Last reviewed: February 2026
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Okinawa: Where Ancient Ryukyu Meets Tropical Paradise
This is not quite Japan. For 450 years before the 1879 annexation, these islands formed the independent Ryukyu Kingdom — a trading nation that bridged China and Japan, developing its own language, cuisine, and cultural traditions. The subtropical climate, the laid-back pace, the distinctive red-tile roofs, the sanshin music drifting from shops — all of it announces that you've arrived somewhere unique. Palm trees line the streets. The ocean glows turquoise. And the food bears influences from everywhere the Ryukyu traders once sailed.
The Battle of Okinawa in 1945 was among WWII's bloodiest — over 100,000 Japanese soldiers, 12,000 Americans, and tragically, perhaps 100,000 Okinawan civilians died in 82 days of fighting. The island was devastated. What you see today was rebuilt from rubble, including Shuri Castle (though fire claimed the main hall again in 2019). Yet the Okinawan spirit survived, and with it an approach to life that has made these islands famous for longevity — one of the world's "Blue Zones" where people routinely live past 100.
The Cruise Port & Naha
Ships dock at Naha Cruise Terminal on Okinawa's main island. The terminal is a 10-15 minute walk (or short taxi ride) to Kokusai Street (Kokusai-dori), Naha's main tourist and shopping thoroughfare. This mile-long avenue offers souvenirs, local crafts, restaurants serving Okinawan specialties, and people-watching galore.
Naha is a modern city, rebuilt after wartime destruction. The main attractions require transportation: Shuri Castle (20 minutes by taxi or monorail), the Peace Memorial Park (30-40 minutes south), the Churaumi Aquarium (about 2 hours north on the island's other end — typically a full-day excursion).
Shuri Castle & Ryukyu Heritage
Shuri Castle served as the royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom from the 15th century until 1879. The vermillion main hall, reconstructed after WWII destruction and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, tragically burned again in October 2019. Reconstruction is ongoing, expected to complete around 2026. The grounds, gates, and several structures remain open — the castle's hilltop setting still provides excellent views over Naha and insight into Ryukyu royal history.
The Ryukyuan culture lives on in Okinawa's distinctive traditions: Eisa dancing during Obon season, the sanshin (three-stringed instrument) accompanying folk songs, the bright bingata textiles, and a cuisine featuring bitter melon (goya), purple sweet potato (beni-imo), and pork in various preparations.
WWII History & Peace Memorial
The Peace Memorial Park at Mabuni, on the island's southern tip, commemorates the Battle of Okinawa. The Cornerstone of Peace lists all who died — regardless of nationality. The Himeyuri Peace Museum tells the story of schoolgirl nurses caught in the battle. These sites are sobering and important, particularly for visitors from the US and Japan.
Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters, tunnels dug by hand where Japanese commanders spent their final days, offers a claustrophobic glimpse into the battle's end. Ship excursions to these sites provide historical context that independent visits sometimes lack.
Beaches & Diving
Okinawa's waters offer world-class diving and snorkeling, though the best sites (Kerama Islands, Blue Cave at Cape Maeda) require advance booking. The Kerama Islands, a short boat ride from Naha, offer pristine coral and sea turtle encounters. Half-day snorkel trips can sometimes be arranged spontaneously, but diving typically requires reservation.
Beaches near Naha are limited; the best swimming beaches lie further north. If beach time is priority, consider ship excursions that include transportation to quality beaches like Manza or destinations in the Kerama Islands.
Port Map
Tap markers to explore Okinawa
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do ships dock?
Naha Cruise Terminal, 10-15 minute walk to Kokusai Street shopping area. Taxi or monorail to other attractions.
Is Shuri Castle open after the fire?
Grounds and some structures are open. The main hall is under reconstruction (expected completion ~2026). Still worth visiting for the UNESCO site and views.
How is Okinawa different from mainland Japan?
Distinct history (independent Ryukyu Kingdom until 1879), subtropical climate, unique cuisine, different dialect, and a more relaxed pace. It feels like a different country in many ways.
Can I go diving?
World-class diving is available but typically requires advance booking. Half-day snorkel trips from Naha are sometimes available on shorter notice. Kerama Islands and Blue Cave are top destinations.
Until I have sailed this port myself, these notes are soundings in another's wake.