Okinawa-based staff introduce Okinawa's most Instagrammable places: 23 photo spots!

For many people, getting the perfect Instagram shot is one of the joys of travel!

There are Instagram-worthy spots all over Japan, and Okinawa has its own share of places that make you want to reach for your camera.

Okinawa is a paradise of emerald-green seas, white sand beaches and beautiful natural scenery.

But that's not all!

Streets where Okinawa's history and culture still live on, unique cafes and shopping areas are Instagram-worthy spots you won't want to miss, too.

In this article, our Okinawa-based staff introduce 23 recommended "Instagram-worthy spots".

We've sorted the spots by category, so find your favorite places and take some great photos!

Instagram-worthy spots in Okinawa by category

Okinawa is packed with Instagram-worthy spots!

No matter where you point your camera in Okinawa, you're sure to get a great shot.

First, let's look at Instagram-worthy spots in Okinawa by category.

Be sure to check out the Instagram-worthy spots recommended by our local Okinawa staff, too.

Natural scenery

Not only the main island of Okinawa but also islands such as Ishigaki and Miyako each have their own charm, and the nature and scenery typical of a resort destination are stunning.

First, here are 5 Instagram-worthy natural scenery spots in Okinawa.

Let your senses run free in Okinawa's majestic scenery, far from everyday life, and take plenty of Instagram-worthy shots.

Churaumi Aquarium

Watching manta rays and whale sharks swim in the huge tank, with one of the world's largest acrylic panels, is sure to move you.

The giant tank is one of the Instagram-worthy spots, but you can also get great shots at the entrance of the Churaumi Aquarium.

The monument at the entrance and the "Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium" sign are Instagram-worthy spots too.

Okinawa Instagram tip: Take a photo with the fish through the tank glass for a dreamy shot

Manzamo

One of the finest scenic spots on the main island of Okinawa is Instagram-worthy, too.

Waves carve away at the sheer cliffs, giving it a rugged setting quite different from a calm beach, but the crystal-clear sky and cobalt-blue sea are truly spectacular.

There is a well-maintained walking path, so stroll at a leisurely pace and look for Instagram-worthy angles.

Okinawa Instagram tip: Shoot at sunset, when the sky and sea are tinted beautifully

Kouri Island

Kouri Bridge, which connects Yagaji Island and Kouri Island in a straight line, has emerald-green sea spreading out on both sides and is an Instagram-worthy spot in Okinawa.

It's a bridge you can walk across, so portraits with the sea behind you are Instagram-worthy, too.

With an action camera that handles shaking well, you can also film video of the drive across the bridge from inside the car for an even more Instagram-worthy result.

Okinawa Instagram tip: Shoot from the bridge with a wide-angle lens to convey the scale

Nago Pineapple Park

A theme park filled with Okinawa's tropical atmosphere.

Cute pineapple mascots and rides will thrill you, and you're sure to get great Instagram shots!

There are plenty of humorous Instagram-worthy shots, such as the eye-catching "Big Pineapple" and the "Dinosaur Egg" you can peek out of.

Okinawa Instagram tip: Make the yellow of the cute pineapples really pop

Blue Cave

A cave at the foot of the cliffs of Cape Maeda, this natural masterpiece shows off Okinawa's beauty and is sure to be Instagram-worthy!

It's also famous as an Okinawa activity spot where you can enjoy diving and snorkeling.

The sea shows a different face depending on the time of day, mystical blue during the day and orange in the setting sun in the evening, and its beauty is Instagram-worthy.

Okinawa Instagram tip: Use an underwater camera to shoot inside the cave and emphasize its mystical atmosphere

History and culture spots

Next, we'll take a closer look at Instagram-worthy history and culture spots in Okinawa.

Along with Okinawa's beautiful scenery, try for Instagram-worthy shots while experiencing Okinawa's rich history and culture.

Shuri Castle

Shuri Castle is said to have been the residence of the kings of the former Ryukyu Kingdom.

The Main Hall, South Hall and other buildings were lost in the 2019 fire, but reconstruction work is now steadily moving forward.

It isn't in its complete state, but some areas have just been restored, so you can aim for Instagram-worthy shots that capture Shuri Castle's revival in progress.

There are gates that have just been repainted in vermilion, and the glossy vermilion against the blue sky is sure to be Instagram-worthy.

