Couchsurfing｜Connecting backpackers from around the world through shared living.
During this trip to Okinawa, I was fortunate enough to connect with an amazing local friend through Couchsurfing. Together, we explored numerous Southern Okinawa attractions and restaurants beloved by locals, allowing me to truly immerse myself in authentic Okinawan daily life and travel perspectives. Since there is so much to share, I have divided the journey into two parts organized chronologically—making it perfect as a day-by-day itinerary reference for your own trip. Below, I’ll introduce how Couchsurfing works and share the exciting highlights from our first day!
◎ What is Couchsurfing?
As the name suggests, Couchsurfing is a global hospitality platform where you can connect with travelers and hosts worldwide through the internet. It has an English-language interface and is not a typical hotel booking site. By reaching out and exchanging messages, members can host each other, share accommodation, exchange cultures, or simply explore a destination together from a local's perspective. It is one of the most rewarding ways to dive deep into local culture. Of course, just like anywhere in the world, while it can save on travel expenses, safety precautions are essential. I recommend reading profiles carefully and making thorough preparations before deciding. When done thoughtfully, it creates truly unforgettable travel memories!
Head over to the platform (click here) to sign up for free. Simply search for the country or city you plan to visit and filter by various criteria such as gender, age, and location. You can browse through local member profiles, each featuring self-introductions, home photos, references from fellow travelers, and even a host response rate. Once you find a suitable host, you can send them a direct request. In essence, the website serves as a bridge, and all communication and logistics are handled directly between you and your host. It’s an immensely popular style of budget travel across Europe and the Americas, often featured in travel guidebooks. From my personal experience, it was an absolutely fantastic adventure!
Now, let's explore Okinawa through the eyes of a local!
(My Couchsurfing host was Ayumi, born and raised in Okinawa. The moment we met, she handed me this heartwarming handwritten card filled with her personal recommendations and local spot introductions. I am still so grateful for her warm hospitality!)
◎ C&C BREAKFAST OKINAWA
First, where should you go for an incredible breakfast in Okinawa?
This is a beloved breakfast spot highly praised online and frequented by locals alike, tucked away in the cozy alleyways near Makishi Public Market. Stepping inside early in the morning, you immediately feel a relaxed, breezy atmosphere, already filled with international travelers. The staff speak English comfortably, so ordering is completely stress-free. The menu features Western-style breakfast dishes alongside fresh seasonal fruit creations—and everything tastes exceptionally vibrant and fresh! Arriving early also lets you soak in the lively morning buzz of the neighboring fish markets, giving you an invigorating burst of Japanese energy to kickstart your day!
♁ Address: 1F Takamine Bldg, 2-9-6 Matsuo, Naha-shi, Okinawa 〒900-0014
♁ Opening Hours: 9:00–17:00 (Weekdays); 8:00–17:00 (Weekends & Holidays)
♁ Closed: Tuesdays
♁ Transportation: Bus Guide | Car Rental & Driving Guide
♁ Official Website: C&C BREAKFAST OKINAWA
(Both the café decor and dining ambiance are incredibly comfortable, and the food is genuinely mouthwatering. Alongside Japanese, the menu features clear English descriptions. Located in central Naha close to Kokusai Dori, it is an ideal morning dining choice for international visitors.)
(Spotted a charming little mini truck nearby featuring Chinese characters for Taiwan—did you catch that? Haha!)
(Tucked away in the quiet lanes around C&C are countless intriguing street scenes. When I showed this photo to other Japanese friends, they were surprised and asked, "How on earth do you know about that?" They explained it was a vintage classic Japanese movie poster, and one of the famous lead actors was originally from Okinawa. I smiled quietly, thinking to myself: I had no clue at all when taking it! Haha!)
◎ Sefa-Utaki (齋場御嶽)
Next, we headed to Sefa-Utaki, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most renowned sacred destinations in Southern Okinawa. While the Kanji characters look familiar to Chinese speakers, my Okinawan friend explained that the pronunciation "Sēfā Utaki" is rooted in ancient Ryukyuan language. Before unifying with Japan, the Ryukyu Kingdom possessed its own distinct languages, cultural identity, and traditions. To this day, local dialects still echo across the islands, meaning many mainland Japanese visitors stumble over the pronunciation too—which is quite fascinating!
In the Ryukyuan language, Sefa-Utaki translates to "the Supreme Sacred Sanctuary." Since the era of the Ryukyu Kingdom, it served as the foremost center of spiritual worship—a deeply revered, holy site. Within its grounds lies an offshore worship platform that gazes directly out toward Kudaka Island ("Island of the Gods"). Ancient Ryukyuans believed that the gods resided on Kudaka Island, and only by praying eastward toward it could their sacred prayers reach the divine!
