Excursion Introduction to okinawa tour at Naha

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 20-minute drive to Okinawa Prefectural Museum. The Okinawa Prefectural Museum is a great place to learn more about Okinawa's unique history and culture. The museum was previously located near Shuri Castle, but was relocated and reopend in a modern building in 2007. The history museum covers the entire history of Okinawa from before the time of the Ryukyu Kingdom to modern times. It mainly intends to research, study, collect, preserve and to exhibit the materials related to the nature, history, folklore culture and arts and crafts of Okinawa. The permanent exhibition consists of "general exhibition" and "sub exhibition." You approach to the general exhibition room as if they are coming ashore to an island looking at the extended coral reefs in "Ino (lagoon)" at their feet. You can learn about life with nature on the islands of Okinawa with the large-scale diorama. At the sub exhibition, the collection of materials is displayed by the following categories: natural history, archeology, arts and crafts, history and folklore culture.

Next, re-board your coach for the short drive to Shikina-en Garden, the Ryukyu royal family's largest country retreat. The royal family used it as a getaway and also to entertain dignitaries from China. Shikina garden now covers about 23,000 square meters centering on a pond in the shape of the Chinese character "kokoro" (heart), with a six-sided gazebo in the middle and an "udun" (villa) with its red tiled roof. The park was totally destroyed during the Battle of Okinawa, but family members began restoration since then.

Your final destination is Kokusai Street, the main entertainment strip in Naha, running for about 1 mile (1.6 km). There are many souvenir shops as well as food and drink establishments lining both sides of the street. A stop will be made at "Okinawa's kitchen," a market where a wide variety of foods are sold, such as large chunks of pork, colourful tropical fish, and vegetables are grown on the island. It is the best place to learn about Okinawa's food culture.

After, visiting this interesting street re-board your coach and commence the short transfer back to the pier and your awaiting ship.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Okinawa, Okinawa Prefectural Museum, Shikina-en Garden, Konkusai Street and Market

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount (approximately 2.7km or 1.67miles) of walking, with around 50 steps at the various sites. This tour is not suitable for guests with guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Although credit cards are mainly accepted, Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. Due to the popularity of sights visited, some crowding may be anticipated. The tour sequence may vary. Local Tour Guides tend to have a strong accent therefore we urge flexibility.