It takes a while to NOT go into the right lane (US typical) when making a turn.
So not sure how long you are visiting but you will need to be very mindful of that.
The other thing is the amount of traffic.
The roadway system was built to circumvent the bases and there isn’t a strong mass transit system.
There are very good main arteries but not adequate turn lanes, so there are often long lines of people waiting to turn right – which block one of the two available lanes.
Side streets are often very narrow two lane roads, and many only single lane – and I mean VERY narrow lanes.
The good thing is that just about everyone is super nice and respectful.
And…you will need an International Driving Permit to rent a car. But you can get one in about fifteen minutes at a local AAA office for about $20.00 (which includes them taking a couple passport like photos).
Last thing.
I mostly use Waze because the traffic updates are usually better.
But I often have Google Maps running as well (with a different voice) just in case.
Be respectful and patient and it will be a fun adventure to enjoy !
I did a road trip in Okinawa. It was easy to drive. Be aware that riads are much narrower. I assume you’re getting a rental, so I recommend a car that’s not very wide. Stay on the left, you will be fine.
Everyone will know you are a foreigner because you use your windshield wiper instead of the turn signal. 😂
3 comments
It takes a while to NOT go into the right lane (US typical) when making a turn.
So not sure how long you are visiting but you will need to be very mindful of that.
The other thing is the amount of traffic.
The roadway system was built to circumvent the bases and there isn’t a strong mass transit system.
There are very good main arteries but not adequate turn lanes, so there are often long lines of people waiting to turn right – which block one of the two available lanes.
Side streets are often very narrow two lane roads, and many only single lane – and I mean VERY narrow lanes.
The good thing is that just about everyone is super nice and respectful.
And…you will need an International Driving Permit to rent a car. But you can get one in about fifteen minutes at a local AAA office for about $20.00 (which includes them taking a couple passport like photos).
Last thing.
I mostly use Waze because the traffic updates are usually better.
But I often have Google Maps running as well (with a different voice) just in case.
Be respectful and patient and it will be a fun adventure to enjoy !
I did a road trip in Okinawa. It was easy to drive. Be aware that riads are much narrower. I assume you’re getting a rental, so I recommend a car that’s not very wide. Stay on the left, you will be fine.
Everyone will know you are a foreigner because you use your windshield wiper instead of the turn signal. 😂