Hello! I'm Hina from the Holiday Travel editorial team! ✨
I went to Okinawa for the first time on a private trip and I'd love to share all the wonderful experiences with you.
Late September in Okinawa - Still Summer in Full Swing!
I visited in late September, and the temperature was still over 30 degrees Celsius! I was able to swim in the ocean and fully enjoy the summer vibes. According to locals, you can swim in Okinawa's ocean until around early October. It's amazing that you can still enjoy the sea even in autumn - that's one of Okinawa's unique charms!
I had heard that Okinawa's weather is changeable and sudden rain is common, but I was lucky - all days were sunny! It was so comfortable and perfect for sightseeing.
Moved by Okinawa's Natural Beauty
Since it was my first time in Okinawa, I was truly amazed by the beautiful nature, especially the ocean. The way time flows slowly there was absolutely wonderful. It felt like a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing me to relax completely.
The Overwhelming Whale Sharks at Churaumi Aquarium
This is THE must-visit tourist spot in Okinawa! The impact of the whale sharks exceeded my imagination - their sheer size made me gasp out loud in surprise. Even on a weekday, there were quite a few visitors, showing just how popular this place is!
Enjoying Okinawan Cuisine to the Fullest
Hamaya - A Famous Long-Established Okinawa Soba Shop
I visited Hamaya, a famous long-established Okinawa soba restaurant. The soup was light and very easy to eat - absolutely delicious! ☺️ I ordered the small size, and it was just the right amount!
A&W - The Iconic Okinawan Burger Chain
I also went to A&W, the burger chain synonymous with Okinawa. Many menu items had cheese, which I thought might be heavy, but it was so delicious that I finished it in no time. They have locations in various areas, making it easy to stop by wherever you are.
More Okinawan Delicacies!
I devoured so much Okinawan cuisine including goya chanpuru (bitter melon stir-fry), island rakkyo (shallots), and Agu pork shabu-shabu. Everything was delicious and absolutely amazing!
In Closing
My first trip to Okinawa was a far more wonderful experience than I had imagined. The beautiful ocean, delicious food, and the leisurely flow of time - everything created perfect memories.
I bought lots of souvenirs, so I'll be introducing them in future articles. Stay tuned for the next one! ✨