Okinawa: Japan's hidden paradise

In Japan, ancient traditions sit comfortably alongside modern ingenuity, fusing harmoniously in what we have come to know as the quintessential trademark of this glorious country. But, despite its well known, ancient cultural heritage and renowned modern exploits, a step outside the bustle of urban Japan reveals the sheer splendour and diversity of its natural world, showcased to perfection in a little-known group of subtropical islands, lying approximately 400 miles south of the rest of the country. 

In the islands of Okinawa, we discover one of the least celebrated gems of Japan, and indeed the Pacific. In a world of its own, the archipelago is as diverse as it is plentiful, stretching from a main island in the north – featuring its cosmopolitan city namesake – to Yaeyama in the south, a paradise of pristine waters and exotic marine life. But it's not all raw natural beauty. Alongside golden sands, clear coral-filled seas and secluded coves, a rich cultural heritage beats right through the heart of Okinawa, and a closer look at its diverse islands reveals ancient secrets, from its castle ruins and heritage sites, to the unique charms of modern Okinawa City. Below, we dissect the islands and reveal why Okinawa is the perfect compliment to your visit to Japan.

Okinawa Main Island

The Okinawa Main Island is the largest and most populated of its many beautiful islands. Stretching more than 100 kilometres from top to toe, it's perfect for those who seek a bit of everything. In fact, it can reasonably be split into three sections – the north, the centre and the south. With dramatic karst landscapes, thick forests and traditional villages, the north offers untouched nature and authentic culture. Outdoor activities and nature excursions into the forests are a highlight here, as is the pristine Yambaru National Park. Its small towns and villages make for a relaxed getaway at a leisurely pace.

As you travel south towards the centre of the Main Island, you can enjoy everything from lively beaches, traditional crafts, and scenic drives. If you're after a lively entertainment scene, Chatan and Koza (in Okinawa City) are the main hubs of the area, with the former offering popular beaches, shopping and oceanfront dining, while the latter is an altogether livelier scene with plentiful bars and live music.

By contrast, the south of the Main Island is home to ancient Ryukyuan heritage, WWII battle sites, natural limestone caves and Okinawa’s capital city, Naha. Undoubtably the cultural beating heart of the islands, Naha graciously acts as a gateway to the rest of Okinawa. However, not to be outdone, it does hold its own unique charm. Do be sure to try its mouth-watering local cuisine, shopping on the famous Kokusai Street and its notable nightlife. As the political and cultural center of the Ryukyu Kingdom, Shurijo Castle Park is also a must-visit for any trip to Okinawa.

Kume Island

Surrounded by coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, Kume Island is a jewel of white sand beaches, mountains and pristine streams. Along with its natural beauty, it is also home to four pre-17th-century castles, built during the time of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Today the ruins offer an insight into the ancient trading connections between the kingdom and China. But, the truth is, Kume is all about the sea. Visits here mean endless opportunities to swim with sea turtles, dive with manta rays and discover the colourful marine life of its protected shores. It is also famous for kuruma ebi, a variety of Japanese tiger prawns – notable for being among the most succulent and sweet – which can be enjoyed at restaurants across the island. Life on this island gem is unhurried and relaxed, giving you the perfect opportunity to connect with the local culture. You can watch local artisans weave traditional hand-made silk called Kumejima tsumugi or visit Kume's unique awamori distilleries, trying beverages exclusive to the island.

Kerama Islands

The Kerama Island chain is an idyllic place for a holiday, especially if you like nothing more than hitting the beach, appreciating fascinating marine life, whale watching, snorkeling and diving. With four inhabited islands (Tokashiki, Zamami, Aka, and Geruma) and many uninhabited ones which surround them, Kerama is home to Keramashoto National Park. If you're looking for paradise, you've certainly come to the right place. The reef-filled waters around the islands are renowned for their transparency and house a myriad of corals as well as marine animals, with the likes of sea turtles, tropical fish and shy crustaceans circling around the bright reefs. Aka island is a particular favourite for diving. If you visit during the winter, you'll even have the chance to spot migratory humpback whales. You'll also be spoilt for choice when it comes to white sandy beaches, each offering immaculate swimming opportunities, gorgeous sunsets and tranquil waters. What's more, due to its close proximity to Naha on the Main Island, it's also a perfectly viable day trip.

Miyako Islands

Possibly Okinawa's premier resort destination, the Miyako islands are a mostly inhabited chain surrounding the main and larger Miyako. The subtropical beaches here rival any resort in the world – unspoiled, fringed by shimmering blue waters and a haven for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts. Indeed, Miyako's seven-kilometre-long Yonaha Maehama is among the longest of the island’s beaches, and among Japan's finest. Water sports are also very popular here, everything from glass-bottomed boat trips and parasailing can be arranged, as well as more low-key kayaking and SUP excursions. For something altogether off-the-beaten-track, head on a short boat trip to Ogami, a sacred and mysterious islet home to a number of spiritual sites and known as the "island of the Gods". But don't leave hungry, try the local specialty of smoked octopus (known as kakidako) at the islands only restaurant. Also not to be overlooked is the small Shimoji Island, known for its underwater caves. If you're feeling adventurous, cave-diving is possible here.

Yaeyama Islands

For nature, diversity and unforgettable outdoor experiences, head to the remote and isolated Yaeyama Islands. As one of its largest and most populated, Ishigaki acts as a gateway to the rest of these wonderfully unexplored and delightfully rural islands. In fact, many are sparsely populated (if not uninhabited) and offer a true escape from the bustling cities and busy urban metropolis' of Japan. Luxurious beach resorts are mostly found on Ishigaki, whilst more authentic and quaint village scenery can be seen on Taketomi, easily accessible from Ishigaki. Whichever you pick, it is impossible to ignore the pristine shores of its captivating beaches. But there is also variety to be had here. Eco-excursions take you through untouched mangrove forests on Iriomote, and diving with hammerhead sharks off Yonaguni is a memory worth keeping forever.

When to visit Okinawa

With its subtropical climate, the good news is that Okinawa stays warm throughout the year. The islands do experience a brief winter from December to February, but the long hot and humid summers begin in April and run through into September, with temperatures hovering around the low-thirties. The summer sun can be pretty intense, though the sea breeze certainly helps. The best time to visit the islands are during the spring and autumn (roughly from March to early May and late September to December), though if you wish to visit for the iconic cherry blossom, a trip between mid-January and mid-February will give you the best chance. Be wary of the rainy season which lasts from early May to early June, while typhoons can be troublesome in July and August, and occasionally into October.