NAHA

Naha is the capital city of Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. It lies on the southern coast of Okinawa Island, facing Naha Bay, and functions as the prefecture's political, economic, and transportation center. The urban core is compact and serves as the primary gateway for visitors to the Ryukyu Islands.

Historically, Naha was a key trading port in the Ryukyu Kingdom. It became Okinawa's prefectural capital in the late 19th century following the Meiji Restoration. The city suffered substantial destruction during the Battle of Okinawa in 1945. After World War II, Naha was administered by the United States until Okinawa’s reversion to Japan in 1972, after which it expanded rapidly as a modern urban center.

Notable sites include Shuri Castle, the former royal palace in the Shuri district, which is part of the Gusuku Fortifications of the Ryukyu Kingdom World Heritage listing. Shuri Castle was severely damaged by fire in 2019, with restoration ongoing. Other landmarks include Kokusai Street, Makishi Public Market, and Naminoue Shrine. The climate is humid subtropical, with hot summers and mild winters, supporting a lengthy tourist season.

Naha is a major transportation hub for Okinawa, hosting Naha Airport and the Port of Naha. The airport provides domestic and international flights, connecting Okinawa to Japan and other countries, while the port handles freight and ferries to Ishigaki, Miyako, and other islands. The economy relies on government administration, commerce, tourism, and services.