🌺【5-Day Slow Travel in Okinawa】Exploring from South to North: Diving into the Blue Cave, indulging in delicious Ryukyu cuisine, and enjoying the most healing sea views!

Okinawa has always been considered by many as "the closest vacation paradise to Taiwan." This time, we planned a five-day, four-night road trip, starting from the south, heading north to Kouri Island, and then slowly driving back to the bustling Kokusai Street.

With the sea, sunshine, delicious food, and soothing blue waters, every stop was unforgettable.

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🏝 Day 1 Arrival in Naha, First Impressions of Okinawa's Sea and Breeze

We arrived at Naha Airport in the afternoon, rented a car, and immediately headed to our first destination—Ryukyu Village.

(Because we planned to go diving at the Blue Cave the next day, we stayed near Ryukyu Village), and we also made a detour to the magnificent Cape Zanpa.

Standing before the white lighthouse, watching the endless waves crash against the rocky cliffs, the sunset casting its glow on the sea.

(A 30-minute stop here is just right.)

🏠 Overnight: Around Ryukyu Village

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🌊 Day 2: Diving into the Blue Cave

In the morning, we started with a fantastic café, enjoying coffee and the ocean view – a perfect start to the day.

Then came the highlight – the Blue Cave Diving experience!

Led by an instructor, we descended into the ocean, and the dreamlike "blue light" was truly an unforgettable sight.

The activity ended around 2 PM.

After showering and changing back at our guesthouse, we headed to the magnificent Manzamo.

Standing on the cliff overlooking the waves and Elephant Trunk Rock, the blue of Okinawa is truly addictive.

Dinner was at the super popular "Ryukyu no Gyū" restaurant. The beef was so tender it melted in your mouth – a beef lover's paradise!

🏠 Overnight Stay: Onna Village

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🐠 Day 3: Exploring the Beautiful Sea, Seeking Healing Scenery in the North

Our first stop today was the must-see Churaumi Aquarium.

Watching the enormous whale sharks swim before our eyes truly felt like time stood still.

Next, we headed to Kouri Island.

Crossing the magnificent Kouri Bridge, the endless expanse of gradient blue sea was breathtaking.

For lunch, we chose the popular "Shrimp Wagon" restaurant.

Enjoying fragrant garlic shrimp rice while feeling the sea breeze was pure bliss.

In the evening, we drove south to American Village, a place with a distinctly American atmosphere.

With its neon lights and shopping streets, it's incredibly lively at night.

Every snapshot is a masterpiece of Okinawa style.

🏠 Overnight Stay: American Village

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☀️ Day 4: Free Time Stroll in American Village → Gyokusendo Cave Exploration → Go-Karting Thrill

In the morning, we leisurely strolled around American Village, taking photos. The cafes and shops were all great for pictures.

In the afternoon, we drove south to Gyokusendo Cave.

Entering the cave, we saw spectacular stalactite formations and underground water; the temperature was cool and mysterious.

Afterwards, we spent the afternoon eating, drinking, and taking photos on Senaga Island. In the evening, we experienced the super exciting street go-karting! Wearing anime character costumes, we raced along the road, laughing and having fun. Go-karting isn't slow; it's at 70-80 kilometers per hour, a completely different feeling from driving at 70 kilometers per hour! The whole experience took about two hours, with a stop on Senaga Island, meaning we experienced both day and night on Senaga Island. The go-karts even went onto Kokusai Street, making us the center of attention—it felt like driving a sports car and everyone was staring at you! 🏠 Overnight Stay: Kokusai Street

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🏙 Day 5: Shopping on Kokusai Street → Heading Home

On our last day, we indulged in shopping on Kokusai Street, buying souvenirs, brown sugar cookies, and browsing drugstores, bringing our trip to a perfect close.

In the afternoon, we prepared to return to Naha Airport, concluding our Okinawa trip.

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💭 Tips

This itinerary, traveling from south to north and then slowly returning to the south, not only had a smooth route and a perfect pace, but also allowed us to experience the diverse facets of Okinawa—from traditional culture and azure seascapes to modern streets.

If you're looking for a relaxed yet incredibly fulfilling Okinawa trip, this itinerary is highly recommended!