Things to do in Nakijin

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2026 Global 100 - Family-friendly Attractions

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

7.5

4.7/5

4.7k reviews

You can experience Okinawa's rich nature, history, and culture within Ocean Expo Park, and even play with dolphins. The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is one of the most popular attractions in Ocean Expo Park. The aquarium is filled with mysterious Okinawan marine life swimming before your eyes, as if expanding this vast world. The sunlit "Sea of Coral" keeps and displays large-scale coral communities. In the massive tank known as the "Sea of Kuroshio," you can see large fish such as whale sharks as well as successfully captive-bred manta rays, and the powerful display space is a feast for the eyes. In the "Deep Sea" area, the mysterious deep waters of Okinawa are recreated, making you feel as if you are surrounded by the seas of Okinawa and have entered an underwater world. We look forward to your every visit bringing new encounters and new discoveries!

Motobu · 9.5km from Nakijin

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Ocean Expo Park

7.5

4.9/5

500 reviews

Okinawa memorial park is located by the sea in the northern part of Okinawa's main island. Built in August 1976 on the former site of the 1975 Okinawa international ocean exposition, the park carries the theme of "sun, flowers and ocean." The grounds are broadly divided into three zones: ocean, history & culture, and flowers & greenery, featuring an aquarium, dolphin shows, botanical gardens and beaches - perfect for a half-day visit. The ocean zone is particularly popular: Okinawa Churaumi aquarium, the park's flagship attraction, houses whale sharks and manta rays in its massive tank; the adjacent dolphin theater continues shows dating back to the exposition era; the manatee house hosts manatees gifted by the Mexican government, while the turtle house observes turtle growth and dolphin lagoon offers close-up dolphin viewing; emerald beach is an artificial coral sand beach within the lagoon, swimmable in summer. The history & culture zone's ocean culture museum displays hundreds of exhibits including large canoes, showcasing Okinawa's maritime connections with the South Pacific and Southeast Asia, along with an observatory; nearby Okinawa traditional village recreates a 17th-19th century Ryukyu kingdom settlement with red-tiled houses, elevated granaries and windbreak trees, accompanied by Soro botanical garden featuring over twenty local plants mentioned in ancient ballads. The flowers & greenery zone's tropical dream center maintains year-round orchid and tropical plant displays in greenhouses, while the tropical/subtropical urban greening garden and sunset plaza make worthy stops. The expansive park requires walking between zones, with electric carts available. While most visitors head straight for the aquarium, Okinawa traditional village offers a more relaxed pace with trilingual audio guides in historic houses and occasional sanshin performances, providing deeper immersion into Ryukyu's maritime heritage.

Motobu · 9.5km from Nakijin

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JUNGLIA OKINAWA

6.4

3.4/5

867 reviews

▲DINOSAUR SAFARI The escape from T-REX, an extreme thrill ▲TREASURE FIGHT Fight together with your friends to win the treasure! ▲FINDING DINOSAURS Use your courage to find the lost baby dinosaur! ▲BUGGY VOLTAGE: Fun Adventure Course Enjoy the buggy adventure through the jungle that will make your heart race. ▲SPA JUNGLIA Immerse yourself in the spectacular view, the luxury of the tropical forest and the setting sun. ▲PANORAMA DINING A gift of a restaurant with a spectacular view for you ▲HORIZON BALLOON 360° panoramic float in the great outdoors. A luxurious trip like no other.

