Okinawa – Naha

Day 1 : Shurijo Castle Park

Arrived at Naha airport early in the morning, we had our breakfast at the airport before collecting the rental car.

Shurijo Castle Park, a World Heritage site, showcases the culture and history of Okinawa during the Ryukyu kingdom era. The castle has unique features from Japan, China, and the Ryukyu Kingdom.

The first gate that leads to Shuri Castle is the Kansaimon gate, which means welcoming guests.

At the observation platform, we can see the Naha City at a glance.

Seiden, the main hall, is said to resemble the Forbidden City of China.

Our lunch is a simple, light favored but delicious bowl of noodles from Shuri Horikawa. The restaurant is situated in a quiet narrow back alley and thus offered the diners a relaxing atmosphere.

Checked-in to our accommodation at Villa Coast Nishimachi Guesthouse.

We had pan-fried dumplings and pork knuckle as our dinner at Benriya Lurinron. The store is in the covered market.

After dinner, we walk around and find old folks singing, playing the card, enjoying the night together with friends.

Day 2 : Kokusai Dori and Nearby

We walked to Kokusai Dori for our breakfast, the famous Pork Tamagotchi Onigiri Honten. Got our hand with the freshly make onigiri after queuing for 20 minutes.

Leisurely, we explored the small alleys of Kokusai Dori where you can shop, eat and relax at the cafe all in this dynamic street.

Lunch of the day is seafood from the Makishi Public Market. We get to choose the choice of seafood on the ground floor. Someone will then direct us to one of the food stalls at the upper deck. The seafood is being prepared and served fresh to the table.

The main street of Kokusai Dori is 1.6km long with shops located on both sides. Throughout the street of Okinawa, Shisa is always spotted either at the rooftop, shopfront door or the entrance of the house. It comes in a pair, the left closed mouth shisa will keep the good spirits in while the right opened mouth shisa is believed to wards off the evil spirits.

Dinner at Kokusai Street Food Village which consists of 20 small restaurants. We had fried noodles and some tempura at Izakaya & Teppan-yaki (#3) stall.

Day 3 : Nagannu Island & American Village

We had a unique and well-done hot plate pancake breakfast at Estinate hotel.

Arrived at the jetty and took a 20 minutes speedboat ride to Nagannu Island. With a rented chair and parasol, you can relax under the shade on the beautiful sandy white beach.

In the afternoon, we board onto a small boat that brings us to snorkel out in the ocean. While in the sea, every guide will take care of a small group of people, ensure everyone is within a safe distance from them.