Okinawa, Japan's southernmost prefecture, is capturing the attention of Australian and New Zealand travellers seeking unique experiences, wellness escapes and cultural immersion. Recently ranked the No. 2 Destination of the Year in Expedia's Unpacked '26 list, Okinawa has seen a 71% surge in global travel interest, thanks to its blend of natural beauty, cultural depth, and sustainable tourism practices. Adding to its prestige, 7 Okinawan hotels were recognised in the 2025 Michelin Key Hotel awards, including three properties earning the 2-Key rating for exceptional stays. Here's why this tropical paradise is trending:

A Year-Round Destination

Okinawa's subtropical climate means warm weather all year, where even in January Naha averages 17°C, making it ideal for visiting no matter the season Visitors can enjoy snorkelling at the Kerama Islands, whale watching between January and March, or explore Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases Ryukyu Kingdom history. For families, the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is a must-see, featuring one of the world's largest tanks and majestic whale sharks.

Blue Zone Lifestyle & Culinary Appeal

Okinawa is one of the world's five Blue Zones, where people live longer thanks to healthy habits and diet. Travellers can taste longevity through dishes like goya champuru (bitter melon stir-fry), Okinawa soba noodles, and Rafute (braised pork belly). Staples such as purple sweet potatoes, seaweed and tofu are central to the Okinawan diet, alongside the practice of hara hachi bu—eating until 80% full. Wellness retreats and walking tours in villages like Ogimi, known locally as the “village of longevity,” let visitors experience this lifestyle firsthand.

A Great Variety of Local Properties

Accommodation options range from luxury resorts to boutique stays and traditional guesthouses. For indulgence, Hyakuna Garan is a small, independent luxury resort just a stone's throw away from Hyakuna Beach and the Pacific Ocean, located on the southern coast of Okinawa Main Island. Couples can escape to Treeful Treehouse for immersive and sustainable experience in the local jungle, while families will love the rescape for its exclusive hideaway aesthetics and kids' activities. Budget travellers can opt for cosy stays like hostels in Naha or charming beach houses in Onna.

Unique Island Culture

Okinawa's heritage shines through experiences like Ryukyu dance performances, Eisa drum festivals, and sanshin music workshops. Visitors can try on traditional bingata-dyed Ryukyu attire, paint their own shisa guardian lion statues, or learn glassblowing at Ryukyu Glass Village. Historical sites such as Nakijin Castle Ruins and cultural hubs like the Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum deepen the connection to the islands'

Wellness & Longevity Retreats

Okinawa is a haven for wellness seekers. The Halekulani Okinawa Blue Zones Retreat offers seven days of yoga, meditation, and cultural workshops, including tea ceremonies and cooking classes. For a more intimate experience, Ogimi village offers local farm stays or homestays, combined with guided meditation with local cuisine in the heart of the longevity village. Nature lovers can join mindfulness retreats on Ishigaki Island, featuring yoga, sound therapy, and snorkelling in coral reefs.

Why Now?

With convenient flights from major Australasian cities to Japan, travellers can easily reach Okinawa via seamless connections through Tokyo, Osaka, or other Asian hubs such as Taipei, Shanghai, Seoul and Singapore. Combined with the growing interest in wellness travel and Okinawa's reputation for longevity, pristine nature, and cultural depth, the destination offers an unbeatable mix of relaxation, adventure and rejuvenation. Whether you're chasing white-sand beaches, culinary delights, or a deeper sense of wellbeing, Okinawa is ready to welcome you.