Top 23 Tourist Attractions in Naha

Explore the Best of Naha: A Guide to Naha’s Top 23 Tourist Attractions

Naha, the vibrant capital city of Okinawa Prefecture in Japan, is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and modern attractions. As the heart of the Ryukyu Kingdom, Naha boasts a rich history that is reflected in its ancient castles, traditional crafts, and lively festivals. This city is also a gateway to the stunning Okinawan islands, making it a perfect blend of urban excitement and natural splendor. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, tourist attractions in Naha offer something for everyone.

Tourists flock to Naha for its unique blend of traditional and contemporary experiences. The city’s well-preserved historic sites, such as Shurijo Castle and the Shikinaen Garden, provide a glimpse into Okinawa’s royal past. Meanwhile, the bustling Kokusai Street is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from local crafts to international brands. Naha’s vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality make it an irresistible destination for travelers from around the world.

Planning a trip to Naha involves more than just picking the best tourist spots. It’s about understanding the local culture, knowing the best times to visit, and making the most out of your stay. In this guide, we will explore the top 23 tourist places in Naha, providing detailed information to help you plan an unforgettable trip.

1. Shuri Castle

Shuri Castle is an iconic symbol of Okinawa’s history and culture, serving as the palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom for centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers stunning architecture, beautifully restored gates, and detailed exhibits about the kingdom’s history.

• Trip Plan: Spend 2-3 hours exploring the castle grounds and museum.
• Trip Budget: Entry fee is around $7.50 for adults.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
• Best Things to Do: Guided tours, photography, historical exhibits.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Monorail, bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Shikinaen Garden, Tamaudun Mausoleum.
• Best Foods to Eat: Sata Andagi (Okinawan donuts) nearby.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels in the Shintoshin area.
• Travel Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

2. Kokusai Street

Photo Credit: 663highland / Wikipedia

Kokusai Street is the main shopping street in Naha, known for its vibrant atmosphere, eclectic mix of shops, and wide variety of restaurants. It is a bustling hub where you can find everything from traditional Okinawan crafts to international brands.

• Trip Plan: Allocate half a day for shopping and dining.
• Trip Budget: Varies depending on shopping and dining preferences.
• Best Time to Visit: Evening for a lively atmosphere.
• Best Things to Do: Shopping, dining, people-watching.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Monorail, bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Makishi Public Market, Heiwa Dori shopping arcade.
• Best Foods to Eat: Rafute (Okinawan braised pork belly), Goya Champuru.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels along Kokusai Street.
• Travel Tips: Bargain at local shops for the best deals.

3. Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum

Photo Credit: 663highland / Wikipedia

The Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum showcases the unique cultural and artistic heritage of Okinawa. The museum features exhibits on natural history, local crafts, and modern art, providing a comprehensive overview of Okinawan culture.

• Trip Plan: Spend 2-3 hours exploring the exhibits.
• Trip Budget: The entry fee is around $5.
• Best Time to Visit: Anytime during the day.
• Best Things to Do: Explore exhibits, and attend special events.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Monorail, bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Shintoshin Park, DFS Galleria Okinawa.
• Best Foods to Eat: Traditional Okinawan cuisine at nearby restaurants.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels in the Shintoshin area.
• Travel Tips: Check the museum’s schedule for special exhibitions.

4. Shikinaen Garden

Photo Credit: 663highland / Wikipedia

Shikinaen Garden is a beautifully landscaped garden that was once a royal residence. The garden features traditional Okinawan architecture, scenic ponds, and lush greenery, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

• Trip Plan: Spend 1-2 hours walking through the garden.
• Trip Budget: The entry fee is around $3.50 for adults.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for the best scenery.
• Best Things to Do: Stroll through the garden, photography.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Shurijo Castle, Okinawa World.
• Best Foods to Eat: Bento boxes for a picnic in the garden.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels near Shurijo Castle.
• Travel Tips: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat on sunny days.

5. Tsuboya Pottery District

Photo Credit: tzejen / Flickr

The Tsuboya Pottery District is the heart of Okinawa’s traditional pottery industry. This historic area is filled with charming pottery shops and studios where you can watch artisans at work and purchase unique handcrafted ceramics.

• Trip Plan: Allocate 2-3 hours for exploring and shopping.
• Trip Budget: Varies depending on purchases.
• Best Time to Visit: Morning to early afternoon.
• Best Things to Do: Pottery shopping, visiting studios, pottery workshops.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Monorail, bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Kokusai Street, Tsuboya Pottery Museum.
• Best Foods to Eat: Okinawan soba at nearby eateries.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels in the Makishi area.
• Travel Tips: Many shops offer shipping services for large items.

