Okinawa Travelogue

Okinawa, an island surrounded by clear blue sea and sky, is full of rich southern charm and unique Ryukyu culture. This time, I decided to slowly explore the beauty of Okinawa, without rushing the itinerary, just to savor the charm of this island. On the first day, I went to Kokusai Street in Naha, one of the busiest streets in Okinawa, lined with various specialty shops, souvenir stores, and Okinawan cuisine restaurants. I tasted the famous Okinawa soba, with its chewy noodles and rich broth, simple yet flavorful. In the evening, I visited Shuri Castle, the former palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom, which looked even more majestic under the night sky. Although some buildings were damaged by fire, you can still feel its historical charm. On the second day, I took the bus and monorail to explore the natural scenery of Okinawa. The first stop was Kouri Island. From the Naha Bus Terminal, I took a bus to Nago, then transferred to a shuttle bus to Kouri Bridge. As I crossed the bridge, I was greeted by a vast expanse of blue sea, making me stop to admire the view. I strolled along the beach, feeling the gentle sea breeze, and tasted the famous Kouri shrimp rice at a local shop, with its sweet shrimp meat and special sauce, leaving a lasting impression. Next, I took a bus to the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium. The Kuroshio Sea tank here houses giant whale sharks and manta rays, making you feel like you are in an underwater world. I stood in front of the transparent viewing window, quietly watching these giant creatures swim gracefully, feeling both awe and emotion. On the last day, I chose to visit Gyokusendo Cave and Ryukyu Village in the south, also using the bus for transportation, to experience Okinawa's natural wonders and traditional culture. Gyokusendo Cave is the largest limestone cave in Okinawa, with colorful lights reflecting off the stalactites and stalagmites, making it feel like entering a fantasy world. At Ryukyu Village, I watched traditional Ryukyu dance performances and personally experienced Bingata dyeing, feeling the unique charm of Ryukyu culture. Although the three-day trip to Okinawa was short, it was full of surprises and emotions. This island not only has enchanting sea views but also rich history and culture, making it hard to leave. I think, next time I come, I might explore the beauty of the remote islands more deeply and continue to discover the endless charm of Okinawa.