A 2-night, 3-day trip is the perfect time to enjoy Okinawa fully.
This stay lets you comfortably visit the island’s major tourist attractions.
In this article, we’ll introduce a plan where you spend the first day on Okinawa’s main island and the following two days on Ishigaki Island.
Ishigaki Island is rich in marine activities and natural beauty, and its laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for those seeking to unwind.
Okinawa offers a unique atmosphere compared to mainland Japan, making it a popular beach resort destination.
You can relax and enjoy the laid-back pace while taking part in various water activities and savoring the flavors of tropical cuisine.
Okinawa doesn’t have a railway system, so buses are the most common way to get around when sightseeing.
Given the wide variety of bus tours available, booking one is highly recommended for a convenient and hassle-free vacation.
Major Tourist Spots Frequently Visited on Okinawa Main Island Bus Tours
・Ocean Expo Park, Churaumi Aquarium
Ocean Expo Park, famous for the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, is a national park that offers free admission.
It’s a vast complex with so many diverse facilities that you can easily spend a whole day exploring.
In addition to the Churaumi Aquarium, there are the Okinawa Churaumi Dolphin Stadium, Tropical Dream Center, Planetarium, Okinawa Folk Village, Tropical and Subtropical Urban Greenery Botanical Garden, Emerald Beach, and more, all scattered across a vast expanse of land along the coast.
Given the park’s immense size, walking everywhere can be tiring.
To make your visit more enjoyable, there are electric sightseeing vehicles and lift-equipped sightseeing buses that stop at over ten locations within the park.
・Kouri Island
Kouri Island is famous for its agriculture and fishing, boasting a variety of local products such as sugarcane, pumpkins, sea urchins, and sea grapes.
In addition to diving, the island offers a wide range of water activities including snorkeling, clear kayaking, and even flyboarding, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the ocean.
To reach Kouri Island, you’ll cross a 2km bridge that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the emerald-green sea, making you feel as if you’re flying above the ocean.
・Okinawa World
Okinawa World is a theme park that encapsulates the charm of Okinawa, offering a variety of experiences such as traditional Okinawan performing arts, tropical fruit tasting, and exploring limestone caves.
Gyokusendo Cave, one of the largest limestone caves in Japan, allows visitors to experience a mysterious underground world.
Additionally, the park offers a chance to savor Okinawan cuisine and refreshing fruit juices.
You can also immerse yourself in Okinawan traditions by participating in activities like pottery making and wearing a traditional Ryukyu outfit.
With plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories, why not try your hand at something new?
・Shuri Castle
Shuri Castle is an iconic landmark in Okinawa, attracting numerous tourists eager to witness its beauty.
Built according to the principles of feng shui, it is also regarded as a powerful spiritual site.
The castle hosts various events throughout the year, ensuring a steady stream of visitors.
Suimuikan is a facility dedicated to Shuri Castle, offering exhibits of historical materials and panels.
Visitors can also enjoy Okinawan cuisine at the restaurant or cafe, and purchase souvenirs at the gift shop.
Shureimon is featured on the 2,000 yen bill and is a popular spot for tourists with its majestic appearance.
This gate has served as a welcoming entrance for visitors both in the past and present.
It’s a must-visit spot for anyone touring Shuri Castle, and a perfect photo opportunity.
For a truly memorable shot, try recreating the angle used on the 2,000 yen bill.
It adds depth to the image and creates a beautiful composition.
It is said that in the past, the Ryukyu kings would pray for a safe journey at Sonohyan Utaki Ishigumon before setting out on their travels.
Today, it is revered as a powerful spiritual site. It is believed that praying here for a pleasant trip to Okinawa will bring blessings.
・American Village
This popular resort town offers a unique American atmosphere, allowing visitors to experience a foreign culture while in Okinawa.
Not only can you enjoy shopping and dining, but the colorful streets and neon-lit nightscapes also make it a perfect spot for social media photos. Originally developed on the site of a former US military helipad, the town now boasts nearly 200 specialty stores, restaurants, hotels, and even a movie theater, offering a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
・Peace Memorial Park
The Okinawa Peace Memorial Park is divided into four zones: Peace Zone, Sacred Ground Zone, Peace Ceremony Zone, and Promenade Zone.
