Naha feels more Hawaiian than Japanese. This laidback capital of Okinawa prefecture has a character all its own. Here are our tips on where to stay and eat, and what to see in the city.
What to see
Shurijo Castle
This castle was the seat of the Ryukyu Kingdom, which was a major maritime power for almost 500 years. Reflecting the unique role of the Ryukyus, the castle features a blend of Japanese and Chinese influences. It’s now one of nine World Heritage sites in Okinawa, fully restored to its red-lacquered glory after almost being destroyed during World War II. 1 Chome-2 Shurikinjocho, oki-park.jp/shurijo/en/
Churaumi Aquarium
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Located on a peaceful peninsula about an hour’s drive from the city, this aquarium showcases the aquatic life found in the Ryukyu archipelago. A highlight is the Kuroshio Sea tank, where a pair of whale sharks is part of a program aimed at breeding the fish successfully in captivity. 424 Ishikawa, Motobu-cho, churaumi.okinawa/en
What to do
Taste of Okinawa Cooking Experience
Okinawans are among the longest-lived people on Earth. Learn more about their diet at the Taste of Okinawa Cooking Experience, a hands-on class that begins at the Naha Public Market and ends with a bowl of soba. tasteof.okinawa
Where to eat
Bacar
Drawn by the sunshine and surf, Japanese hipsters flock to Okinawa for a cosmopolitan life by the sea. A popular hangout is Bacar (above), a busy pizzeria where the Tokyo-trained chef turns out excellent incarnations of Margherita and marinara pizze. Sit at the outdoor tables on summer nights when Negronis fuel conversations into the late hours. 3-16-15 Kumoji, +81 98 863 5678
Pizza at Bacar
Sushi Izumi
A charming husband-and-wife team attentively serve Edo-style sushi to nine diners at a time using local bounty, including bigeye tuna, buttery clams and steamed tiger prawns. There’s no English spoken and there’s no menu, either; you’ll be happy to take your chances on the catch of the day served alongside traditional favourites such as Japanese horse mackerel and sun-dried tilefish. 2 Chome-1-10 Tomari, +81 98 860 7565
Shuri Soba
There’s always a line around the block for what’s widely regarded as the best Okinawa soba in town. On the Japanese mainland, soba refers to buckwheat noodles; here, the noodles are made entirely from wheat, and at Shuri, they take seven hours to prepare. Toppings include a thick slice of stewed pork belly, white kamaboko (steamed seasoned fish paste) and shredded ginger. 1 Chome-7, +81 98 884 0556
How to get there
Naha is a short flight from Tokyo, Seoul, Taipei and Hong Kong, all with direct flights from Australian cities. Okinawa is a destination on 2019 cruise itineraries by lines including Holland America Line, Ponant, Crystal Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line.
