In the south of Japan, there is an island where you can enjoy a paradise. The white sandy beaches and the grandiose ocean is the alluring charm of Okinawa. Okinawa is made out of 160 islands of which 49 is uninhabited. It is a place with a fusion of different cultural backgrounds which has impacted the local culture from cuisine, clothing, and language.
You will have a various pick of activities by the ocean such as scuba diving, snorkeling, whale watching.
The amalgamation of culture in Okinawa
As you visit Okinawa, you may notice that Okinawa has culture of its own differing from mainland Japan. Okinawa has fostered its own culture throughout their history.
Okinawa was once an independent nation belonging to the Ryukyu Kingdom. This region has had influence from not only mainland Japan, but also it has strong influences from China, South East Asia, since the proximity, and recently the United States. Since the invasion by the Shogunate (Japanese military of the Edo Period) in 1609, it became a part of Japan. More recently, after the World War 2, Okinawa was under the rule of the US. After 6 years, Okinawa was returned to Japan in 1951. These factors have transformed the culture of Okinawa into its unique one.
It is popular amongst both tourists from within Japan and from abroad. In 2017 alone, the tourist number surpassed 9.3 million. Okinawa’s beach, aquarium, shopping complex, nature, and food should be on your to-do list when visiting.
The endless expanse of Yonahamae Beach
The "Yonahamahehama beach" is one of the most cherished beaches in Japan, with the reputation of it being the most beautiful beach. The white sandy beach stretches along the shoreline for over 7km (4.3 miles). The clear water of "Yonahamehama beach" gently glistens as the sun rays hit the water. The white sand of the beach is very fine and expands into the horizon. This juxtaposes with the clear water of the ocean, creating an aesthetic contrast. This is a spot that can be enjoyed by anyone; your family, your romantic partner, or just by yourself.
This beach is located on "Miyakojima-Island". It takes approximately 45 minutes from Naha airport to Miyako airport by an airplane. Additionally, it will take 15 minutes by car to get to the beach. Although, there is some distance from the main island, this is a scenery is absolutely breath-taking. It is something that can only be seen in movies, a place that cannot be imagined unless you actually can see it with you own eyes.
Address: Shimo-Chiyo-Naha 1199, Miyako-jima, Okinawa Prefecture,
The starry beaches of Taketomi Island
Taketomi Island is a small individual island with a 9km (or 5.6 miles) diameter. The history of Okinawa is preserved as you will be able to see the buildings and overall ambience as if you are taking a step back into history.
One of the most popular beaches here is the or the "Kondoi beach". The gentle waves and the expansive shoal makes it the perfect spot for sunbathing. This beach as well, has a white sandy beach which formed from pulverized coral reefs. The almost transparent, emerald green water is a perfect spot to appreciate if you are a beach lover.
The "Sunanohama beach" or "Kaiji Beach" is another spot that you should definitely visit. This beach is 800m away from The "Kondoi beach". This is where you can find the star shaped sand. It can only be found by the coral reefs of the western Pacific Ocean. Therefore, it cannot even in Hawaii, a unique characteristic of only a few beaches in Okinawa. It is advised not to swim at this beach because of the strong waves. However, spend your day sunbathing and admiring the scenery.
There are other activities and tours available on Taketomi Island. It is a great way to spend the day.
Find the breathtaking beach in the main city of Naha
If you do not have much time to travel and prefer to stay in Naha city, there is a perfect beach for you. Just 10 minutes away by car from Naha airport is "Naminohama beach" or "Naminoue beach". This beach is the one and only beach in Naha city. You may be surprised to see that there is a highway in front of the beach, but this is part of the scenery which makes it more interesting.
Although it is an artificial beach, the view is spectacular; you will be able to enjoy a variety of activities for example sunbathing, swimming, and diving. This is a family friendly beach since the waves are weak, so take your kids here to play or plan a whole family getaway with your parents. This beach is popular amongst the locals as well as international tourist. So, if when you hop off you flight from Naha, make sure to stop by!
Naminoue Beach:
1-25-11 Wakasa, Naha, Okinawa Prefecture 900-0037
Tempted by the scenic horizon of Hateruma Island
In the most southern point of Japan is Hateruma Island. Here, you can enjoy a southern utopia by the beachside during the day, while you can also enjoy the dazzling southern cross at night. Sugar cane plantations expand along the island, and you can also see the traditional architecture of this island.
It is located 15km away from the mainland of "Ishigaki Island", it can be accessed by ferry. For more information to get to Hateruma, please check the URL:
http://aneikankou.co.jp/files/manager/pdf/e_tp.pdf?201804160827
There are two prominent beaches in Hateruma Island, "Nishi Beach" and "Pemuchi Beach". "Nishi beach" is a quiet beach where you can swim and sunbathe. The waves are tranquil; therefore, you can enjoy the clear azure waters swimming, or just by lying along the beach sunkissed by the rays of sun. Pemuchi beach is the most southern beach in Japan. The waves are strong here, so you will not be able to swim. Come here to enjoy the picturesque beach and enjoy the sunset.
Nishi Beach:
Hateruma, Taketomi, Yaeyama District, Okinawa Prefecture
Pemuchi Beach:
Pemuchi Beach, Hateruma-jima Taketomi-cho
