Okinawa, Japan

Ava Abreu

Okinawa has a rich history. It is commonly known as the Hawai'i of Japan, but it is also the birthplace of Karate and where Soba Noodles are from. While studying in Hong Kong, I went for a weekend. This will be a short itinerary of places I went when traveling with my friends for the weekend. So it is college budget-friendly, good for groups, or honestly solo travel since Japan is so safe. I would definitely recommend getting a driver or just having a lot of cash for taxis and using the Didi app. Don't make my mistakes, if you want to hear about my friends and I got stranded check out the blog below. Without further ado... the perfect weekend stay in Okinawa.

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Stranded in Okinawa, Japan

teentraveler.blog

Shuri Castle

@avaabreu

Absolutely beautiful scenery. Although beware the paid section is mainly under construction so you won’t get to see the castle itself unfortunately due to a fire. However, there is an absolutely beautiful view, and the park has really fun activities like stamping post cards!

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Southeast Botanical Gardens

@avaabreu

The gardens were stunning. Even though I visited during typhoon season there were still plenty of things in bloom. My favorite parts of the garden were probably the palm tree forest and the turtle sanctuary:)

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Blue Cave

@avaabreu

I would really recommend snorkeling here! It was so so fun. I booked the night before with Trioadvisor and it worked great. However, it’s a good idea to set up transportation for your way here and back since it is a little remote.

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Makishi Public Market

@avaabreu

This is a lively night market in the center of Naha. It was super fun to wonder around but souvenirs, get drinks, and grab dinner. The energy was vibrant and active and this was definitely one my favorite things I did in Okinawa.

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Naminoue Shrine

@avaabreu

Very pretty shrine. I adore the attention to detail with the architecture and paint job. Additionally, there is a pretty beach right behind it!

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Gushichan Beach

@avaabreu

This climbing beach looks like a postcard. Be sure to bring trusty shoes if your going to trek over the rocks to get to tidepools you can swim in. And learn from my mistake definitely rent a car or set up transportation before coming to this remote local beach! (It’ll be worth it if you do)!

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Kura Sushi Okinawa Chatan

@avaabreu

This was legitimately one of the best sushi restaurants I have ever been to. There was nothing I ate there that was not absolutely delicious like I would have had seconds or thirds of everything if I was able to, and the best part is it was quite cheap! Also if your a foreigner like me the conveyor belt sushi may be new to you, so for me it was super cool to see and experience!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ava Abreu

Hi! I’m Ava, an eco-explorer, travel journaler, postcard collector, pen pal, and person who takes wayyyyyy too many photos while on vacation. I am living in Hong Kong, and have lived in Los Angeles and Orlando, and I'm moving to Milan next year. I mainly travel with my family or other University students! I'm a pro at finding Instagrammable cafes, hidden food markets, and in spite of my horrible pollen allergies gardens. I love museums and shopping/taking classes from locals! If you want to check out some of the places I have been or my travel style, you can check out my blog (www.teentraveler.blog). Whether you are an experienced globetrotter or an aspiring traveler, I hope you join me on this adventure to explore our beautiful planet and create unforgettable memories. Wishing you safe travels!

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Okinawa, Japan

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