Getting around Okinawa offers a different experience compared to Japan’s big cities. While it doesn’t have an extensive train system like Tokyo or Kyoto, Okinawa’s public transportation and laid-back atmosphere make exploring the islands easy and enjoyable.
Buses are the main mode of public transportation in Okinawa. Naha, the capital city, has a reliable network of city buses that can take you to major destinations like Shuri Castle, Kokusai Street, and the ferry terminals. From our Japanese school it’s a short bus ride to the central bus terminal, from where you can catch buses to everywhere. City buses usually charge a flat fee per ride, regardless of distance.
Okinawa’s Yui Rail, a monorail system, is a convenient way to get around Naha. It connects Naha Airport to key attractions, including Shuri Castle, and is great for avoiding traffic. The Yui Rail is clean, easy to use, and offers scenic views of the city.
Both buses and the monorail are easiest to use with prepaid rechargeable IC cards, so we recommend you get an OKICA card soon after arriving to avoid having to pay cash each time you hop on.
For longer trips around the island, highway buses connect Naha with popular spots like the Churaumi Aquarium and Cape Manzamo. Be sure to check schedules in advance, as buses don’t run as frequently as in larger cities. Another alternative for getting to more distant destinations is to join a tour that includes transport from Naha City, as this will often work out much more cheaply than buying a bus and entry ticket separately.
Getting around Okinawa is part of the adventure. The island’s relaxed pace ensures your journey will be just as enjoyable as the destination!
Very thorough network of buses run to almost all locations.
Official bus website (English)
Only one line but going to the main places in Naha.
Not sure how to get where to go, don`t worry we are happy to arrange for you to be picked up right from thearrivals gate and taken directly to your accommodation. You will meet a driver at the arrivals gate. They will be holding a signboard with your name and our name (GenkiJACS).
Naha airport is conveniently connected to the monorail system that runs through the heart of Naha City. It’s only two stops on the monorail to Genki’s Japanese school, and six stops to the center.
Schedule & fee infoBuses depart regularly from the Airport for all areas of the island.
Schedule & fee infoIn most cases, we recommend taking a taxi from the airport to your accommodation. As the airport is so convenient, traveling by taxi is relatively cheap, and is by far the most convenient and easy way to travel if you have a lot of heavy bags.
hint!
Getting a taxi by yourself from the airport can often be cheaper than asking us to book an airport transfer for you!
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