The Peace Zone is the most visited area, featuring the “Cornerstone of Peace,” erected in 1995 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the end of the Battle of Okinawa, the Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum showcasing materials related to the battle, and the Okinawa Peace Memorial Hall dedicated to the souls of the war dead and the pursuit of lasting peace.
The “Cornerstone of Peace” is particularly noteworthy as it bears the names of all those who perished in the Battle of Okinawa, regardless of nationality, military affiliation, or civilian status, allowing visitors to feel the “spirit of peace” cultivated within Okinawa’s history and culture.
・Himeyuri Tower
Okinawa was the only prefecture in Japan to experience a ground battle during World War II, resulting in a tragic loss of life as American forces advanced.
Among the many places honoring those who perished, the “Himeyuri Tower” stands as a poignant memorial.
During the war, 222 female students from Okinawa Prefectural First Girls’ High School and Okinawa Prefectural Teachers’ Training School, along with 18 teachers, were mobilized to work at an army field hospital.
Known as the “Himeyuri Student Corps,” these young women dedicated themselves to caring for wounded soldiers.
The “Himeyuri Tower” was erected in their memory.
Located in Itoman City, approximately a 30-minute drive from Naha, the site is divided into two areas: the Himeyuri Tower itself, marked by a stone monument, and the Peace Memorial Museum.
Together, these areas provide a comprehensive look at the historical context of the events and the sacrifices made by the Himeyuri Student Corps.
・Cape Manzamo
It’s a famous spot known for its stunning cobalt-blue ocean views.
Located on a cape made of limestone and vast lawns, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the beautiful sea that seems to be dyed blue.
There is also a cliff shaped like an elephant’s trunk, making it a popular photo spot.
You can even take a stroll wearing a traditional Ryukyu outfit, which will enhance your experience of Okinawa.
There are three recommended ways to enjoy Manzamo: admiring the stunning scenery of the beautiful sea and cliffs, watching the sunset over the East China Sea, and visiting the hidden gem of “Ura Manzamo” to see the unique rock formations and vast ocean.
“Ura Manzamo” is a secluded beach near Manzamo, accessible by taking a small path just before reaching Manzamo.
Unlike the crowded Manzamo, Ura Manzamo offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere where you can relax and enjoy the sea.
・Yanbaru National Park
Yambaru National Park encompasses the northern region of Nago, Okinawa.
It boasts the largest subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forest in Japan, home to a diverse range of rare endemic flora and fauna, including the Okinawa rail, Ryukyu woodpecker, Olonawa needle rat, Okinawa ishikawa frog, and the Yanbal tenaga kogane.
The park features a variety of unique ecosystems such as limestone cliffs, karst topography, and mangrove forests.
Visitors can enjoy various activities, including trekking to scenic spots, canoeing, kayaking, ATV riding, and ziplining, to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Yambaru.
・Nago Pineapple Park
Nago Pineapple Park is a unique theme park dedicated to pineapples, located in Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture.
Okinawa is Japan’s top producer of pineapples, making them a local specialty.
This park is a popular destination for families, couples, and friends, offering a fusion of Okinawa’s rich nature and the history and culture of pineapples.
Given the park’s vast size, visitors primarily use adorable pineapple-shaped carts to get around.
These “Pineapple Cars” are self-driving at a speed of 3 km/h, making them safe for families with young children.
Within the park, visitors can enjoy a variety of facilities designed to engage all five senses, including pineapple fields, a subtropical botanical garden, and a pineapple winery, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the world of pineapples.
Day 1 Recommended Accommodations
・Novotel Okinawa Naha
Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Naha from our city resort perched on a hilltop.
Immerse yourself in our stylish spaces and our outdoor infinity pool, offering a sense of endless possibilities.
Indulge in a culinary journey with our four restaurants and bars, serving a mix of Japanese, Western, and BBQ cuisine.
All rooms are equipped with Simmons beds, Imabari towels, bedside power outlets, and USB ports for a comfortable stay.
ACCESS
Bus: 40 minutes from Futenma Airport Line (Naha Bus) Naha Airport to Novotel Okinawa Naha, then a 1-minute walk.
Yui Rail: 20 minutes from Naha Airport Station to Asato Station, then a 5-minute taxi ride or a 20-minute walk from Asato Station.
