Search Results forokinawa
Junglia Okinawa set to open on 25 July in Japan
A new nature-immersive theme park, Junglia Okinawa, is set to open in Okinawa this 25th July offering visitors the chance to experience cutting-edge attractions and family-friendly entertainment in the heart of the prefecture’s Yambaru Forest – the northern part of the Yambaru area is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage status and breathtaking natural landscape. Developed by Japan Entertainment Inc and built on the site of a former golf course, Junglia Okinawa’s design and concept is heavily inspired by the region’s spectacular subtropical rainforests. It will offer an exciting blend of thrill-seeking rides, luxury experiences and immersive activities that highlight the park’s natural surroundings. Stand-out attractions will include a gas-balloon ride (HORIZON BALLON) where guests can take in spectacular 360-degree vistas of the verdant green forests and emerald-green seas below, a DINOSAUR SAFARI which will whisk passengers through the savannah to meet the park’s prehistoric inhabitants and a TREE-TOP TREKKING experience across a jungle suspension bridge. A luxurious spa will be available on site, featuring outdoor infinity pools overlooking lush forests and mountains, a calcium bath, cave bath, natural hot springs and sauna. The park’s Panorama Dining restaurant will serve an array of Okinawan foods and will feature ‘floating’ nest-like seating areas perched above the treeline overlooking the park. Other dining options include Wild Banquet, an outdoor area of the park surrounded by brightly coloured tropical plants where guests can enjoy an alfresco menu of local specialities grilled to order in a live theatre-style kitchen. Junglia Okinawa is located 1.5 hours north of Naha Airport. It can be accessed via car with parking available on site and shuttle buses will be in operation from partner hotels. Tickets will be available to purchase online or upon arrival from the park’s ticket booths. The Yambaru Forest is a distinctive area in the north of Okinawa’s main island, rich with subtropical evergreen forests, mangroves and limestone mountains. It is a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, with an abundance of activities available such as hiking, canoeing, kayaking, excursions to secluded beaches and wildlife watching. Highlights from the area include the fascinating rock formations at ASMUI Spiritual Hikes, the Hiji Waterfall and the Gesahi Bay Mangrove Forest.
Singapore and Okinawa: How to soak in the wellness benefits of these blue zones
In the wake of the recent hit Netflix series ‘Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones’, the world has become a little obsessed with the idea of these special regions around the world where residents live the longest. Among these are two regions in Asia, Okinawa in Japan and, most recently, Singapore, both of which are home to an unusual number of centenarians, aligning with Dan Buettner’s definition of a ‘blue zone’. If you too are fascinated by what makes up the unique lifestyle that has created such a phenomenon, here is how to experience these destinations and take some tips home. Okinawa, Japan Cuisine Okinawa’s longevity can be attributed in a large part to its clean and nutritionally complex diet. Traditionally low in calories and fat yet high in carbs, the Okinawa diet is centred around vegetables and soy products alongside occasional, small amounts of noodles, rice, pork, and fish. Travellers looking to sample this iconic cuisine should head to Makishi Markethuri, known as “The Kitchen of Okinawa”, where all manner of small businesses serve traditional Okinawan food. For a more unique eat, they can visit Yaeyama Island to try the “soba” noodles made from white wheat that have become renowned in this part of the world. Nature Although Japan’s treasured Sakura blossoms typically bloom from March and April on the mainland, in Okinawa winter travelers can enjoy the blossoms earlier than in the rest of the country, in January and February. Okinawa offers the chance to bask in the sun on its various secluded beaches, or even head in to the jungle for a quiet moment with nature. Fitness Okinawa is also the birthplace of karate, and a pilgrimage to the source is a must for fans and practitioners of the art. Travellers can join classes hosted by numerous karate clubs in the area in order to try out this incredible martial art for themselves, and reap the physical benefits. Where to stay: IRAPH SUI, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Miyako Okinawa IRAPH SUI, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Miyako Okinawa is located on Irabu Island, which lies 300 kilometers southwest of Okinawa's main island and is blessed with beautiful nearby coral reefs, primeval forests and a rich historic culture. IRAPH SUI faces the clear beautiful sea and provides plenty