Okinawa Day 2 Travel Diary – Churaumi Aquarium, Manzamo, and American Village Adventure
Day 2 of our 4-day Okinawa trip was packed with breathtaking ocean views, educational fun at the Churaumi Aquarium, and vibrant shopping experiences in the American Village. We crafted our itinerary to include the perfect mix of nature, culture, and local charm. If you're planning your Okinawa adventure, this route is a must-see!
Churaumi Aquarium – Dive into the Deep Blue
We began our second day with one of Okinawa’s most iconic attractions: the Churaumi Aquarium. As one of the largest aquariums in the world, it houses an enormous Kuroshio Tank where whale sharks and manta rays swim gracefully. The clear acrylic panels gave us an incredibly immersive view, making us feel like we were under the sea ourselves.
Besides the massive tank, the aquarium offers various marine exhibits, from coral reefs to deep-sea creatures. It was both entertaining and educational, especially for families and ocean lovers. We also enjoyed the outdoor dolphin show, which was fun and well-organized.
If you're visiting in the morning, arrive early to beat the crowds and secure a good viewing spot. There are cafes and souvenir shops within the aquarium complex, so you can easily spend a few hours without getting bored or hungry.
Manzamo – Okinawa’s Scenic Cliffside
After our aquarium visit, we drove toward Manzamo, a scenic rock formation perched above the East China Sea. The view from the cliff is simply spectacular, especially with the sunlight shimmering on the ocean’s surface. It's a great photo spot and a peaceful location to relax while soaking up Okinawa's natural beauty.
The name "Manzamo" translates to "a place where ten thousand people can sit," and it truly lives up to its name. The walking trail is easy to navigate and safe, even for kids or elderly travelers. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the path has some rocky sections.
We visited in the afternoon when the lighting was perfect for photography. If you have a drone, this is a great place to capture aerial footage of the coastline. Don’t forget to bring some snacks or drinks—there are a few local stalls nearby with refreshing treats.
American Village – A Colorful Evening Stroll
To wrap up the day, we headed to American Village in Chatan. This area offers a fun contrast to Okinawa’s historical and natural sites. Filled with colorful buildings, stylish cafes, and unique shops, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a more urban vibe.
We strolled through the seaside boardwalk while watching the sunset. The beach nearby offers a great spot for evening relaxation or even a quick dip. Later, we enjoyed dinner at a fusion restaurant serving Okinawan and Western dishes—definitely a culinary highlight of the trip.
If you're looking for souvenirs, American Village is a goldmine. From character-themed merchandise to handmade crafts, there’s something for everyone. The nighttime illumination adds even more charm, making it a fantastic photo spot after dark.
Summary and What’s Next
Day 2 in Okinawa gave us a deeper look into both the island’s stunning nature and its evolving modern culture. From the wonders of the Churaumi Aquarium to the majestic cliffs of Manzamo and the lively buzz of American Village, it was a well-balanced day full of memorable moments.
On Day 3, we plan to explore more of Okinawa’s southern region, including historical landmarks and tranquil beaches. Stay tuned for the next post in our 4-day Okinawa travel series!
