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Before you go
Your trip to Motobu.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Motobu – Okinawa Destination Okinawa (Japan) — Naha; Onna; Motobu about 85 km from Naha
How to get there
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Aeroporto de Naha (OKA) Naha · 90 km
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Porto de Motobu 2 km
Approximate distances. Check flights and bus, train or boat schedules before you travel.
It’s about 85 km from Naha, roughly a 2-hour drive on the expressway to Kyoda and then National Route 449. Express buses run from the airport and Naha terminal to the aquarium area in about 2.5 to 3 hours.
How many days
One full day by car for the aquarium, Nakijin and Kouri; two days to do everything unhurriedly, including the village of Bise and the beaches.
When to go
The aquarium is open year-round. From April to October there are beaches and the sea colors around Kouri are more vivid; in January and February Okinawa’s cherry blossoms often bloom at Nakijin ruins. Between August and October typhoon passages can close the aquarium and bridges for a day or two.
The seasons shown are the most usual ones; nature doesn't always follow the calendar.
Do you need a car?
It helps, because Nakijin and Kouri are 10 km and 25 km from the aquarium. Without a car use the peninsula’s local bus, taxis or tours that depart from Naha.
Suggested itinerary
An order that works
Built with the places on this page. No rush: it's paced so you have time to see them.
One day in Motobu
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Morning
Churaumi Aquarium
Arrive at opening time to the Churaumi Aquarium, descend the coral reef floors to the large tank and check the feeding schedule for the whale sharks.
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Afternoon
Bise and Nakijin Castle
Walk along the fukugi tree-lined avenue of Bise village beside the park, then head to the curved walls of Nakijin Castle.
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Evening
Kouri Island
Cross the Kouri Bridge at late afternoon when the shallow water often changes color, and have dinner on the island or back in Motobu.
Check before you go. Opening hours and days change, and places may close for renovations, holidays or events. This itinerary is a suggestion from Cidade Turismo, not a commitment: plan yours by checking directly with each place you intend to visit.
Before you go
Frequently asked questions
What to do in Motobu besides the aquarium?
Walk the fukugi avenue in Bise village, see the ruins of Nakijin Castle, cross the bridge to Kouri Island and visit the beaches in the Ocean Expo Park.
Is it worth staying overnight in Motobu?
Yes, for those who want to arrive early at the aquarium and see Kouri and Nakijin without the long return to Naha the same day.
What to eat in Motobu?
Motobu soba, the local version of Okinawan noodles in a pork broth, served at several establishments in town, and fruits like mango and pineapple in the summer season.
Do boats leave Motobu for other islands?
Yes. From Motobu Port there are boats to Minna Island and Ie, and long-distance ferries to other islands in southern Japan. Check schedules with the companies.
Beyond the guide
