In case you didn’t know, I am currently working as an ALT in the prefecture of Kumamoto, Japan. In August, students will have their summer break which also include us ALT’s. Rather than staying at home doing nothing, I decided to embrace the heat and go to Okinawa for two weeks.

When you think of Okinawa, you probably imagine tropical islands, beaches, coral reefs and palm trees. Unfortunately, you won’t experience that on the main island of Okinawa, Naha. Like other main cities throughout Japan, Naha is a city of bustling streets and high-rise buildings. However, I heard from some locals you can find beautiful beaches in the very north of Naha.

To experience tropical Okinawa, you must go to those smaller islands south of the main island. There are around 12 famous islands in Okinawa. During my first two weeks, I went to Ishigaki and Tokashiki islands. Initially, I planned to go 5-6 islands, but in the middle of the trip, I got sick and had a severe sunburn. As a Singaporean, I was ignorant and underestimated the heat. If you are going to Okinawa during summer, please prepare for the heat. Prepare 100 dollar worth of coins for vending machine. (You will thank me later)

Ishigaki is probably one of the most well-known islands in Okinawa. It is located nearer to Taiwan than Naha. It is full of beautiful beaches and colorful coral reefs. Ishigaki has public transport, but for the best experience, it is highly recommended to rent a car. In Ishigaki, you can further travel to other Yaeyama islands, such as Miyakojima. For me, I took a one-day trip to Taketomi island.

After Ishigaki, I went to Tokashiki island of the Kerama islands. As the standard in Ishigaki has been set very high, I find Tokashiki island pretty bad. The beaches were not as beautiful as the ones in Ishigaki. It is also overcrowded with tourists and locals. Whereas in Ishigaki, there are plenty of empty white beaches all for yourself.

Overall, my trip to Okinawa has been exhausting. I can’t stress enough how humid and hot Japan is during the summer.