Okinawa is the southernmost prefecture of Japan. Thanks to its warm climate all year round, this place is famous as one of Japan’s leading resorts. Previously, Okinawa was an independent country called the “The Ryūkyū Kingdom”, so it has a unique culture that is different from mainland Japan.
In this article, we will introduce 7 nightlife spots that you should definitely visit to enjoy Okinawa at night.
Highlights and characteristics of Okinawa at night
Okinawa once flourished as an independent country called the “The Ryūkyū Kingdom”, after World War II, it continued to be under American rule for 27 years. Therefore, even though it is Japan, this place has a foreign atmosphere.
At night, there are many places to enjoy Okinawa’s unique culture. Shuri Castle, dating from the period of the Ryūkyū Kingdom, has architecture unlike any ancient castle seen in mainland Japan. There is also a resort town themed around an American cityscape. The highlight of Okinawa’s nightlife spots is that you can go to tourist attractions to experience many different cultures or enjoy Okinawan cuisine in bustling neighborhoods.
Nightlife spots in Okinawa
Recommended #1: Shuri Castle
“Shuri Castle” is an ancient castle built during the Ryūkyū Kingdom. It once flourished as the political, diplomatic and cultural center of the Ryūkyū Kingdom. The entire architecture is characterized by its vibrant red color. Although much of the citadel was destroyed by World War II and other influences, in 1992 it was restored to its original appearance.
Shuri Castle is illuminated when the sun goes down, making it a great sightseeing spot at night. Although it is not possible to visit the interior of Shuri Castle at night, illumination is still available for up to 24 hours. Therefore, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery until late at night. Shuri Castle at night is magical and is a recommended tourist destination.
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| Official website | https://oki-park.jp/sp/shurijo/ |
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Shuri Castle has 3 viewing spots. Although admission hours are limited, admission is free. Among them, the place called “Iri-no Azana” is known to have the most beautiful night view spot and is very popular.
Recommended #2: Mihama American Village
“Mihama American Village” is a resort town located about 30 minutes by car from Naha city. The townscape is inspired by the US West Coast and is home to a variety of outlets, including hotels, beaches, shopping, dining and entertainment.
Mihama American Village is not only interesting during the day but is also especially attractive at night. Since it is located along the coast, you can watch beautiful sunsets as the sun sets into the sea. After sunset, the entire neighborhood is brightly illuminated. You can enjoy the sparkling night view while sitting on the ferris wheel on the premises. This is a very ideal location for couples.
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| Official website | https://www.okinawa-americanvillage.com |
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There are more than 100 different types of accommodation around this area, including resort hotels, cottages and apartments. You can enjoy your time at Mihama American Village until late without worrying about time, so staying here is also highly recommended.
Recommended #3: Sunset Cruise
“Sunset Cruise” is a day trip cruise that departs from Naha Port. You can enjoy an authentic dinner and live music while taking in the amazing view of the sun slowly setting into the sea. The trip takes about 1 hour 45 minutes.
Besides the full course menu, you can also choose a BBQ menu served on the open deck. Because the ship is large, there is less shaking, so you are less likely to get seasick. Additionally, there is no dress code so you can participate comfortably. This tour is suitable not only for couples who want to spend some romantic time together but also for those traveling with children. This is a recommended tourist destination for a variety of people.
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| Official website | https://ja.westmarine.co.jp |
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In addition to the “Sunset Cruise” tour, there is also a “Dinner Cruise” tour. On this tour, after sunset, you can enjoy dinner and live music while watching Okinawa shimmering under the night lights.
Recommended #4: Kokusai Dōri Yataimura
“Kokusai Dōri” is Okinawa’s largest downtown area, lined with many restaurants and souvenir shops. At night, tourists and locals gather here, making it a lively area that is bustling until late at night. “Kokusai Dōri Yataimura” is located in the middle of Kokusai Dōri street with many Okinawan specialty eateries.
At Kokusai Dōri Yataimura, you can enjoy Okinawan specialties made with fresh ingredients, along with Sushi and other multinational dishes. There are over 20 shops here, so you can try out a few different ones. The vibrant and unfussy atmosphere of a “Yatai” (small open eatery) is the special attraction of this place.
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| Official website | https://kokusaidoori-yataimura.okinawa |
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Recommended #5: Makishi Public Market
Makishi Public Market is the largest market in Okinawa, where everything related to Okinawan cuisine can be said to gather. Since its founding in 1950, it has been loved by locals and tourists alike with the nickname “Okinawan’s Kitchen”. Nowadays, it has become a destination that helps you quickly understand Okinawa’s culinary culture.
The market has two floors. On the first floor, you can see a variety of colorful tropical seafood, pork sold in large chunks, Okinawan vegetables, and tropical fruits. In the restaurant area on the 2nd floor, you can enjoy typical Okinawan dishes such as Sōki Soba noodles. A great service for visitors is that you can buy ingredients on the 1st floor and bring them to the 2nd floor for the restaurant to process. Therefore, it is a spot that food lovers should not miss.
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| Official website | https://www.makishi-public-market.jp/ |
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Recommended #6: Okinawa Soba Noodle Shop | Taira Seimenjo
“Taira Seimenjo” is a shop that specializes in Okinawa Soba noodles. Okinawa Soba is an Udon-like noodle dish that features pork on top. As a typical dish of Okinawa, it is so famous that almost no Japanese person does not know it.
Currently, there are over 800 Okinawa Soba noodle shops in Okinawa. Therefore, you can eat Okinawa Soba noodles anywhere when you come to Okinawa. However, it is impossible to know for sure whether you will actually encounter a good store or not. “Taira Seimenjo” is an Okinawa Soba specialty shop recommended by locals, definitely a good choice for those who want to enjoy delicious noodles.
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| Official website | https://tairaseimen.base.shop |
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Recommended #7: JACK’S STEAK HOUSE
“JACK’S STEAK HOUSE” is a long-standing steakhouse established in 1953. After World War II, Okinawa was temporarily under American rule and there are still American military bases there so the culture Eating steak took root from here. Nowadays, there are many steak restaurants in Okinawa and this dish has become a representative dish of Okinawa.
Among the many steak restaurants in Okinawa, “JACK’S STEAK HOUSE” is the most famous. It is loved not only for its taste, but also for its price and large portions. Besides the classic American exterior, the inside of the store is decorated with many famous people’s signatures, creating a space with a nostalgic feel.
This is a recommended restaurant to experience Okinawa’s steak culture.
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| Official website | https://steak.co.jp |
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