Okinawa is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. There are plenty of attractions to explore, both indoors and outdoors, offering fun and excitement for every visitor.
Here are five must-visit tourist attractions in Okinawa in 2025. You won’t regret visiting them!
1. Shurijo Castle Park
Located in Naha City, Okinawa, Shurijo Castle (Shurijo Park) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and preserves many cultural relics from the Ryukyu Kingdom era.
Within the Shurijo Castle Park grounds, you’ll find parts of the castle that were damaged by fire, as well as other historical buildings such as Engaku-ji Temple.
In addition to its historic buildings, the area also offers many restaurants serving Okinawan specialties and Shurinohana (a souvenir shop with local crafts). It’s a great place to relax while shopping for Okinawan cultural goods!
Location Info:
- Name: Shurijo Castle Park
- Address: 1-2 Shurikinjo-cho, Naha, Okinawa 903-0815, Japan
- Opening Hours:
- April–June & October–November: 08:30–19:00
- July–September: 08:30–20:00
- December–March: 08:30–18:00
2. Naminoue Shrine
Also located in Naha City, Naminoue Shrine is a culturally rich shrine that has long been a place of worship for the sea gods of Okinawa.
Believed to have been built during the Muromachi period (around the late 14th century), this shrine was originally established to pray for safe voyages and to give thanks for sailors’ safe return.
Unlike typical Japanese shrines that are guarded by Komainu statues, Naminoue Shrine is protected by Shisa lion statues, which may feel very familiar to some visitors!
Location Info:
- Name: Naminoue Shrine
- Address: 1-25-11 Wakasa, Naha, Okinawa 900-0031, Japan
Read:
Half-Day Travel Itinerary Recommendation in Kiyosumi Shirakawa
3. Sefa Utaki
Sefa Utaki is one of the most sacred sites of the Ryukyu Kingdom and a key center of religious culture in the Kyushu region.
The word “Utaki” refers to sacred places scattered throughout the southwestern islands of Kyushu. This site was once used for the coronation ceremonies of female priests (noro) in Ryukyuan tradition.
Recognized as the highest sacred site in Ryukyuan mythology, Sefa Utaki features six spiritual areas. Visitors can experience deep cultural and spiritual ambiance while exploring the site’s rich history and heritage.
Location Info:
- Name: Sefa Utaki
- Address: Kudeken-270-1, Chinen, Nanjo, Okinawa 901-1511, Japan
- Opening Hours:
- March–October: 09:00–18:00 (Last admission: 17:30)
- November–February: 09:00–17:30 (Last admission: 17:00)
- March–October: 09:00–18:00 (Last admission: 17:30)
4. Gyokusendo Cave
Located within Okinawa World, Gyokusendo Cave is a limestone cave formed over approximately 300,000 years and has been designated a natural monument by the Japanese government.
Stretching over 5,000 meters with more than a million stalactites, it is one of the largest caves in Japan.
Visitors can witness stunning rock formations and emerald-blue underground springs while experiencing the natural beauty shaped over thousands of years.
Location Info:
- Name: Gyokusendo Cave
- Address: 1336 Maekawa, Tamagusuku, Nanjo, Okinawa 901-0616, Japan
- Opening Hours: 09:00–17:30 (Last admission: 16:00)
5. Yachimun no Sato
Yachimun no Sato is a large pottery village where ceramic artisans work together.
The village features numerous climbing kilns and a total of 19 pottery studios, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a craftsman’s village in an animated film.
In 1972, the late Jiro Kinjo—a Japanese Living National Treasure—moved his kiln from Tsuboya in Naha City to this area.
Since then, the village has grown into a unique craft hub where visitors can enjoy and purchase a wide variety of beautiful ceramic artworks.
Location Info:
- Name: Yachimun no Sato
- Address: 2653-1 Zakimi, Yomitan, Nakagami, Okinawa 904-0301, Japan
- Opening Hours: Vary by individual studios
These are the five must-visit tourist attractions in Okinawa for 2025. Don’t miss the chance to explore these fun and fascinating spots across the region!
