Insane side of Japan tourists forget about

There’s an unbelievable side of Japan that tourists often forget about, but those who have visited can’t stop raving about its undeniable beauty.

Japan is popular for its sprawling vibrant cities and ancient cultural villages – but many forget it’s an island nation blessed with incredible coastal landscapes.

Offering clear blue waters, colourful corals, powdery white sands and dreamy sunsets, Okinawa, located in the East China Sea between Taiwan and Japan’s mainland, consists of more than 160 islands with a population of 1.4 million people.

It is dubbed the ‘Hawaii of Japan’ with some of its islands also likened to that of a Mediterranean town, such as the Senaga Island in the Okinawa capital of Naha.

“When you’re staying in Naha you have to visit Okinawa’s Santorini – Senaga Island,” travel blogger Diana said in a TikTok.

“Its whitewashed buildings are evocative of a Mediterranean town and are filled with a diverse array of cafes, restaurants and boutiques.

“The atmosphere and vibe are awesome. The turquoise water and white buildings really remind me of a charming Greece village.”

Senaga Island in Okinawa has been likened to Santorini in Greece. Picture: TikTok/_diana_pina

Senaga is located just 15 minutes by car from Naha Airport. And it’s not the only island gaining lots of attention.

A TikTok on Zamami Island, also in Okinawa, clocked 11 million views, showing off marine life and endless crystal clear waters.

Its filled with quaint cafes and restaurants. Picture: TikTok/_diana_pina

“Many Aussies might not realise that Japan has some incredible beaches to rival other well-known tropical beach destinations around the world, which could offer a welcome contrast to the buzz of busy urban centres when visiting the country,” JNTO Sydney-based executive director, Naoki Kitazawa, recently told news.com.au

“When booking a trip, we want all Australians to know that Japan has many different sides worth exploring – even if it’s for a relaxing or fun-filled beach holiday.”

@_diana_pina Don't miss Senaga Island when you're visiting Naha, Okinawa😍 #okinawa #okinawajapan #naha #nahaguide #okinawaguide #senagaisland #senaga ♬ one summer's day ~ spirited away lofi - Closed on Sunday

@madisoncurdy Moon Beach in Okinawa, Japan is one of my favorite finds so far! 🌕🌊🏖️☀️ The soft white sand and stunning turquoise water make you never want to leave! This property is so well maintained (not suprising at all) and offers a great gettaway or in my case, day with the girlies! ##hotelmoonbeach#okinawajapan#beachesinjapan#beautifuljapan#traveljapan#lofeabroad ♬ original sound - Madison

@itsgamzi 🏝🇯🇵♥️ #okinawa #japan #island #travel #trip #islandlife #fyp #fypシ #foryou #foryoupage #traveler #fy ♬ sonido original - Música para estados 2.0

He said thanks to its tropical climate, the islands of Okinawa are home to some of the most picturesque beaches in the world.

“With a broad selection of beachside accommodation on offer, from boutique hotels to large luxury resorts, Okinawa’s main island is home to some of the most popular beaches in the region including Manza Beach and Emerald Beach where you’ll find all kinds of water activities on offer such as snorkelling, diving, paddleboarding, kayaking and jet skiing.

Okinawa consists of more than 160 islands. Picture: TikTok/trainpal

Zamami island is known for its marine life and crystal clear waters. Picture: TikTok/trainpal

“Alternatively, some of the more secluded and tranquil beaches can be found around the Miyako and Yaeyama groups of islands which are within easy reach of the main island by ferry.”

While they may be lesser-known parts the country, access is made easy by the frequent and efficient transport connections.

“Okinawa is very well connected to Japan’s major cities with frequent low cost and full-service domestic flights operating from Naha airport,” Mr Kitazawa said.

There’s no real ‘bad time’ to visit Okinawa due to its subtropical climate. Picture: TikTok/_diana_pina

“Naha is also on the southern end of Okinawa’s main island which makes it quick and easy for travellers connecting to the smaller Yaeyama or Miyako Islands.”

Mr Kitazawa also advised that because of its subtropical climate, there’s no real “bad time” to visit Okinawa.

“The region enjoys long hot summers and mild winters which makes outdoor activities possible at any time of the year,” he explains.

“Beginning in March, springtime can be a great time to visit just as the resort beaches begin to reopen and the warm days and cooler nights make for a comfortable and pleasant environment for water and land activities.”

Newly released data by JNTO shows the number of Aussies visiting Japan between January to March this year increased by 46.3 per cent compared to the same period in 2019, with visitors in March alone up a staggering 87.4 per cent compared to March 2019.