♁ Address: Aza-Kudeken, Chinen, Nanjo-shi, Okinawa 〒901-1511
♁ Admission: Adults 300 JPY / Elementary & Junior High Students 150 JPY
♁ Transportation: Take Bus #38 from Naha Bus Terminal and get off at Sefa-Utaki-mae (Detailed Bus Guide | Car Rental & Driving Guide)
♁ Official Website: Sefa-Utaki
♁ Search Accommodations: Booking | Agoda | Hotels.com | Expedia (Compare Prices | Recommended Stays)
(It takes about a 5-minute walk from the ticket office to the actual forest sanctuary entrance.)
(Sefa-Utaki is the most sacred sanctuary of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Free of artificial shrines, the primeval forest and towering megaliths themselves are venerated as embodiments of nature spirits. In ancient times, men were strictly forbidden from entering; legend has it that even the Ryukyuan King had to disguise himself in women's attire to set foot inside!)
◎ Kudaka Island (久高島)
Our journey then brought us to Kudaka Island, known as the "Island of the Gods," situated off the southeastern coast of Okinawa main island. Driving from Sefa-Utaki to Azama Port (安座真港) takes only a few short minutes, and ferry rides from the port to Kudaka Island take just 15 to 25 minutes. While not the most typical outer island destination for international tourists, many Japanese travelers love coming here to rent bicycles, soak in the gentle ocean breeze, spend a peaceful afternoon, and experience the tranquil sanctuary where the gods are said to dwell.
♁ Ferry Ticket Information:| Vessel Type | Fare | Timetable |
| Car Ferry (Ferry Kudaka) |
One-way: 680 JPY (Adult) 340 JPY (Child) Round-trip: 1,300 JPY (Adult) 650 JPY (Child) |
Depart Azama Port → Kudaka Island: 08:00–08:25 11:00–11:25 15:00–15:25 Depart Kudaka Island → Azama Port: 10:00–10:25 14:00–14:25 17:00–17:25 |
| High-Speed Boat (New Kudaka III) |
One-way: 770 JPY (Adult) 390 JPY (Child) Round-trip: 1,480 JPY (Adult) 750 JPY (Child) |
Depart Azama Port → Kudaka Island: 09:30–09:45 13:00–13:15 17:00–17:15 Depart Kudaka Island → Azama Port: 08:30–08:45 12:00–12:15 16:00–16:15 |
| Contact Info | Kudaka Kaiun Co., Ltd. TEL: 098-948-7785 |
|
(The ticket office at Azama Port features vibrant, eye-catching murals.)
(Here is what Azama Port looks like—boarding and disembarking take place at the same pier, accompanied by a complimentary parking area right beside it.)
(After a smooth 20-minute boat ride, we arrived on Kudaka Island. The island is compact, so most visitors rent bicycles to explore; cycling around the entire island takes only two to three hours.)
(Upon disembarking, you will find a quaint local settlement with a few small eateries and bicycle rental shops. For those wanting an effortless ride, electric-assist bicycles and carts are also available at select shops.)
(Most of Kudaka Island remains preserved in its raw, natural state. I truly adore this untouched, uncommercialized charm. Cycling trails meander closely alongside the shoreline, rewarding you with breathtaking coastal panoramas at every turn.)
(Good heavens, look at that water clarity! Isn't it unbelievably stunning?! It reminded me of the crystal-clear waters in the Kerama Islands—impeccably clean with incredible transparency. I have an immense passion for Okinawa's remote islands!)
(Then something truly magical happened! On this tiny secluded island, we unexpectedly bumped into fellow Couchsurfers that Ayumi already knew! The Couchsurfing network is truly incredible. They were from mainland Japan and Greece, and they warmly guided us to a secret swimming and snorkeling spot recommended by our Greek companion. The water clarity on Okinawa's outer islands is an absolute enchantment—so crystal clear you simply cannot resist plunging right in! Later, when I shared the Taiwanese Ghost Month superstition about avoiding swimming in the seventh lunar month, they looked back at me in total disbelief! Haha!)
◎ Azama SunSun Beach (あざまサンサンビーチ)
This well-maintained public beach is located right next to Azama Port, just a casual two-minute stroll away. It is an ideal spot to unwind if you still have time after returning from Kudaka Island. The beach is fully equipped with marine water sports rentals and comprehensive shower facilities. The seawater is crystal clear, and a dedicated jellyfish safety net is installed to provide a worry-free swimming environment. If you want a relaxing swim along Okinawa's southeastern coast, this is a wonderful choice!
♁ Address: 1141-3 Chinen-Azama, Nanjo-shi, Okinawa 〒901-1502
♁ Open Season & Hours: Early April to late October; 10:00–18:00
♁ Transportation: Take Bus #37, #91, or #191 to Baten Bus Stop, then walk for about 5 minutes (Detailed Bus Guide | Car Rental & Driving Guide)
♁ Parking: 500 JPY (Alternatively, you can park for free at the adjacent Azama Port lot and walk over)
♁ Facilities & Fees: Coin lockers 200 JPY / Hot shower 200 JPY for 5 min / Parasol & beach loungers 500 JPY / BBQ equipment rental 3,500 JPY / Restroom paper 100 JPY
♁ Search Accommodations: Booking | Agoda | Hotels.com | Expedia (Compare Prices | Recommended Stays)
(Just how many gorgeous beaches does Okinawa have?!)
