Okinawa in Depth
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Port
Naha, Japan
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$209.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 8 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Discover Okinawa's embattled past with a visit to the Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum. In 1945, a fierce battle took place on these islands -- a "typhoon of steel" that lasted 90 days and decimated the island's physical landmarks, rich cultural legacy and 200,000 people. The Battle of Okinawa was the battle fought on Japanese soil and was the largest-scale campaign of the Pacific Theater of World War II.
The Cornerstone of Peace is located on Mabuni Hill, where one of the fiercest battles occurred. It is a symbol of the loss of life here.
At Memorial Park, you will glimpse the numerous marble memorials dedicated to those who lost their lives in the Battle of Okinawa.
You will walk through the amazing Gyokusendo Cave, located in the Okinawa World theme park. It is a two-mile-long cave renowned for its intricate limestone formations and is the largest of its kind in Japan. With 900,000 stalagmites and stalactites, and cool underground streams, the cave offers exquisite and mysterious scenery along its dimly-lit path.
Visit the Shikinaen Garden, originally built in 1799 for Ryukyu royalty. The restored gardens feature simple wooden buildings and pavilions with tile roofs, artfully situated among traditionally landscaped grounds. Manicured paths connect small forests, a central pond and the Rokkaku-do Pavilion, built in a classic Chinese style. The gardens blend Japanese and Chinese architectural styles and flora and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Enjoy a brief introduction to Naha's commercial heart with a drive along Kokusai Street. You'll pass hotels, department stores, restaurants and theaters. Enjoy free time to stroll through this area that combines cosmopolitan flavor with genuine folk appeal. You will find souvenirs and other goods for sale in the local stores.
Notes:
Wear sturdy non-skid walking shoes. There are 130 steps (up and down) at the Gyokusendo Cave, with no elevators or ramps. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Photography is not permitted inside the Peace Memorial Museum. The museum presents information about the War in the Pacific from a Japanese perspective; while some portrayals may be at odds with American sentiment, it is nonetheless an interesting visit. Bring local currency, as many vendors do not accept credit cards or US dollars.