Summer Parent-Child Travelogue — A Wonderful Summer Encounter in Okinawa

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Little Friendship Ambassadors Fly Across the Ocean

In early summer, May, 13 children from across the country gathered with their parents in Shanghai and set off for Okinawa together. After the journey, the large group successfully arrived in Okinawa, and their relaxing 5-day “slow-paced” trip officially began. Numerous scenic spots such as Manzamo, American Village, and Shurijo create a vibrant and diverse tapestry of Okinawa. With every step comes a different state of mind—immerse yourself and discover unique delights.

Today is all about childhood wonder

On the second day, everyone visited Bios no Oka, a theme park showcasing the subtropical natural scenery of Okinawa’s main island. “Bios” means “life” in Greek. The park is home to blooming orchids all year round, as well as wild birds, insects, and freshwater fish. Here, the children listened together to the whispers of plants, experienced the connection with animals, rode water buffalo carts to tour the park, and of course, there were educational activities prepared by the club and travel photography throughout the trip. All the wonderful experiences made everyone reluctant to leave.

The rain in Okinawa was driven away by everyone’s good luck, welcoming us with a crystal-clear blue sky and the passionate warmth of the rising sun. Driving to Manzamo, the scenery was beyond words. Legend has it that in the early 18th century, King Shō Kei of the Ryukyu Kingdom passed by this place while inspecting the northern region and had ten thousand people sit on it, hence the name “Manzamo” (Ten Thousand People’s Seat). At Manzamo, feel the sun and sea breeze. Open your arms and merge with nature: endless ocean, vast beaches, clear air, and an unobstructed skyline make this an ideal stargazing spot.

Today is all about the ocean

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

When the sea breeze meets summer, the air is filled with the scent of joy. On the third day, everyone visited the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium. It is home to three giant whale sharks over 7 meters long, and watching them swim overhead feels like stepping into a dream from a Studio Ghibli animation. The aquarium boasts the world’s most diverse range of fish species, along with a wide variety of bizarre marine creatures and an intelligent, lively dolphin performance, keeping both adults and children excited all day long.

Not only that, but the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium also impresses with its vivid and engaging educational approach. Here, children can touch the skin textures of different fish and examine the arrangement of various shark teeth. They can learn about the characteristics of creatures in different sea areas… There are grand wonders, delicate details, and even cute garden eel merchandise. By the end of the tour, collecting all 10 educational cards feels like finding treasure.

Today is about cultural fusion

America-mura (American Village)

If you want to experience local culture in Naha, be sure to visit America-mura. Located about 20 km northeast of Naha City in Chatan Town, America-mura originated when the U.S. military had bases in Okinawa. The American soldiers and their families stationed here lived in the area. To meet the needs of the U.S. military, the Mihama area near the base became a bustling commercial district, which is now America-mura. Here, you’ll find cinemas, shopping malls, supermarkets, entertainment venues, and specialty restaurants, all set against the backdrop of a Ferris wheel, brick-paved streets, and coconut trees that evoke the charm of the American West Coast. At night, the Ferris wheel transforms into a giant neon light display, creating a magical atmosphere under the starry sky.

Children are naturally drawn to water, and they simply can’t live without it. Against the backdrop of the sunset, everyone gathered at the Hilton pool for a fun pool party. The kids dove into the water like fish, swimming freestyle, backstroke, diving, and trying creative strokes, leaving fellow international guests at the Hilton amazed.

Today is about history

Shurijo Castle

Shurijo Castle is an important historical site in the Okinawa Islands. From the 15th to the 19th century, it served as the capital and royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom, the political and power center of the kingdom. The castle is a reproduction of Tang Dynasty-style architecture based on the post-war remnants, blending architectural features of China, Japan, and Okinawa. It was destroyed four times and reopened in 1992 after restoration. Today, the castle includes the North Palace, South Palace, Shureimon Gate, and several other gates. Walking up the steps, you can feel the intertwining of history and modernity, which is truly breathtaking.

Over five days, in Okinawa, known as the “Hawaii of Japan,” Longre led the children to experience subtropical plants and landscapes, ancient cultural traditions and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as well as the healthy and delicious local Okinawan cuisine. Everyone was immersed in the beauty of the world.

The journey home is not an end, but the beginning of the next one. Love is in the journey, witnessing growth. Parent-child travel is not about rushing through sights, but about creating a quality journey that leaves children with happy memories. During this trip, I created My Travel Diary with Feier.