・Hotel Resol Trinity Naha
Located within walking distance of Kokusai Street, a popular tourist destination, our hotel offers a convenient and stylish stay.
The entrance and interior are designed with traditional Okinawan materials, creating a serene atmosphere with a gentle breeze and natural light.
With a spacious living lobby integrated into the lobby and a rooftop public bath, you can experience a higher level of comfort and relaxation.
Guests can unwind in our exclusive rooftop bath, offering a relaxing space to rejuvenate after a day of sightseeing.
ACCESS:
Yui Rail: 10 minutes from Naha Airport Station to Asahibashi Station, then 3 minutes walk from Asahibashi Station.
・Rihga Royal Grand Okinawa
Located within walking distance of Kokusai Street, our luxury hotel offers spacious rooms starting from 35 square meters, each equipped with Simmons or Sealy brand beds and a bathroom with a separate shower.
ACCESS:
Yui Rail: 10 minutes from Naha Airport Station to Asahibashi Station, directly connected to Asahibashi Station.
・Loisir Hotel Naha
With 551 rooms, our hotel is the largest in Naha.
Relax and rejuvenate in our spacious guest rooms, complete with indoor and outdoor pools, natural hot springs, and a variety of amenities.
Experience the ultimate comfort and tranquility of a city resort.
ACCESS
10 minutes by taxi from Naha Airport.
Yui Rail: 10 minutes from Naha Airport Station to Asahibashi Station, then 15 minutes walk from Asahibashi Station.
・Hotel Locore Naha
Conveniently located with easy access to transportation, our hotel is just a short walk from the popular Kokusai Street.
Our guest rooms are designed for comfort and equipped with amenities to meet your business needs.
Savor freshly prepared dishes made with local ingredients, including delicious Okinawan cuisine.
ACCESS
Bus: 20 minutes from Naha Airport to the Kokusai-dori entrance or the Prefectural Office North Exit. 1 minute walk.
Yui Rail: 10 minutes from Naha Airport Station to Prefectural Office Station, 2 minutes walk from Prefectural Office Station.
On days 2 and 3, we will travel to Ishigaki Island
We’ll fly from Naha Airport in Okinawa to Ishigaki Airport, a journey of approximately one hour.
There are around 20 flights a day between the two destinations.
To get around Ishigaki, we can use taxis or buses.
The trip from the airport to the city center, where our hotel is located, takes roughly 20-30 minutes by either mode of transport.
Best things to do in Ishigaki Island
We offer pick-up and drop-off services for tours and activities, so you don’t need to worry about renting a car.
・Have fun island hopping
Island hopping refers to a tour where you visit nearby islands by boat.
Centered around Ishigaki Island, there are numerous islands such as Taketomi Island, Kohama Island, and Iriomote Island, allowing for easy access to nearby remote islands, making it a popular tour.
Away from Ishigaki Island, you can enjoy a more relaxed tour with fewer people and experience the crystal-clear sea and beaches.
・A combined SUP/canoe and Blue Cave snorkeling adventure
The Blue Cave is a unique place where the inside of the cave glows an ethereal blue.
Not only can you experience the cave itself, but you can also enjoy snorkeling in the surrounding area.
Ishigaki Island’s ocean is teeming with a variety of coral and tropical fish, making for endless hours of aquatic adventure.
Kawabira Bay, a world-renowned tourist destination and a three-star recipient in the Michelin Green Guide, is one of Ishigaki Island’s most representative scenic spots.
SUP and canoeing in Kawabira Bay, where colorful coral and fish abound, offer a wonderful opportunity to observe marine life from the water.
・Mangrove SUP/Canoe
Ishigaki Island’s biggest river is home to a vast mangrove forest, dominated and protected as a national natural monument.
Paddling through this jungle-like setting on a SUP or canoe is an unforgettable adventure.
The mangrove roots and trunks create a calm environment by slowing down the river’s current.
This tour is perfect for first-time paddlers.
・Landing on a fantastic island ＆ snorkeling
About 11 kilometers from Ishigaki Island, there’s a crescent-shaped uninhabited island.
Made entirely of white sand, this mysterious island appears and disappears with the tides.
Especially on sunny days, the breathtaking beauty of this phantom island has made it a popular spot for commercials and photoshoots.
Surrounding the island, you’ll find Ishigaki Reef, Japan’s largest coral reef.
