View on Map
Discover Details:
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

I suggest bringing your own snacks and drinks. The in-house cafes are pricey, and I found it hard to justify the costs when I could just picnic outside!

Timing is everything! I recommend going early around 9 AM when the aquarium opens. It was way less crowded, and I got to enjoy the exhibits without bumping shoulders with other visitors.

If you're a photography buff go for the big tank around 4 PM. The lighting gets amazing then and the colors pop like crazy. I wished I had known that beforehand!

My advice is to check out the Kuroshio Sea tank first! It's the biggest and by far the coolest - save the smaller exhibits for later when you're winding down. It was a great starting point.
Mount Aso

Don't just rush to the crater; explore the hiking trails. I spent hours wandering around the fantastic landscapes and it was way more enjoyable than just looking at the crater alone!

Check the weather before you go! It can totally change how you experience Mount Aso. I got caught in fog and missed the views. Early mornings around 8 AM are best for clear skies and fewer crowds.

If you're planning to use the cable car, buy a round-trip ticket in advance. I went for a one-way and ended up waiting longer than expected for a ride back. Save your time and money!
Sakurajima
Sakurajima Volcano
Mount Kaimondake
Tanoura Beach

I suggest bringing some snacks and drinks since there's limited options around the beach. I ended up spending more on overpriced food, which wasn't that great. Save your yen for ice cream instead
Akutaya Beach

I recommend bringing your own snacks and drinks since there aren’t many shops nearby. This way you can save money and enjoy a lovely picnic on the beach without worrying about overpriced food!

My advice is to arrive around 4 PM to catch the sunset – it's absolutely stunning. You'll have less crowds too, making it a peaceful experience.