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Okinawa Main Island Private Tours & Local Tour Guides
Discover Things to Do and Plan a Trip to Okinawa Main Island, Japan with a Local Guide
Popular Okinawa Main Island Tour Guides
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Tateo U.
My name is Tateo. I am officially registerd English tour guide and introducing about Okinawa's history,culture, and nature.I am elderly person but have gone through lots of expericences that happened during US occupation after WW2. For the example, change of monetary system(US dollar to Yen),Change of traffic regulation(driving vehicle from right to left).The reversion of Okinawa to main land Japan was biggest historical event.The US administered Okinawa for 27 years. As a result, thing were Americanized in many aspects. Historically, Okinawa was once independent nation until 1872.During Kingdum era, Okinawa actively traded with China, South Asia Countries, Korea, and Japan. In the end, our culture is quite differ much from main land Japan. For instance, architectural technique, daily customs, and culture are also unique. Okinawa is the only prefecture belong to subtropical climate zone. Even winter time, it's neither hot nor cold. People can enjoy marine sport all through the year.Canoeing, Kayaking, Diving, and Snorkeling are popular. Besides, beatiful white sand beaches and attractive coastline are abundant. Green sea water and blue sky have been lured people from all over the world. Traditional music and dance are worth seeing. Please visit Okinawa and enjoy extraordinary trip. I will be looking forward to seeing you soon.
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Harry M.
Looking for a guide who truly knows Okinawa? With 15 years of experience in the field of science education in both Okinawa and Hawaiʻi, I now work as a guide-interpreter and edutainer (educator + entertainer) based in Okinawa. I use my educational background to create unique, engaging tours that help participants discover something new about Okinawa’s breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From exploring Okinawa’s diverse ecosystems, both on land and in the sea, to experiencing the traditions of Karate and the enchanting sounds of Okinawan Sanshin music, I’m passionate about sharing the best of Okinawa with you. If you’re ready for a tour that’s not only unforgettable but also filled with learning and discovery, let’s embark on this journey together! (I also offer guided tours of the Mt. Fuji area, my hometown. Additional transportation fees apply.) Guiding Fee (For up to 10 people): - 4 hours: ¥30,000 - 6 hours: ¥35,000 - 8 hours: ¥40,000 Guiding with Car Transportation (For up to 3 people): - Extra ¥10,000 (Includes gas, parking, and expressway fees)
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Sara E.
"Chuuganabira" or "Hello" as we say here in Shuri! I'm Sara. My mother is Japanese from Nagasaki and my father is American from Pennsylvania. I spent my formative years between Japan and the U.S. giving me a naturally bicultural outlook and global sensibility. I am a hospitality professional with over 35 years of experience in Japan’s international hotel and tourism industries having held senior positions with world-renowned hotels. I have also worked as a simultaneous interpreter for major Japanese organizations supporting large scale cultural and international events. I relocated from Tokyo to Naha in 2003 because I totally fell in love with this beautiful port city during my travels - the warm friendly people, delicious local food, rich history and culture and most of all the breathtaking turquoise ocean and magnificent blue sky. My passion is making people happy through "omotenashi" - the Japanese art of polite, thoughtful and respectful hospitality. I specialize in Shuri Castle tours. I have insider access to Shuri Castle through my onsite research, a membership in the Shuri Castle Friendship Association and a strong connection with both the castle's staff and the Okinawa Churashima Foundation which operates the castle. I also have deep ties with the Sho royal family giving me unparalleled insights into the history and culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom. I am looking forward to introducing you to the royal, majestic and fascinating world of Shuri!
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Noriko Y.
Hi. I was a tour guide for Japanese speak in Japanese in main-land Japan around Tokyo. Now, I live in Okinawa for over ten years with my family. I wanted to be a tour guide for foreigners because I appreciate people's helps when I traveled around world. I traveled over seventy countries. I like traveling because I learn a lot from people who I meet. Finally, I got a certificate for being an English tour guide. I would like you to spend meaningful time in Okinawa. Okinawa has unique culture, they mixed Japanese and Chinese way, then, built up a new own culture. With limited time, I hope you enjoy seeing a lot and knowing a lot.
New Okinawa Main Island Tour Guides
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Victoria N.
