Unlike other parts of Japan, Okinawa has its own separate history, having been the independent kingdom of Ryukyu during the 15th century. On this half-day excursion, you will explore the city of Naha , the capital and largest city of Okinawa Prefecture, and former capital of the Ryukyu kings. Leaving the port, you will drive to Shuri Castle , the administrative center and residence of the Ryukyu royal family for over 400 years, until Okinawa became a Japanese prefecture in 1879. A UNESCO World Heritage Site , the castle rests on a hill providing outstanding views of Naha and the sea. You will see the lavishly decorated Seiden (Main Hall) , and the ornate Shurei Gate . Known as the Gate of Courtesy, it typifies Okinawan architecture and serves as a symbol of modern day Okinawa. After the castle, you will be escorted to Shikina en Garden, which is known as one of the best Japanese Style Gardens in Okinawa. Please note : This tour includes approximately 2.5 hours of walking that is considered strenuous at times and there are uneven surfaces and a significant number of steep steps to negotiate. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and it is not considered suitable for those with mobility concerns. Shoes must be removed during the visit to the south hall (Nanden) and the main hall of Shurijo Castle. While photography is permitted on the grounds of Shurijo Castle, none is permitted inside. The Shurijo Castle has restoration work being done and some areas may not be accessible. Bring local currency for any purchases at the sites, sunscreen and a hat. The order of the sites viewed or visited may vary.

Visit Okinawa's historic battlefield sites and monuments of the Battle of Okinawa in this interesting half-day tour. Departing from the pier, you will first travel towards southeast Okinawa, passing by several residential and commercial areas. Your first stop will be at the Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters , located where Rear Admiral Ota and his men desperately fought in 1945. Once you have arrived, you will walk down the 101 steps into the narrow tunnels of the headquarters to see the commanding officer's room, staff room, generator rooms and more, giving you unique insight into the experiences the soldiers and officers had inside the headquarters. You will next make your way to Peace Memorial Park , which is built to commemorate the people who died in the war. In the Peace Park, you will also visit the museum with many displays telling about the battle in Okinawa. The final stop will be at Himeyuri Monument , which stands as a symbol of the severity of the Battle of Okinawa. It was built as a dedication to the more than 200 female students and their teachers who lost their lives as volunteer nurses in the Himeyuri Corps. Please note : This tour includes approximately 3-hours of walking that is considered strenuous at times and there are uneven surfaces and a significant number of steps and narrow passageways to negotiate at the Naval Underground Headquarters. There are no elevators or ramps at this attraction. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests or those with mobility concerns. Weather appropriate clothing and flat, comfortable walking shoes are suggested. The order of the sites viewed or visited may vary. We suggest that you bring local currency for any purchases at the sites.

This unique tour not only gives you the opportunity to observe and learn the secrets of the art of Bingata, a multicolored dyeing process used for silk and vegetable fibers, but also allows you to actively participate in making your own creation. Depart the pier by coach for a short drive to Tembusu Naha , where you will have the opportunity to learn about the history of the art of Bingata, originally produced solely for Okinawa's warrior class since the 15th century. Bingata-dyed fabric has been produced in the Ryukyu Islands for centuries, but is believed that the multi-colored dyeing process was originally introduced from southern China. Discover the secrets of this ancient art as you create your very own piece of Ryukyu Bingata, with a complex pattern of alternating light and dark dyes. At the end of this interactive class, you will be able to take home with you your piece of traditional Bingata as a souvenir of your visit. Rejoining your coach, you will travel towards the Shurijyo Castle . This vermilion-colored castle was the seat of power during the 500-year reign of the Ryukyu Kindgom. Destroyed in World War II, the Castle was rebuilt in 1992 and is surrounded by beautiful gates that lead to Seiden or Main Hall. Following your visit at the Castle, you will be transferred back to the pier. Please note : This tour includes approximately 1.5 hours of walking that is considered strenuous at times and there are uneven surfaces and a significant number of steep steps to negotiate. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and it is not considered suitable for those with mobility concerns. The Bingata dyeing process will leave permanent stains on clothing so casual clothing that you will not mind getting permanently stained is recommended, along with sturdy yet comfortable walking shoes. Shoes must be removed during the visit to the South Hall (Nanden) and main hall of Shurijo Castle. While photography is permitted on the grounds of Shurijo Castle, none is permitted inside. The Shrijo Castle has restoration work being done and some areas may not be accessible. We suggest that you bring local currency for any purchases at the sites. The order of the sites viewed or visit may vary.