Local GuideLOCAL GUIDE/OKINAWA

Okinawa is often referred to as "Japan's Hawaii" and it is easy to see why with its sandy beaches, tropical climate and laid back life-style. However there is much more to Okinawa than first meets the eye due to its unique culture, natural beauty and long history. Hotel Monterey Okinawa Spa and Resort is located on the main island, although Okinawa itself is made up of hundreds of smaller islands, roughly 50 of which are inhabited. Several islands are accessible by boat for a day trip from Naha Port.

The subtropical climate ensures that Okinawa is home to a wide variety of fruits and plants, while the consistently high temperatures mean that tourists flock there all year round. Most come to unwind on the sandy beaches, soaking up the sun and enjoying the atmosphere of a tropical resort, while those into marine sports are also exceptionally well accommodated, with an infinite number of dive spots, traditional activities such as wind surfing and snorkeling, as well as more recent inventions such as "flyboarding" or "jetpacking".

Of course the beaches and accompanying activities are the main draw, but Okinawa also has a rich culture, steeped in tradition. This local "Ryukyu" culture survives well to this day, and visitors can enjoy various arts and crafts, theatre, music, sports, cuisine and festivals unique to the region.

Food

Okinawan cuisine has enjoyed a growing reputation thanks to the purported health benefits, as testified to by average life expectancy of local inhabitants. Indeed the locals have a saying, "nuchi gusui", which can be translated as "food is medicine". Dining at a local restaurant, customers will often be serenaded by a shamisen (3 string guitar) player.

Goya Chanpuru - a popular stir fry dish containing goya, a bitter local vegetable that adds a unique flavor to the other ingredients, commonly egg, tofu and thin strips of pork. Sometimes spam is added, as it is popular in Okinawa following the basing of US troops in the region.
Taco Rice - a fusion dish, originally created by locals for the American military personal, consisting of a bowl of rice topped with Tex Mex style ground beef, lettuce, tomato and shredded cheese. Hugely popular with locals and tourists alike.
Okinawa Soba Noodles - different from the buckwheat noodles found on mainland Japan, this dish is usually served hot in a broth with simmered pork belly and seaweed.
Umi-budo - literally meaning "sea grapes" this edible Caulerpa seaweed is usually eaten as a light appetizer or accompaniment to beer.
Awamori - a local liquor made from long grain rice, it is distilled (unlike sake which is fermented) and usually drunk mixed with ice and water. This fiery liquor compliments the local food extremely well.

Attractions and Local Specialties

If you fancy a break from the beach, then Okinawa has plenty to offer, from modern attractions to traditional heritage sites.

Churaumi Aquarium. Regarded as one of the finest aquariums in Japan, and possibly the world, it is renowned for its huge tank displaying enormous whale sharks and manta rays. Visitors can enjoy observing a huge variety of marine life as well as shows and special events.
Shuri Castle. The partially restored castle was once the heart of the ancient Ryukyu Kingdom's administrative affairs. Originally built in the 14th century, the castle was destroyed several times, most recently near the end of World War Two, however, several parts have been authentically restored allowing visitors a glimpse into the past.
Kokusai Dori. The main high street in Naha City, visitors can enjoy market stalls, shopping, and a rich variety of nightlife.
Hiji Waterfall. A scenic spot located in the northern part of the island, and accessed by a pleasant hiking trail that takes between 30 to 45 mins through the forest. (Note that there are lots of stairs along the way)

Events & Activities

The local Ryukyu culture continues to thrive to this day, ensuring visitors have the chance to experience some traditional Okinawa events and performances.

The All-Okinawa Eisa Festival. Eisa is a traditional dance using drums, and this festival sees participants gather from all over Okinawa making for a spectacular sight. The event is usually held in September.
The Naha Dragon Boat Race. Held at the start of May during the Golden Week holidays, this is a traditional boat race not to be missed.
Ocean Expo Park Summer Festival. Fireworks and more at the Ocean Expo Park - event is held in mid- July.
The Naha Great Tug of War Festival. The world's biggest tug-of-war event! Join over 15,000 other participants in pulling the 200m long rope! The event is usually held in October.

ATTRACTIONS

Ocean Expo Park · Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Based on the theme of 'Encounters with Okinawa’s Sea', the aquarium is one of the worlds largest. It features all manner of marine life, from small creatures that live on coral reefs to huge ones from the deepest depths of the ocean. Thanks to touch pools, tropical fish tanks, and tanks featuring giant whale sharks and manta rays, you can feel the power of the mysterious deep ocean, almost as if you were scuba-diving in the Okinawa sea. A giant acrylic glass panel allows visitors to see some of the world's best marine life first-hand, and the aquarium has also seen the world's first manta ray birth in a fish tank.[About 60 minutes by car from Hotel Monterey Okinawa Spa & Resort]
Cape Maeda / Blue Cave

Facing out over the azure blue waters of the west coast, Cape Maeda is a renowned scuba diving and snorkeling spot. Here you can find the Blue Cave, which attracts divers of all levels thanks to its magical blue waters within. During February to April, it is also possible to observe whales from the observation point as they migrate on a journey northward.[About 15 minutes by car from Hotel Monterey Okinawa Spa & Resort]
Ryukyu Village

A small cultural theme park that conveys the traditional way of life of the Ryukyu people of Okinawa. Featuring buildings that are 200 years old, this is a re-created village of traditional buildings that have been specially relocated here to give a sense of how people used to live. Visitors can take part in hands-on craft experiences such as bingata painting, using indigo dyes, making pottery and textiles, and so on. There are also plenty of shows to enjoy such as eisa taiko drumming, traditional dances, and an Okinawa style parade, ensuring visitors can become familiar with many aspects of traditional Okinawa culture.[About 10 minutes by car from Hotel Monterey Okinawa Spa & Resort]
Cape Manzamo

Cape Manzamo is a scenic cliff-top beauty spot, located northwest of Onna village office. From here visitors can enjoy splendid views of the mountain ranges of the northern peninsula, as well as the magnificent Mount Gusuku, and Mount Onna, the symbol of Onna village. There is a rich variety of vegetation growing on the grassy cliff-tops, including many plants designated as prefectural natural treasures due to their academic importance as plants in the limestone plant family. These include varieties such as Hanako Mikanboku (Phyllanthus leptoclados), Okinawa Violets, and Okinawa Matsuba Peonies.[About 25 minutes by car from Hotel Monterey Okinawa Spa & Resort]
Bios Hill

A forest and nature park that acts as a natural botanical garden, featuring a huge collection of wild orchids. Huge ferns grow in the woods, wild birds and insects gather by the waterside, and undisturbed rows of wild orchids and lush swathes of sub-tropical vegetation surround the paths. Visitors can enjoy strolling around the walkways or take a 25-minute 'jungle cruise' riverboat ride. The boat-ride allows you to see even more of the rich nature of the park, such as lakeside plants, insects, and flowers.[About 15 minutes by car from Hotel Monterey Okinawa Spa & Resort]