My name is Victoria, and I’ve been living on Okinawa for 10 years. Would you like to visit non-touristy places known only to locals? I’ll be happy to show them to you! For more than six years, I’ve been guiding tours and sharing the beauty and atmosphere of this unique island with visitors. I love Japan — its culture, history, and anime — and I’m always excited to share not just facts, but the soul of this place. On my tours, you will see not only the famous landmarks, but also hidden, fascinating corners of the island that few people know about. With me, you will experience the real Okinawa: taste local cuisine, hear legends, learn traditions, and glimpse the everyday life of the islanders. I speak both English and Japanese, so I can help you feel confident and comfortable in any situation. If you want not just a tour, but a living journey with someone who is truly in love with Japan, I’ll be happy to guide you!
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Lola M.
Hello there! I’m Lola, a passionate tour guide with more than three years of experience in revealing the fascinating layers of history, culture, and local customs. My journey began with educational tours for students, and I later specialized in guiding Japanese tourists through various travel agencies. Now, I focus on crafting unforgettable experiences for international visitors eager to discover both the hidden gems and famous landmarks of this extraordinary destination. Fluent in Italian and English, I create immersive tours tailored to your unique interests. Whether you're interested in exploring Okinawa’s World War II military history, wandering through stunning limestone caves, tasting local cuisine, searching for unique finds in the shopping district, or enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the American Village, I’m here to help. I am dedicated to ensuring that each tour is engaging, informative, and customized just for you. Let's go!
Popular Okinawa Main Island Private Tours
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Best of Okinawa
A unique history and culture that related Kingdom era with present times. It was registered as a World Heritage Site in 2000. You can find and enjoy lively Okinawa and time-honored Okinawa.
Best of Okinawa
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Tracing the Front Line! - WWII Battle of Okinawa Tour
The Battle of Okinawa was one of the bloodiest ground warfare in WWII. When U.S. troops landed on Okinawa island on April 1, 1945, there was little counterattack contrary to their expectations. This was because the Japanese strategy was to build strong underground positions in the southern part of the island and turn the fight into an endurance contest. From this day, the 3 months of fierce battles embroiling citizens began. In this tour, we will trace the front line of the battle in 2 days.
Tracing the Front Line! - WWII Battle of Okinawa Tour
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Quintessential Ryukyu Royal Tour with Shuri Castle Café Break
This experience will take you into the heart of the Ryukyu Kingdom as we dive deeply into the world of Shuri Castle’s final stages of reconstruction. You will learn in detail about the craftsmanship of the 200 artisans who are working on reconstructing the castle.
Quintessential Ryukyu Royal Tour with Shuri Castle Café Break
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World War Ⅱ history course
The battle of Okinawa was the only ground battle of World War II in Japan, fought and went on for about three months. This is the course which you need to go about World War Ⅱ history.
World War Ⅱ history course
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New Okinawa Main Island Private Tours
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Following the Footsteps of the Ryukyu Kings
Through a peaceful Chinese-style garden, explore the lively Kokusai Street, visit the residence of the kings Shuri Castle, and have a lunch in traditional and historical restaurant-museum Sui Dunchi. Includes a visit to a traditional Shinto shrine and a tasting of Okinawa’s unique Buku-buku tea.
Following the Footsteps of the Ryukyu Kings
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Journey to the Birthplace! - Karate Heritage Tour
Embark on a journey to the most significant sites in Okinawa, the birthplace of Karate, and explore the roots of this martial art. * The itinerary can be customized based on your specific Karate style. * For an additional fee of 10,000 yen, I can drive you on the tour (up to 3 people).
Journey to the Birthplace! - Karate Heritage Tour
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Feel the Energy of Nature! - Yambaru Eco Trekking Tour
The World Natural Heritage Site, Yambaru, occupies only 0.1% of the Japanese land, but 1/4 of the entire species in Japan inhabit! Most of them are endemic species that adapted to the unique subtropical environment isolated from the Eurasia continent and mainland Japan. By trekking in the forest with a nature guide who has an experience as a local science teacher, you can notice the unique features of the forest that you can't realize when walking on your own!
Feel the Energy of Nature! - Yambaru Eco Trekking Tour
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Finding a Favorite Yachimun! - Pottery Village Walking Tour
Yachimun, Okinawan traditional pottery, is well-known for its coexistence of colorful design and naive texture. Many top chefs in Japan use Yachimun dishes because they boost the allure of the cuisine without over-decoration and increase customers' appetites. The best way to find your favorite Yachimun is to visit as many studios with a guide-interpreter as possible and talk to the artists or shop staff at Yachimun no sato, or Yachimun pottery village, at Yomitan!
