From 750€/person
5 days
Okinawa Archipelago
More then 1500km south of Tokyo, this archipelago stretches over 1200km in the East China Sea. Due to its location, Okinawa benefits from a warm and agreeable climate, perfect for enjoying its long sand beaches on a holiday break. On a cultural level, thousands of years of proximity with both Japan and China actually created very mixed traditions, and the Okinawan language also differs from Japanese. Indeed, although people settlements were present on the islands since prehistoric times, Okinawa was annexed by Japan only in 1879. After WW2, Okinawa also stayed under American civil administration until 1972. Nowadays, it is a preserved environment with much biodiversity: because of the islands' isolation, many species are endemic to the archipelago, which means you can't see them anywhere else.
The craddle of martial arts
Not many people know it, but the Japanese martial arts actually come from the archipelago of Okinawa. Karate, the "martial art of peace" actually originates from these islands, and many karate masters are Okinawan. This martial art was formed during the Ryukyu kingdom, an independent kingdom that ruled Okinawa from 1429 to 1879.
Itinerary
To reach Okinawa, you'll take a flight to Ishigaki on the Yaeyama western islands. Enjoy restful days at the beach and sea activities on this beautiful island. For your departure, a flight will take you back to Tokyo or to your next destination.
Best season
July, August & October
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Ishigaki
Today you’ll fly to Ishigaki, prefecture of the western Yaeyama islands. These smaller islands are less frequented by visitors, which makes them the perfect place to enjoy clear waters, undiscovered beaches, and charming local life. Upon arrival, a taxi booked in advance will take you to your accommodation. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Day 2: Ishigaki (B)
Today is a self-guided day to discover Ishigaki: enjoy soaking up the local culture and experiencing what the Okinawan vibe is all about. You can wander through the local shopping streets and try some of the local specialties, such as Yaeyama soba (the Ishigaki variety of the popular noodles dish) or Ishigaki beef, known to be very tender. In the afternoon, you can rent a car or scooter and explore the beautiful beaches on the west of the island.
Day 3: Ishigaki (B)
Enjoy another self-guided day in Ishigaki, this time to explore the wonders of the sea. Ishigaki has many diving possibilities, and large schools of manta rays among other fish species. A diving excursion can be organized today upon request. If you prefer, Ishigaki also offers some of Japan’s best snorkeling spots.
Day 4: Ishigaki (B)
This morning, we suggest you to embark on a boat trip to one of the smaller Yaeyama Islands. You can reach Taketomi Island by boat (only 10mn), where you’ll find a perfectly preserved Ryukyu village of only 300 inhabitants. Slightly further away, discover the true wilderness on Iriomote Island, where you’ll find some great hiking paths in the national park. If you prefer, you can also rent a car to drive around, or enjoy Ishigaki’s beaches.
Day 5: Ishigaki Departure (B)
Today, a taxi booked in advance will take you to Ishigaki airport, where you’ll take your flight to your next destination.
Information
Inclusions:
- Hotel 5* with breakfast
- Airport transfers by taxi
Exclusions:
- Visa
- International & domestic flights
- Meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurances
You want to explore this area?