Okinawa Autumn and Winter: Mild Climate and Vibrant Seas in the Hidden Best Season

Okinawa Autumn and Winter Trip

From October to February, Okinawa is an off-season when the typhoon season ends and the summer crowds settle down. Even so, the climate is warm (average 20 to 25°C), the transparency of the sea is high, and it is actually the calm travel season when you can most leisurely enjoy island time. Airfare and accommodation costs also become reasonable, making it a recommended time especially for those who want to travel wisely.

October to November

The time when the typhoon season ends and the climate is most stable. There are also fewer tourists, and accommodation costs are reasonable. The sea is still warm, and the transparency for diving and snorkeling is also kept high, so marine activities can be fully enjoyed. During the day, the weather is warm enough to spend in short sleeves.

December to February

The temperature is around 15 to 20°C, with warmth like the spring of Honshu. While swimming in the sea is tough, it is comfortable for sightseeing, driving, gusuku (castle) tours, and cultural experiences. During this time, humpback whales visit the waters near Okinawa to breed, and it becomes the best season for whale watching. Tours around the Kerama Islands are popular.

Japan's Earliest Cherry Blossoms / Kanhizakura

From late January to early February, "Kanhizakura," the earliest-blooming cherry blossom in Japan, reaches its peak in various places. At the "Nakijin Gusuku Sakura Festival" at the Nakijin Castle Ruins, the deep pink cherry blossoms and the light-up of the old castle are dreamlike, and you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing a step ahead of everyone else.

Best Season

If you want to spend time leisurely, October to November is the target; if you want to enjoy whales and cherry blossoms, January to February is the target. Since it can get cold in the mornings and evenings, having a light layer to throw on gives peace of mind.

Access

Flights to Naha Airport operate year-round. In the off-season, cheap airfares are easy to get, and reservations are also relatively smooth.