Nakijin · 4.8km from downtown

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No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Okinawa Island - North

Nago Pineapple Park

5.3

4.5/5

429 reviews

Nago Pineapple Park is a popular tourist attraction located in Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture, offering a theme park experience where visitors can fully enjoy tropical scenery and the charm of pineapples. Set amidst nature nurtured by subtropical warmth, this unique spot combines sightseeing, hands-on experiences, and culinary delights, making it beloved by many visitors. Upon entering the park, visitors are immediately greeted by vast pineapple fields and lush tropical greenery. Guests can explore the expansive grounds aboard the automated "Pineapple Train" carts while listening to guided audio commentary that provides engaging insights into pineapple cultivation methods and different varieties. The colorful display of pineapples in various shapes and sizes creates visual delight, captivating visitors of all ages from children to adults. Additionally, the park features numerous photogenic spots brimming with tropical vibes, where visitors can capture memorable photos surrounded by colorful, adorable decorations and lush vegetation. The attention to detail in the music and interior design creates a resort-like atmosphere that makes you feel like you've traveled abroad, adding to its unique appeal. Another major attraction at Nago Pineapple Park is the culinary experience. Within the park, visitors can enjoy fresh pineapple samples along with various pineapple-based sweets, juices, and wines. The signature sweet-and-sour flavor of Okinawan pineapples is featured in many local dishes and products, offering exclusive menu items available only here. The pineapple wine, in particular, is a popular souvenir choice. The souvenir corner is well-stocked with a variety of products including pineapple-based sweets, processed foods, and original goods, making it perfect for personal keepsakes or gifts for family and friends. Nago Pineapple Park is a tourist facility that perfectly blends nature, food, and experiences, enriching your Okinawa travel memories. This charming spot offers a tropical open-air atmosphere where you can enjoy leisurely moments while delighting all five senses.

Nago · 7.4km from Nakijin

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No. 5 of Best Things to Do in Okinawa Island - North

Kouri Island

5

4.7/5

288 reviews

Kouri Island is a circular island with a diameter of about 8 kilometers that floats north of Yagaji Island. Sea urchins and sea urchins are special products here, which are well-known and the fishing industry is prosperous. There are the creation myths and legends of the Okinawan version of Adam and Eve, and ancient sacrificial events such as the Sea God Festival held after the Obon Festival in July of the old lunar calendar have been passed down.

Nakijin · 5.3km from downtown

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No. 6 of Best Things to Do in Okinawa Island - North

Kouri Ocean Tower

4.8

4.7/5

211 reviews

The Kouri Ocean Tower is an observation facility located on Kouri Island in Nakijin, Okinawa Prefecture, and is a popular tourist spot where visitors can enjoy beautiful ocean views and spectacular scenery. Situated beyond the emerald-green Kouri Bridge, this location fully showcases the charm of Kouri Island, also known as the "Island of Love," making it a beloved destination for many tourists. From the facility entrance, you'll board an autonomous cart that gently ascends a sloping path, taking you through the park surrounded by tropical plants. During the ride, an audio guide plays, allowing you to relax while learning about Okinawa's history and culture. At the end of the cart ride stands an observation tower, where the rooftop deck offers a grand panoramic view of the East China Sea. On clear days especially, you can witness the breathtaking scenery where the crystal-clear sea and sky merge into one, creating a stunning vista that deeply moves all who visit. The facility also features a "Shell Museum" displaying a diverse collection of shells gathered from around the world, where visitors can admire shells of various colors and shapes. Additionally, there are cafes and restaurants on-site, allowing guests to enjoy meals or tea time while taking in the breathtaking views. The panoramic-view cafe is particularly popular and highly recommended as a spot to spend an elegant moment during your travels. Additionally, the souvenir shop offers unique Okinawan specialties and original goods, making it perfect for travel mementos or gift shopping. The Kouri Ocean Tower is a tourist attraction that combines beautiful natural scenery with comfortable facilities, offering visitors the perfect place to fully enjoy the charms of Kouri Island.

