2026 Cherry Blossoms – Ryukyu Okinawa Islands Tour

Discover Ishigaki, Iriomote & Yubu Islands Plus Okinawa Main Island

Very unique tour itinerary!

Enjoy your choice of Japan Airlines’ “Economy,” “Premium Economy,” or the affordable luxury of ”Business” class service. Premium Economy class customers will begin their journey with a relaxing visit to JAL’s “Sakura Lounge” and the “Sakura Lounge — Hale” for Business class.

• 9 Nights / 11 Days
• 21 Meals (9 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 6 Dinners)
• Escorted from Honolulu
• Includes an English-Speaking Local Guide

TOUR DATE & MANAGER:

January 16 – 26, 2026 • Tour Manager: Sharon Miyashiro

VISIT:

Haneda, Naha, Nanjo, Itoman, Ishigaki, Kabira Bay, Iriomote, Yubu Island & Nago

OVERVIEW:

Okinawa is home to a unique culture that differs considerably from that of mainland Japan. Until the islands were invaded by the Satsuma domain (present day Kagoshima Prefecture) in 1609, Okinawa existed as an entirely separate country from Japan, known as the Ryukyu Kingdom. After the invasion, the Ryukyu Kingdom served as a tributary state to Japan, but continued to be governed by the royal family from Shuri Castle (Shurijo). It was not until 1879, a few years after the Meiji Restoration, that the kingdom was abolished and incorporated into Japan as Okinawa Prefecture. The castles of Okinawa, known as “gusuku” in the Okinawan language, are among the most vivid monuments that testify to the unique cultural and historical heritage of the Ryukyu Kingdom. In the year 2000, five castles and four related sites were designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites under the collective title of “Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu.”

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

Shuri Castle, Okinawa World, Gyokusendo Stalactite Cave, Habu (Snake) Museum, Glass Factory, Himeyuri Peace Museum, Okinawa Peace Memorial Park, Mabuni Hill, Glass-bottom Boat Ride, Boat Ride to Iriomote Island, Mangrove Tour by Boat, Buffalo Cart Ride to Yubu Island, Boat Ride to Ishigaki, Sugarcane Factory, San-A Mart, Awamori (Rice Liquor) Factory & Mori no Nigiwai

HANDS-ON EXPERIENCES:

Ryusou Ryukyu Dress-Up, Coral Dyeing, Weaving Lesson & Shisa Painting

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE:

Gusuk Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu

HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS:

HANEDA AIRPORT — HOTEL VILLA FONTAINE GRAND HANEDA AIRPORT (1 NIGHT): The hotel is conveniently located just a one-minute walk from Terminal 3. Japan is one of the world’s leading onsen hot spring countries, and have long been loved by the Japanese for their ability to prevent disease, promote health, bestow beauty and anti-aging benefits, and soothe the body and mind. Shake the weariness of the 9ó hour flight as you relax in the onsen (for the nominal fee of 2,000 yen). Or get an introduction to Japanese convenience stores at Lawson (open 24 hours) on the 2nd floor.

NAHA — HOTEL COLLECTIVE (2 NIGHTS + 3 NIGHTS = 5 NIGHTS TOTAL): Conveniently located on Kokusai-Dori, home to famous department stores and shopping malls, such as Mitsukoshi, large-scale discount retailer Don Quijote, numerous souvenir stores, steakhouses, and Okinawan eateries. With many stores open until 11:00 pm at night, the hotel’s centralized location makes shopping for souvenirs after a day of touring. The premium twin rooms are located on the top floor – with beautiful ocean views awaiting those staying on the east side and intoxicating sunsets welcome those staying in rooms on the west. The Executive Lounge is available for those staying in the premium twin rooms — offering refined relaxation with breakfast, tea time (7:00 – 8:00 pm) and cocktail hour (5:00 – 7:00 pm).

ISHIGAKI — ANA INTERCONTINENTAL ISHIGAKI RESORT (3 NIGHTS): Nestled at the southernmost point of Japan’s Okinawa region, ANA InterContinental Ishigaki Resort is a haven of natural beauty. Boasting endless horizons of azure water, our luxury resort offers direct access to Maesato Beach, while indoor and outdoor pools mean you can swim all year round. Located on the 2nd to 5th floors of the Club InterContinental, these deluxe rooms offer a spacious private space with a resort feel that is a perfect fusion of the traditional beauty of Ishigaki Island and the InterContinental brand. From the balcony, you can enjoy an unobstructed view of the blue ocean. You can enjoy the ultimate luxury moment while feeling the pleasant sea breeze. The Club InterContinental Lounge is a luxurious and tranquil space only available to Club InterContinental room and suite guests. Enjoy stunning views of the emerald green ocean, a luxurious environment with light meals, drinks and 24-hour butler services. The lounge offers a variety of complimentary food and beverage services including daily breakfast, afternoon tea, evening cocktails and canapés and refreshments. All meals are prepared by an expert chef in a private kitchen using seasonal local Okinawan ingredients. Enjoy a glass of wine, sake, shochu, or a cocktail prepared by an expert mixologist, as you watch the sunset over Ishigaki Island. The secluded Club Intercontinental Pool and Garden, is dedicated to guests staying in Club InterContinental rooms or suites. Relax in your own private sanctuary time with tranquil gardens that reach out from the main area of the resort to the ocean. Guests have the option of enjoying refreshments or breakfast by the Club InterContinental pool or in the lounge.