise.
February 21, 2017
Let’s visit a cat cafe. I adore cats, so this was a great find!
January 20, 2017
Kagami Mochi – Let's welcome the Japanese New Year with traditional rice cake
Kagami Mochi – Let's welcome the Japanese New Year with traditional rice cake
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