Things to do in Maekawa

Spend an afternoon in Naha’s most extensive shopping district, International Street (Kokusai Dori). Browse for exquisite glasswork and ceramics, feast on traditional Okinawan delicacies and watch dancers and fire-eaters perform on the streets.

Whether you’re an American missing home or a local resident looking for a fun day out, find a complete range of entertainment, American-style, at the Mihama American Village along Okinawa’s western coast.

Walk through one of the island’s largest caves and admire mystical stalagmites and stalactites at the fascinating Okinawa World. Embrace the exciting local culture and observe the animals that live here.

Shurijo Castle is a monumental fortress sitting on top of a hill overlooking the Okinawan capital, Naha. It was home to generations of Ryukyu kings, who ruled over Japan’s southwestern islands for nearly 450 years. Admire the impressive architecture, discover artifacts and learn about the castle’s fascinating history.

The Valley of Gangala is a magical grove of bamboo forests and tropical foliage reaching for the sunlight from a network of limestone caves. Wander through verdant forest, brushing aside long vines to see ancient trees and tropical foliage. In the fascinating cave system, you’ll see stalactites hanging from the ceiling and stalagmites rising up from the cave floor. Join a guided tour of the intriguing caves and spend some time exploring the fairytale-like forest.

Descend into a mesmerizing underground world at Gyokusendo Cave, part of Okinawa World theme park. The 3-mile (5-kilometer) cave was discovered in 1967, but has been in existence for at least 300,000 years.