Explore Okinawa’s Coastal Gems: Cape Zanpa, Manzamo, and Mihama American Village

6 Must-Visit Spots in Central Okinawa: Discover the Heart of the Island!

The Chubu area, located in the central part of the main island of Okinawa, is rich in nature and historical heritage, and offers a strong sense of Okinawan culture.

In this article, we highlight six spots that are particularly noteworthy and introduce you to the full range of scenery and culture there.

These are places that are sure to enrich your spirit as you visit.

Mihama American Village with an American West Coast atmosphere

One of the must-visit places in the Chubu area of Okinawa is the “Mihama American Village” with an atmosphere reminiscent of the American West Coast.

Accessible by car from Naha Airport in about 30 minutes, the area is lined with American stores and restaurants, offering an exotic atmosphere.

In particular, general merchandise stores offer a wide variety of American-style products, and you may be able to find unique items that are hard to find in Japan.

There are also a variety of food spots where you can enjoy hearty hamburgers, hot dogs, and other dishes full of the American spirit.

You may also enjoy taking pictures with your family and friends.

Be sure to experience the unique atmosphere of the fusion of the American West Coast and Okinawan winds.

World Heritage Site, Ruins of Nakagusuku Castle Ruins in its Original Form

The Nakagusuku Castle Ruins is an important place for Okinawa’s culture as valuable ruins that escaped the war and retain many original forms.

Located about 40 minutes by car from Naha Airport, it is registered as a World Heritage site and gives visitors a sense of the magnificent history of the Ryukyu Kingdom period.

What is particularly beautiful is its upper wall, whose gently curving lines make for a breathtaking landscape.

The unusual techniques of field piling and cloth piling can also be seen, and the way the stones are piled up shows the high level of technology of the time.

These stone wall techniques are well worth seeing and are well worth a visit.

It is also recognized as one of the 100 best castles in Japan, and is recommended for history buffs and all those who seek beautiful scenery.

Katsuren Castle Ruins with magnificent views

The panoramic view of the sea and the city from its top is one of the attractions of Katsuren Castle Ruins.

This place, which can be reached in about an hour by car from Naha Airport, is also registered as a World Heritage site.

It is said to be the oldest of the registered gusuku, and although not in its original form, restoration work based on excavation surveys is underway.

In other words, you can feel the breath of history up close here.

When you stand at the top of the ruins of Katsuren Castle, the view of nature, including the cityscape of the Cube area below and the ocean in the distance, will soothe your soul.

For visitors, the view will be memorable and special.

The powerful natural beauty of Cape Zanpa

Cape Zanpais a place worth visiting, with spectacular scenery created by nature.

Taking about an hour to reach by car from Naha Airport, it is a perfect spot to feel the energy of nature.

Surrounded by pristine nature that stretches about 2 km along the coastline, this place provides visitors with pleasant tranquility and fresh air.

From Misaki East Tower, the white building stands out against the blue ocean, even creating a somewhat magical atmosphere.

As you gaze out from the top of the tower at the vast ocean stretching all the way to the horizon, the fatigue accumulated from everyday life may well be wiped away.

This is the perfect healing place for those who want to feel the power of nature and temporarily get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Manzamo, a representative scenic spot on the main island of Okinawa

Manzamo, a scenic spot so famous that no one on the main island of Okinawa knows its name, offers a particularly spectacular view of the pristine natural terrain.

The neat cliffs facing the East Sea look majestic like elephants, and their standing height of about 20 meters is sure to overwhelm.

Visitors are often taken aback by its beauty.

There is a well-maintained walking trail that allows visitors to observe the many facets of Manzamo.

There are many viewpoints along the walk, where visitors can enjoy the crystal clear ocean view that is typical of Okinawa.

It is recommended to visit with your family and enjoy nature observation, or to visit alone and enjoy the tranquility.

Kafuu Banta, a spectacular high-altitude view spot

Finally, we will introduce Kafuu Banta, which attracts many visitors as a spectacular view spot.

About an hour and 15 minutes drive from Naha Airport, this spot is located on Miyagi Island and is connected by a comfortable road crossing the sea.

“Just driving along this road, named “Pocket Road”” is an exciting experience.

After enjoying the drive, you can visit Hanafu Banta, which is about 70 meters above sea level.

The pattern of the No. 3 reef spreading out below from here is like looking at a beautiful work of art of the earth.

This is a must-visit place for those who seek the extraordinary and want to enjoy the spectacular view.

Central Okinawa Travel Guide: Scenic Views, Culture, and More!

The above are six attractive spots in the Chubu area.

Each of these places has something to offer that reminds us of the greatness of nature and the weight of history, and will surely give us new insights into the present.

Consider this Central area as your next potential destination.

There may be a special moment waiting for you there.