13 days in Okinawa Prefecture Itinerary

Naha, the capital of Okinawa, has deep roots: Stone Age relics have been found in the city, and through the Middle Ages it rose in importance in the Ryukyu Kingdom.

Get a sense of the local culture at Shurijo Castle and Minatogawa Stateside Town. Escape the urban bustle at Nishibama Beach and Ojima Coast. Venture out of the city with trips to Tokashiki-son (Hanari Island & Aharen Beach), Furuzamami Beach (in Zamami-son) and Apeman Spa (in Nanjo). There's lots more to do: stop by Splash Okinawa Shop No. 1, browse the fresh offerings at Farmers Market Haebaru Kugani Market, buy something for everyone on your list at Aeon Naha Shopping Center, and kick back and relax at Toyosaki Kaihin Koen.

For photos, traveler tips, where to stay, and other tourist information, refer to the Naha sightseeing planning website.

Tokyo to Naha is an approximately 5-hour flight. You can also do a combination of train and ferry; or do a combination of train, bus, and ferry. Expect somewhat warmer weather when traveling from Tokyo in December: highs in Naha hover around 24°C, while lows dip to 19°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 29th (Tue) to allow time to travel to Ishigaki.

Ishigaki, the most populous island in the chain, features the country's southernmost city and acts as a transport hub for exploring the landmasses that surround.

Satisfy your inner culture vulture at Nei Museum of Art and Misaki Town. Cape Hirakubozaki and Tojinbaka will appeal to history buffs. Next up on the itinerary: see what's hidden on the seafloor at Prime Scuba Ishigaki Diving Center - Day Tour, enjoy the sand and surf at Kaiji Beach, look for gifts at Pinion Direct Shop, and get outside with Maezato Beach.

For reviews, photos, more things to do, and more tourist information, go to the Ishigaki tour planning website.

Fly from Naha to Ishigaki in 3.5 hours. In December, daytime highs in Ishigaki are 26°C, while nighttime lows are 20°C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 2nd (Sat) early enough to travel to Kuro-shima.

On the 4th (Mon), head outdoors with Fuki Beach, see the interesting displays at Kuroshima Research Institute, then enjoy the sea views from Kuroshima Lighthouse, then stop by Iko Pier, and finally enjoy the sand and surf at Nakamoto Beach.

To see more things to do, photos, traveler tips, and more tourist information, use the Kuro-shima day trip website.

Use the Route module to find suitable travel options from Ishigaki to Kuro-shima. In January in Kuro-shima, expect temperatures between 24°C during the day and 19°C at night. You'll have a few hours on the 5th (Tue) to wrap things up before traveling home.