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Okinawa’s relaxed pace and spread-out attractions make renting a car and staying in an Airbnb a smart, flexible choice for families.
Staying in an Airbnb in Okinawa
When we planned our family trip to Okinawa, we quickly realized that hotel rooms wouldn’t work well for our group of five (including my mother). We needed space, a kitchen, and ideally a washer and dryer. After comparing prices, a nice hotel in Naha would have cost about $2,000 for three nights (winter holiday).
Because we were already planning to rent a car, we had the flexibility to stay outside the city center. We found a comfortable 3-bedroom Airbnb near San-A Naha Main Place for ¥25,000 per night. It came with everything we needed, including laundry machines, which allowed us to pack light and travel more comfortably.
Tips for Booking Airbnb in Okinawa
Airbnb works well in Okinawa, but there are a few things to know before you book:
- Check for a license number. Since new laws took effect in 2018, all Airbnb hosts in Japan must register their properties. Look for a license number in the listing.
- Confirm parking. Many Okinawa listings include free parking, but always double-check.
- Look beyond the city center. If you have a car, staying outside Naha can save money and offer a quieter experience.
Renting a Car in Okinawa: What You Should Know
For the first 15 years of traveling in Japan, I had never rented a car. We’ve always relied on trains and buses with a JR Pass. But Okinawa is different. The public transportation system here isn’t well-suited for sightseeing beyond Naha. Buses are available, but they tend to be infrequent and slow.
To explore places like the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, Yomitan, and the Peace Memorial Park, driving is the way to go. So for the first time in Japan we rented a car.
Renting from OTS Rental Car
We chose OTS, a local rental company with a good reputation. After arriving at Naha Airport, we headed to shuttle stop 1, where an OTS van picked us up and brought us to their rental center nearby.
The rental process was smooth:
- ETC card: We added an electronic toll card to make expressway driving easier.
- Insurance: We went with full coverage for peace of mind.
- GPS system: The in-car navigation worked beautifully. It was in English, visually clear, and easy to follow. Some rental cars in Japan now have CarPlay, which makes navigating quite easy.
And yes, the car had a sticker letting others know a foreigner was driving. Locals are used to seeing it, so it’s more helpful than embarrassing.
What It’s Like Driving in Okinawa
Driving on the left side of the road took a little getting used to, but it wasn’t nearly as difficult as we imagined. Within half an hour, it started to feel natural.
Okinawan roads are well-paved, and drivers are patient and respectful. Compared to city driving in mainland Japan, the pace here is much slower. Between the clear signage, GPS guidance, and calm traffic, we found driving in Okinawa surprisingly relaxing even as first-timers.
Should You Rent a Car and Stay at an Airbnb in Okinawa?
If you want to explore more than just Naha, renting a car in Okinawa is almost essential. The island is large, and many top sights can take up to two hours to reach by car. Public transportation is available, but it’s limited and often slow. You may end up spending too much time waiting instead of sightseeing.
As for accommodations, Airbnb can be a great option. If you are traveling with a larger group or visiting during peak seasons when hotels are expensive, it offers more space at a better value. Having a kitchen and laundry also makes family travel easier. We would recommend it for anyone looking for comfort and flexibility.
More to Explore in Okinawa
- Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium – One of Japan’s best-known aquariums, featuring massive tanks with whale sharks, reef fish, and manta rays.
- Yomitan Pottery Village – Visit local ceramic studios in this quiet, artsy village known for traditional Okinawan pottery.
- Shikinaen – Stroll through a peaceful former royal garden in Naha, complete with pavilions, ponds, and stone bridges.
- Okinawa World – Drive south to explore Gyokusendo Cave and enjoy Okinawan crafts, dance, and hands-on activities at this cultural theme park.
