Chatan

The itinerary was good value for money. However, I personally didn't like the Chinese tour guide, Mr. Lin, who we met that day. He delayed our departure by 15 minutes because he was waiting for a group of late Chinese guests. Most other attractions departed on time without delay. However, the brochures at the attractions focused on food ingredients, which was a bit redundant and could be improved. Overall, the attractions were great. Also, the fireworks at American Village weren't worth stopping for. If you're staying nearby, you might be able to watch it, but otherwise, it's better to take the bus back to the southern part of the city (Naha) earlier for better sightseeing. Buses are infrequent, crowded, and the journey is quite long, so be prepared. Unless you prefer, taking a taxi is also an option.

It was somewhat of a semi-self-guided tour. We met at the Lealea VIP lounge at 9:00 AM. The staff provided very clear information (including a YouTube video showing bus timetables and bus stop signs). The bus passed the Double Tree Hilton in American Village, where people got on and off. The bus continued until around 10:30 AM at the stop near the Pink Mermaid. The drop-off point felt a bit remote, so we walked about 5 minutes to the Pink Mermaid stop. The snorkeling trip began. After changing, we took a bus to the boat boarding area and boarded a boat near the Blue Cave. The weather was great that day, and we were lucky enough to meet a Taiwanese instructor. The water was very clear, and there were many fish. The Blue Cave itself seemed a bit too crowded, so we didn't fully appreciate its beauty. The shower facilities after snorkeling were new, but instead of individual showers, there was a shared women's shower area and changing room. The hairdryers were very powerful. They provided all the photos taken by the instructor, which was very thoughtful. Some masks looked old and got a little water inside. Afterwards, use your meal voucher to eat Okinawan noodles in the building next door. The basic version is delicious, better than the ones on Kokusai Street. You can also pay extra for other flavors of Okinawan noodles. Rest at the restaurant for a bit, then walk to the next bus stop (Shioya Station). The bus stop sign is old, crooked, and inconspicuous, easy to miss. You can check the YouTube video in the information booklet to confirm the location. There's a small supermarket next to the bus stop. Take the 2:30 PM bus; you can choose to go directly back to Naha, or get off at around 3:00 PM at the Double Tree Hilton in American Village to explore American Village, and return to the Double Tree Hilton at 8:15 PM to take a bus back to the prefectural capital. Overall, it was a great experience, but it seemed not many people used it; only five guests used this itinerary that day, the rest were passengers traveling between Naha and American Village. It's perfect for travelers without a car, combining a visit to American Village with a day trip back to Naha in the evening. The sunset and the illuminated buildings in American Village at night are beautiful.

08:40 Arrive at the port to fill out forms. Each person receives two forms. Remember to allow ample time if there are many people. There are Chinese-speaking guides. Parking is charged; I took a taxi. 09:20 The ferry departs, arriving at the island around 10:30. 10:40 Transfer to a shuttle bus to Aharen Beach around 11:00. This is free time; you can play in the water at the beach. Shops provide free life jackets, fins, and snorkeling masks. Lockers cost 500 yen per use (unlimited opening and closing). Sun umbrellas and deck chairs cost 2500 yen per use. Free curry rice is available. There are also shops selling drinks nearby. Credit cards are accepted, and there are vending machines. 13:30 Meet up and take the shuttle bus to Togashihisa Beach for snorkeling. They will help take photos and videos; photos are free. Snorkeling lasts approximately 1-1.5 hours. 15:00 Return to the original location to shower and change. Showering is free. There are 3 shower stalls for men; the number for women is uncertain, but both have long queues and take some time. Around 15:40 Meet up and take the bus back to the port. 17:30 Arrive back at Naha Port.

For those not driving, a day trip to the north is excellent, eliminating the need for transportation and allowing you to visit multiple remote attractions in one day. There's plenty of time!