Away from the rush and noise of Japan's famous cities, Okinawa is a dream. With tropical beaches, turquoise waters, and an ancient culture of its own, it's not to be overlooked.
Laura Pin
Depending on where you are coming from, getting to Japan can be tiring, not to mention the jet-lag. So make sure to give yourself some grace on the first day!
Though you may want to take your time adjusting to the vibrant energy of Osaka, allow your taste buds to dive right in with the city's classic dish: okonomiyaki!
Now you've (hopefully) had a good sleep, you should have a tonne of energy to start exploring! Grab your 7-eleven smoothie (and try the maple pancakes) and an energy jelly drink, and get ready to go!
2-chōme-9-19 Motomachi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0016日本
If you want to see this truly spectacular shrine, then my recommendation is heading there first thing before the crowds pile in.
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Dotonbori is full of fabulous street food, some of which you may never have heard of. Why not join a local and discover all the best spots for the best food.
Just a little down from Dotonbori is Orange Street, the best place for fashion and thrifting lovers. It has some of the best thrifting shops in the city.
Along with a super stylish storefront, BIOTOP also has a phenomenal pizzeria on the rooftop. Grab a drink, a pizza, and enjoy the vibe.
Now we've checked out the food and fashion scene, let's move on to some classic sightseeing.
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This is one of our well-loved tours! Don't just visit Osaka Castle, experience it. A local guide can give you all the insights as well as take you to hidden spots most others won't know about.
After so much walking around, you're going to want to get your energy up. The best way to do that is to grab a great bowl of tonkatsu!
1-chōme-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno Ward, Osaka, 545-6016日本
Aim to get to Harukas Observatory for sunset for the most phenomenal view of the city, one you won't forget.
Before moving onto the next part of your journey, let's take a moment to indulge all our senses and build up our energy for the next stage of the journey.
3-chōme-4-24 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002日本
One of the biggest spas in Japan, this place has an entire floor for each gender with tons of different baths, pools, and soothing experiences. You can also get massage services for extra indulgence. I recommend the back scrub!
2 Chome-5 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002日本
Once the sun has set and you feel the cleanest you've ever felt, the next stop is right around the corner! Full of lights and with retro charm, this destination is not to be missed.
It may be a bit of a tourist trap, but it's one we'll happily walk into! If you're in Shinsekai, you have to stop and eat kushikatsu, deep-fried skewers.
Start your day off in Okinawa's colorful capital, Naha
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Spend the day learning about the history of this unique island by taking a peace walking tour through the cities historical Shuri Castle.
3-chōme-2-10 Makishi, Naha, Okinawa 900-0013日本
Explore the palm tree-lined street of Kokusai Dori. You won't find it difficult to find a delicious restaurant here.
If you're a cocktail lover, then you cannot miss out on a trip to Shingo Gokan's El Lequio, rated as one of the Top 50 bars in the world.
Time to leave the world behind and vanish into Okinawa's Kerama Islands
Easy to get to by ferry, Zamami can be treated as a day trip, but I like to stay on this island for a few days. Whether booking a hotel or camping by the beach, its such a tranquil place.
First of all, take in a view of the whole island and bask in your surroundings.
Furuzamami Beach, Zamami, Shimajiri District, Okinawa 901-3402日本
Next, head to the beach where you can swim among the corals and spot tropical fish! Try to pack coral friendly sun screen to ensure you don't harm the coral.
This local izakaya serves amazing Okinawan food such as champuru and pork rafute (my favorite)
Stay another day to chill and enjoy the islands water sports
Ama Beach, Ama, Zamami, Shimajiri District, Okinawa 901-3403日本
Not flashy, but definitely worth a visit for fresh seafood and friendly atmosphere
Head to catch the last boat of the day to make your way back to Naha and continue your Okinawan journey
Staying on Zamami, take another day to relax and unwind.
Why not take a hike around the island to another stunning observation deck
Make sure to get the ferryat the end of the day to head back to Naha, and don't forget to watch out for locals waving you off from the pier.
Naha is great, but to experience local life you need to head north, to the spiritual heart of the island.
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If you're unsure about how to approach the north, then this tour is a great way to dip your toes in before delving in further.
日本〒905-1633 Okinawa, Gabu, ワルミ大橋
Make sure to grab a snap from this amazing location!
Okay, hand on heart, I haven't been here, but a number of locals recommended it to me, so I put my faith in them!
The northern most part of the island is home to the Yambaru National Park, a biodiverse primeval forest. The people of Okinawa are deeply spiritual, and the Yambaru forest is filled with spiritually important spots that connect the people to the gods.
Why not start at the top of the island and take in the stunning coastline?
One of the most spiritual sites on the island, you can discover the geological history of the region as well as experience points of significant spiritual energy.
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Head into another world with this kayaking experience that takes you deep into the mangroves.
Before leaving this magical island, let's enjoy just one final day in it's vibrant capital.
Check out this local market, home to fishmongers, butchers, and grocers. It's a vibrant market with a dine-in space for visitors to try local food.
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Have fun on your final day in Okinawa by exploring its izakaya culture with a local expert.
While many head straight to Kyoto for history and culture, they miss out on the quiter, and even more historic Nara nearby.
There is so much to do in Nara, which can be a little overwhelming. Get a guide to show you all the best spots as well as have you take part in some unique Japanese experiences. Bonus Tip: Make sure to ask them where they recommend for dinner, they'll know the best spots!
Nara isn't just home to epic temples, it also has an amazing merchant district to explore.
Naramachi, Nara, 日本
Wander through the streets of Naramachi and pretend you've stepped back in time. It's a great place for interesting souvenirs and crafts.
Why not head to this cute museum to try out traditional Japanese mechanical toys!
A well-loved local restaurant serving local food prepared traditionally. Staff are kind and helpful!
Your two weeks in Japan is almost up, which is sad, but you still have two more days to soak up as much as possible!
You can't come to Japan and not try fluffy pancakes, so this is my recommendation, though get here early because the queue can get very long!
If you're looking for amazing souvenirs before leaving Japan, then you need to head Cookware Shopping Street. Along with cups, plates, and bowls, they have the best knives you can buy!
7-13 Souemonchō, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0084日本
Head up to Dotonbori for one final time and indulge in some touristy fun.
This was the first location I ever ate okonomiyaki, which has now become one of my favorite dishes here in Japan. I will always go back for nostalgia's sake.
By now, you have spent enough time around the city to know what you liked. For your last day, wander around and head back to the places you enjoyed the most!
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