3 recommended spots allowing you to have various experiences unique to Okinawa

Okinawa is visited by many people from in and out of Japan all year round so that the number of tourists is more than Hawaii. Having lots of attractive sightseeing spots such as world heritages, an aquarium and islands with stunning views, this place is popular as a resort island. In addition, there are also things allowing you to feel Ryukyu culture, including Shisas (Okinawan guardian lions), old houses whose roof is made out of red tiles and Ryukyu Glass famous as a souvenir. Why not visit Okinawa to feel attractions of Okinawa with your five senses?

This time, we’re going to introduce sightseeing spots recommended by Hotel Gracery Naha.

“Shuri Castle” where your heart will be filled with romance of history

Okinawa was flourished as Ryukyu Kingdom for 450 years from 1429. At the time, the central place of politics, culture and diplomacy was a world heritage “Shuri Castle” whose vermilion color catches your eye. Even now, it has a solemn atmosphere as if a king lived here and features the unique architectural style that fuses the Chinese and Japanese castle cultures. By the way, the castle is in a corner of Shuri Castle Park, and there are various cultural properties such as Shureimon and SonohyaunTakiishimon in the park.

Opening Hours	April – June, October – November: 8:00AM – 7:30PM July – September: 8:00AM – 8:30PM December – March: 8:00AM – 6:30PM ※Please check opening hours on the official website because it varies depending on Free area and Paid area.
Address	1-2 Kinjo-cho, Shuri, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture
Access	A 5-min walk from Shurijokoeniriguchi where it takes 15 mins by bus from Matsuoicchome
URL	http://oki-park.jp/shurijo/en/

“Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium” fascinating you with the world of Okinawan sea

“Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium” is one of the most popular tourist spots in Okinawa, where you can feel as if you’re exploring the sea of Okinawa. Above all, the 8.7m long whale shark and the biggest ray in the world which swim comfortably in the world’s aquariums are impressive. Besides, you can also meet creatures living at the depth of 200-700m and get a glimpse into the mysterious deep-sea world. If you want to take a break, head to a cafe ‘Ocean Blue.’ Why not have a relaxing time while seeing the large aquarium?

Opening Hours	October – February: 8:30AM – 6:30PM／March – September: 8:30AM – 8:00PM Closed on the first Wednesday of December and the next day ※Opening hours may vary depending on event schedules. ※Please check Opening hours on the official website because it vary depending on each facility.
Address	424 Ishikawa, Motobu-cho, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Prefecture
Access	70 mins by Yanbaru Express Bus from Kenchokitaguchi which is a 3-min walk from the hotel
URL	https://churaumi.okinawa/en/

“Okinawa World” filled with all of Okinawa’s attractions

Opened in 1972, “Okinawa World” is one of the largest theme parks in Okinawa, where you can experience the nature, culture and history of Okinawa. It’s full of Okinawa’s attractions such as one of the largest limestone caves in Japan ‘Gyokusendo Cave’ with 300,000 years of history and a vibrant traditional performance ‘Super Eisa Dance,’ ‘Traditional Crafts Village’ where there are many old houses built over 100 years ago and thrilling habu show. Moreover, you can experience making traditional crafts such as Ryukyu Glass and Uji-Zome dying. A restaurant in this theme park offers Okinawan local dishes using ingredients produced in Okinawa.

Opening Hours	9:00AM – 6:00PM　Open all year round
Address	1336 Maekawa, Tamagusuku, Nanjo City, Okinawa Prefecture
Access	75 mins by bus from Kenchominamiguchi which is a 6-min walk from the hotel
URL	https://www.gyokusendo.co.jp/okinawaworld/en/