Nakijin · 5.5km from downtown

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No. 7 of Best Things to Do in Okinawa Island - North

Neo Park Okinawa

4.7

4.4/5

181 reviews

Neo Park Okinawa is a popular wildlife theme park located in Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture, where visitors can interact with various animals and plants in a natural environment. With the concept of "nature where humans and animals coexist," it differs from conventional zoos by minimizing the use of cages and fences, allowing visitors to observe animals freely roaming in their habitats up close. The expansive park grounds are divided into several distinct areas, with particular highlights being the "Flying Bird Show" and interactive zones where visitors can freely mingle with roaming birds. Vibrant tropical birds and rare animals can be observed up close, while feeding experiences delight visitors of all ages from children to adults. The park's greatest charm lies in its liberating atmosphere that makes you feel like you've stepped into an exotic nature reserve abroad. Additionally, the "Okinawa Light Railway" that circles the park recreates the light railway that once existed in Okinawa, allowing visitors to leisurely tour the park at a relaxed pace. You can enjoy the scenery and observe the animals while riding, making it a particularly recommended experience for families and first-time visitors. The ability to enjoy the entire park's atmosphere while moving around is another unique way to experience Neo Park. Moreover, the gardens are richly planted with tropical and subtropical vegetation, allowing visitors to enjoy lush, southern-style landscapes. It's not just about animals - the opportunity to interact with plants makes it an equally appealing educational space. Another major attraction is the chance to stroll through nature and enjoy leisurely moments of relaxation. Neo Park Okinawa is a facility that emphasizes close interaction with animals and hands-on experiences, offering a spot filled with relaxation and discovery. Visitors can enjoy Okinawa's rich nature while experiencing something different from conventional zoos.

Nago · 8.2km from Nakijin

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Kouri Big Bridge

3.9

4.7/5

233 reviews

The Gu Yuli Bridge spans the beautiful blue sea, connecting the house to the island and the ancient Yuli Island with the Okinawa version of Adam and Eve myths. The sea in Okinawa is called the "Seven Colors Sea". When driving through the Gu Yuli Bridge, the water on both sides is like jade. The color of the sea is blue and blue, and the depths are different, but it is crystal clear, and it is a very beautiful scenery.

Nakijin · 4.5km from downtown

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Nakijin Castle Ruins

3.9

4.6/5

106 reviews

The Nakijin Castle Ruins, located in Nakijin, Okinawa Prefecture, is a historical site known as the central stronghold of the "Hokuzan Kingdom" that existed before the establishment of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Registered as part of the UNESCO World Heritage site "Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu," it is a precious place where visitors can deeply experience Okinawa's history and culture. Nakijin Castle, built on elevated hilly terrain, is characterized by its vast grounds and beautifully curved stone walls, making it one of the most impressive and grandest sites on Okinawa's main island. The castle walls stretch approximately 1.5 kilometers, skillfully utilizing the natural topography to create a structure that combines both defensive functionality and aesthetic beauty. Particularly, the gently curving stone walls reveal different appearances depending on the viewing angle, captivating numerous visitors. Within the castle ruins, you can find remnants of former building foundations and sacred sites scattered throughout, offering glimpses into the daily life and religious practices of that era. From the elevated areas, you can overlook the East China Sea, where the breathtaking scenery of blue waters and lush greenery creates a special space where history and nature harmonize. Additionally, the Nakijin Castle Ruins are renowned for their seasonal landscapes. Particularly famous are the winter-blooming Kanhizakura cherry blossoms, which attract many visitors during the "Nakijin Gusuku Cherry Blossom Festival" held annually from January to February. At night, the illuminated blossoms create a magical atmosphere. At the Nakijin Gusuku Exchange Center located at the entrance, you can learn about the castle's history and excavation findings, allowing for a more insightful visit. By joining a guided tour, you'll gain detailed knowledge about the historical context of the Hokuzan Kingdom and the castle's role, resulting in a more enriching sightseeing experience. The Nakijin Castle Ruins is a precious tourist destination where you can experience Okinawa's ancient history while enjoying beautiful nature and breathtaking views. Strolling leisurely through this serene atmosphere while letting your imagination wander through historical romance allows you to feel Okinawa's profound charm.