6. Fukushuen Garden

Photo Credit: LordAmeth / Wikipedia

Fukushuen Garden is a Chinese-style garden built to commemorate the sister city relationship between Naha and Fuzhou, China. The garden features beautiful landscaping, traditional Chinese architecture, and tranquil water features.

• Trip Plan: Spend 1-2 hours exploring the garden.
• Trip Budget: The entry fee is around $1.50 for adults.
• Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for a serene atmosphere.
• Best Things to Do: Photography, relaxing walks.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Naminoue Shrine, Naha City Museum of History.
• Best Foods to Eat: Chinese cuisine in nearby restaurants.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels in the Kumoji area.
• Travel Tips: Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds.

7. Naminoue Shrine

Photo Credit: 663highland / Wikipedia

Naminoue Shrine is a Shinto shrine perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere. It is one of the most important spiritual sites in Okinawa, with a history dating back to the Ryukyu Kingdom.

• Trip Plan: Spend 2-3 hours exploring the museum’s exhibits, creating your own Cup Noodles, and learning about the invention and evolution of instant noodles.
• Trip Budget: Entry is about $5, with additional costs for participating in the noodle-making workshop.
• Best Time to Visit: Any day except Tuesdays when the museum is closed. Weekdays are less crowded.
• Best Things to Do: Create your unique Cup Noodles package, visit the Instant Noodles History Cube, and try noodle dishes from around the world in the museum’s cafe.
• Nearest Airports: Tokyo Haneda Airport, approximately 30 minutes by public transport.
• Transports to Use: A short walk from Minatomirai Station on the Minato Mirai Line.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Situated in the Minato Mirai area, close to Yokohama Landmark Tower and Cosmo World.
• Best Foods to Eat: Sample various noodle dishes at the museum’s cafe and create your own Cup Noodles flavor.
• Best Places to Stay: Opt for hotels in Minato Mirai for proximity to the museum and other attractions.
• Travel Tips: Book the noodle-making workshop in advance online to secure your spot.

8. Makishi Public Market

Makishi Public Market, known as “Naha’s Kitchen,” is a bustling market where you can find a variety of fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Okinawan delicacies. It is a great place to experience the local food culture.

• Trip Plan: Spend 1-2 hours exploring and shopping.
• Trip Budget: Varies depending on purchases.
• Best Time to Visit: Morning to early afternoon.
• Best Things to Do: Seafood shopping, tasting local dishes.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Monorail, bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Kokusai Street, Tsuboya Pottery District.
• Best Foods to Eat: Fresh sashimi, Okinawan sweets.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels in the Makishi area.
• Travel Tips: Try negotiating for the best prices on seafood.

9. Tamaudun Mausoleum

Tamaudun Mausoleum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that serves as the royal tomb of the Ryukyu Kingdom. The mausoleum’s impressive stone structures and tranquil surroundings make it a significant historical and cultural site.

• Trip Plan: Spend 1-2 hours visiting the mausoleum.
• Trip Budget: The entry fee is around $2.50 for adults.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning for fewer crowds.
• Best Things to Do: Exploring the tombs, and learning about Ryukyu history.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Shurijo Castle, Shikinaen Garden.
• Best Foods to Eat: Local delicacies at nearby restaurants.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels near Shurijo Castle.
• Travel Tips: Be respectful of the site as it is a place of rest.

10. Naha City Museum of History

The Naha City Museum of History offers a detailed look into the rich history of Naha and the Ryukyu Kingdom. The museum features artifacts, documents, and exhibits that chronicle the cultural heritage of the region.

• Trip Plan: Spend 1-2 hours exploring the museum.
• Trip Budget: The entry fee is around $3 for adults.
• Best Time to Visit: Anytime during the day.
• Best Things to Do: Viewing exhibits, and attending special events.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Monorail, bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Fukushuen Garden, Kokusai Street.
• Best Foods to Eat: Traditional Okinawan cuisine at nearby restaurants.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels in the Kumoji area.
• Travel Tips: Check the museum’s schedule for special exhibitions.

11. Tsuboya Pottery Museum

Photo Credit: 663highland / Wikipedia

The Tsuboya Pottery Museum is dedicated to the history and art of Okinawan pottery. It showcases a wide range of pottery pieces and provides insight into the techniques and traditions of this ancient craft.

• Trip Plan: Spend 1-2 hours exploring the museum.
• Trip Budget: The entry fee is around $2.50 for adults.
• Best Time to Visit: Morning to early afternoon.
• Best Things to Do: Viewing exhibits, and attending pottery workshops.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Monorail, bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Tsuboya Pottery District, Kokusai Street.
• Best Foods to Eat: Okinawan sweets at nearby cafes.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels in the Makishi area.
• Travel Tips: Visit the museum before exploring the pottery district.

