Okinawa in April, need helpcf
#1
Original Poster
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 44
Likes: 0
Okinawa in April, need helpcf
i will be going to Okinawa in April after having seen the main sites for 3previos weeks. I will fly to Okinawa but need some help. I can’t drive on the left so what is the best way to get around? What are your favorite sites and things to do? I don’t just want to go to a resort. I like to hike, beach comb, wander around towns, meet locals and enjoy he cuisine. I would appreciate any suggestions you might have.
#2
Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 374
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Actually Okinawa is one of the ideal places to rent a car. But if you are not ready for driving on the left, then don't. Getting into some traffic accident or having a white knuckle ride is no way to enjoy a trip. So you have to use the alternatives - bus, taxi, or join a tour.
As for what to see, as always, it is up to your interests. Have you seen the Okinawa Official travel & tourism page? There is also info on Japan Guide's Okinawa page. The next question is how many days you want to travel there, and how many islands. Most people fly to the main island and see Naha. Getting around there is not any major issue. Going around the main island though takes more buses, and they are not the most convenient. If there are 3-4 of you, a taxi becomes a more economical and convenient way to travel. If you want to see other islands too, they are generally smaller and less crowded. You can also fly around cheaply and easily on the Okinawa Island Pass.
When I went to Okinawa, some of the places I loved the best were Shuri Castle, the Churaumi Aquarium (one of, if not THE best in Japan), the Shinkinaen Garden, and Nago Pineapple Park (the pineapple wine was really good). The war memorials also made a big impression. A few places on my bucket list I certainly will get to someday is the Gyokusendo Cave and on Ishigaki, the Ishigaki island limestone cavern.
You also don't say where you are flying from, but there are some dirt cheap airfares on low cost carriers like Jet Star and Peach.
As for what to see, as always, it is up to your interests. Have you seen the Okinawa Official travel & tourism page? There is also info on Japan Guide's Okinawa page. The next question is how many days you want to travel there, and how many islands. Most people fly to the main island and see Naha. Getting around there is not any major issue. Going around the main island though takes more buses, and they are not the most convenient. If there are 3-4 of you, a taxi becomes a more economical and convenient way to travel. If you want to see other islands too, they are generally smaller and less crowded. You can also fly around cheaply and easily on the Okinawa Island Pass.
When I went to Okinawa, some of the places I loved the best were Shuri Castle, the Churaumi Aquarium (one of, if not THE best in Japan), the Shinkinaen Garden, and Nago Pineapple Park (the pineapple wine was really good). The war memorials also made a big impression. A few places on my bucket list I certainly will get to someday is the Gyokusendo Cave and on Ishigaki, the Ishigaki island limestone cavern.
You also don't say where you are flying from, but there are some dirt cheap airfares on low cost carriers like Jet Star and Peach.
#3
Original Poster
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 44
Likes: 0
Thank you so much. I will be flying in from Hiroshima. I’ll be there 6 days and am traveling solo. I had not yet thought about other islands, but will do some more research. Would mopeds or small motor bikes be available to rent? I think I could do that. I appreciate your thoughtful response.
#4
Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 374
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If flying from HIroshima, then you might look at ANA's Experience Japan Fare. As for renting a motorbike, yes you can, as well as helmet, gloves, and so on. Such as from here. But I recommend you read their info on insurance, FAQ etc.




