What is Okinawa Known For?

Located in the southernmost region of Japan, this island chain blends vibrant traditions, coral-rich waters and a subtropical climate that feels more like Hawaii than Tokyo. Whether you're diving into clear blue seas or exploring ancient castles, Okinawa offers a side of Japan that's both laid-back and culturally rich.

Here are 10 things Okinawa is known for that make it a destination unlike any other in the country.

1. Beautiful Beaches

Okinawa is famous for its stunning beaches with powdery white sand and turquoise water. Places like Emerald Beach in Ocean Expo Park and Nishihama Beach on Hateruma Island are perfect for swimming, snorkeling and relaxing. The beaches here are among the most beautiful in Asia and feel worlds away from Japan’s bustling cities.

2. Ryukyu Culture & Heritage

Okinawa was once the independent Ryukyu Kingdom. That legacy still lives on through its music, dance, language and festivals. Traditional Eisa dancing, played to the rhythm of taiko drums, is a colorful celebration of Okinawan identity, especially during the annual Obon season.

3. Shurijo Castle

Once the royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom, Shurijo Castle in Naha is one of Okinawa’s most iconic landmarks. Although it was destroyed in a 2019 fire, reconstruction efforts are underway, and the site remains a symbol of Okinawan resilience and cultural pride.

4. Okinawan Cuisine

Okinawan food is a major part of the island's identity. Dishes like goya champuru (stir-fried bitter melon), Okinawa soba (thick wheat noodles in pork broth) and taco rice (a fusion dish of Tex-Mex and Japanese flavors) reflect the island's diverse influences and hearty local ingredients.

5. World War II History

Okinawa was the site of one of the bloodiest battles of World War II, and the island is home to several important memorials and museums. The Peace Memorial Park and the Okinawa Prefectural Museum offer sobering insights into the island's wartime past and ongoing message of peace.

6. Coral Reefs & Marine Life

Okinawa is known for its vibrant coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity, making it a top destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. The Kerama Islands and Miyako Island offer some of Japan’s clearest waters, teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles and intricate coral formations.

7. Longevity & Health

Okinawa has one of the highest concentrations of centenarians in the world. The local lifestyle — centered on a plant-based diet, physical activity and strong social bonds — has made the island a focal point for longevity research and wellness tourism.

8. Traditional Crafts

From hand-dyed bingata textiles to Okinawan pottery (yachimun), the island is known for its traditional arts. Visitors can shop for colorful fabrics, handcrafted ceramics and Ryukyuan glassware that reflect the island’s artistic heritage.

9. Warm Hospitality

Okinawans are well-known for their friendly and welcoming spirit, often referred to as “yuimaru,” meaning mutual aid and community cooperation. This cultural mindset makes visitors feel like part of the island’s rhythm — not just tourists passing through.

10. Island-Hopping Adventures

Okinawa isn’t just one island — it’s an archipelago of over 150 islands. From the remote beaches of Ishigaki to the star-shaped sand of Taketomi, each island offers a unique flavor of Okinawa’s nature, culture and tranquility.

What Is Okinawa Known For?

Okinawa is known for its white-sand beaches, rich Ryukyuan heritage, healthy cuisine, coral reefs and World War II memorials. This tropical corner of Japan offers a completely different cultural and natural experience from the country’s mainland.