Exploring Naha: Castles, Cats, and Cultural Surprises

Arriving in Naha by cruise ship sets the tone for a day that feels both laid-back and full of unexpected details. As the capital of Okinawa (那覇市 – Pronounced [ˈna.ha]), this port city greets visitors with a tropical breeze and a style that’s distinctly different from mainland Japan.

Once the royal seat of the Ryukyu Kingdom, Naha developed its own blend of cultural influences through centuries of trade with China, Korea, and Southeast Asia. Much of the city was destroyed during World War II, but what stands today is a vibrant mix of history, urban energy, and playful charm.

Whether you’re chasing castle ruins, sampling Okinawan ice cream, or pausing to pet a café cat, Naha has a way of revealing itself slowly through small, vivid moments.

I started my visit at Shurijo Castle Park, where the gates and stone walls still echo the past, even as the site undergoes a long-term restoration after a major fire in 2019. Walking the grounds offers a different kind of history, one that’s still in motion. While the main buildings are gone for now, the views across the city and the feel of the ancient stonework still make it worthwhile.

From there, I wandered through the lively stretch of Kokusai Dori, a popular shopping street packed with souvenir shops, snack stalls, and local energy. I paused for a scoop of Blue Seal ice cream, Okinawa’s signature sweet, which made the perfect break from the warm afternoon.

Later in the day, I ducked into Fukushūen Garden, a peaceful Chinese-style retreat hidden in the heart of the city. Pavilions, koi ponds, and stone bridges created a tranquil escape from the buzz outside. I also made a stop at Nekomaru Chaya, a small cat café where the soft paw taps and sleepy stares were the perfect reset. Before heading back, I checked out the Naha Giant Tug-Of-War Display and, of course, visited my favorite statue in the city—Tsuboya Ufu Shisa. There’s something about it that always makes me smile.