Compared to the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, the Japanese island of Okinawa is a pretty laid-back place. That makes it perfect for a less frenzied holiday, but this does not mean there is not enough to see and do. If you already have the Okinawa car rental sorted out, here are some of the sights and activities you can soak in.
View the Lovely Sakura at the Nakijin Castle Ruins
Built in the 14th century, this fortress is now known as an excellent viewing spot for cherry blossoms or sakura. Due to its weather and geographical location, Okinawa gets the blooms earlier than the rest of Japan – around mid January to early February. So if you happen to be on the island at these times, ride all the way to the Motobu Peninsula in northern Okinawa Honto and experience the beauty of the place.
The castle is 90 kilometers to the north of Naha and the best wayto get there is by taking Okinawa car rental and driving via Okinawa Expressway. Exit at Nago; toll fee is 1020 yen. Then follow the regular roads all the way to Nakijin. The journey can take up to 2 hours if you set out during rush hours.
Drive Your Okinawa Car Rental to the Ocean Expo Park
Also located in the Motobu Peninsula, this attraction can be visited before or after Nakijin Castle since it is just a 10-minute drive away from that UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is especially a great place for families on road trips because the Churaumi Aquarium, considered to be the best in Japan, can be found there. The kids will love the gigantic Kuroshio Tank containing giant whale sharks and manta rays. Other things to enjoy in the park include the Oceanic Culture Museum and the Native Okinawan Village.
Go Sightseeing at the Pineapple Park
Okinawa has been cultivating pineapples as an agricultural product for around 100 years now, so it is not surprising that one whole park is dedicated to the industry. A visit to this park will take you through lush pineapple fields while riding a cart that drives itself. A tropical garden is also within the facilities plus a souvenir shop where you can sample all sorts of pineapple-infused products. Anyone who prefers to see the island with an Okinawa car rental will definitely find this place a good stop.
To get there, drive to the north via the Okinawa Expressway. Exit at Nago and then follow the regular roads. Travel time is 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic conditions. Since it is in the same area as the places mentioned above, you could make a day trip itinerary consisting these three spots and you will surely have a good time!
Explore the Lively Kokusai Street
Palm tree-lined and brimming with restaurants, this is the main street in Naha (Okinawa’s capital) and it is a great place to end your day trip before heading back to the hotel. Just find a parking space for your Okinawa car rental and you are on your way to enjoying the energy of the place. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities in the area. Simply go inside the many souvenir shops that line the street. You can browse through http://www.otoyoo.com/, a car rental website, to find more information about what Okinawa offers.
All in all, driving around this relaxing island in Japan is bound to become a memorable holiday. Let the beauty and soothing atmosphere of Okinawa melt all your stress away.