Naha City Guide

Local dishes like Goya Champuru and Okinawa Soba stand out. You'll find international food near Kokusai Dori. Vegan and vegetarian options are improving but limited. Some izakayas and ramen shops open late.

Naha's nightlife centers on Kokusai Dori and Matsuyama, with bars, izakayas, and clubs.

Naha has a mix of traditional and modern coffee shops with some specialty roasters emerging.

Tipping is not customary and may be seen as rude. Service charges are often included in bills.

SIM cards are available at Naha Airport and electronics stores like Bic Camera. Providers include NTT Docomo, au, SoftBank, and MVNOs. Passport registration is required.

Naha is very clean with efficient waste management.

Convenience stores like 7-Eleven are always open. Pharmacies and clinics have limited late hours. Food is available late in entertainment areas.

Supermarkets like Ryubo, San-A, and Aeon offer local and some international goods. Makishi Public Market sells fresh produce and seafood. Most stores open 9-10AM to 9-10PM; many open Sundays and holidays.

Credit cards are accepted in major places, but cash is still needed for smaller shops, markets, and some transport.

International-friendly ATMs are in 7-Eleven stores, Japan Post Bank offices, and Aeon Bank ATMs. Expect small fees per withdrawal plus possible bank charges.

International schools like Okinawa Christian School International and Kubasaki High School teach mainly in English. Local schools use Japanese instruction.

Community is small but growing. Co-working spaces and expat groups provide some networking.

Parks like Onoyama and Fukushu-en provide green space and shaded walking paths.

Good running routes in Onoyama Park and waterfront areas. Safe and well-lit, with local running groups and events like the Naha Marathon.

Several gyms are available, including major chains and local options.

Tennis courts exist at public parks like Onoyama, with mostly hard courts and some booking requirements.

Padel is less common in Naha but slowly growing in popularity in Japan overall.

Several studios offer various yoga styles. Some may have English-speaking instructors and drop-in classes.

Karate is widely taught as Okinawa's birthplace. Dojos offer traditional and modern styles, some with English-speaking instructors.

No skiing due to Okinawa's subtropical climate.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are common at resort beaches. Equipment rentals and tours are widely offered, mainly April to October.

Surf spots are 30-60 minutes away by car. Water is warm year-round. Autumn to winter offers better swells. Spots range from beginner to advanced.

World-class diving with clear water and diverse marine life. Available year-round with many dive shops and schools nearby.

Naha has quality public and private hospitals, some with English-speaking staff or translators. Pharmacies offer common medicines and advice. Emergency numbers: 119 (ambulance/fire), 110 (police).

You can drink tap water safely in Naha.

Playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes are common. Attractions include Okinawa World, Shuri Castle Park, and Churaumi Aquarium (a longer trip). Baby supplies are easy to find.

More tolerant than some areas of Japan, with some LGBTQ+ venues and events. Legal protections are limited.

Pet policies vary, with many places not allowing pets. Veterinary care is good, but pet-friendly parks and restaurants are limited.