12. Heiwa Dori Shopping Arcade

Heiwa Dori Shopping Arcade is a lively shopping area adjacent to Kokusai Street, filled with small shops selling souvenirs, clothes, and local products. It offers a unique shopping experience with a distinctly Okinawan vibe.

• Trip Plan: Allocate 1-2 hours for shopping.
• Trip Budget: Varies depending on purchases.
• Best Time to Visit: Afternoon to evening.
• Best Things to Do: Shopping, trying local snacks.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Monorail, bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Makishi Public Market, Kokusai Street.
• Best Foods to Eat: Local street food from market stalls.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels in the Kokusai Street area.
• Travel Tips: Bring cash as some shops may not accept cards.

13. Yachimun Street

Photo Credit: Hajime NAKANO / Wikipedia

Yachimun Street is known for its pottery shops and studios, where visitors can find beautiful handcrafted ceramics. It is an ideal place to shop for unique souvenirs and gifts.

• Trip Plan: Spend 1-2 hours exploring and shopping.
• Trip Budget: Varies depending on purchases.
• Best Time to Visit: Morning to early afternoon.
• Best Things to Do: Pottery shopping, visiting studios.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Monorail, bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Tsuboya Pottery District, Kokusai Street.
• Best Foods to Eat: Okinawan soba at nearby eateries.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels in the Makishi area.
• Travel Tips: Many shops offer shipping services for large items.

14. Sakaemachi Arcade

Photo Credit: Nissy-KITAQ / Wikipedia

Sakaemachi Arcade is a retro-style shopping arcade that offers a glimpse into the post-war period of Okinawa. The arcade is filled with local shops, bars, and eateries, providing a unique and nostalgic shopping experience.

• Trip Plan: Allocate 1-2 hours for exploring.
• Trip Budget: Varies depending on purchases.
• Best Time to Visit: Evening for a lively atmosphere.
• Best Things to Do: Shopping, trying local food.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Monorail, bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Kokusai Street, Makishi Public Market.
• Best Foods to Eat: Local bar food, Okinawan dishes.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels in the Kumoji area.
• Travel Tips: Enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere and try some local drinks.

15. Peace Memorial Park

Photo Credit: Neil Dalphin / Wikipedia

Peace Memorial Park is a poignant site dedicated to the memory of those who lost their lives during the Battle of Okinawa in World War II. The park features memorials, a museum, and serene walking paths.

• Trip Plan: Spend 2-3 hours visiting the park and museum.
• Trip Budget: Free entry, museum fee is around $5.
• Best Time to Visit: Morning to avoid the heat.
• Best Things to Do: Visiting memorials, and learning about history.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Himeyuri Peace Museum, Okinawa World.
• Best Foods to Eat: Local snacks from nearby stalls.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels near the park.
• Travel Tips: Bring water and wear comfortable shoes for walking.

16. Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters

Photo Credit: 663highland / Wikipedia

The Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters is a historic site that offers a sobering glimpse into Okinawa’s role in World War II. Visitors can explore the underground tunnels and rooms used by the Japanese Navy.

• Trip Plan: Spend 1-2 hours exploring the site.
• Trip Budget: The entry fee is around $3.50 for adults.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon.
• Best Things to Do: Guided tours, exploring the tunnels.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Peace Memorial Park, Himeyuri Peace Museum.
• Best Foods to Eat: Local delicacies at nearby restaurants.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels in the Tomigusuku area.
• Travel Tips: Be prepared for a somber experience.

17. Kinjo Dam

Photo Credit: Ray go / Wikipedia

Kinjo Dam is a picturesque reservoir surrounded by lush greenery, offering a peaceful escape from the city. It is a great spot for walking, picnicking, and enjoying nature.

• Trip Plan: Spend 1-2 hours visiting the dam.
• Trip Budget: Free entry.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for the best weather.
• Best Things to Do: Walking, photography, picnicking.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Shurijo Castle, Shikinaen Garden.
• Best Foods to Eat: Picnic lunch by the dam.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels in the Shintoshin area.
• Travel Tips: Bring a picnic and enjoy the serene surroundings.

18. Okinawa Cellular Stadium

Okinawa Cellular Stadium is a modern sports stadium that hosts baseball games, concerts, and other events. It is home to the Okinawa team of the Japanese Baseball League.

• Trip Plan: Spend 2-3 hours attending an event.
• Trip Budget: Varies depending on event tickets.
• Best Time to Visit: During event days.
• Best Things to Do: Watching games, attending concerts.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Onoyama Park, Naha Beach.
• Best Foods to Eat: Stadium snacks, and local food from nearby stalls.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels in the Onoyama area.
• Travel Tips: Check the schedule for events and buy tickets in advance.

19. Naminoue Beach

Naminoue Beach is a popular spot for relaxing and enjoying the sun. The beach offers clean sand, clear waters, and various water sports activities.

