I'm travelling to Japan for the first time (I am European and I do not speak Japanese). I have decided to add a few weeks to the start of my trip as I want to experience the diversity of Japanese culture, and I am very interested in Okinawa. However, I am leaving for Japan on the 15th and I am not taking my laptop. As I will be working over the weekend, I will not have time to research Okinawa in as much depth as I would have liked to so I am looking for advice on the following:
1) Okinawan history/ cultural experiences
I like to go to museums or take guided tours on my first day in a new city, as I want to understand the local way of life as much as possible out of respect and for complete immersion. I am looking for museum recommendations and guided tour recommendations that aren't too expensive as I am a student :/ I am interested in the impact of the war on Okinawa and in local traditions in particular.
I am also wondering if there are any opportunities that would allow me to observe local ways of living, such as seeing fishing auctions, or farming practices. I have found a few tours for this online but I have doubts about how authentic they are.
2) Transport
I can't drive 🙁 ! I am wondering about transport options on Okinawa main island. I have seen a few people recommend Ishigaki instead if you are unable to drive. I am wondering whether this is a good idea, or if I would miss out on educational opportunities through museums/ guided tours. Is there a cheap way to get between the two islands?
I would also like to visit Ogimi village so I am wondering if it is at all possible to get there from Naha city without a car.
3) Accommodation / Homestays
Given that I can't drive, I am wondering where the best place to stay is, whether that is on the main island or Ishigaki. I prefer to stay in hostels as I am solo travelling and love meeting new people.
I am also very interested in homestays. I am a Spanish speaker and stayed with a family in Guatemala after our bus broke down, and I found the experience very eye-opening and special. I would love to do something similar in Okinawa after hearing about homestays, but I am struggling to find any that accept only one person.
4) Dives
Finally, I am PADI-qualified and love sealife. I would love to do a dive in Okinawa and I am interested in finding out which dives are the best!!
by Own_Travel_8364