Discover Okinawa

Arrive in Naha, the relaxed coastal capital of Okinawa, set along the shores of the East China Sea. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Today, explore the cultural and historical highlights of Naha, beginning with a visit to Shuri Castle, the former palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom that once ruled Okinawa before its incorporation into Japan. Although the main structures were damaged by fire in 2019 and remain under reconstruction, portions of the site are open to visitors and continue to offer insight into the kingdom’s distinctive history and architecture.

Nearby, visit the royal mausoleums and stroll along ancient stone-paved pathways lined with traditional Okinawan homes. You may also stop at Sairai-in, a peaceful temple known for its striking red torii gates.

Continue into downtown Naha to explore Kokusai Street, the city’s lively main boulevard filled with shops, cafés, bars, and local boutiques. Nearby, visit Makishi Public Market, where vendors sell fresh seafood, regional produce, and Okinawan specialties, offering an authentic glimpse into the island’s culinary culture.

Today, explore the natural highlights of northern Okinawa, beginning at Cape Hedo, the island’s northernmost point, where dramatic cliffs and sweeping ocean views overlook the East China Sea and Pacific Ocean.

Continue to Daisekirinzan, a sacred subtropical landscape of unusual limestone rock formations and forested trails. Revered in Okinawan mythology as the landing place of Amamikyo, the deity associated with the creation of the Ryukyu Islands, the area combines natural beauty with spiritual significance.

Further exploration of Yambaru National Park reveals Okinawa’s lush northern wilderness, home to mangrove forests, subtropical flora, and scenic walking trails leading to tranquil waterfalls.

Conclude the day at picturesque Kouri Island, known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and distinctive heart-shaped rock formations that have earned it the nickname “Love Island.”

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight from Naha to Ishigaki Island. Upon arrival, continue by short ferry ride to the tranquil island of Taketomi, known for its preserved Ryukyu traditions, white-sand roads, and laid-back island atmosphere.

Check in to your resort, an elegant retreat of private villas inspired by traditional Okinawan architecture. Surrounded by clear turquoise waters and coral reefs, the island is home to vibrant marine life including tropical fish, sea turtles, and manta rays.

This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure to explore the island at a relaxed pace. A leisurely bicycle ride offers an ideal way to discover Taketomi’s narrow lanes, traditional Ryukyu homes with red-tiled roofs, and sacred sites marked by low stone walls. You may also wish to visit the island’s weaving center to learn about the local textile traditions that remain an important part of Taketomi’s cultural heritage.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before setting out to experience the natural beauty of Taketomi aboard a traditional sabani, a wooden Okinawan sailing boat once used by local fishermen and traders. Cruising across the island’s clear waters offers a peaceful introduction to the maritime heritage of the Yaeyama Islands.

Lunch may be enjoyed at the hotel, featuring refined Okinawan-inspired cuisine, or at a local island café for a more casual atmosphere. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to relax and enjoy the island at your own pace.

This evening, an optional Hot Pool Stargazing Experience offers the chance to unwind beneath the night sky while taking in the peaceful surroundings of the island after dark.

Travel by ferry to Iriomote Island, Japan’s second-largest island and one of the country’s most untouched natural landscapes, much of which is covered by dense subtropical jungle and protected national parkland.

Upon arrival, embark on a guided canoe excursion through the island’s extensive mangrove forests, gliding along peaceful waterways and narrow mangrove tunnels while observing the unique ecosystem of the tidal mud flats. Continue with a scenic hike through the jungle to a secluded waterfall, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.

After your exploration of Iriomote’s wild landscapes, return to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

This morning, enjoy a traditional water buffalo cart ride through the peaceful village lanes of Taketomi Island. Traveling at a relaxed pace aboard a locally guided cart, pass by well-preserved Ryukyu homes, stone walls, and white-sand streets while experiencing the island’s quiet charm and enduring cultural traditions.

Afterward, transfer by ferry to Ishigaki Island to connect with your flight to Miyakojima. Upon arrival, meet your private transfer and continue to your resort for check-in.

Enjoy a day at leisure on the tranquil island of Miyakojima, known for its crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and relaxed subtropical atmosphere. Take time to unwind and enjoy the resort’s refined facilities, private beach access, and peaceful coastal setting.

Enjoy another day at leisure to relax and take in the peaceful atmosphere of Miyakojima at your own pace.

Optionally, embark on a private catamaran experience to explore the island’s spectacular marine environment. Cruise across Miyakojima’s renowned turquoise waters while enjoying opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing on deck surrounded by panoramic ocean views. The island’s coral reefs are home to colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and diverse marine life unique to the waters of Okinawa.

Following your time on the water, enjoy a gourmet onboard barbecue featuring fresh local ingredients, complemented by personalized butler service and tailored food and beverage offerings for a relaxed and exclusive day at sea.

Enjoy a final relaxed morning at leisure, taking time to savor the peaceful atmosphere of Miyakojima before your journey onward. When it is time, transfer privately to the airport for your departing flight and onward journey.