Naha Okinawa And The Southwest Islands, Japan Travel Guide
Naha Airport is Okinawa's main airport, conveniently located southwest of the city center. It simplifies transfers to accommodations. The airport has a Domestic Terminal and an International Terminal, connected by a covered walkway.
ANA and JAL are main full-service domestic carriers. Budget airlines like Skymark, Peach, and Jetstar Japan also operate. Regional carriers connect Naha to smaller Okinawan islands. Direct international flights mainly connect Naha to East Asian cities.
Summer Holidays, Golden Week, New Year. Expect higher demand and increased prices. Booking 3-6 months in advance is suggested for better rates.
Spring/Autumn. Prices are generally more reasonable. Weather is also pleasant, offering a good balance for travel.
Winter, Rainy Season. You find the lowest prices. Weather may not be ideal for all activities, especially beach-focused ones.
Several convenient methods transport you from Naha Airport to the city or your accommodation.
Okinawa Island does not have an inter-city train network like mainland Japan. The only rail system is the Naha Monorail (Yui Rail), which functions as local public transport within Naha city. For travel outside Naha, buses or rental cars are the modes of choice.
Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Okinawa Island beyond Naha city. Japan drives on the left side of the road, similar to the UK and Australia. Roads are generally well-maintained and clearly signposted, often with English translations.
The main ferry terminal for connections to the nearby Kerama Islands (Tokashiki, Zamami, Akajima) and Kume Island. High-speed ferries are popular for day trips.
Handles longer-distance ferries connecting Naha to mainland Japan (Kagoshima, Tokyo) and more distant islands like Ishigaki and Miyako.
Naha is a popular port of call for international cruise lines, with a dedicated cruise terminal at Naha Port.
Japan has an international tourist tax, sometimes called the "Sayonara Tax," of ¥1,000 per person, applied to individuals departing by air or sea. This tax is typically included in your ticket price, so you will not pay it separately at the airport or port.
Naha Airport has several facilities for departing travelers, including duty-free shops (in the International Terminal), various restaurants and cafes, and souvenir shops for last-minute gifts. Luggage delivery services are also available.
Booking online in advance is suggested, especially during peak seasons. At the rental counter, present your International Driving Permit (IDP) and valid domestic driver's license.
Several reputable companies operate at Naha Airport, offering a range of vehicles.
Japan drives on the left side of the road. Roads are generally well-maintained and clearly signposted, often with English translations.
For international cruise arrivals, immigration and customs procedures occur at the cruise terminal. For domestic ferries (travel between Japanese islands), no immigration checks are necessary.
River transportation is not applicable in Naha. The city lacks significant navigable rivers used for passenger transport.
For longer distances within Okinawa Island, rely on buses or rental cars, as there is no inter-city train network.
Consider renting a car for maximum flexibility in exploring the island beyond Naha city. Remember to secure your International Driving Permit beforehand.
