Getting to & Around Okinawa

Transportation guide for Okinawa: monorail, bus, rental car, taxi from Naha Airport, and island access.

From Naha Airport

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Yui Rail (Monorail)

The easiest way to reach downtown Naha. From Naha Airport Station to Makishi Station (near Kokusai Street) takes about 13 minutes. IC cards (Suica, etc.) accepted.

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Bus

Extensive bus network from Naha Airport to all parts of the island. Buses to the north and central areas (Onna Village, Yomitan) are convenient. Operated by Ryukyu Bus and Okinawa Bus.

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Taxi

About ¥1,000–¥1,500 to downtown Naha (10–15 minutes). Available 24 hours. Convenient for groups.

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Rental Car

Rental cars are the most convenient way to explore Okinawa. Many major rental car companies near the airport. Book early during peak seasons (summer, GW, year-end).

Getting Around the Main Island

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Yui Rail

Convenient for getting around Naha. Connects Shuri Castle, Kokusai Street, and Naha Airport. 19 stations; about 37 minutes to the terminal Shuri Station.

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Local Bus

Bus network covering the entire main island. Routes from Naha Bus Terminal to the north, central, and south. IC cards accepted.

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Rental Car

Best option for central, northern, and southern sightseeing. International licenses accepted. Drive on the left side of the road.

Getting to the Outer Islands

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Ferry

High-speed ferries to the Kerama Islands depart from Tomari Port in Naha (35–50 minutes). Miyako and Ishigaki islands are better reached by plane (about 1 hour).

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Domestic Flights

About 45 minutes from Naha to Miyako Island, 55 minutes to Ishigaki Island. Operated by Ryukyu Air Commuter (RAC), ANA, and JAL.

Travel Tips

  • IC cards (Suica, PASMO, etc.) are accepted on Yui Rail and some buses
  • Okinawa drives on the left side, same as mainland Japan
  • Rental cars are hard to book in summer (July–August); reserve early
  • The 'Okinawa Bus NAVI' app is useful for bus route planning