Naha, Japan π―π΅
Nomad Score:
66%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Naha is the capital city of Okinawa Prefecture, located on the southernmost tip of Japan. It has a unique blend of Japanese and Ryukyu culture. |
π₯ Population | Approximately 320,000 residents. |
π» Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 50 Mbps. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 JPY β 0.0066 USD. ATMs available that accept foreign cards, including Japan Post ATMs. |
π° Tap Water | Tap water is drinkable and treated to high standards. |
π Power | 100V, 50/60Hz, plug type A plugs. |
πΆ SIM Card | Major providers include NTT Docomo, SoftBank, and Rakuten Mobile. Prepaid SIMs are widely available. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Banking services include Shinsei Bank, and several international banks like HSBC have services. |
π Accommodation | Airbnb and local guesthouses are popular. Conventional rentals start at around Β₯60,000 for a 1-bedroom apartment. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Yes, most places accept cards including international credit cards. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local guesthouses are available. Short-term rentals start at around Β₯5,000 per night. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostels like Guesthouse Hari and Kokusai Dori area guesthouses offer beds from Β₯2,500. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | COWORKING SPACE Naha offers modern facilities and a vibrant community. |
β Best Cafe for Work | Cafe Dera located on Kokusai Street is popular for remote work with free wifi. |
πΌ Networking Events | Regular events organized by Okinawa Expats and Meetups in the Naha Area. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Facebook groups like 'Okinawa Expats' hold community meetups frequently. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | JapanTaxi and Uber operate in Naha. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Okinawa Bike Rental offers affordable cycle rentals for exploring. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Naminoue Beach is just a few minutes from downtown. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | ANA and Peach Aviation are popular for regional travel. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines connect to major international hubs. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Access to Okinawa's expressways that connect the island. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Naha Bus Terminal connects to local and regional buses. |
π Public Transport Passes | Single use tickets and a prepaid card system (Okinawa Monorail) are available. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses operate across the island connecting main towns and attractions. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Okinawa Chubu Hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | The Yoga Room Naha offers daily classes for all levels. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Gold's Gym Naha has extensive facilities and free trials. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Self-service laundromats are common, with prices starting from Β₯300 for a wash. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Uber Eats operates in Naha offering local and international cuisine. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Don't miss Okinawa Soba, served throughout local eateries. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | A.O.C (All Organic Cafe) offers a full vegan menu. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | Kokusai Dori has many sweet shops serving traditional Okinawan treats. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Makishi Public Market is an excellent place for budget shopping. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Rakuten and Amazon Japan are popular for online shopping. |
π Grocery Delivery | Seiyu and Aeon offer grocery delivery services in Naha. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | Kokusai Dori is famous for its vibrant nightlife and izakayas. |
π» Local Brewery | Okinawa Soba Brewery is worth a visit for local craft beers. |
π· Wine Bars | Bar Kd is a charming spot known for its unique wine selection. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Makishi Market features various street food vendors, especially on the weekends. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Try El Pato for delicious Mexican food. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | Shurijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | Okinawa Prefectural Museum offers insights into local history and culture. |
π° Historical Sites | The remnants of the Battle of Okinawa are significant historical sites. |
π Religious Sites | Kannon Temple is an important place of worship. |
π Annual Events | Naha Tug-of-War Festival in October is a highlight. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Visit Tsuboya Pottery District for traditional pottery. |
π Theater Venues | Okinawa Actorsβ Studio hosts numerous performances. |
ποΈ Local Markets | Makishi Market is a lively place to explore local culture and cuisine. |
πΌ Music Scene | Live music can often be found at bars along Kokusai Dori. |
π¨ Street Art | Walk through Naha to discover vibrant murals and street art. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Okinawa Cooking School offers classes in local cuisine. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Gallery Hana features works from local artists. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | The former Okinawa Prefectural Office building has stunning architecture. |
π΄ Local Heritage | The Shuri Castle symbolises Okinawaβs unique cultural history. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Cape Zanpa offers breathtaking coastal views. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Yanbaru National Park is located 1.5 hours north and has stunning nature. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | There are coastal paths along Naha's waterfront perfect for cycling and walking. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | The view from Shurijo Castle is stunning, overlooking the city. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Yambaru is a great spot for birdwatching. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Some areas along the coast allow bonfires, check local regulations. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | Yamato Transport and Sagawa Express offer domestic shipping services. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Local shops in Kokusai Dori provide device repair services. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Public parks near Naha often have tables for enthusiasts. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Language schools such as Okinawa Language Academy offer classes. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | Naha City Library is a peaceful place for reading and studying. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Cultural centers around Naha host local events and activities. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | There are several gaming cafes, like Game On, in Naha. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | Casino games are not common in Japan, but pachinko parlors are widely available. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. Β₯300,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 30 mΒ² = Β₯9,000,000) |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. Β₯220,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 30 mΒ² = Β₯6,600,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. Β₯280,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = Β₯16,800,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. Β₯230,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = Β₯13,800,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. Β₯250,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = Β₯20,000,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. Β₯200,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = Β₯16,000,000) |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 23.2% |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 20.315% |
π¦ Tax System | Japan taxes residents on worldwide income. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | ζι«η¨ηγ―45%γ§γγ |
π§Ύ VAT | 10% consumption tax. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Japan has rules for CFC taxation. |
π Property Tax | Annual property tax based on asset valuation. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Transaction tax is generally 3% of the sale price. |