One of the most fascinating Okinawa sightseeing experiences is Shurijo Castle, which dates back to the 14th century. A symbol of the island's unique cultural heritage, this Unesco World Heritage Site was the political and cultural heart of the Ryukyu Kingdom. While ruined during the Battle of Okinawa in 1945, and again by a fire in 2019, ongoing restoration work has enabled visitors to appreciate its mix of Chinese and Japanese architectural influences, tranquil gardens and sweeping views of Naha.

Known for its nourishing ingredients and bold flavours, Okinawan cuisine is credited as the secret to residents’ longevity. In fact, the islands are home to more centenarians than anywhere else. Visit a local market to sample staple ingredients like beni imo (purple sweet potatoes), goya (bitter melon) and umibudo (caviar-esque sea grapes). If you have more time, join a cooking class where you’ll learn to make popular dishes like goya champuru (stir-fried bitter melon) or Okinawa soba.

Every Okinawa holiday requires at least a day or two at the beach. You’ll find inviting stretches of coastline all over the main island, but many travellers prefer a day trip to Zamami Island for its powdery-soft sand, vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. To snorkel or dive, check out Ama and Furuzamami beaches, where you can rent equipment and dive in. Back on dry land, follow the island’s undulating trails to discover panoramic views of the turquoise seascape.

Those wondering where to go in Okinawa for the perfect souvenir will love Yachimun-no-Sato pottery village, a local arts and crafts hub with at least 70 ceramics workshops. Traditional local earthenware – characterised by its red clay and rustic glazing style – is the speciality, but you’ll also discover tiny tea houses and charming homes peppered in between the studios and shops.

Located in the heart of Naha, Tomari Iyumachi is Okinawa’s premier fish market. Every day, locals and tourists flock here to buy freshly caught seafood, ranging from tuna, octopus, and sea snails to tropical fish unique to the surrounding waters. Whether you’re indulging in on-the-spot sashimi or a budget-friendly sushi bento box for breakfast, the market offers an enjoyable peek into local life.

Opened in 1994, Sakima Art Museum aims to share a message of peace by exploring Okinawa’s history through the lens of acclaimed Japanese artists. Among the most arresting pieces on display, look for the “Battle of Okinawa” – a permanent, 8.5-metre-long painting created by the late married couple Iri and Toshi Maruki. In addition to moving artwork, the museum also showcases a unique style of architecture – a little bit Roman, a little brutalist – designed by Okinawan talent Yoshikazu Makishi.

A Unesco World Heritage Site, Sefa Utaki was once one of the most significant spiritual locations in the Ryukyu Kingdom. Today, it remains a place of profound importance to Okinawans. Home to natural rock formations, walking trails and breathtaking ocean views, this densely forested area offers an intimate communion with nature and a glimpse into Okinawa's ancient cultural traditions.

At the whimsical Nago Pineapple Park, celebrate one of the island’s most abundant tropical fruits with an immersive journey across fields, gardens and small factories where you can see how producers grow, cut, peel and can their products. After exploring the grounds, you’ll have a chance to taste fresh and dried pineapple, alongside locally produced pineapple wines, chocolates, cakes and more.

Ask a local where to go in Okinawa to experience the island’s incredible biodiversity, and they’ll likely point you toward Yanbaru National Park. The dense evergreen subtropical forest is home to several endemic species, including the Okinawa rail – a small flightless bird that’s become an unofficial mascot for the island. Explore the park on foot by hiking to one of its secluded waterfalls or rent a canoe to check out the dense mangrove forests.

The islands have been heavily influenced by American culture, resulting in surprising dishes like taco rice (a hybrid of Japanese rice and Tex-Mex toppings) or onigiri (Japanese rice balls) with spam, plus quirky destinations like Mihama American Village. Designed to cater to US soldiers and their families, the entertainment complex is now a top Okinawa attraction thanks to its array of shops, restaurants, bars, movie theatres and bowling alleys.