• Trip Plan: Spend 2-3 hours enjoying the beach.
• Trip Budget: Free entry.
• Best Time to Visit: Summer for the best beach weather.
• Best Things to Do: Swimming, sunbathing, water sports.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Naminoue Shrine, Fukushuen Garden.
• Best Foods to Eat: Beachside snacks, local seafood.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels in the Naminoue area.
• Travel Tips: Bring sunscreen and beach essentials.

20. Onoyama Park

Onoyama Park is a large public park featuring sports facilities, walking paths, and beautiful gardens. It is a great place for outdoor activities and family outings.

• Trip Plan: Spend 2-3 hours exploring the park.
• Trip Budget: Free entry.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather.
• Best Things to Do: Walking, sports, picnicking.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Okinawa Cellular Stadium, Naha Beach.
• Best Foods to Eat: Picnic lunch in the park.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels in the Onoyama area.
• Travel Tips: Bring sports equipment and enjoy the facilities.

21. Tomari Port

Tomari Port is the main ferry terminal in Naha, offering services to the surrounding Okinawan islands. The port area features shops, restaurants, and a bustling atmosphere.

• Trip Plan: Spend 1-2 hours exploring the port area.
• Trip Budget: Varies depending on ferry destinations.
• Best Time to Visit: Morning for ferry departures.
• Best Things to Do: Shopping, dining, ferry trips.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Kokusai Street, Naha Beach.
• Best Foods to Eat: Fresh seafood at port restaurants.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels near the port.
• Travel Tips: Check ferry schedules in advance.

22. DFS Galleria Okinawa

Photo Credit: Yuichi Sakuraba / Flickr

DFS Galleria Okinawa is a luxury duty-free shopping mall that offers a wide range of high-end brands and exclusive items. It is a popular destination for luxury shopping and finding unique products.

• Trip Plan: Allocate 2-3 hours for shopping.
• Trip Budget: Varies depending on purchases.
• Best Time to Visit: Anytime during the day.
• Best Things to Do: Luxury shopping, dining.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Monorail, bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Shintoshin Park, Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum.
• Best Foods to Eat: Fine dining at the mall’s restaurants.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels in the Shintoshin area.
• Travel Tips: Bring your passport for duty-free shopping.

23. Palette Kumoji

Photo Credit: 663highland / Wikipedia

Palette Kumoji is a large shopping complex in the heart of Naha, featuring a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. It is a great place for shopping and enjoying local cuisine

• Trip Plan: Allocate 2-3 hours for shopping and dining.
• Trip Budget: Varies depending on purchases.
• Best Time to Visit: Afternoon to evening.
• Best Things to Do: Shopping, dining, entertainment.
• Nearest Airports: Naha Airport.
• Transports to Use: Monorail, bus, taxi.
• Near Tourist Attractions in Naha: Kokusai Street, Naha City Museum of History.
• Best Foods to Eat: Local and international cuisine at the food court.
• Best Places to Stay: Hotels in the Kumoji area.
• Travel Tips: Check for sales and special events.

Conclusion: The Essence of Naha’s Top Attractions

Naha, Okinawa’s vibrant capital, is a destination that beautifully marries the old with the new. Its historical sites like Shurijo Castle and the Tamaudun Mausoleum offer a glimpse into the island’s regal past, while bustling spots like Kokusai Street and Heiwa Dori Shopping Arcade showcase the dynamic present. Each of the top 40 tourist attractions in Naha provides a unique experience, making the city a melting pot of culture, history, and modernity. Whether you’re strolling through the serene Shikinaen Garden or exploring the artistic Tsuboya Pottery District, Naha never fails to captivate its visitors.

Planning your trip to Naha involves more than just ticking off places on a list; it’s about immersing yourself in the local culture and savoring every moment. From enjoying the tranquil beauty of Fukushuen Garden to experiencing the lively atmosphere of Makishi Public Market, every corner of Naha has something special to offer. The city’s diverse culinary scene, ranging from traditional Okinawan dishes to international cuisines, adds to the richness of your travel experience. Each meal is an opportunity to taste the island’s unique flavors, making your culinary journey as memorable as the sights you visit.

Ultimately, Naha’s charm lies in its ability to offer something for every type of traveler. Adventure seekers can indulge in water sports at Manza Beach, history enthusiasts can delve into the past at the Okinawa Prefectural Museum, and those seeking relaxation can find peace in the picturesque parks and gardens. The friendly locals and the city’s welcoming atmosphere ensure that every visitor feels at home. As you plan your visit to Naha, remember that the best experiences come from exploring both the well-known landmarks and the hidden gems. Enjoy your journey through this remarkable city, where history, culture, and modernity seamlessly intertwine.