Delivering travel tips and recommendations for must-visit areas in Okinawa from @owncolorstravel , a blogger based in Okinawa who runs a blog focused on travel and lifestyle.
Okinawa in December
Although there are chilly days, on calm, sunny days, the weather is pleasantly warm. Even in winter, temperatures can rise to around 23°C, making a hoodie feel too warm at times.
Motobu Town in Northern Okinawa
Speaking of northern Okinawa, the region is buzzing with excitement for the upcoming theme park Junglia (scheduled to open in 2025). This time, we’ll introduce some must-visit spots in northern Okinawa worth stopping by.
・Tropical Dream Center
Tropical Dream Center 424 Ishikawa, Motobu-cho, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa 905-0206
Access from Naha Airport
Motobu Town, located in northern Okinawa Island, is about a 1.5-hour drive from Naha Airport if you rent a car. This area is full of natural beauty and attractions, including Churaumi Aquarium, Sesoko Island, and the Bise Fukugi Tree Road. While it’s possible to visit on a day trip, staying overnight is highly recommended to fully enjoy the experience.
If you don’t plan to rent a car, shuttle buses from Naha Airport or downtown Naha provide easy access. Pairing a visit to the aquarium with these transportation options makes for a convenient and enjoyable trip.
Along the way, I stopped by a Starbucks near the Tropical Dream Center. The adorable shisa statues there make it feel distinctly Okinawan.
By the way, right behind this Starbucks is a small resort shopping facility called Okinawa Hanasaki Marche. It’s worth stopping by for a bit of fun!
Highlights of the park, like something out of a fairytale
The Tropical Dream Center in Motobu Town, Okinawa, located within the Ocean Expo Park, is a must-visit spot for plant enthusiasts. Thanks to the tropical climate, you can enjoy events like the Tulip Fair held as early as January, as well as a year-round display of stunning flowers and exotic plants to your heart’s content.
By the way, this photo is of tulips from my trip to the Netherlands, but I’m using it here as a visual reference, lol
The Tropical Dream Center is composed of several greenhouses and gardens, each themed differently.
Greenhouses Ablaze with Tropical Blooms
The large glass greenhouse showcases rare orchids and a vibrant array of tropical plants, offering a feast for the eyes. The orchid displays are particularly stunning, featuring flowers in unique shapes and vivid colors you’ve likely never seen before. Take your time exploring and snapping photos as you immerse yourself in this floral paradise.
Luxurious Water Lily Pond
Inside the greenhouse, you’ll find a pond adorned with water lilies. The serene reflection of the flowers on the still water creates a dreamlike atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to relax and soak in the tropical vibe.
The Iconic Observation Tower of the Tropical Dream Center
The 36-meter observation tower within the center offers breathtaking views of the Ocean Expo Park and the stunning Okinawan sea. Together with the flowers, the tower evokes a fairytale-like ambiance.
Butterfly Garden
The Dream Center also features a garden attracting butterflies, including Japan’s largest butterfly, the magnificent Idea leuconoe (tree nymph butterfly). It’s an enchanting place to observe these delicate creatures up close.
There are plenty of photo-worthy spots throughout the park, so be sure to explore and find your favorite!
You can instantly become more knowledgeable about plants just by coming here, with beautiful bougainvillea and rare fruits being cultivated.
Other Highlights
The stained glass ceiling in the Stained Hall at the entrance of the Tropical Dream Center is said to be inspired by the ocean of Okinawa, and it’s truly beautiful—be sure to look up and admire it!
The admission fee is reasonably priced at 760 yen for adults, and with the expansive Ocean Expo Park featuring many free areas, you can easily spend the whole day here. It’s a great destination for families, couples, or anyone who enjoys learning opportunities, as kids can observe plants and butterflies up close.
While the Tropical Dream Center may not be as famous as the Churaumi Aquarium, it offers a magical and unique atmosphere where you can fully appreciate the beauty of Okinawa’s nature and tropical plants. It’s particularly recommended for those who love plants or want to relax. Pairing it with a visit to Bise Fukugi Tree Road or the aquarium makes for a perfect itinerary.
On rainy days or during colder seasons, you can spend time at the aquarium, allowing you to flexibly plan your trip. Consider including this in your schedule!