(A "Lovers' Bell" stands proudly along the beach—and yes, exactly as you'd guess, ring the bell and eternal love will follow!)
(Many visitors were joyfully enjoying banana boat rides and marine sports nearby.)
(Wide open coastal views and mesmerizing ocean hues.)
◎ Ojima Island (奥武島 / Ōjima)
Ojima Island is a charming small island off southern Okinawa, easily accessible by car without taking a ferry thanks to a short causeway bridge connecting it to the main island. Renowned since ancient times as a thriving fishing community, it is most celebrated among visitors for its crispy, freshly fried tempura (てんぷら). The island's popular tempura shops constantly draw long, enthusiastic lines of tourists and locals alike.
Visiting Ojima was a spontaneous decision for us, and remarkably, we happened to arrive right on the day of an island festival! Known as the "Uminchu Festival (うみんちゅ祭り)," it celebrated local fishermen much like Taiwan's Bluefin Tuna Cultural Festival, featuring live butchering of the season's premier tuna for fresh sashimi tastings. Traditional street food stalls and festive night markets are a rare, celebratory treat for residents here, especially on such a small island. You could feel the pure excitement and contagious happiness in the air—no wonder local friends were so endlessly amazed that Taiwan enjoys bustling night markets every single night!
(The bridge in the photo connects mainland Okinawa to Ojima Island, where spirited local kids were playfully jumping into the water. Village children have such a genuine, carefree spark—truly heartwarming!)
(Beyond mouthwatering food vendors, there was a lively community parade. And my, wasn't that little boy just the most adorable thing?!)
(It is quite rare to spot pony riding entertainment at a Japanese local festival!)
(The live cutting of the ceremonial first tuna was the absolute centerpiece of the festival—though somehow my camera kept wandering toward the cute children...)
(If you love lively seafood bazaars like this, I also highly recommend visiting Okinawa's Top 3 Fish Markets, where you can indulge in an endless array of freshly caught seafood!)
◎ Mibaru Beach (新原ビーチ)
Following that, we drove over to Mibaru Beach. Unlike the developed park setting of Azama SunSun Beach, Mibaru is a wonderfully natural coastal beach. What makes it unique is the popular fleet of glass-bottom sightseeing boats operating offshore; you can board these glass-bottomed vessels to marvel at colorful tropical fish and vibrant coral reefs through transparent waters. The coastline boasts a sweeping one-kilometer stretch of white sand, though the shoreline features quite a few rugged limestone formations. Personally, I found it somewhat less comfortable or safe for casual barefoot wading, so do take extra care when stepping into the water here!
◎ Café Curcuma (カフェくるくま) - *Permanently Closed
Finally, we ended our day at Café Curcuma, a celebrated Thai restaurant perched on a cliffside commanding sweeping panoramic views across the southern Pacific ocean. The menu featured delicious Thai specialties alongside various Japanese plates. Because it was located high up near the mountains of Chinen, public buses did not service the area directly—meaning without my Okinawan friend, I never would have discovered such a breathtaking gem. We arrived just before twilight, allowing us to watch the setting sun and the sparkling evening lights gradually flicker awake. Feeling the cool ocean breeze while sipping local drinks, I was completely swept up in the leisurely rhythm of Okinawan life.
♁ Address: 1190 Aza-Chinen, Chinen, Nanjo-shi, Okinawa
♁ Opening Hours: Oct–Mar: 10:00–19:00 / Apr–Sep: 10:00–20:00
♁ Regular Holiday: Open daily (closes at 18:00 on Tuesdays)
♁ Additional Info: Approx. 95 seats, credit cards accepted, serves alcoholic beverages (the true lifeblood of Okinawa!)
♁ Official Website: Cafe Curcuma
(I initially wondered if Thai food in Japan would taste significantly different from what I was used to in Taiwan, but every dish was unexpectedly delicious. Best of all, dining while taking in that expansive ocean panorama and twinkling dusk was pure magic. A truly exceptional spot!)
Out of respect for my host's privacy, I won't be posting photos of her home, but I saw so many wonderful things! An Okinawan's home is truly packed to the brim with ocean gear—my host even had a full-sized sea kayak in the house! (And, of course, plenty of local awamori and drinks! Haha!) Deep down, I deeply admire this lifestyle. My guest room featured traditional Japanese design with a classic Doraemon-style closet (oshiire) and lovely wooden craftsmanship. I am so deeply thankful for such a warm and comfortable stay; this was without a doubt one of my most cherished Couchsurfing experiences. I truly love the people of Okinawa!
Next up, Day 2! Continue reading here: [Okinawa] (Central) Traveling with a Local! Couchsurfing Day 2: Hamaya Soba, Ryukyu Mura, Cape Manzamo, OIST & Okinawa Zento Eisa Festival!