Hello Okinawa subreddit! My sister, niece, and I will be stopping at Naha, Okinawa this March 22 while on a cruise. My sister has some mobility issues and uses a cane to walk around. We only have around 12-13 hours (cruise program says ~15 hours, but I'm factoring in the disembarkation time, which I've heard could take more than an hour, and I don't want to have to rush back to port).
We plan to get around using Uber (because I already have it set up on my phone linked to my card) and the monorail. I was trying to plot out our itinerary on Google Maps, and then the Gemini AI kicked in and asked if I needed help. So I asked it to plan our movements and transport in a way that we could see the top attractions, but minimize long and difficult walks, and maximize shopping time just before heading back to the ship. Gemini first suggested we ride Ubers everywhere so I clarified that we also want to ride the monorail at least once to experience it and have an elevated view of the city. I also asked it to provide the pick-up/drop off location pins in Japanese in case we need to double check with the drivers.
May I check with you kind humans whether the AI did a good job putting together a plan or if it made any goofs in its suggestions and/or providing the Japanese location pin names? Maybe you would also have additional suggestions for what we can do for the day?
By the way, we're Catholic (and my sister is a bit religious) and since March 22 is a Sunday, we'll need to make a quick stop at the Cathedral (we don't need to catch a full mass), which is why it's in the itinerary.
Thanks for reading my post and any advice!
One Day Naha tour plan: This comprehensive guide is designed specifically for your 12-hour window on March 22. It prioritizes "saving the knees" for your companion while ensuring you hit every cultural landmark and have maximum time to shop.
⚓ Arrival: Naha Cruise Port (Wakasa Berth)
Action: Disembark and immediately open your Uber app to request a taxi.
Pro-Tip: While destinations are close, the Okinawan humidity and sun can be taxing; taxiing between these early stops preserves energy for the shopping finale.
🏯 Phase 1: Shrines & Spiritual Heritage
Stop 1: Naminoue Shrine (波上宮)
Address: 1-25-11 Wakasa, Naha-shi (沖縄県那覇市若狭1-25-11)
Mobility Note: Ask the driver to drop you at the top of the slope near the shrine entrance to avoid the steep stone stairs from the beach level.
What to see: The "Shrine above the waves" is the primary Shinto shrine of Okinawa.
Stop 2: Immaculate Heart of Mary Cathedral (カトリック安里教会)
Address: 1-13-8 Higawa, Naha-shi (沖縄県那覇市樋川1-13-8)
Transport: 10-minute taxi ride.
Mobility Note: The grounds are flat and paved. It is a quiet, contemplative space with a unique Okinawan architectural influence.
🌿 Phase 2: The Royal Legacy
Stop 3: Shikinaen Garden (識名園)
Address: 421-7 Maaji, Naha-shi (沖縄県那覇市真地421-7)
Transport: 15-minute taxi ride.
Mobility Note: This is the most challenging spot for a cane user. Stay on the paved paths near the Udun (Palace building). The circular path around the pond has some uneven coral stones; it is perfectly okay to enjoy the view from the palace veranda while the others walk the full loop.
Stop 4: Shuri Castle (首里城 – 首里杜館)
Address: 1-2 Shurikinjōchō, Naha-shi (沖縄県那覇市首里金城町1-2)
Transport: 10-minute taxi ride.
Crucial Mobility Instruction: Tell the driver: "Suimuikan (Rest Center)". This is the underground parking/visitor center. From here, there are elevators that take you up to the castle plateau, bypassing the massive stone staircases of the outer gates.
Status: The Main Hall is being rebuilt (viewable behind glass), but the view of Naha from the "Azana" lookouts is spectacular.
🚝 Phase 3: The Monorail & Shopping Marathon
The Monorail Experience (Yui Rail)
From Shuri Castle: Take a 5-minute taxi to Shuri Station (首里駅).
The Ride: Purchase tickets for Makishi Station (牧志駅).
Why this route: Shuri is the terminal station, so you’ll easily find seats. You’ll glide above the city traffic for about 15 minutes, offering a great "aerial tour" of Naha.
Stop 5: Kokusai-dori Shopping (国際通り)
Arrival: Exit at Makishi Station. You are now at the "top" of the street. Everything from here is a gentle flat walk or slight downhill.
7-Eleven OTS Building (セブン-イレブン 那覇国際通りＯＴＳビル店): * Address: 2-8-19 Matsuo, Naha-shi.
This is your "themed" stop. Look for the Okinawan tiles, the exclusive "Pork & Egg Onigiri," and local craft beers.
Don Quijote (ドン・キホーテ 国際通り店):
Address: 2-8-19 Matsuo, Naha-shi (Right next to the 7-Eleven).
This store has multiple floors with an elevator. It is the ultimate one-stop shop for Kit-Kats, skincare, and souvenirs.
by judefensor