Okinawa: Guided Voices from Life Alongside Kadena Air Base
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1h
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About this experience
Discover the intricate relationship between Kadena Town and the U.S. military presence in Okinawa on this insightful 1.5-hour guided tour. Led by a local expert, this experience offers a unique perspective on the town's history, the impact of Kadena Air Base, and the voices of the residents living alongside it. Visit the Roadside Station Kadena, where you can enjoy panoramic views and explore exhibitions that document this complex legacy. This tour is a chance to reflect on the nuanced realities that shape Okinawa’s identity today.
- Duration: Approx. 1.5 hours, exploring Kadena Town's unique history
- Guided by a local expert offering insider perspectives
- Visit the Roadside Station Kadena for stunning views and exhibitions
- Engage with the complex relationship between locals and the military presence
Available options
Okinawa: Guided Voices from Life Alongside Kadena Air Base
What's included
Visit to Roadside Station Kadena
Guided tour by a local expert
Access to observation deck
Exhibition space visit
Detailed itinerary
1
Located at the edge of Kadena Town, Roadside Station Kadena is far more than a rest stop—it’s a place where you can witness the unique coexistence of everyday life and military presence in Okinawa. The facility features an observation deck that offers a panoramic view of the vast Kadena Air Base, the largest U.S. air base in the Far East. From here, you may see aircraft taking off or landing, depending on the schedule.
Inside the building, you’ll find a small exhibition room that presents the history and current reality of the base and its impact on local life. Rather than offering a political stance, the displays invite you to reflect on the long-standing relationship between the town and the base. It’s a meaningful place to start thinking about what it means to live alongside a foreign military presence—not from a distance, but from the perspective of those who live next to it every day.
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meeting Point:
In front of the “Kichi-no-Mieru Takarakuji” lottery booth inside Roadside Station Kadena.
Your guide will be waiting for you with a yellow sign panel.
For more details, please refer to the map.
About Kadena-cho
Kadena-cho is a charming town in the central part of Okinawa Island, known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and unique blend of traditional and modern influences. It's home to Kadena Air Base, a significant U.S. military installation, which adds a unique cultural mix to the area.
Top Attractions
Kadena Air Base
Kadena Air Base is a significant U.S. military installation that has played a crucial role in the defense of Japan and the Pacific region. It's a fascinating place to learn about the history of the base and its impact on the local community.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Okinawa World
Okinawa World is a cultural theme park that showcases the rich history and traditions of Okinawa. Visitors can explore traditional Ryukyu houses, watch cultural performances, and learn about the unique customs and practices of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
Cultural
2-3 hours
¥1,500-¥2,000
Himeyuri Peace Museum
The Himeyuri Peace Museum is a poignant and moving tribute to the young students who were conscripted to serve as nurses during the Battle of Okinawa in World War II. The museum tells the story of their bravery and sacrifice, and serves as a powerful reminder of the horrors of war.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Churaumi Aquarium
Churaumi Aquarium is one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world. It's home to a diverse range of marine life, including whales, dolphins, and sharks. The aquarium's main attraction is the massive Kuroshio Tank, which houses a variety of large fish and marine animals.
Nature
2-3 hours
¥2,180 for adults, ¥1,300 for children
Must-Try Local Dishes
Okinawa Soba
A popular noodle dish made with wheat noodles, pork, and a savory broth. It's often served with pickled ginger and green onions.
Noodle dish
Contains pork and gluten
Goya Champuru
A stir-fry dish made with bitter melon, tofu, eggs, and pork. It's a popular vegetarian dish, but it can also be made with meat.
Stir-fry dish
Can be made vegetarian or vegan
Rafute
A slow-cooked pork belly dish that's braised in a sweet and savory sauce. It's a popular dish in Okinawa and is often served with rice and pickled vegetables.
Pork dish
Contains pork
Popular Activities
Hiking
Snorkeling
Diving
Surfing
Beachcombing
Sunbathing
Spas
Yoga
Best Time to Visit
November to April
This is the most pleasant time to visit Kadena-cho, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the town's attractions.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English, Okinawan
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
Japan Standard Time (JST, UTC+9)
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Kadena-cho is generally a safe and welcoming destination for visitors. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and to take basic precautions to ensure your safety and well-being.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure
- • Use licensed taxis and avoid unlicensed cabs
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid using them in isolated or poorly lit areas
Getting there
By air
- Naha Airport • 30 km from Kadena-cho
By train
Kadena Station
By bus
Kadena Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The monorail is a convenient and comfortable way to get around. Trains run frequently and are generally on time.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Kadena Town Center
Kadena Air Base Area
Okinawa World Area
Day trips
Naha City
30 km from Kadena-cho • Full day
Naha City is the capital of Okinawa Prefecture and is home to a wide range of attractions, including historic sites, museums, and shopping districts. It's a great place to experience the unique blend of traditional and modern culture that characterizes Okinawa.
Ishigaki Island
400 km from Kadena-cho • Overnight
Ishigaki Island is a beautiful island located in the Yaeyama Islands of Okinawa. It's known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery. It's a great place to relax, enjoy the natural beauty, and experience the unique culture and history of the Yaeyama Islands.
Miyako Island
300 km from Kadena-cho • Overnight
Miyako Island is a beautiful island located in the Miyako Islands of Okinawa. It's known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery. It's a great place to relax, enjoy the natural beauty, and experience the unique culture and history of the Miyako Islands.
Festivals
Naha Great Tug-of-War Festival • Third Sunday of October
Okinawa International Movie Festival • March
Shurijo Castle Festival • First Sunday of November
Pro tips
- Visit the Kadena Air Base Museum to learn about the history of the base and its impact on the local community
- Try Okinawa soba, a popular noodle dish that's a staple of Okinawan cuisine
- Explore the Okinawa World cultural theme park to learn about the rich history and traditions of Okinawa
- Visit the Himeyuri Peace Museum to learn about the young students who were conscripted to serve as nurses during the Battle of Okinawa in World War II
- Take a day trip to Naha City to experience the unique blend of traditional and modern culture that characterizes Okinawa
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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