[The most complete guide to Okinawa Cherry Blossom Season] Pink romance on a tropical island

#OkinawaSakura ✨ Okinawa Sakura Season Timeline Okinawa is the first region in Japan to welcome cherry blossoms. The Kanhizakura are expected to bloom from late January to mid-February. The northern Nago and Kunigami areas will bloom first, and Naha in the south will enter the best viewing period afterwards. Unlike the pale pink cherry blossoms on Honshu, the cherry blossoms on Okinawa are mostly deep red "Kanhi Sakura". The flowers hang down like bells, and against the blue sea and sky, they create a unique tropical atmosphere. 🌺 Must-visit cherry blossom viewing spots 1⃣ Nakijin Castle Ruins Highlights: The collision of world cultural heritage and cherry blossoms! At night, the lights illuminate the stone walls of the ancient city, and the night cherry blossoms and the starry sky interweave into a beautiful picture. Every year during the Cherry Blossom Festival, there are Taigu performances and Ryukyu costume experiences, which make you feel like you have traveled back to the Ryukyu Dynasty. Transportation: Drive from Naha for about 1 hour, or take a bus to the "Nakijin Castle Ruins-mae" stop. Tips: It is recommended to go there in the afternoon, so that you can enjoy the cherry blossoms and sea view during the day, and watch the night cherry blossom light show (18:00-21:00). 2⃣ Yaedake Sakura Forest Park Highlights: 7,000 cherry trees line the mountain path, and from the top of the mountain you can overlook a magnificent panoramic view of the East China Sea and cherry blossoms. There is also the "Yae-dake Cherry Blossom Festival" from mid-February to early March, where you can experience local snacks and handicrafts. Transportation: About 30 minutes by car from Nago City, or take a bus to the "Yae-dake entrance" stop. Photo spot: The observation deck halfway up the mountain, where cherry blossoms and sugarcane fields are framed together, so healing! 3⃣ Manzamo Highlights: An iconic attraction in Okinawa, the cherry blossoms on the cliffs form a sharp contrast with the deep blue sea. The filming location of the Korean drama "It's Okay, That's Love", with a 100% production rate. Transportation: About 40 minutes by car from Naha City, or take a bus to Manzamo Station. Hidden trick: Go early in the morning or evening to avoid the crowds and capture the dreamy moments of cherry blossoms and sunrise/sunset. 🚗 Transportation and practical tips Rent a car and drive: Okinawa has few bus services, so it is recommended to rent a car (with an international driver's license or a translated copy of your driver's license). You can stop at any time along the way to enjoy the cherry blossoms. Transportation card: Suica card is linked to Apple Pay and is accepted at convenience stores and vending machines. Payment: Alipay covers more than 90% of shopping malls and restaurants in Okinawa. It is recommended to carry cash for large purchases. Outfit: Okinawa is warm in winter (15-20℃), so it is recommended to wear a thin coat + floral skirt to make your photos more photogenic! 💡 Recommended niche gameplay Blue Cave Snorkeling: After viewing the cherry blossoms, you can experience the "underwater cherry blossoms". The blue water and the coral reefs complement each other. Even if you can't swim, you can participate. Weather warning: Okinawa occasionally experiences strong winds in January and February. Please check the weather forecast before traveling to avoid affecting your itinerary. 🌟 Itinerary reference 3-Day Tour: Day 1: Naha → Nakijin Castle Ruins (Night Sakura) → American Village (Dinner) Day 2: Yaedake Sakura Forest Park → Manzamo → Blue Cave Snorkeling Day 3: Nago Zoo and Botanical Gardens → Ryukyu Craft Experience → Naha City Shopping The cherry blossom season in Okinawa is an encounter between tropics and romance. Save this guide and enjoy a pink feast in winter! 🌸