Nakijin · 4.4km from downtown

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DINO Dinosaur PARK

3.7

4.7/5

15 reviews

DINO Dinosaur Park Yamabara Subtropical Forest was re-opened after remodeling "Yanbara Subtropical Forest" with the theme of dinosaurs by Ogoko Goten Nago Store. Yamahara Subtropical Forest is Japan's only virgin forest of penholder trees, where there are many giant fern penholder trees that appeared on earth 100 million years ago. The park is headed by the well-known Tyrannosaurus Rex, Stegosaurus, Brachiosaurus and more than 80 dinosaurs are waiting for you to explore, with sound effects, as if traveling through the scene of the movie "Jurassic Park", an unprecedented experience of stimulation. In addition, several fixed points in the park are equipped with AR technology, allowing you to use a rental tablet device (cost: 300 yen) to watch 3D dynamic dinosaurs. At the exit of the Dinosaur Park, there is a playground for children, where you can ride in a dinosaur-shaped car, a souvenir shop selling dinosaur-related products, and an Ogoko Imperial Palace Nago shop. You can also buy famous products for your friends and relatives while you are playing, killing two birds with one stone. .

Nago · 5.2km from Nakijin

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Traveller favourites curated for you

No. 4 of Best Things to Do in Okinawa Island - North

Cape Manzamo

5.1

4.6/5

1.2k reviews

Onna · 23.2km from Nakijin

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1-day tour in northern Okinawa with Cape Manzamo, aquarium and Kouri island [optional bilingual guide, optional admission ticket]

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1-day tour in northern Okinawa with Cape Manzamo, aquarium and Kouri island [optional bilingual guide, optional admission ticket]

4.8/5

409 reviews8.9k booked

Departs from Naha and other locations

Free cancellationBook now for tomorrowDuration: 9.7 hrsEnglishLimited-time sale

5% off

FromTWD 1,323TWD 1,393

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4D3N • Tropical Okinawa Highlights: Blue Ocean Views, Ryukyu Heritage, Marine Wonders and Relaxing Island Moments

Private Small Group Tours, Pure Travel Experience. True All-Inclusive, no shopping, no forced spending. Dedicated driver and 24/7 support for a carefree journey. | Enjoy quality accommodations with optional upgrades. Select from our curated list of highly-rated hotels throughout your journey. Ensure restful sleep for a perfect travel experience. | We include famous spotsin your trip. You can fully customize your plan. If any place is closed, we will quickly find a similar one for you.

EnglishGuaranteed departureArr. & dep. transfers incl.Choose your hotelMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Savings TWD 115

From TWD 24,215TWD 24,330

View More Private Tours in Nakijin

4D3N • Tropical Okinawa Highlights: Blue Ocean Views, Ryukyu Heritage, Marine Wonders and Relaxing Island Moments

Private Small Group Tours, Pure Travel Experience. True All-Inclusive, no shopping, no forced spending. Dedicated driver and 24/7 support for a carefree journey. | Enjoy quality accommodations with optional upgrades. Select from our curated list of highly-rated hotels throughout your journey. | We include famous spotsin your trip. You can fully customize your plan. If any place is closed, we will quickly find a similar one for you.

EnglishGuaranteed departureMultiple car types availableChoose your hotelOptional transferPrivate Tours

From TWD 41,559

View More Private Tours in Nakijin

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Experiences you can't miss in Nakijin

Featured Culture & history in Nakijin

View all Culture & history

Departing from Naha and Chatan | Chura Island sightseeing bus tour course D | Tropical Dream Center, Kouri Island, Okashi Goten, Cape Manzamo, and American Village

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Departing from Naha and Chatan | Chura Island sightseeing bus tour course D | Tropical Dream Center, Kouri Island, Okashi Goten, Cape Manzamo, and American Village

Duration: 8.5 hrs

English

Free cancellation

10% off

Limited-time sale

FromTWD 1,303TWD 1,448

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Okinawa north Kouri Island / South Okinawa culture kingdom join-in tour 1-day tour | Multiple packages optional※

Duration: 6 hrs

English

Free cancellation

FromTWD 2,651

Duration: 4.8 hrs

English

Free cancellation

FromTWD 16,999

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Japan Okinawa south custom trip | Senaga Island + Shurijo Castle + Tomigusuku + Naminoue Shrine + Shintoshin Park※

