Ungatekeeping Okinawa & Fukuoka

So many core memories were made on this trip, and honestly, I debated gatekeeping all the amazing spots we visited 🐢. This was my first time in Japan, and it felt extra special to explore the quieter side in Okinawa and Fukuoka. If you're planning a trip to these areas, here's everything I wish I had known beforehand!

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✈️ How Many Days We Spent

🏝Okinawa: 5 days

🌇Fukuoka: 3 days

What I’d Do Differently:

The balance between Okinawa and Fukuoka was great, but if I could do it again, I’d spend even more time in the beach towns rather than staying in Naha. We stayed in Ogimi Village, a serene beachside town, and it was a hidden gem. More time there would have been perfect.

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☀️ Weather

We went in late May, which was risky since it’s close to the rainy season. In early May, both Okinawa and Fukuoka offer warmer and more comfortable weather than busier areas like Tokyo and Kyoto.

- Okinawa: Subtropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C.

- Fukuoka: Cooler, with temps between 16°C and 24°C.

What I’d Do Differently:

I’d definitely aim for early May next time to avoid the unpredictable rain. In Okinawa, it rained 3 out of our 5 days, and it even ruined a day trip to Tokashiki Island. Fukuoka, on the other hand, had almost perfect weather, though the humidity ramped up quickly.

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🏨 Where to Stay

- Okinawa: Stay in quieter beach villages for a more peaceful experience. Consider spending a day on one of the smaller islands.

- Fukuoka: Stay in the Hakata area — it’s super convenient, with tons of food options and cozy izakayas to explore.

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📍 Places to Visit & Things to Do

Okinawa

🗻Ta-taki Waterfall

🗻 Kouri Island

🗻 Cape Hedo

🍣Yakiniku Lion Ogimi (delicious BBQ!)

🍣Kouri Shrimp (a must-try!)

Fukuoka

🗻 Day Trip to Yufuin (with a stop at Mount Aso)

🗻 Ohori Park

🗻 Yatais (famous food stalls)

🗻 Daichi no Udon (you can't miss this local favorite!)

#wheretotravel #okinawa #okinawatrip #fukuoka #japantravel