Naha in a Day: War History, Castles & Shopping
Experience Naha’s past and present at Navy Underground HQ, Shurijo Castle, and lively Kokusai-dori
Why Take This Naha Shore Excursion?
Naha, Okinawa’s capital, offers visitors a unique mix of poignant wartime history, Ryukyu heritage, and modern city life. This excursion is designed to give you a rounded experience of Okinawa in one day:
- Navy Underground Headquarters Park (海軍壕公園) — Explore the preserved tunnels and command posts used during World War II, now a solemn reminder of Okinawa’s past.
- Navy Memorial Tower (海軍慰靈塔) — A monument honoring those who perished in the Battle of Okinawa, providing a space for reflection.
- Shurijo Castle Park (首里城公園) — Once the political and cultural heart of the Ryukyu Kingdom, this UNESCO World Heritage site (partly reconstructed after the 2019 fire) showcases distinctive Okinawan architecture, gates, and gardens.
- Kokusai-dori Street (國際通大街) — The bustling main street of Naha, lined with shops, food stalls, and cultural boutiques, perfect for sampling Okinawan cuisine and souvenirs.
This tour offers a balance of history, heritage, and modern Okinawan life, making it a rewarding shore excursion from Naha port.
Sample Itinerary: Naha Shore Excursion
Discover Naha’s history and culture
09:00 – Pickup at Niigata Port / Joetsu area
Meet your driver and guide; introduction to Niigata’s coastal charm.
09:30 – 10:15 – Goto Shrine (五智居多神社)
A peaceful Shinto shrine nestled in Joetsu, dedicated to protective deities. Walk through torii gates, explore the grounds, and learn about its connection to regional history.
10:30 – 11:30 – Takada Castle Park & Triple Turret (高田城公園・三重櫓)
Stroll through the expansive castle park, once home to a powerful Edo-era domain. Visit the reconstructed three-story turret, which serves as a small museum with samurai exhibits and panoramic views of the moat and gardens.
12:00 – 13:00 – Lunch & Visit at Nou Fish Market (能生漁市)
Taste freshly caught seafood such as crab, sashimi, and grilled specialties at the bustling coastal market. Browse stalls selling local products.
13:30 – 14:30 – Fossa Magna Niigata Gem Museum (新潟宝石博物館)
Dive into the geological heart of Japan. See sparkling gems, crystals, and unique rocks from the tectonic zone that runs through Niigata. Perfect for both science and nature lovers.
15:00 – 16:00 – Oyashirazu Coast (親不知海岸)
Stand atop dramatic cliffs overlooking the Sea of Japan. Learn the legends of this treacherous historical route once feared by travelers, and enjoy breathtaking ocean views.
16:30 – 17:00 – Return to Port
Relax on the drive back, arriving with time to re-board your cruise ship.