Swim alongside countless fish and colorful coral!
・Starry Sky and Jungle Night Tour
Ishigaki Island boasts a naturally occurring planetarium, certified as a Starlight Reserve.
Due to minimal light pollution, visitors can observe 84 constellations, numerous shooting stars, and even the Southern Cross.
The lush jungles of Ishigaki Island, a subtropical paradise, are home to various unique nocturnal animals.
Day 2 Recommended accommodations
・Grandvrio Resort Ishigakijima
Located on the southwestern coast of Ishigaki Island, our luxurious resort hotel offers stunning ocean views.
Enjoy complimentary access to our outdoor and indoor pools, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Choose from a variety of accommodations, including ocean-view family rooms and terrace rooms.
After a day of fun in the sun, relax in our spacious public bath with outdoor hot springs and enjoy a complimentary ice cream.
Savor delicious local cuisine and Ishigaki cow teppanyaki buffet at our on-site restaurants.
A free airport shuttle is available.
Access
30-minute ride free shuttle bus from Ishigaki Airport.
・Art Hotel Ishigakijima
Located on a hilltop in Ishigaki Island, our urban resort offers easy access to the city center and port.
Enjoy a complimentary shuttle bus to Fusaki Beach.
Refresh with our large public bath with ultra-soft water and a delicious breakfast with local ingredients.
Our tour desk can assist you with planning your sightseeing.
The top-floor rooms offer breathtaking panoramic views of Ishigaki City, the ocean, and the Yaeyama Islands.
Access
No shuttle bus. 25-minute taxi ride from Ishigaki Airport.
Alternatively, take a 30-minute bus to Ishigaki Port Terminal and a 10-minute taxi ride.
・ANA Intercontinental Ishigaki Resort
A luxurious resort where you can spread your wings.
Located on Maesato Beach, one of Ishigaki’s most beautiful beaches, the resort boasts spacious accommodations that blend island aesthetics with luxury.
Enjoy a variety of activities such as ocean athletics for the whole family, snorkeling, and stargazing yoga.
With nine restaurants and bars serving a diverse range of cuisine, including bistros and teppanyaki, you’ll never tire of dining.
Access
No shuttle bus. 20-minute taxi ride from Ishigaki Airport.
Alternatively, take a 30-minute bus to Ishigaki Port Terminal and a 10-minute taxi ride.
・Comfort Hotel Ishigakijima
Located just a 5-minute walk from Maesato Beach, our hotel offers a convenient location.
Enjoy a comfortable stay with Simmons beds, custom-designed pillows, individual air conditioning, HDMI-enabled TVs, and other modern amenities.
Savor the flavors of Okinawa with our delicious cuisine.
Access
No shuttle service.
20-minute bus ride from Ishigaki Airport to Yaeyama Joint Government Building, then a 10-minute walk.
・Hotel East China Sea
Our hotel boasts oceanfront rooms with stunning views of Ishigaki Port.
Conveniently located within a 3-minute walk from the ferry terminal, downtown area, bus terminal, and convenience stores. Our rooms feature clean white interiors and a variety of options, from budget-friendly junior twin rooms to spacious standard twin rooms for up to four guests, and even superior twin rooms on the top floor.
For families, we offer 8-tatami Japanese-style rooms and barrier-free rooms.
Enjoy our popular breakfast buffet featuring a wide selection of local ingredients.
Additional amenities include rental bicycles and a coin laundry.
Access
No shuttle service.
30-minute bus ride from Ishigaki Airport to Ishigaki Port Terminal, then a 3-minute walk.
Transportation options and travel times to major cities
Okinawa (Naha Airport) to Tokyo
3-hour flight to Narita Airport
2.5-hour flight to Haneda Airport
Okinawa (Naha Airport) to Osaka
2-hour flight to Itami Airport
2 -hour flight to Kansai International Airport
While there are direct flights from Ishigaki Island, the frequency is limited.
In such cases, it might be better to fly via Naha Airport.
Okinawa (Ishigaki Airport) to Tokyo
3.5-hour flight to Narita Airport, 2 daily departures
3 hours 10 minutes to Haneda Airport, 4-5 daily departures
Okinawa (Ishigaki Airport) to Osaka
2.5-hour flight to Kansai International Airport, 5 daily departures