In addition to the buildings in the Shurijō Castle Park, Shikina-en Garden (識名園) was another spot that was registered as a part of the World Heritage, Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryūkyū (琉球王国のグスク及び関連遺産群) in 2000. The villa complex, also a designated Special National place of Scenery Beauty, has architecture and gardens […]
Shikina-en – Okinawa’s World Heritage Garden Read More »
A nice spot to stop by after your visit to the Shurijō Castle Park is the Shuri Kannon-dō (首里観音堂). The temple just a 10-minute walk from Tamaudun (玉陵) is one of the six temples around the castle that survived the turbulence in the last 400 years. In addition, the temple that the Ryūkyū imperial family
Shuri Kannon-dō Temple and Its Famous Paw-Joining Dog Read More »
It might come to you as a surprise, but there is a spot in Okinawa where it is said that the Goddess of the Sun in Japanese mythology, Amaterasu-Ōmikami (天照大御神), once briefly stopped by before she headed off for Ise (伊勢). And that holy spot happens to be at the side of Naha‘s city center!
Okinogū Shrine – The Site Where the Goddess of Sun descended Read More »
When you visit Okinawa‘s capital Naha, if the only shopping area you know or have visited is Kokusai-dōri Street then you are missing out! Although the street is certainly one of the must-visit places in Naha, the markets and arcades below are where you can get a true taste of Okinawan culture! We have also
The Best Markets and Arcades to Visit in Naha Read More »
If people were to ask what is Okinawa‘s most famous shopping attraction, the answer would be Kokusai-dōri Street (国際通り) in Naha! It is hard to believe that the 1.6 km street, now filled with more than 600 shops and businesses, used to be just an unpaved road that stretched through vast fields and wetlands when
The Best Guide to Naha’s Must-Visit Kokusai-dōri Street Read More »
Speaking of Okinawa, it is the perfect destination to enjoy the stunning beaches. While Okinawa’s top beaches aren’t in the capital city, Naha, there is one beach for you to enjoy a last-minute swim in the warmer months or watersports. Plus, Okinawa’s highest-ranked shrine is just atop the cliff next to the beach!
The Best Guide to Naminoue Beach and Naminoue Shrine Read More »
When you visit Okinawa‘s capital city Naha, there are three manjū shops that you have to visit, even if you aren’t a sweet tooth! Because every single one of them has usually completely sold out of their delicious manjūs by noon, you can tell how popular they are among the locals and tourists.
The Top Three Must-Eat Manjū Shops in Okinawa Read More »
Shurijō (首里城), a world heritage castle in Okinawa and Japan’s National Historic Site, was the residence of the Ryūkyū Kingdom’s king from 1429 to 1879. Prior to the last king of Ryūkyū surrendering Okinawa to the Meiji government, the castle was the center of the island’s political, diplomatic, and cultural center for centuries.
A Guide to Shurijō Castle – The Spiritual Symbol of Okinawa Read More »
Navigating Tokyo’s vast rail network can be one of the most daunting tasks for any traveler, but choosing the right transportation pass is the secret to a stress-free and budget-friendly journey. Whether you are looking to uncover hidden historical districts or an adventurer planning ambitious day trips to the Japanese Alps, the right pass ensures
Ultimate Guide to Tokyo Transportation Passes: Which is Best for You? Read More »
Vegetarian-friendly restaurants are hard to come by in Japan. It might be easier in big cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, but in less visited areas like Mt. Shosha (書写山), we vegetarians must do our homework to find the best dining options available and to ensure we have enough energy to explore!
How to Enjoy Mt. Shosha’s Unique Vegan Cuisine Read More »
