post pandemic travel to Okinawa

Okinawa is famous for beautiful beaches, underwater diving and its unique food. When I moved to Japan Okinawa was one of my bucket list destinations to visit.

As it's far away from Tokyo I reached there by flying via Jetstar budget airlines. Even though Covid-19 exists I thought I should take a risk and to follow social distancing and basic safety measures. To Fly from Tokyo it takes about almost two hours to reach Naha airport.

When I reached the airport I straightway headed to Itoman town where I booked accommodation near the beach. It was a bit of a late and tired journey as I have to use public transportation to travel. I strongly recommend renting a car as it's cheaper and easier. Itoman town is a fishing village with quite interesting sites and markets around the town.

Where to stay at Itoman

Uminchi Sea Side House

I stayed in Uminchi Sea side house as I want to stay closer to the beach. The property is located bit far from main town and it takes about 15-20 mints walking distance from Itoman bus station. The host is Yuki san so kind and friendly. I booked this place via Airbnb and I recommend any solo traveler to stay here.

Things to do in Itoman city

First day I went to Ryuku glass village to check out some cool glass wares. They have workshops and people can check the process of glassware making. My eyes straight away went to the blue color glass wears. They have mini museums and shops with beautiful glassware.

Next I cycled to a seafood restaurant recommended by my host. It's an Okinawa style fried fish dish served with sticky rice and side dishes. It cost around 2500 yen including drinks. Quite delicious as fried fish served with butter garlic paste.

Evening I went to the beach as it was low tide so I could walk around. I saw some ships passing by and there some nice cliffs around the area to check. Later I checked the Sea Grape plant as my host owns a farm. Her assistant explained how it grows and its process. End of the day he offered me ice cream with Sea grape weed (Japanese people call it Umibudo). It gave me a puchi puchi sensation on the tongue.

Where to stay in Chatan

I stayed in La gento Hotel/Hostel Okinawa close to American village. I booked the hostel via airbnb. The hostel is cleaned and perfect location for any budget traveler.

Things to do In Chatan

Next two days I went to explore Chatan which is close to American village. I walked around the American village and headed to the beach to see the beautiful sunset. My favorite part of the area is they have live music and you can eat overlooking the beautiful beach and sunset. I also visited a pottery village in Yomitan. The workshop visits are limited because of Covid-19 but there are few shops open for visitors.

After exploring the Chatan area head back to Naha city. I went to see the castle even though I knew it had a terrible fire and destroyed the whole palace. It was sad to see such a remarkable place burn down. I decided to come next time.

Things to do in Naha center

Before heading back to Tokyo I decided to go scuba diving with Honu Honu divers. I did 2 dives near the west coast bay in Naha. My Instructor was Saki san, she was very helpful during my diving sessions. Had a good time seeing underwater creatures and one of the unforgettable memories was that one of Anemon was so playful swimming around me very closely. I named it Nemo based on the cartoon.

After a long day I had a good lunch at Piparchi kitchen where they offer organic homemade meals. I was looking for authentic local food and this was the best I had in Okinawa. The interior is so cozy and very simple.

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The Okinawa trip was a great escape after post lock-down in Tokyo. I wish I had more time to explore the northern part of Okinawa which can be reached by rental car easily.