Okinawa

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Destination: Okinawa

Introduction

Okinawa is Japan's southernmost prefecture and gateway to an arc of subtropical islands stretching 1,000 km from the main Japanese archipelago almost to Taiwan. For sailors approaching from the Philippines, Palau, or across the Pacific, it is the natural first port of call into Japan — the customs and immigration entry point, and an island that combines distinctly different Ryukyuan culture with Japanese efficiency and the warmth of a tropical climate. Naha, the prefectural capital, offers full marina facilities and an active sailing community. The Kerama Islands, just 20 nm to the west, are widely acclaimed as some of the finest diving and snorkelling waters in Japan, with extraordinary water clarity and healthy coral gardens. Okinawa Main Island itself carries deep WWII history — the Battle of Okinawa in 1945 was the largest amphibious assault in the Pacific War — and the contrast between that history and the island's vibrant present-day culture is striking. The US military maintains a substantial presence. Typhoon season (June–October) is the principal weather hazard; Naha's inner harbour provides good protection but sailors should monitor forecasts closely.

GPS Coordinates

26° 12' 44.640"N 127° 40' 44.760"E

26 12 44.640N 127 40 44.760E

Protected Anchorages

The principal facility for visiting yachts is Tomari Port Marina, immediately north of Naha Port. Tomari has alongside berths (0.5 m – 5 m deep on the outer pontoons) and is within easy walking distance of customs, immigration, and the city centre. Contact the marina on VHF 16 or call +81 98 868 4567 before arrival. Fees are modest by Japanese standards. The Naha Yacht Club operates from the south side of Tomari and can advise on berth allocation. There is a separate guest berth allocation for foreign yachts — confirm with the marina office. Fuel (diesel and gasoline) is available at Tomari fuel dock. Water and electricity at all berths. The Kerama Islands offer spectacular anchorages: Zamami-jima has a small marina with limited visitor berths (call ahead); anchor off Furuzamami Beach in 4–8 m over sand — crystal clear, superb holding. Aka-jima has a small bay anchorage in 5–10 m. Tokashiki-jima has a small harbour at Tokashiki village — anchor in the bay to the north in 6–10 m over sand. All Kerama anchorages are exposed to westerly swells; best in settled easterly conditions.

Customs Protocols for Visiting Yachts

Okinawa (Naha) is Japan's primary southern port of entry. Customs (Naha Customs), Immigration (Regional Immigration Services Bureau), and Plant/Animal Quarantine (MAFF) offices are all located at Naha Port — a short walk or taxi from Tomari Marina. Vessels must fly the Q flag and contact Naha Port Control on VHF 12 or 16 before entering the port. Do not go ashore until cleared. All crew must have valid passports. Japan offers visa-free entry for 90 days to nationals of approximately 70 countries; others must obtain a visa in advance. Strict biosecurity: all fruit, vegetables, meat, and dairy must be declared to Quarantine; most fresh produce from outside Japan will be confiscated. Pets require advance import permits and quarantine. Firearms and certain medications (including some common prescription drugs) are prohibited or tightly restricted — check in advance. A cruising permit (transit log) issued at first port of entry covers all subsequent Japanese ports.

Yacht Clubs and Marinas in the Vicinity

  • Naha Yacht Club — active club based at Tomari Marina with a small clubhouse, showers, and regular racing. Members are generally helpful to visiting sailors. English spoken by some members.
  • Tomari Marina — the main facility for visiting yachts; full services including fuel, water, electricity, showers, chandlery, and on-site repair services. Staff speak limited English but are helpful. VHF 16, Tel: +81 98 868 4567.

Renowned Attractions

  • Shuri Castle (Shurijo) — the UNESCO World Heritage royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom; a magnificent vermilion complex rebuilt after WWII destruction and again after a 2019 fire; the symbol of Okinawan identity and Ryukyuan history
  • Kerama Islands National Park — 20 nm west of Naha; some of Japan's clearest and most biodiverse waters with coral gardens, sea turtles, humpback whales (Jan–Mar), and dugongs; an outstanding day sail or overnight anchorage
  • Kokusai-dori (International Street) — Naha's main tourist strip of 1.6 km lined with restaurants, shisa lion souvenir shops, awamori distilleries, and the fascinating Makishi Public Market; essential cultural immersion
  • Himeyuri Peace Museum — deeply moving memorial to the Himeyuri Student Corps, young Okinawan women who served as nurses during the Battle of Okinawa; conveys the tragedy of the 1945 battle better than any text
  • Cape Manzamo — dramatic limestone cliffs eroded into an elephant trunk shape on the west coast; sunrise and sunset views across the East China Sea
  • Awamori distilleries — Okinawa's unique rice-based spirit (distinct from sake and shochu); several distilleries in Naha and environs offer tours and tastings
  • North Okinawa (Yanbaru) — subtropical forest in the island's far north; endemic Okinawa rail (yanbaru kuina), sea kayaking, and pristine beaches far from the tourist circuit

Currency and Exchange Rate

Currency: Japanese Yen

Exchange Rate to USD

Nearby Yachting Destinations

Summary

Okinawa is Japan's subtropical gateway — the first port of entry for sailors approaching from the south and the jumping-off point for the extraordinary Kerama Islands diving and the cultural riches of Ryukyuan history. Tomari Marina provides efficient and comfortable facilities in the heart of Naha.