Ginowan, Japan
Region: Okinawa
Geographic Coordinates: 26.281700, 127.778000
Temperature Range: 15.0°C to 30.0°C (59°F to 86°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 99256
Language: Japanese
Ginowan is a city in the Okinawa Prefecture of Japan, Located on the east coast of the main island. It covers an area of about 19 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 100, 000 people. The city is famous for its beautiful beaches, Parks, And cultural heritage. One of Ginowan’s top attractions is the Okinawa Convention Center, Which hosts concerts, Exhibitions, Conferences and other events throughout the year. The center has a large auditorium that can accommodate up to 4, 000 people as well as several smaller meeting rooms. Futenma Shrine is another popular destination in Ginowan.
This ancient temple dates back more than 1, 500 years and was once considered one of Okinawa’s most important religious sites. Today it remains a favorite spot for visitors who come to admire its stunning architecture and serene surroundings. Nature lovers have plenty to explore in Ginowan with Araha Beach being among them which boasts crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling. There are also several parks within the city including Tropical Dream Center that showcases over 2, 000 species of tropical plants from around the world.
In addition to its natural attractions, Ginowan also has rich history that can be explored through its many museums and cultural sites such as Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum showcasing local art and artifacts while nearby Shuri Castle offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Ryukyuan architecture. Lastly, Ginowan’s cuisine must not be missed! Local specialties include goya champuru (a stir-fry dish made with bitter melon), Soki soba (noodles served with pork ribs), And umibudo (a type of seaweed that resembles grapes). Overall, Ginowan offers something for everyone – from history buffs to nature lovers, Families, And foodies.
With its stunning beaches, Cultural heritage, And world-class facilities, It’s no surprise why Ginowan remains one of the most popular destinations in Okinawa.
- Okinawa Convention Center
- Ginowan Tropical Beach
- Araha Park and Sunset Beach
- Urasoe Art Museum
- Futenma Shrine
- Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum
- Ginowan City Gymnasium
- Tamaudun Mausoleum
- Nakagusuku Castle Ruins
- Memorial Park of the Southern Islands
- Ginowan is a city situated in Okinawa Prefecture of Japan.
- The main industries and businesses in Ginowan include:
- Tourism
- Manufacturing
- Retail
- Education
- Healthcare
- Agriculture
- Fishing
- Tourism is a vital industry for the city:
- Okinawa Convention Center hosts various events and conferences throughout the year.
- Manufacturing companies in Ginowan produce:
- Electronics
- Machinery
- Textiles
- Among other products
- Several shopping centers and malls cater to both locals and tourists.
- Ginowan has several schools and universities that offer education to students from different parts of Japan.
- The city also has many hospitals and clinics that provide healthcare services to its residents.
- Agriculture plays an important role in the local economy:
- Crops such as sugarcane are grown in the area.
- Fishing is also an important industry for the city:
- Local fishermen catch various types of fish including tuna, mackerel, squid, and octopus among others.
- Ginowan played a significant role in the Battle of Okinawa during World War II, which was one of the deadliest battles in history.
- The Futenma Air Base is located in Ginowan and has been a contentious issue between Japan and the United States for many years.
- The Himeyuri Monument is situated in Ginowan and serves as a tribute to 222 high school girls who were enlisted as nurses during World War II and lost their lives during the Battle of Okinawa.
- Masahide Ota, a former governor of Okinawa Prefecture, was instrumental in opposing U.S. military bases on Okinawa, including the Futenma Air Base located in Ginowan.
- Tsuyoshi Kusanagi, a well-known actor and singer from Japan, hails from Ginowan.
- Yoko Gushiken, an accomplished boxer who became world champion, grew up in Ginowan.
- Shigeo Nagashima is a retired baseball player from Japan who was born and raised in Ginowan; he played for over two decades with the Yomiuri Giants team.
- Chibana Hanae was an influential karate master who lived and taught karate lessons within Ginowan before passing away in 1969.
- Seisho Itokazu gained notoriety after fighting against American soldiers using traditional samurai weapons like swords and spears; he hailed from Ginowan where he worked as a farmer before his death.
- Ginawan boasts several historical sites that date back to Ryukyu Kingdom era such as Nakagusuku Castle ruins or Urasoe Yodore Hall.
- The Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Okinawa. With exhibits, artifacts, and art on display, visitors can explore the rich heritage of this region.
- If you’re interested in the history and culture of Ginowan City, be sure to visit the Ginowan City Museum. This museum features exhibits on local industries, traditions, and folklore.
- Futenma Shrine is a beautiful Shinto shrine located in Ginowan that dates back to the 16th century. Visitors can admire its architecture and learn about its significance in Japanese culture.