Okinawa Instagram tip: A wide-angle lens is recommended if you want to capture the whole castle

Naminoue Shrine

Even now that the Ryukyu Kingdom has become Okinawa Prefecture, it continues to watch over Okinawa from Naminoue as the island's chief guardian shrine.

With its vermilion pillars, Ryukyu roof tiles and other distinctively Okinawan architectural beauty, it looks like a great Instagram shot of "the colors and forms of Okinawa."

The grounds have many Instagram-worthy spots, including the purification fountain and the worship hall.

Naminoue Shrine stands on top of a steep cliff, and the angle looking up at it is especially photogenic.

Okinawa Instagram tip: Use the torii gate as a frame when shooting the shrine for a photo with depth

Tsuboya Yachimun Street

A nostalgic street lined with old buildings that preserve a trace of Okinawa's past.

Try for Instagram-worthy shots while discovering the history of Okinawan pottery that remains everywhere you look.

The cobblestone street has little car traffic, so you should be able to take Instagram-worthy photos as you stroll at a leisurely pace in Okinawa.

Okinawa Instagram tip: With a narrow alley as the backdrop, get close-ups of the signs and wares of Okinawan pottery shops

Tamaudun

The tomb where the royal family of the Okinawan Ryukyu dynasty rests is also a popular Instagram-worthy spot.

The shisa on top of the tower are different from the ones you see around town, so be sure to capture them on camera for an Instagram-worthy shot.

Okinawa Instagram tip: Contrast the massive stone buildings with the green of the garden

Nakagusuku Castle Ruins

Since the days of the Ryukyu Kingdom it has been known as a sacred site of the Agari-Umaai pilgrimage, and many worshippers visit.

Why not try for an Instagram-worthy shot at the castle gate at the top of the stairs, which resembles the hole of a magatama bead hollowed out of natural stone?

The Okinawan blue sky peeking through the hole is truly spectacular!

Okinawa Instagram tip: Use the view through the hole of the natural stone magatama as your backdrop

Cafes and food

When you come to Okinawa, Okinawan cuisine is a must.

Okinawan food is an Instagram-worthy spot that lets you feel the tropical atmosphere and resort vibe!

Here are some scenic, Instagram-worthy cafes and food spots in Okinawa.

Hamabe no Chaya

This Instagram-worthy spot is a cafe with an ocean view where you can spend a relaxing time.

Surrounded by the wide-open sea and Okinawa's natural beauty, you can enjoy a relaxing moment.

For an Instagram-worthy shot, capture the sea's horizon together with the cafe terrace to emphasize the sense of openness!

Okinawa Instagram tip: Shoot in the soft light of morning or evening for an even more romantic atmosphere

Café Doka Doka

This cafe overlooks the sea of Onna Village in Okinawa, with outstanding views and Instagram-worthy appeal.

The space blends into Okinawa's nature, letting you relax under a banyan tree, and wherever you point your camera, you're sure to get an Instagram-worthy shot.

Inside, the calm atmosphere lets you spend some unhurried time.

Okinawa Instagram tip: Shoot the cafe entrance together with the banyan tree. It's best photographed in the bright daytime hours

Cafe Kurukuma

This cafe in Nanjo City, Okinawa, offers sweeping views from high ground and authentic Thai cuisine, and it's Instagram-worthy.

The pleasant breeze and beautiful scenery are perfect for refreshing yourself!

Spicy, tropical Thai food enjoyed in Okinawa is Instagram-worthy, too.

Okinawa Instagram tip: Contrast the blue of the sea with the warm interior of the cafe

Kinchichi Soba

When you go for Okinawan food, Okinawa soba is a must as well.

We also recommend going for an Instagram-worthy shot with the homemade soba at Kinchichi Soba and a relaxing cafe time.

The bowls from a local workshop set off the Okinawa soba, making for another Instagram-worthy shot.

Okinawa Instagram tip: Arrange some typically Okinawan trinkets next to the soba and take a shot that captures the local atmosphere

Shopping and streets

Okinawa's symbol, the shisa, Instagram-worthy shops and plenty more photogenic streets await!

Here are the Instagram-worthy spots worth knowing about before you visit Okinawa, covered in full.

Kokusai-dori Street

The main street of Naha City, Okinawa.

This is the liveliest downtown area in Okinawa, and the shopping arcades are full of Okinawan character, so you can enjoy Instagram-worthy shots here, too.

Local restaurants and stylish cafes line the street, and even the colors of the signs have a strong resort feel.