Duration: 4.8 hrs

English

Free cancellation

FromTWD 16,999

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Japan Okinawa custom trip | Naminoue Shrine + Cape Manzamo + Southeast Botanical Gardens + Busena Marine Park

Duration: 4.6 hrs

English

Free cancellation

FromTWD 17,108

4.3/5

· 3 reviews· 90 booked

Duration: 4 hrs

Japanese

Free cancellation

Instant confirmation

Book now for today

FromTWD 208

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Okinawa: More Than a Meal – Food, Culture & Longevity: "IKIGAI"

5.0/5

· 2 reviews

Duration: 1.5 hrs

Free cancellation

Book now for tomorrow

FromTWD 2,031

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75 Japan's trending popular foods - Okinawan cuisine at Hateruma International Avenue branch

Japanese

Free cancellation

FromTWD 583

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185 Japan's trending Okinawa Naha popular restaurant Hohobare

Japanese

FromTWD 7,908

Duration: 6.2 hrs

English

Free cancellation

Book now for tomorrow

FromTWD 1,388

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[English Service available] Okinawa whale watching experience in the Kerama Islands | Departure from Naha/Chaktani·Designated pick-up and drop-off points available

4.2/5

· 12 reviews· 277 booked

Duration: 4 hrs

English

Free cancellation

136 travellers saved

FromTWD 1,037

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Okinawa Tokashiki Island Day Trip: Slow boat/private boat, snorkeling/turtle watching optional.

4.2/5

· 24 reviews· 578 booked

Duration: 9.8 hrs

English

Free cancellation

Book now for tomorrow

997 travellers saved

FromTWD 1,890

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2Hr-1.5Hr course(Airport,Secret UG Tunnel,Senaga Isl.&Kokusai St)

4.5/5

· 11 reviews· 22 booked

Duration: 105 mins

English

Free cancellation

Book now for today

FromTWD 2,551

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[Snorkeling/Sea bathing] Okinawa Tokashiki Island 1-day tour · Skip the ticket line / Includes island shuttle

Duration: 8.3 hrs

English

Free cancellation

FromTWD 1,867

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More things to do

Nakijin Today's weatherClear 23-28℃

Nakijin weather for the next 2 days11/9: 21-26℃, 11/10: 21-24℃

coo***an20 May 2021

5.0

[Scenery] The Tropical Plant Dream Center is very similar to the nearby DINO Dinosaur Park Yamahara Subtropical Forest. Both exhibit tropical plants and flowers. This one is more for children and has some dinosaur sculptures, which is quite interesting.

DINO Dinosaur PARK

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Trip Moments in Nakijin

Explore Northern Okinawa with Trip.com | Experience a Cultural Tour and Scenic Day Trip.

“Following Trip.com's recommendation, I booked the classic Northern Okinawa day tour, which includes famous spots like the aquarium, Cape Manza, and Kouri Island.”

@朵貓貓 · 22 days ago

[Michi-no-Eki Kyoda] A very popular roadside station offering delicious B-grade gourmet food and great value tickets.

“Located in Nago City in the northern part of Okinawa Island, and just off the Kyoda Interchange of the Okinawa Expressway, "Michi-no-Eki Kyoda (Yanbaru Products Center)" is an extremely popular spot that is an absolute must-see for anyone enjoying a drive during their Okinawa sightseeing trip.”

@Wandering sisters Moe · 道の駅許田 · 13 days ago

🌴 OKINAWA 🇯🇵 — JAPAN’S HIDDEN TROPICAL PARADISE! 💙

“Okinawa is where Japan meets paradise!”

@Lo1aaa · 18 days ago

[Nakijin Village] Visit the Home of Traditional Awamori "Utsukushiki Furusato"! Exploring Awamori Culture and the Distillery Shop at Nakijin Shuzo.