- For a relaxing day at the beach, head over to Araha Beach in Ginowan. With white sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
- The Okinawa Peace Memorial Park is a somber reminder of World War II’s impact on this region. With a museum and monuments honoring those who lost their lives during the war, it’s an important place to visit for anyone interested in history.
- Take in stunning views of Nakagusuku Village by visiting Nakagusuku Castle Ruins near Ginowan city center. These castle ruins date back to the 14th century and offer visitors an opportunity to step back into history.
- Kadena Air Base Gate 2 Street is a bustling shopping district near Kadena Air Base with plenty of shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment options for visitors looking for some fun or souvenirs.
- Kin Bay Marine Park located near Kin Town showcases marine life from around Okinawa’s coastlines making it perfect for nature lovers who want to get up close with sea creatures.
- The Urasoe Art Museum features contemporary art exhibitions by local artists as well as international artists from around Asia-Pacific region making it great choice for anyone looking for something new.
- Tropical Dream Center is a must-visit botanical garden located in Motobu town, about an hour’s drive from Ginowan city center. With over 2000 species of tropical plants on display, including orchids and cacti, it’s a paradise for nature lovers.
Ginowan, Japan Sports
- After conducting online research, it appears that Ginowan, Japan does not have any significant professional sports teams or their histories.
- However, the city may have local amateur clubs and organizations.
- Ginowan is situated in Okinawa Prefecture, which is renowned for its martial arts traditions like karate and kobudo.
- The region also has a thriving baseball culture with numerous local teams and leagues.
- Ginowan Seaside Festival is an annual event that takes place every July. The festival features music performances, food stalls, and fireworks displays.
- Okinawa International Carnival is a festival held in October that showcases the diverse cultures of Okinawa through parades and cultural performances.
- Ginowan City Marathon is an annual marathon held in February or March. It attracts runners from all over Japan and beyond.
- Ryukyu Lantern Festival is a December festival that celebrates the winter solstice with traditional lanterns and music performances.
- Eisa Festival is a traditional dance festival that takes place throughout Okinawa during the summer months, including in Ginowan.
- Naha Haarii Dragon Boat Races are an annual event that takes place on Naha’s harbor in May or June featuring dragon boat races between different teams from around the island of Okinawa.
- The Orion Beer Festival is a beer fest with local beers like Orion Beer which is brewed locally on Okinawa Island.
- Tomoyose Matsuri is a traditional dance performance by young girls dressed up as Ryukyuan princesses to honor their ancestors.
- Nishimui Sansen Matsuri is a three-day event where people play sanshin (a three-stringed instrument) while dancing to live music.
- Kaiho Misaki Fishing Tournament is an annual fishing tournament for both locals and tourists alike.
- Okinawan soba – a type of noodle soup made with pork broth, served with pork belly or fish cakes. Recommended restaurant: Naha soba Miyazato.
- Goya champuru – a stir-fry dish made with bitter melon, tofu, eggs, and pork. Recommended restaurant: Shimabukuro Shokudo.
- Sushi – fresh seafood served on top of seasoned rice. Recommended restaurant: Sushi Katsu.
- Yakitori – grilled chicken skewers marinated in soy sauce and other seasonings. Recommended restaurant: Torikawa no Ushimitsu.
- Tofu dishes – soft tofu served with toppings such as green onions or bonito flakes. Recommended restaurant: Tofu no Higa.
- Izakaya-style dining – small plates of various dishes to share while drinking alcohol or sake at a casual bar atmosphere. Recommended restaurant: Izakaya Yagiya.
- Okinawan sweets – traditional sweets made from sweet potato or black sugar syrup wrapped in mochi (rice cake) or shaved ice desserts topped with condensed milk and fruit syrup. Recommended shop: Chinsuko Honpo A&W Ginowan Shop.
- Ginowan Seaside Park is a large park that offers visitors a range of activities including a beach, playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails.
- Okinawa Comprehensive Athletic Park is a sports complex that has baseball fields, soccer fields, tennis courts, and more.
- Ginowan Tropical Beach is a popular beach for swimming and sunbathing.
- Futenma Shrine Park is an idyllic park with peaceful walking paths and traditional Japanese gardens to explore.
- Uchidomari Marine Park is an oceanfront park that offers picnic areas as well as water activities like snorkeling and kayaking.
- Kin Town Forest Adventure is an outdoor adventure park where visitors can enjoy ziplines, ropes courses, and other challenges in the beautiful forest setting.
- Okinawa Zoo & Museum features over 200 species of animals from around the world as well as an aquarium showcasing marine life in the local waters.
Note: Before planning your visit to these parks or recreational facilities in Ginowan or anywhere else in Japan please check for any COVID-19 restrictions or safety measures currently in place to ensure your safety during your visit.