of space to relax and rejuvenate. In addition to 58 guest rooms, some with private pools, there are luxury facilities such as a gourmet restaurant with panoramic views that serves diverse dishes with fine local ingredients such as wagyu, pork, fresh fish and delicious vegetables. An hour of free champagne service is on offer to guests every evening from 17:30 to 18:30, which certainly helps create a relaxed environment. Guests are invited to relax their body and soul in the hotel’s relaxing spa or enjoy the swimming pool that seems to melt into the sea and sky. A free bath salt making activity is held each day to encourage guests to relax in their private baths. A free 30-minute yoga session is available to each guest of the hotel, and yoga classes are on offer throughout the day. Singapore Cuisine The abundant street food markets in Singapore are an ideal place to enjoy some of the affordable and nourishing food that is at the heart of the diet there. Many of the traditional local dishes from noodle broths to vegetable rolls have proven benefits to our health. Part of the blue zones’ success has been attributed to the sociable nature of the elderly, who eat together in these markets on long tables and create a strong sense of community, avoiding loneliness. Taking a trip to these hubs is an incredible way for travellers to soak in the atmosphere and try out some of the nutritious food for themselves. Nature Singapore’s incredible Botanic Gardens, with 80 hectares of tropical fauna and flora, lakes and forests, are an oasis of nature that are free to explore, and are also the destination for elderly residents to exercise together first thing in the morning. Visitors to Singapore can join the locals in walking through this incredible natural parkland. Gardens By The Bay and the Japanese Garden also feature some of the most impressive flora displays in Singapore, with the latter being the world's only tropical garden designated as a UNESCO Heritage Site. Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Singapore Paving the way for world-class accommodation, The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore invites guests to stay in truly spectacular surroundings. With its panoramic views, guests can marvel at the city below. Celebrated for its authentic Cantonese cuisine, the hotel’s one Michelin star Summer Pavilion is a must-visit. Exclusive La Mer facials and ESPA body treatments are available at the award-winning Ritz-Carlton Spa, while the hotel’s octagonal bathroom windows offer one of the most indulgent luxuries - a butler-drawn bath set against the stunning city skyline, which is sure to add a cherry on top to any wellness-focused trip.
Children from Hong Kong, Japan, and Taiwan conduct “Beach Cleaning” in Okinawa
Children from Hong Kong, Japan and Taiwan clean the beach in Okinawa together With the Japanese government potentially discharging nuclear wastewater, children have taken a special interest in discussing environmental issues in Japan. They have also engaged in beach cleanup activities, seizing the last moments to experience the ocean that has yet to be contaminated by nuclear pollution. The JCI North District specially organized this beach cleanup event from August 10th to 14th, led by the president, Raymond Lai, where children from Hong Kong, Japan, and Taiwan joined together to clean the Okinawa beach which has not yet been affected by nuclear pollution. After going through two typhoons, the natural beaches of Okinawa were littered with a lot of garbage. The children, learning that the ocean could soon be polluted by nuclear waste, cherished ated to environmental protection, focusing not only on mountain and beach clean-up but also addressing the issue of marine litter and conservation. Hong Kong has a precious marine environment that is currently plagued by litter. We must take action to protect this marine habitat of extraordinary ecological value. On May 28th, we held the "Nature Rangers – Clean Up Fun Dive" event, where we invited the very famous Ghost Net Hunter, Mr. Chan Tin-Ming MH to particithis opportunity to experience the beautiful ocean while they still could. Besides actively cleaning up the beach, the children also visited the DMM Kariyush aquarium to Heighten their understanding of marine ecology and the importance of conservation. Apart from cleaning the beach, this 5-day, 4-night "International Children's Cultural Exchange Camp" also provided the children an opportunity to step out of Hong Kong and meet children from different regions, including Japan and Taiwan, China. The itinerary included visits to the Ryukyu Cultural Village and the Ogimi Shiikuwassa Park. The children learned about environmental conservation while experiencing Japanese culture and gaining insights into colonial history. 