Naha is the capital of Okinawa and it’s largest city. Most visitors will fly into Naha Airport and will find Naha the logical place to begin their Okinawa experience. The Naha experience can be roughly divided into three sections.
First is the historical experience of Shuri Castle and it’s adjacent attractions
of Sonohyan-Utaki Stone Gate, Shureimon Gate, Enkakuji Temple and the Tama-udun Royal Mausoleum. Visitors may also include Ryutan lake, the WWII Japanese 32nd Army Headquarters, Kinjo Ishi-datami-michi (ancient stone path), and Shikina-En Royal Gardens as part of this itinerary.
Second is the downtown experience of Kokusai street anchored by the Ryubo and Mitsukoshi department stores. The Makishi Public Market with Heiwa Dori Street and the Tsuboya pottery district are all part of a charming shopping experience.
Third is the Shintoshin area with it’s modern shopping and restaurants. This area was built upon the former American Machinato military housing area and the heart of new development in Naha.
In addition there are dozens of other places of interest in the Naha Area including Fukushu-En Chinese Garden, Manko mangrove wildlife center, Naminoue Shrine, Naminoue Beach, Japanese Naval Underground Headquarter, and Sueyoshi Park.