Charms of Okinawa Tour

Explore the Charms of Okinawa during this group tour carefully designed by AJT’s travel specialists to give travelers a taste of what makes this island unique. Experience Okinawa’s culture: a fusion of ancient Ryukyu history and traditions infused with a Japanese influence born of long association and the impact from post-WW2 American occupation. The backdrop to this incredible island’s rich cultural atmosphere is an enchanting landscape of lush forests, sun-drenched shoreline, limestone caves, and unique tropical animals. Our tour runs the entire length of the island, with stops to admire both major must-see landmarks and hidden gems. We have regular departures in spring and autumn, with a special itinerary in late winter dedicated to enjoying Japan’s earliest cherry blossoms.

Some of Okinawa’s most important sites were built far back in the island’s history, before the Japanese came. During this period, the island was ruled by the Ryukyu Kingdom, and they were known for distinct castles and fortifications called “gusuku”, and religious sites called “utaki”, some of which are now registered with UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. Our tour includes beautiful Shuri Castle, which was once the heart of the Ryukyu Kingdom; the Sefa-Utaki - one of the most important sites of the time-honored Ryukyuan religion; Tamaudun Mausoleum, where the Kings of Ryukyu are buried; and the Nakijin Castle Ruins, which recall how impressive the kingdom’s fortresses must have been in their prime. We also include a Ryukyu Dance and Okinawa Dinner Show - a once-in-a-lifetime way to encounter the island’s traditional culture.

WW2 history is displayed in Okinawa’s War Memorial sites, and our tour includes the Peace Memorial Park, which features the impressive Cornerstone of Peace. Nearby is the Himeyuri Monument, which remembers the sacrifices of over 200 high school girls who served as nurses during the terrible Battle of Okinawa. We also see the Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters, which offers a close look at the living conditions of the Japanese soldiers.

Discover the modern Okinawa of nowadays when browsing the shops and restaurants at Mihama American Village, the enormous shopping complex of Kokusaidori, and the busy atmosphere of Makishi Public Market, where you can enjoy a delightful seafood dinner. Regarding contemporary food experiences, the tour includes an Okinawa Cooking Class involving use of Okinawa’s famous “longevity superfoods”, and a tour of a distillery that makes Awamori - a local liquor.

No visit to Okinawa would be complete without experiencing its breathtaking nature, and our tour covers both land and sea. Walk past fascinating rock formations in stunning Gyokusendo Cave, see the impressive collection of marine life at Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, take in the enchanting ocean view from Kouri Bridge, and admire the tropical flowers of the Southeast Botanical Gardens.

Our special Cherry Blossom itineraries offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy the earliest-blooming cherry blossoms in Japan, with Cherry Blossom Festivals at Nago Castle Park and Nakijin Castle Ruins. There is also an extra day to hike through the Daisekirinzan Subtropical Forest Trail and enjoy a walking tour through a Hirugi mangrove forest.

Join our Charms of Okinawa group tour for an exciting itinerary full of fascinating historic sites and fun cultural experiences. Our Charms of Okinawa tours include private transportation and meals as listed in the itinerary, as well as the assistance of one of our friendly, professional English-speaking guides.