14 children from three different regions participated in the 'International Children's Cultural Exchange Camp' to learn and exchange culture with each other. Raymond Lai, the President of The JCI North District, expressed, "I am concerned about the potential harm that could be caused by the discharge of nuclear wastewater. This could have a far-reaching impact on the marine ecosystem and be even more damaging than marine garbage. We shared our thoughts with our sister organization, the Naha JCI Japan, and hope to encourage the Japanese government to stop the discharge of nuclear wastewater. In addition, we plan to clean the beaches in Okinawa to demonstrate the commitment of the 'Nature Rangers' to protecting the environment, regardless of borders." Participant Kayton Ng, aged 11, revealed that the International Children Cultural Exchange Camp did not only allow me to understand the history of the Ryukyu Kingdom but also to learn its traditional culture and arts. It helped children to understand the spirit of craftsmanship. He believed the trip would have a strong influence on his growth in the future. Kayton added, "it was the first time I joined cleaning work for a beach in Japan and I firmly believe that environmental protection is not just an individual matter but a global issue. All global villagers share the same responsibilities." Participant Tierra Wong said, "This International Children's Cultural Exchange Camp has allowed me to see the culture of Japan (mainly Okinawa) and met new friends from Japan, Taiwan, and Hong Kong." Participant Charmaine Ng said "I want to express my gratitude to our teachers for taking great care of me and making me feel safe throughout this journey. Additionally, I would like to extend my appreciation to the organizers. Without your hard work and dedication, I wouldn't have had the opportunity to embark on such a fun and exciting adventure to Japan. From the depths of my heart, I simply want to say a heartfelt THANK YOU. This journey will always hold a special place in my memory. This journey was not just a cultural exchange camp but also an opportunity to understand the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It aimed to enhance the children's awareness of environmental protection and clean water, and jointly seek solutions to global issues. We hope that the Japanese authorities heed our voice, think about the sustainable development of the planet, and immediately stop discharging nuclear wastewater into the ocean, thereby protecting marine life. This is what responsible humans should do!
Halekulani Okinawa becomes first and only Virtuoso member in Okinawa
Halekulani Okinawa has announced its recent acceptance into the prestigious Virtuoso luxury travel network as the first and only member in Okinawa. This new affiliation represents recognition and approval of the services and experiences provided by Halekulani Okinawa catering to luxury travelers. Members of Virtuoso consist primarily of international travel agencies and travel advisors specializing in luxury experiential travel. Currently, Virtuoso has a network of over 20,000 advisors in approximately 50 countries worldwide. The network operates through partnerships with various entities, including global hotel chains, independent hotels, cruises, private jets, and destination management companies (DMC), comprising more than 2,200 different businesses and formats. “Virtuoso’s acceptance process is incredibly selective, so becoming a preferred partner – and the first in Okinawa – is a true honor,” says Jun Yoshie, General Manager of Halekulani Okinawa. “We are committed to listening even more attentively to our guests’ feedback and requests, striving to continue to provide the best stays and experiences. The spirit of hospitality cultivated by the Halekulani brand for over a century in Hawaii and the heartfelt ‘Utuimuchi’ hospitality cherished since the Ryukyu Dynasty resonates harmoniously at Halekulani Okinawa. This guides us to fulfill the desires of guests who wish to fully experience a unique culture and deeply engage with authentic experiences that go beyond ordinary travel.” With a commitment to providing unforgettable experiences, Halekulani Okinawa can now offer an even more exceptional “journey of a lifetime” to luxury travelers around the world through its many enriching programs and on-site facilities. The “Halekulani Okinawa Escapes” offer five experiential programs that allow guests to experience the longevity island of Okinawa, one of the world’s renowned Blue Zones. Four distinct restaurants and one bar provide exclusive menus filled with originality, utilizing local ingredients from Okinawa and various regions of Japan. SpaHalekulani invites guests to a profound state of relaxation through treatments that incorporate traditional ingredients from Okinawa, which have long been cherished as medicine of life, known as “Nuchigusui” in Okinawan dialect, combining the mystical healing spirits passed down generations in Hawaii.
