Getting around Okinawa offers a different experience compared to Japan’s big cities. While it doesn’t have an extensive train system like Tokyo or Kyoto, Okinawa’s public transportation and laid-back atmosphere make exploring the islands easy and enjoyable.
Buses are the main mode of public transportation in Okinawa. Naha, the capital city, has a reliable network of city buses that can take you to major destinations like Shuri Castle, Kokusai Street, and the ferry terminals. From our Japanese school it’s a short bus ride to the central bus terminal, from where you can catch buses to everywhere. City buses usually charge a flat fee per ride, regardless of distance.
Okinawa’s Yui Rail, a monorail system, is a convenient way to get around Naha. It connects Naha Airport to key attractions, including Shuri Castle, and is great for avoiding traffic. The Yui Rail is clean, easy to use, and offers scenic views of the city.
Both buses and the monorail are easiest to use with prepaid rechargeable IC cards, so we recommend you get an OKICA card soon after arriving to avoid having to pay cash each time you hop on.
For longer trips around the island, highway buses connect Naha with popular spots like the Churaumi Aquarium and Cape Manzamo. Be sure to check schedules in advance, as buses don’t run as frequently as in larger cities. Another alternative for getting to more distant destinations is to join a tour that includes transport from Naha City, as this will often work out much more cheaply than buying a bus and entry ticket separately.
Getting around Okinawa is part of the adventure. The island’s relaxed pace ensures your journey will be just as enjoyable as the destination!
Very thorough network of buses run to almost all locations.
Official bus website (English)
Only one line but going to the main places in Naha.
Not sure how to get where to go, don`t worry we are happy to arrange for you to be picked up right from thearrivals gate and taken directly to your accommodation. You will meet a driver at the arrivals gate. They will be holding a signboard with your name and our name (GenkiJACS).
Naha airport is conveniently connected to the monorail system that runs through the heart of Naha City. It’s only two stops on the monorail to Genki’s Japanese school, and six stops to the center.
Schedule & fee infoBuses depart regularly from the Airport for all areas of the island.
Schedule & fee infoIn most cases, we recommend taking a taxi from the airport to your accommodation. As the airport is so convenient, traveling by taxi is relatively cheap, and is by far the most convenient and easy way to travel if you have a lot of heavy bags.
hint!
Getting a taxi by yourself from the airport can often be cheaper than asking us to book an airport transfer for you!
Naha Airport (OKA) is Okinawa’s main international airport, with direct flights from most cities in Japan and major destinations in Asia. It’s convenient and easy to get here, and it’s even possible to visit Tokyo or Taiwan on the weekend! In particular, discount flights to the big cities in Japan, and cheap flights to the other local Okinawa islands let you make the most of your time here without breaking the bank.
Transfer in one of the main cities in Japan (Tokyo, Osaka, etc.) or Asia (Shanghai, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taipei, etc.) to easily get to Okinawa from anywhere in the world. Check Skyscanner for reasonably priced tickets.
Within Japan, discount airlines such as Peach Aviation, Skymark and Jetstar offer flights from as little as 4000 yen one way between Okinawa and the major cities. It’s only 1.5 hours to Fukuoka, 2 hours to Osaka, and 2.5 to Tokyo. Look out for sales to get the best prices!
The other Okinawa islands are definitely worth a visit for some of the world’s most beautiful and almost completely undeveloped beaches. Miyako and Ishigaki are the two most famous, and only about an hour’s flight away. You can make it in a day trip, but we recommend an overnight stay for the most luxurious experience.
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