Finding a Favorite Yachimun! - Pottery Village Walking Tour
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Popular Okinawa Main Island Private Cars
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Discover Your Roots! - Uchinanchu Genealogy Tour
Trace your family's history on this special bespoke tour! Embark on a journey to uncover your roots! Choose from meaningful spots like the Prefectural Library for family records, the Prefectural Museum to explore Ryukyu Kingdom history, or the Toyama Kyuzo Museum in Kin Town, honoring the father of Okinawan emigration. Next, visit your ancestors' village, and if possible, meet your Okinawan relatives with translation support. Reconnect with your heritage and create unforgettable memories!
Discover Your Roots! - Uchinanchu Genealogy Tour
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Naha (Okinawa) 10-Hour Tour with a Private Car
Experienced local taxi drivers will cordially show you around the area so that you can visit both must-see and hidden sightseeing spots and enjoy local food.
Naha (Okinawa) 10-Hour Tour with a Private Car
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Ocean, Culture and Nature
This route combines nature, culture, and the stunning ocean landscapes of Okinawa. This route is perfect for those who want to experience Okinawa in its full beauty — natural, cultural, and historical.
Ocean, Culture and Nature
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Naha (Okinawa) 8-Hour Tour with a Private Car
Experienced local taxi drivers will cordially show you around the area so that you can visit both must-see and hidden sightseeing spots and enjoy local food.
Naha (Okinawa) 8-Hour Tour with a Private Car
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Okinawa Main Island Tour Reviews
Lucie H.
“Wonderful day!”
I had an amazing day with Noriko exploring the Naha area. Noriko was kind enough to pick me up and drop me off at my hotel in Chatan. I’m so thankful that I booked this tour as I don’t think I would be able to figure out how to get to all the various popular spots. It was so easy just to let Noriko drive and guide. I learned so much from Noriko - we talked about the history of Okinawa and also the present times. I learned a few Japanese words and a little about the local culture as well. Noriko was very flexible and accommodating when it came the itinerary and changing a scheduled lunch spot to something else. We visited a ramen place for lunch, which was delicious! My favorite part (and a must if you enjoy pottery) is to visit the pottery street near the markets in Naha. I will leave Okinawa with a wonderful and memorable experience because of the tour with Noriko. Thank you so much, Noriko, for the perfect day in Naha!
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Noriko Y.
Thank you for your nice words. I also learned a lot from you while I was answering of your questions. It was really nice and meaningful time. Thank you very much for taking my tour.
Patricia M.
“Captivating Tour and tour guide! ”
I was visiting my son during the winter holidays and wanted to learn about Okinawa and WWII. I am so lucky to have selected Harry as our tour guide. Harry was in planning mode and in communication with me from the start. We planned a full 8+ hours which included many different historical sites and a museum. Harry is a former school teacher and really knows how to convey the history of Okinawa and the second world war. Harry also introduced us to the best lunch spot in Naha. He kept us engaged from 8am until the last minute of the tour. I highly recommend scheduling a tour with Harry!! Loved every minute! Best, Patty MacLaney
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Harry M.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful and generous message. It truly means a lot to me. I really enjoyed spending the day with you and your family and sharing the history of Okinawa and World War II. I’m also glad you enjoyed the lunch spot in Naha! Thank you again and I wish you and your family all the best! Warm regards, Harry
John A.
“Amazing and friendly battlefield tour of Okinawa”
Harry is very knowledgeable, speaks English well, and is funny and kind. He took us in his car which was clean and comfortable. We had a wonderful lunch together of traditional Okinawan food.
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Harry M.
Dear John, Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful words. It truly means a lot to me. I was honestly a bit worried after we condensed what was originally a two-day tour into one day and had to move at a faster pace in some parts. So hearing that you two still enjoyed the experience was a great relief and made me very happy. I also want to sincerely thank you for treating me to lunch. Sharing traditional Okinawan food together was definitely a wonderful moment, and I truly appreciated your generosity. More than anything, I really enjoyed our conversations throughout the day. Especially your story about sending Chuck Berry’s “Johnny B. Goode” into space—it was fascinating! Thank you again for spending your day with me. I hope our paths cross again someday. Warmest regards, Harry
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Book a Okinawa Main Island Private Car Tour
Tour Okinawa Main Island by car or van, or hire a private guide / driver. See reviews and all car tour details.
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