Thai Vietjet inaugurates Bangkok – Okinawa service
Thai Vietjet successfully commenced its maiden flight service between Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) and Okinawa (Japan) with a warm welcome ceremony at Naha Airport in presence of a representative from Naha Airport, Okinawa Convention & Visitors Bureau, together with Miss Okinawa. “We’re delighted to collaborate with Tourladfah and officially add another service between Thailand and Japan, connecting Bangkok and Okinawa, after Bangkok - Fukuoka and Chiang Mai - Osaka, offering a more convenient & valued travel choice to passengers at an affordable price while providing quality and comfortable service. We believe that the new service will partially contribute to the further growth of the tourism sector between the two countries, particularly when global travel is bouncing back to its positive stage” said Woranate Laprabang, chief executive officer of Thai Vietjet. In the early stage, the new service Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) - Okinawa will be operated by the airline's charter flight service, with the frequency of 2 flights per week, every Thursday and Sunday, according to the following flight schedule: Flight no. Origin Destination Departure Arrival Days of Operation VZ3800 Bangkok Okinawa 09:30 15:40 Thu / Sun VZ3801 Okinawa Bangkok 16:40 19:30 The collaboration between Thai Viejet and Tourladfah broadens a new opportunity for both service providers. Both believe the new cooperative service will help stimulate the travel market between the 2 countries. Japan is the top destination among Thai travelers, and Okinawa is a historic city in Japan which has outstanding architecture, traditional culture, as well as beautiful natural landscapes that impress tourists from around the world. Passengers can book the flight service between Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) and Okinawa with a promotional travel package (inclusive of an air ticket, 20 kg. checked-baggage, tour guide, 4 nights accommodation, meals & insurance) starting from THB 29,990 per person.
Thai Vietjet to fly the only direct Bangkok – Okinawa route
Budget airline Thai Vietjet is expanding its wings with new direct flights between Bangkok, Thailand, and Okinawa in Japan, in collaboration with Thai travel agency Tourladfah Co., Ltd. The route between Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport and Okinawa’s Naha Airport will fly twice per week on Thursdays and Sundays, starting 16, March 2023. Flight VZ3800 will depart from Bangkok at 8.50am and flight VZ3801 will depart from Okinawa at 4pm. Thai Vietjet joined hands with Tourladfah Co., Ltd., to make the route a reality. Tourladfah is a leading travel agency specialising in outbound Thai travel to Japan.
Okinawa welcomes Japan’s earliest cherry blossom with series of events
Okinawa is gearing up for the cherry blossom season with a series of events and festivals to welcome visitors keen to witness the earliest showing of this magical display. Thanks to its subtropical climate, the southernmost prefecture of Okinawa enjoys the earliest blooming cherry blossoms in the whole of Japan with some seen as early as mid-January, and they do not only arrive earlier but have a unique vibrant pink colour, darker than the shades seen elsewhere in Japan. The most common cherry trees in Japan are the Yoshino Cherry (Somei-Yoshino) and the Yamazakura Hill Cherry, both enjoying a pale pink - almost white - colour when in bloom. Whilst these species can be found in the archipelago, the most common variety of cherry tree in Okinawa is the Hikanzakura, which have a dark pink petal. Additionally, cherry trees in the prefecture finish their bloom differently with its dark pink flowers falling almost intact to the ground as opposed to other varieties which lose their petals one by one... Okinawa offers a truly unique cherry blossom experience altogether! The arrival of these beautiful and delicate flowers is a highlight of Japan´s events calendar with various festivals taking place throughout the first months of the year. Here the Okinawa Convention and Visitors Bureau highlights some of the events due take place on the Okinawa Main Island in 2023: Nakijin Cherry Blossom Festival (late January) From the 21-29 January, the ancient ruins of Nakijin Castle become the backdrop of the weeklong festivities. The UNESCO-listed 13th century castle is the second largest in Okinawa with more than 1.5 kilometres of walls, which during the festival are illuminated allowing visitors to enjoy the cherry blossoms also at night. An array of traditional Ryukyu arts and performances take place all week. Additionally, this is a site of great historical importance for the prefecture and, for those keen to learn more, guided tours are available from ¥3,000 (approx. £18). Nago Cherry Blossom Festival (late January) Held at the Nago Central Park, the Nago Cherry Blossom Festival is due to take place on January 28th and 29th. The highlight of this two-day event is the two-kilometre path lined with over 20,000 cherry blossom trees, a beautiful sight year-round, but extra special at this time of the year. This event also presents an opportunity for travellers to enjoy the traditional Okinawan dances of eisa and Ryukyu with performances scheduled to take place both days. Naha Chura Cherry Blossom Festival (early February) In February, Manko Lake Park, in the capital Naha, will host a one-day event (date is to be confirmed) with traditional dance performances and local food stalls to welcome the blooms. The approx. 