Naha Highlights
Naha’s Makishi district is a lively place in general, but the energy picks up even more at its public market. The pulse of the city beats strong here and the Okinawan past moves to the foreground. All kinds of intriguing local foods are on...
Originally erected in the late 14th century, Shuri Castle served as the residence of the Ryukyu kings right up until 1879. Destroyed and rebuilt many times over the centuries—most recently in 1992—it is now a designated UNESCO World...
These two neighboring museums, which opened simultaneously in 2007, deal with Okinawan culture and tradition in different ways. The Prefectural Museum covers folklore, arts and crafts and natural history via a range of displays including...
These peaceful gardens were created in the late 18th century around a graceful wooden palace, the second home and the entertainment venue for Okinawa’s royal family at that time. The palace and gardens were restored after World War II...
The main Shinto shrine in Naha, Naminoue Shrine (the name means "above the waves") enjoys a picturesque location overlooking the sea and Naminoue Beach. Originally constructed for the Ryukyuan religion, the shrine was dedicated to Nirai Kanai, the...
Tasty food and a casual, upbeat atmosphere have made this steak house one of the city’s most popular dining locations. The classic retro interior features diner booths and a menu that’s heavy on American-style steaks and burgers, pork...
This compact and slightly hard-to-find traditional restaurant is worth the effort it takes to track it down. Hidden inside Makishi Public Market, and with only a couple of tables (plus some seats at the counter), it’s renowned for its...
Sakaemachi Arcade is a bustling, slightly run-down market area that’s big on character and offers insights into the city’s past. Easily accessed by monorail (take it to the Asato station), the arcade has many shops, including fruit and...
Kokusai Dori (International Street) is one of the buzziest areas to explore in the city. Some 1.6 kilometers (one mile) long, it’s lined with myriad retail and commercial outlets, from cafés and restaurants to bars, shops and offices....
