Experience the best of Ginowan

Ginowan lies just north of Naha on the central part of Okinawa Island, with a short coastline on the East China Sea. A US Marine Corps air station occupies a large area in the middle of the city, so roads and housing curve around the base. Futenma Shrine, built around a limestone cave that is its main sacred site, is the city's best-known historical site.

Along the coast, Ginowan Seaside Park has a marina, a swimming beach and walkways, and the Okinawa Convention Center, a large complex, hosts conferences and events. The hill of Shuri Castle in Naha lies to the south, and the ruins of Nakagusuku Castle, a World Heritage site, lie a short drive to the north-east.

Restaurants serve Okinawa soba in a pork broth, tofu in several textures and awamori, the local distilled rice spirit, and American-style diners reflect the military presence. Winters are mild enough for lunch outdoors.