Okinawa Day Guides
by Trip To Japan
How to Spend a Day at American Village and Sunset Beach
American Village and Sunset Beach are two of Okinawa's most vibrant destinations, combining colorful shopping, entertainment, and stunning coastal views. This one-day itinerary takes you through the retro American-style complex, beautiful beaches, and lively dining scene.
Getting There: Take a Bus or Rental Car from Naha
Driving Distance: 30 minutes from Naha
Bus Option: Take Bus #20, #28, or #29 from Naha Bus Terminal (40-50 minutes)
Start your day with breakfast at your hotel. American Village is located in Mihama, Chatan Town, making it easily accessible from Naha by car or bus. The area is compact and walkable.
Traveler's Tip: If taking the bus, get off at "American Village" stop. If driving, use the large parking lots near Depot Island or Carnival Park Mihama.
Explore Carnival Park Mihama and Ferris Wheel
Things to Do at Carnival Park Mihama:
Ride the Ferris wheel for panoramic views of the coast and American Village
Take photos of the colorful, retro American-style buildings
Browse souvenir shops and specialty stores
Enjoy arcade games and entertainment centers
Explore the multi-level shopping complex with fashion boutiques
Walk Through Depot Island
Things to Do at Depot Island:
Walk along the waterfront promenade with ocean views
Browse boutique shops selling clothing, accessories, and local crafts
Take photos of the colorful Mediterranean-style buildings
Watch boats in the small harbor
Visit music and entertainment venues
Explore local artist shops and galleries
Browse American Depot and Shopping Streets
American Depot is a large shopping complex that captures the retro American military base aesthetic. The buildings are designed to look like old American military warehouses, painted in military green with vintage signage.
Traveler's Tip: Many shops open around 10:00–11:00 AM. Some stores offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Bring your passport if you plan to make large purchases.
Lunch at American Village
EARTH VILLAGE IZAKAYA – Izakaya restaurant
Ichigenya – Okonomiyaki restaurant
Hakata Yakiniku Tenjin – Yakiniku restaurant
Vegan & Vegetarian:
Vongo & Anchor – Sandwich shop
Bollywood Dreams – Indian restaurant
Relax at Chatan Park Sunset Beach
Walking Distance: 10 minutes from American Village
Driving Distance: 3 minutes
Sunset Beach is a beautiful artificial beach with white sand and clear shallow waters. The beach is famous for spectacular sunset views and is well-maintained with full facilities, including showers, changing rooms, and restrooms.
Things to Do at Sunset Beach:
Swim in the calm, clear waters with lifeguard supervision
Relax on the white sand beach under palm tree shade
Rent beach chairs and umbrellas from the facilities
Take photos with the iconic palm trees
Visit Araha Beach
Walking Distance: 15 minutes from Sunset Beach
Driving Distance: 5 minutes
Araha Beach is another beautiful beach in Chatan, known for its long stretch of white sand and excellent facilities. The beach park includes a large grassy area, walking paths, and BBQ facilities.
Things to Do at Araha Beach:
Swim in the protected waters with gentle waves
Walk or jog along the paved beachside path
Use the BBQ facilities in the park area (equipment rental available)
Play in the grassy park behind the beach
Watch kite surfers and windsurfers when conditions are windy
Enjoy the playground area if traveling with children
Take sunset photos from a different angle than Sunset Beach
Watch Sunset at Sunset Beach or Araha Beach
Return to either Sunset Beach or Araha Beach to watch the sunset over the East China Sea. Both beaches offer unobstructed western views. The sky transforms into brilliant shades of orange, pink, and purple as the sun sinks below the horizon.
Traveler's Tip: Check sunset time for the day of your visit (usually between 5:30–7:00 PM depending on season). Arrive 30 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot.
Dinner at American Village
After sunset, return to American Village for dinner. The area comes alive at night with illuminated buildings, neon signs, and a lively atmosphere.
Grilled Fukugyu restaurant – Yakiniku restaurant
Ichigenya – Okonomiyaki restaurant
Blue Ocean Steak – Steak house
Taco Loco – Mexican restaurant
Return to Naha
Driving Distance: 30 minutes
Bus Option: Take Bus #20, #28, or #29 back to Naha (40-50 minutes)
After a full day of shopping, beaches, and entertainment, return to Naha. If you stayed for evening activities, you'll likely be heading back around 9:00–10:00 PM.
