After exploring together the top attractions of the North and of the South of Okinawa, it's time to have a look at what the central part of the island has to offer. Central Okinawa starts from Urasoe, the northermost neighorhood of Naha, and ends before Nago city. It has the right balance between nature and urbanized cities, modern areas and historical monuments. It is the part of the island with the highest concentration of U.S. military facilities and also the area that in the past received the biggest influence from american culture. So, what a better way to start our list than the place where the mix between America and Japan is the most evident? 1. American Village The American Village is a large cultural complex designed as a Seaport Village in San Diego, USA. It is located on the west coast of central Okinawa, around 30 minutes by car from Naha City. Here, you will find a very unique and interesting taste of America, mixed with Okinawa's flavour. It offers many shops, restaurants, cafes, plenty of parking lots, and even a cinema that shows both Japanese and English-language movies. The population of the American Village is approximately 28 thousand people, and an area of 13 square kilometres, 53.5% of which is covered by United States military bases. The America theme of the entertainment complex provides a nostalgic feeling of post WWII America for the residents of the bases. The large Ferris wheel is probably one of the most easily recognizable features of the American Village, which also has acess to the sea with the beautiful Sunset Beach. With a large number of shops, restaurants, and cafes, all visitors will find a very pleasant atmosphere. 2. Cape Maeda and the Blue Cave Cape Maeda is not only enjoyable from the upland, with a nice view on the East China Sea, but also for its underwater part, with great spots for diving and snorkeling. It is located in Kunigami District, straight north from American Village, and it is the most convenient access point to the famous Blue Cave, a spectacular spot for divers and snorkelers. Aside the cave, the beautiful coral plateau in Cape Maeda makes its water very crowded with tourists swimming around with their snorkeling gears. Among the corals, visitors will find many species of tropical fish. The area is full of diving shops where to obtain the equipment along with useful information. Cape Maeda is a great spot for beginners, but we recommend to dive and snorkle in groups of at least three people and, when possible, to be accompanied by a guide or instructor. Among the services, there is also a parking area with 180 spaces, restrooms, coin lockers, shower rooms, and changing rooms. 3. Kafu Banta Also known as "Happy Cliff", Kafu Banta is an amazing promontory from where to admire the emerald waters of the Pacific Ocean. Located on Miyagi Island, on the east side of central Okinawa, this scenic promontory is accessible from the main Island through the famous Kaichu Doro, a road crossing the sea. The water immediately below the cliff is quite calm and trasparent. There is also a small beach, but not accessible directly from the cliff. The water is so clear that, from the top of the cliff, it is possible to spot some marine creatures, like sting rays swimming around. The further towards the horizon, the deeper the water becomes. Far away, the sea becomes dark blue and deep, with waves that inevitably attract a good number of surfers. Kafu Banta, with its incredible view, is definitely one of the highlights of Okinawa central area. Our suggestion is to visit Kafu Banta in the morning, when the water color is the brightest and not covered by the shadow of the cliff. 4. Katsuren, Nakagusuku and Zakimi Castle Ruins It was too difficult to pick only one of the three famous castle ruins that belong to the central part of Okinawa island. So, we decided to put all three of them together! In year 2000, these three castle ruins were designated part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site together with nine other Gusuku Sites and Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu. Built on steep hills of central Okinawa in the 14th and 15th centuries, these castles have some of the most amazing stoneworks in Okinawa. What these castle ruins have in common is the beauty of their stone wall shapes, the grass fields around them, and the amazing view on the ocean. Visiting these historical sites will not only be educational, but also a very eye-pleasing experience. 5. Cape Manza Cape Manza is an amazing rock formation located on the Western side of Okinawa Island, facing the East China Sea. It is a very famous touristic spot for its unique view on the sea and its elephant's trunk-shaped rock. The name of this promontory, in Japanese Manza, means "Ten thousand people sitting". It is said to come from king Sho Kei, who in 18th century praised the cliff by saying that the top was large enough for ten thousand people to sit there comfortably. The view on the sea is incredible, making this cape one of the biggest attractions of Okinawa. Cape Manza is also famous for its sunsets, with the sun sinking into the East China Sea in a spectacular way! We hope that these 5 point provided some inspiration to your for your next visit in Okinawa! Don't forget that our Northern Okinawa Bus Tours passes through some of these spots, like the American Village and Cape Manza! If you want to find out more, just click on the link below! You might also be interested in:
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