“Nakijin Village, located in the northern part of Okinawa's main island, is famous for the World Heritage-listed Nakijin Castle Ruins and the stunning Kouri Island.”

@Wandering sisters Moe · 今帰仁酒造 · 13 days ago

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Popular cities near Nakijin

Onna

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Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Nakijin?

Don't miss these attractions in Nakijin: Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, Ocean Expo Park, and JUNGLIA OKINAWA. If you like Culture & history, try Departing from Naha and Chatan | Chura Island sightseeing bus tour course D | Tropical Dream Center, Kouri Island, Okashi Goten, Cape Manzamo, and American Village. If you enjoy Food & drink, try Okinawa LeaLea Bus Tour | Explore 3 Top Sightseeing Spots on the "Chura" Bus! 3-Hour Stay at Churaumi Aquarium & Included Local Taco Rice Lunch.

What are the must-try foods and restaurants in Nakijin?

You can give Okinawa LeaLea Bus Tour | Explore 3 Top Sightseeing Spots on the "Chura" Bus! 3-Hour Stay at Churaumi Aquarium & Included Local Taco Rice Lunch and Japan Okinawa north custom trip | Cape Manzamo + Ryukyu Mura + Nago Pineapple Park + Kouri Ocean Tower a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

How can I contact Trip.com customer support?

Get help anytime, anywhere within 30 secondsContact customer support

Can I change or cancel my booking?

Change and cancellation policies vary by attractions and tours. Please check the product details page for more information.

How can I get discounted prices?

Ticket prices may vary between weekdays and weekends, as well as during peak and off-peak seasons. When booking with Trip.com, you can also use Trip Coins to get extra savings. For more tips on booking discounted tickets, please visit Trip.com for the latest information.

Things to do in Nakijin

Explore top experiences

Top 10 attractions in Nakijin

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Ocean Expo Park

JUNGLIA OKINAWA

Nago Pineapple Park

Kouri Island

Kouri Ocean Tower

Neo Park Okinawa

Kouri Big Bridge

Nakijin Castle Ruins

DINO Dinosaur PARK

Traveller favourites curated for you

Cape Manzamo

1-day tour in northern Okinawa with Cape Manzamo, aquarium and Kouri island [optional bilingual guide, optional admission ticket]

4D3N • Tropical Okinawa Highlights: Blue Ocean Views, Ryukyu Heritage, Marine Wonders and Relaxing Island Moments

4D3N • Tropical Okinawa Highlights: Blue Ocean Views, Ryukyu Heritage, Marine Wonders and Relaxing Island Moments

Experiences you can't miss in Nakijin

Featured Culture & history in Nakijin

Featured Food & drink in Nakijin

Featured Outdoor & sports in Nakijin

More things to do

Free things to do in Nakijin

Kouri Island

Kouri Big Bridge

Kouri Beach

Okichan Theatre

Motobu Genki Village

Kokuei Okinawakinenkoen Emerald Beach

Orion Happy Park

Sesoko Beach

What travellers say about Nakijin

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Ocean Expo Park

JUNGLIA OKINAWA

Nago Pineapple Park

Kouri Island

Kouri Ocean Tower

Neo Park Okinawa

Kouri Big Bridge

Nakijin Castle Ruins

DINO Dinosaur PARK

Trip Moments in Nakijin

Explore Northern Okinawa with Trip.com | Experience a Cultural Tour and Scenic Day Trip.

[Michi-no-Eki Kyoda] A very popular roadside station offering delicious B-grade gourmet food and great value tickets.

🌴 OKINAWA 🇯🇵 — JAPAN’S HIDDEN TROPICAL PARADISE! 💙

[Nakijin Village] Visit the Home of Traditional Awamori "Utsukushiki Furusato"! Exploring Awamori Culture and the Distillery Shop at Nakijin Shuzo.

Popular cities near Nakijin

Onna

Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Nakijin?

What are the must-try foods and restaurants in Nakijin?

How can I contact Trip.com customer support?

Can I change or cancel my booking?

How can I get discounted prices?