Six ways to exercise your mind and body in untamed Okinawa, Japan

Okinawa, a group of islands in southern Japan, is famed for its subtropical climate, relaxed lifestyle, and untouched nature. Okinawa is a melting pot of different activities, especially those centred upon wellbeing. There are a plethora of sporting options, including marine activities of snorkelling and stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, or even karate. Regardless of which landscape you prefer, Okinawa will provide fresh sights and memories, all while exercising the body!

For the beach flockers
1) Snorkelling
The Kerama Islands region is a national park famed for the beautiful 'Kerama blue' water. The pristine white sand in combination with the clear water makes the Kerama Islands an ideal location for marine activities such as snorkelling.

Ishigaki Island is another great location for marine leisure. Snorkelling is offered on almost every beach of Ishigaki, and Kabira Bay on the northwest side of the island is famous for manta rays. Okinawa is a great place for avid snorkelers or beginners alike, as the water is relatively calm, creating ideal conditions to enjoy the stunning underwater views.

2) Stand-up Paddle Boarding
To experience something new, stand-up paddle boarding in Okinawa is a great option! Due to the elevated position, it creates a fantastic vantage point and doubles up as great exercise. A popular island in the region that is great for stand up paddle boarding is Aka Island, which can be easily reached in 50 minutes via high speed ferry from Tomari Port in Naha.

In the Nanjo Chinen area of Southern Okinawa, yoga is combined with stand-up paddle boarding to create a unique experience. Nachura in Nanjo City is a stand-up paddle boarding shop which helps participants to combine the two sports, providing all the equipment and instruction as needed. The increased difficulty due to the unstable setting creates a great workout!

For more information on marine activities in Okinawa: https://www.visitokinawa.jp/information/basic-marine-activity

For the in-land adventurers
3) Kayaking
Iriomote Island is the second largest island in Okinawa, and a natural haven with almost 90% of the island covered in jungle. Trekking and kayaking courses are some of the best ways to enjoy the untamed nature of the island. The mangrove forests provide an alternative vantage point to the unique fauna, and there is even the possibility of seeing the rare, island exclusive, Iriomote wildcat.

Another option is Yanbaru in the north of the main island, which provides the perfect landscape for both river and sea kayaking. Yanbaru Mangrove has conditions perfect for kayaking and provides beautiful scenery of the broadleaf forest. As the surrounding ocean tends to be calm, those looking for a more novel activity can try sea kayaking, which provides a completely different scenic experience!

For more other activities on Northern Okinawa Main Island, visit: https://www.visitokinawa.jp/destinations/okinawa-main-island/northern-okinawa-main-island

4) Hiking
Daisekirinzan is located on the northern tip of Okinawa's main island. Not only is it a place of sacred significance, but also a great natural wonderland to refresh and enjoy nature. There are four trekking routes that can be enjoyed, ranging from limestone paths to subtropical forests.

For those looking for a nature spot slightly closer to Naha, The Valley of Gangala is a great option. The Valley of Gangala is a cave of natural limestone filled with lush subtropical forest. Some of the banyan trees are estimated to be over a hundred years old, creating a nostalgic and mystical atmosphere. The incredible natural phenomenon opened to the public in 2008 and can only be experienced through guided tours.

For the city dwellers
5) Karate
Okinawa is said to be the place of origin for Karate and remains a very popular sport in the area. Within the plethora of training spaces for karate, many allow visitors to participate, such as Karate Kaikan. Depending on the time of travel, there are also events such as the Okinawa Traditional Kobudo World Tournament and Okinawa Traditional Karate & Kobudo Worldwide Seminar. The opportunity to experience karate in its birthplace is not to be missed!

To learn more about Karate in Okinawa, please visit: https://www.visitokinawa.jp/information/karate

6) Cycling
For those who enjoy sightseeing via bicycle, Yomitan Village is the perfect option. Yomitan Village is located in the middle of the main island and is a cultural haven for traditional crafts such as pottery and textiles. In combination with the narrow roads between sugarcane fields, cycling provides an adventurous way to enjoy the different aspects of the area. Such tours are available and will provide a fun adventure around the village!

Kume Island which is just a quick 30-minute flight from the main island, is another great option for cycling tours. As it is quite large, and overflowing with cultural sights to enjoy, cycling means you can stop and start with ease, really taking in the magnificent sights!

Website:  www.visitokinawa.jp/