400 trees at the park are at full bloom all month so visitors can celebrate their very own cherry blossom festival throughout February. The well-known Kokusai-dori Street is walking distance from the park and offers a 1.6-kilometre stretch of stores, restaurants, bars and sightseeing options to enjoy before and/or after taking a relaxing stroll at the park. Additionally, from January to May, Okinawa also sees the bloom of a myriad of many other flowers and celebrates the Okinawa Flower Carnival, which takes place in different shapes and forms throughout the prefecture with highlights including the Higashi Village Azalea Festival, the Ie Island Lily Festival, and the Okinawa Bougainvillea Fair.
Okinawa bolsters tourism offering unique accommodations
Okinawa is set to welcome the launch of two new properties, further bolstering its tourism offering now that Japan’s borders have re-opened to all international visitors. ‘NOT A HOTEL ISHIGAKI’ will be a unique, one-room location built on a 9.9 square kilometre site located on the coast of Ishigaki Island, whereas Watermark Hotel and Resorts Okinawa Miyakojima opened its doors on 5 August 2022 and is a 50-room property located on the beach of Sawada, Irabu Island in the Miyako Islands, about 300km southwest of the main island of Okinawa. ‘NOT A HOTEL ISHIGAKI’ ‘NOT A HOTEL ISHIGAKI’ is designed by Sou Fujimoto, the venue designer for the Kansai Expo in Osaka, and represents NOT A HOTEL Inc’s latest development and sixth location in Japan. The property will be put on sale in May 2023, with its hotel operation coming a little later. The 350 square-metre circular house boasts stunning ocean views, a private garden, four separate bedrooms, which can accommodate up to 10 people, and a living room and dining room which look out over the sea. The unique design comprises a roof which is covered in plants and trees, with no other buildings visible, just slices of the deep blue sky from openings among the foliage which provide subtle boundaries between the indoors and outdoors. The island kitchen has a view of the sea and is situated in the open combined living and dining room area that is surrounded by glass. The adjoining terrace has a large pool, fire pit, open-air bath and sauna with panoramic views of the sea and connects to the beach. The open house has windows on each side and will enable guests to enjoy the calming sites of the surrounding nature. Whether sitting under the shade of the main tree, or enjoying a glass of wine on the terrace, ‘NOT A HOTEL ISHIGAKI’ exudes relaxation and calm and makes a unique addition to Okinawa’s tourism offering. ‘Watermark Hotel and Resorts Okinawa Miyakojima’ Located on Sawada beach, selected as one of the “100 best beaches in Japan”, Watermark Hotel and Resorts Miyakojima boasts 50 guest rooms over four floors with a choice of four room types. The first floor houses four guest suites with private garden and a jacuzzi (two with additional kitchen), whereas rooms on the second to fourth floors all have large balconies with views of the ocean and the neighbouring islands. The top floor of the hotel has an infinity pool for the exclusive use of hotel guests, where from beautiful sunsets on the horizon can be viewed. Watermark Hotel and Resorts Miyakojima opened its doors to guests on 5 August 2022 and is situated on Irabu Island in the Miyako Islands, about 300km southwest of the main island of Okinawa. Irabu Island benefits from a mild climate and is blessed with a beautiful sea with layers of aquamarine and blue tints that boast high transparency. The hotel is committed to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with furniture in the hotel building and guests rooms mainly made of recycled materials. The property also offers the use of hammocks and astronomical telescopes to guests so that they can make the most of the stunning location. Both ‘NOT A HOTEL ISHIGAKI’ and ‘Watermark Hotel and Resorts Miyakojima’ offer contrasting yet highly welcome additions to Okinawa’s growing portfolio of tourism products and mark an exciting time for Japan’s southernmost prefecture as borders reopen to international tourism without restrictions.