There is plenty to see in the side alleys off the main street, too, with Instagram-worthy spots everywhere, such as refreshing Ryukyu pudding shops and Kokusai-dori Yatai Village.

Okinawa Instagram tip: Photograph the street at night when the neon lights are on

Daiichi Makishi Public Market

The colorful seafood and Okinawan-grown fruit on display make for Instagram-worthy shots!

There are plenty of eateries, too, so you can enjoy Okinawan food and Instagram-worthy shots at the same time.

There's also a wide selection of Okinawan souvenirs, so we recommend stopping by at the end of your trip.

Okinawa Instagram tip: With so much colorful seafood and fruit, if something instinctively feels right, don't hesitate to press the shutter

Mihama American Village

This shopping area lined with many stores is bustling with women looking for Instagram-worthy shots.

The buildings recreate an American-style townscape, and many shops sell goods and clothing imported from overseas, mainly the United States, so it should feel like a trip abroad.

Wherever you point your camera, you'll get an Instagram-worthy shot, so look for your favorite spots while you shop.

Okinawa Instagram tip: Shoot with the colorful buildings and the Ferris wheel in the background

Hands-on activities

When you go to Okinawa, Instagram-worthy shots during activities are a must, too!

For activities by the sea, it's reassuring to put your smartphone in an underwater case.

Have a blast, and go for Okinawa's Instagram-worthy shots!

Glass workshop

Try making your own glass with the help of a craftsperson.

Ryukyu glass, perfect as an Okinawan souvenir, is sure to be Instagram-worthy, too.

Okinawa Rainbow Street nearby also has plenty of Instagram-worthy spots.

It shines in bright colors when the light hits it, and it's an Instagram-worthy area you'll want to visit when you go to Okinawa.

Okinawa Instagram tip: Take close-ups of glassblowing in action or of the finished pieces

SUP experience cruising

SUP cruising at an Okinawan beach is also a popular way to go for Instagram-worthy shots.

There are many places in Okinawa where you can try it, so pick one in an area that's easy for you to get to.

This time, we're introducing Bokenjima, which offers free photo and video shooting to remember your trip.

Enjoy a fun SUP experience with veteran staff and take plenty of Instagram-worthy shots.

Okinawa Instagram tip: Blue sea × white sand × SUP = the full Okinawa experience and Instagram-worthy shots

Azama Sun-Sun Beach

A beach with lots of Instagram-worthy spots is also a good choice.

The sea and sand are beautiful, of course, but Azama Beach's Instagram-worthy spot is the "driftwood swing"!

Hop on the swing standing alone on the sand and go for a dynamic Instagram-worthy shot.

Okinawa Instagram tip: Ride the swing and capture a dynamic shot of the sea, sky and sand

Photogenic spots recommended by our local staff

Last, here are the Instagram-worthy spots picked by our Okinawa-based staff.

Many are rare spots you won't find in Okinawa guidebooks!

Since you're making the trip to Okinawa, enjoy plenty of Instagram-worthy moments.

Cactus field

Did you know that there is actually a "cactus field" in Nanjo City in southern Okinawa?

It has become a talking point for looking like Mexico, and it's busy with people hoping for Instagram-worthy shots.

As you drive along enjoying the peaceful scenery, it appears suddenly, so you're bound to be a little surprised.

Okinawa Instagram tip: Shoot from a low angle so the contrast between the green cacti and the blue sky stands out

Gorilla Chop

In Motobu Town in northern Okinawa's main island, there is a strangely shaped rock called "Gorilla Chop."

The rock jutting out onto the beach looks like the profile of a gorilla!? And that gorilla looks like it's doing a chop!

Why not go for an Instagram-worthy shot by striking a gorilla pose or acting like you're getting hit by the chop?

Okinawa Instagram tip: The rock is big, so exaggerated poses make for Instagram-worthy shots

Senagajima Umikaji Terrace

An Instagram-worthy spot with 47 shops gathered on a gentle hillside.

The restaurants, general stores and Okinawan souvenir shops have great designs, and the location is outstanding, too!

The entire area is photogenic, so wherever you frame a shot, it should be Instagram-worthy.

Okinawa Instagram tip: Capture the orange sky and sea at sunset along with the white buildings

Techniques for taking Instagram-worthy photos

From here, we'll share photography techniques for getting Instagram-worthy shots in Okinawa.

You don't need a DSLR camera. These Okinawa Instagram techniques work with a smartphone, too.

