History & Nature of Central Okinawa
Moderate Activity
Includes meal
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
WHAT YOU WILL VISIT:
The Katsuren Castle Ruins (Katsurenjō-ato)
Built around the 12th century, the remains of the oldest castle in Okinawa command the summit of a steep hill. Climb a long flight of steps to be rewarded by the stone walls and foundations of this designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the 15th century, Katsuren Castle was the seat of Lord Amawari. Legend tells that as a sickly child he was abandon in the mountains to die but defied the odds, became a powerful leader, and successfully overtook the oppressive lord of Katsuren Castle, claiming it for his own.
Okinawan Sea Salt Factory (Nuchi Masu)
Salt, known as masu in the local dialect, is an Okinawan specialty product. In Japan, over 1,000 kinds of salt are produced, and in Okinawa there are 30 salt manufacturers and approximately 150 kinds of salt. All of the salt produced at Nuchi Masu is extracted from Okinawan seawater, producing a mineral-rich natural seasoning with therapeutic properties. A visit to the factory is an opportunity to glimpse the production process through large viewing windows and to shop for a variety of products, from edibles to spa treatments.
Southeast Botanical Gardens (Tonan Shokubutsu Rakuen)
At this 100-acre, privately owned showplace for an incredible array of plant life, the gardens are divided into two sections: the Water Park, abounding with sparkling lakes, and the Botanical Garden. Spectacular blooms, including the iconic white and pink lotus blossoms, and an extensive collection of trees, including the Alexander palm, the exotic Madagascar baobab, and the dragon blood tree, given its name for the dark red raison it produces, are found at every turn.
WHAT YOU WILL SEE ALONG THE WAY:
Okinawa offers lush natural forests, World Heritage Sites and an exquisite, neon-blue sea. A one-hour drive from port into central Okinawa is an opportunity to gaze upon ever-changing landscapes.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY:
Kaichu Doro (the road in the middle of the sea)
Extending across the deep blue sea for approximately 2.9 miles (4.75 kilometers) from the Katsuren Peninsula to Henza Island, Kaichu Doro, translated as "the road in the middle of the sea," offers magnificent, picture-perfect views as far as the eye can behold.
LUNCH:
Enjoy lunch at a local resutaurant.
Schedule
Special Notes
The UNESCO World Heritage site - Katsuren jo Site is located on the top of hill, with many uneven steps required for access. There is not an elevator.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes.
We suggest guests carry local currency for purchases.
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Moderate Activity
Includes meal
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
WHAT YOU WILL VISIT:
The Katsuren Castle Ruins (Katsurenjō-ato)
Built around the 12th century, the remains of the oldest castle in Okinawa command the summit of a steep hill. Climb a long flight of steps to be rewarded by the stone walls and foundations of this designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the 15th century, Katsuren Castle was the seat of Lord Amawari. Legend tells that as a sickly child he was abandon in the mountains to die but defied the odds, became a powerful leader, and successfully overtook the oppressive lord of Katsuren Castle, claiming it for his own.
Okinawan Sea Salt Factory (Nuchi Masu)
Salt, known as masu in the local dialect, is an Okinawan specialty product. In Japan, over 1,000 kinds of salt are produced, and in Okinawa there are 30 salt manufacturers and approximately 150 kinds of salt. All of the salt produced at Nuchi Masu is extracted from Okinawan seawater, producing a mineral-rich natural seasoning with therapeutic properties. A visit to the factory is an opportunity to glimpse the production process through large viewing windows and to shop for a variety of products, from edibles to spa treatments.
Southeast Botanical Gardens (Tonan Shokubutsu Rakuen)
At this 100-acre, privately owned showplace for an incredible array of plant life, the gardens are divided into two sections: the Water Park, abounding with sparkling lakes, and the Botanical Garden. Spectacular blooms, including the iconic white and pink lotus blossoms, and an extensive collection of trees, including the Alexander palm, the exotic Madagascar baobab, and the dragon blood tree, given its name for the dark red raison it produces, are found at every turn.
WHAT YOU WILL SEE ALONG THE WAY:
Okinawa offers lush natural forests, World Heritage Sites and an exquisite, neon-blue sea. A one-hour drive from port into central Okinawa is an opportunity to gaze upon ever-changing landscapes.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY:
Kaichu Doro (the road in the middle of the sea)
Extending across the deep blue sea for approximately 2.9 miles (4.75 kilometers) from the Katsuren Peninsula to Henza Island, Kaichu Doro, translated as "the road in the middle of the sea," offers magnificent, picture-perfect views as far as the eye can behold.
LUNCH:
Enjoy lunch at a local resutaurant.
Schedule
Special Notes
The UNESCO World Heritage site - Katsuren jo Site is located on the top of hill, with many uneven steps required for access. There is not an elevator.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes.
We suggest guests carry local currency for purchases.