Hong Kong Airlines resumes Okinawa and Sapporo flights
Hong Kong Airlines celebrated the resumption of its service toOkinawa on 2 November, following a long wait of two years. Known as the “Hawaii of Japan”, Okinawa is the airline’s third destination in Japan that it has resumed this year following the relaxation of travel restrictions. Meanwhile, the airline is also delighted to announce that […] Hong Kong Airlines resumes Okinawa and Sapporo flights
Learn more about Okinawa’s nature and culture in Visit Okinawa’s latest videos
Visit Okinawa has released new videos for travel agents looking to learn more about the unique experiences Japan’s southernmost prefecture has to offer as well as tips on how to incorporate the destination as part of their clients´ Japan itineraries. The first video features Iriomote Island, which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2021 for its ‘outstanding universal value’ and is an ideal spot for off the beaten track exploration. Meanwhile, the second video shares the history and insights of the shisa figures, an iconic part of Okinawa´s unique history and heritage and great for visitors looking to book culture-rich breaks in 2022 and beyond. Lastly, the third video, a webinar produced with Online Travel Training (OTT), covers aspects of the archipelago´s culture, history and craft offering and sees Matt Spiller from InsideJapan Tours share his tips on how to sell Okinawa. Nature activities in Iriomote Recently recognised by UNESCO, Iriomote Island is perfect for travellers seeking to book a nature-rich break. The video explains the qualities and prominent features of this stunning remote island in the Yaeyama region and the array of nature activities that visitors can enjoy. Due to an abundance of rivers fostering mangrove forests (80% of mangrove forest in Japan is found in Iriomote) popular activities include river kayaking, stand up paddleboarding and, during the summer, canyoning. The video also highlights secluded spots such as waterfalls that can only be reached via kayak and night-time activities including stargazing and tours to find the famous Iriomote cat - which only inhabits Iriomote Island. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAxUvwdytVk Shisa lions of Okinawa Also referred to as ‘guardian lions´, shisa figures are Okinawa´s cultural icon. Believed to fend off evil spirits, this video Visit Okinawa explains the origins and history of shisa and shares several interesting facts about the popular talismans such as how to differentiate a male figure from a female. Whilst shisa can be found throughout the prefecture on rooftops, roadsides, in restaurants and in workplaces, the video also highlights not-to-be-missed examples and those of historical and cultural significance such as Tomori Stone Lion, located in the town of Yaese (about 30 minutes from the capital Naha) and dating back to 1689. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBzpiJ92RAY How to sell Okinawa The latest webinar with OTT sees Visit Okinawa share an overview of the destination highlighting its history and notable historic sites to visit and popular crafts and authentic experiences such as playing the Sanshin and learning how to cook traditional Ryukyu cuisine. Additionally, this video is also great for travel agents looking for suggestions on how to incorporate Okinawa into a typical Japan itinerary as Matt Spiller, Trade Sales & Marketing Manager at InsideJapan Tours, talks about how Okinawa is the perfect add-on to a multi-trip to Japan and shares his tips on how to incorporate the stunning archipelago to Japan´s famous Golden Route, how to get there information and recommendations on things to do for clients who have less time and for those that have longer. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2buiTUj7H8
No companies found matching your search.
Return To HomeNo Event found matching your search.
Return To Home