Even beginners can put them into practice easily, so please use them as a reference.

Be creative with framing

First, pay attention to the composition of your photo.

If you're a beginner, place your subject at an intersection of the rule-of-thirds grid for a well-balanced, Instagram-worthy shot!

For example, with a historic building or scenery in the background, place a person or a small object in the foreground to create a sense of depth and a more memorable photo.

Make use of light

Using Okinawa's natural light makes your photos bright and sharp.

Taking advantage of the slanting light in the early morning or evening creates shadows and should give you beautiful Instagram-worthy photos of Okinawa.

Check the position of the sun and shoot with the direction of the light in mind, and you can use shadows effectively.

Watch your background

If the background of a photo is cluttered, the subject doesn't stand out and the photo won't be Instagram-worthy.

Choosing a simple background makes the main subject stand out.

When photographing Okinawan buildings and scenery, make good use of the sky and nature and balance the whole frame to go for an Instagram-worthy shot.

Pick your timing

Tourist spots in Okinawa are often crowded, so shooting at times with fewer people, such as early morning or evening, gets you photos with a calm atmosphere.

Around sunrise and sunset in particular, golden light pours in and you can take mystical, Instagram-worthy photos.

Make use of camera settings

Even with a smartphone camera, using the HDR (high dynamic range) setting lets you take well-balanced, Instagram-worthy photos even in scenes with strong contrast between light and dark.

Using settings suited to the scene, such as Portrait mode or Night mode, gives your photos a more professional finish.

Use these techniques to take lovely Instagram-worthy photos in Okinawa.

Getting around and access information

To sightsee efficiently among Instagram-worthy spots in Okinawa, it's important to know the convenient ways to get around.

Finally, here are the main ways to get around in Okinawa, along with the features and convenience of each.

Related article: Why a rental car is the recommended way to get around Okinawa

Ways to get around

Rental car

Pros: It offers great freedom, and you can sightsee in Okinawa at your own pace.

It's especially convenient in Okinawa, where tourist spots are scattered.

Things to note: It is not available to those who aren't confident driving or who don't have an international driving permit.

Advance reservations are required during peak season.

Bus

Pros: It's inexpensive and gets you to the major tourist spots.

Regular sightseeing buses that tour Naha City and Okinawa's attractions are especially handy.

Things to note: It can take time and service may be infrequent, so it's reassuring to check the timetable in advance.

Monorail (Yui Rail)

Pros: It connects the major areas of Naha City and lets you avoid traffic jams.

Access from Naha Airport into town is convenient, too.

Things to note: It only runs within Naha City, so you'll need another mode of transportation to go to other areas.

Taxi

Pros: Convenient for short trips in Okinawa or when you have a lot of luggage.

Things to note: It can get expensive, so it's best suited to short distances.

Bicycle and motorbike rental

Pros: It's easy to get around, and you can enjoy sightseeing while feeling the Okinawan breeze.

It's perfect for sightseeing in town or on the outlying islands.

Things to note: It's easily affected by the weather and isn't suited to long-distance travel.

Access information

Naha Airport

The gateway to Okinawa, with many flights arriving and departing from within Japan and abroad.

From the airport, you can take the monorail, a bus or a rental car to get to different areas.

Naha city

Getting around by Yui Rail is convenient, and it gives easy access to sights and shopping areas.

City buses are well developed, too.

Northern area (Nago City, Kouri Island, etc.)

A rental car is convenient, but long-distance buses are also available.

Using Nago Bus Terminal as a base, you can get to the tourist spots.

Central area (Chatan Town, Onna Village, etc.)

Tourist spots are scattered, so a rental car is convenient.

Buses also run to American Village in Chatan Town and the resort area of Onna Village.

Southern area (Nanjo City, Itoman City, etc.)

A rental car is convenient for the tourist spots in the south as well.

If you take the bus, allow plenty of time.

Make use of this information on getting around and access to tour Okinawa's Instagram-worthy spots efficiently.

Summary

This time, we introduced 24 "Instagram-worthy spots" recommended by our Okinawa-based staff.

We've sorted Okinawa's Instagram-worthy spots by category, including nature, food, shopping and activities.

Be sure to check out the Instagram-worthy spots recommended by our local Okinawa staff that aren't in the guidebooks!

In Okinawa, planning your transportation and access efficiently lets you visit plenty of Instagram-worthy spots.

Use these techniques and take lovely Instagram-worthy photos at your favorite places.