A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Atami vs. Okinawa for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Atami or Okinawa?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Atami and Okinawa can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Atami

Atami is a authentic, overlooked, and nostalgic town. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Okinawa

Okinawa is a lush, serene, and idyllic archipelago. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Atami and Okinawa: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Atami or Okinawa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Okinawa. Although Atami and Okinawa are both popular with visitors, Okinawa has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Okinawa is more touristy than Atami and is popular for its pristine tropical environment, stunning blue water, and impressive marine life. It is also home to the Kerama Islands. Atami is popular for its onsen (hot springs) and sandy beaches.

How is Atami different from Okinawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Okinawa and Atami. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atami or Okinawa?

Atami
Okinawa

Okinawa is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Okinawa. Although most visitors come for the natural beauty and beach setting, there are some nice historic sights and museums in the region. Favorites include Shurijo Castle, Futenma Shrine, and Churaumi Aquarium.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Atami. The onsen, or hot springs, have historically been a big draw to this town. Places to experience them include Oedo Onsen Monogatari Atami, Otsuki Hotel Wafukan, and Myoraku-Yu. Other sights around town include Kaminiya Shrine and the MOA Museum of Art.


Is the Food Better in Atami or Okinawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atami
Okinawa

Okinawa is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Okinawa has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Food in the region is truly unique, and sometimes a bit bizarre. There's a surprising amount of international influence on the cuisine because the islands are close to China and Taiwan, and there's a large American presence due to the US military. Despite this, the cuisine has its roots in the area's long history. Local dishes include rafute (pork belly in a stew), goya chanpuru (stir fry with melon, pork, and tofu), and umibudo (sea grapes).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Atami area. You'll find an authentic Japanese dining experience here, with a lot of seafood due to the city's coastal location. Popular dishes include sushi, dried fish, and fish boiled in broth.

Is Atami or Okinawa Better for Nightlife?

Atami
Okinawa

Okinawa is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Okinawa has a large number of nightlife venues. The diverse population has impacted the nightlife scene, and you'll see international influences at the bars and clubs in the area. Many locals begin their night out at a izakaya, which is part bar, part restaurant. The cities are also known for their jazz clubs and karaoke scene.

Atami has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town was once a place to escape the city and enjoy a fun night out, but these days it's a bit quieter and has more of a nostalgic vibe. Head to Yushima Yugijo Yushima Amusement Center for some of the best nightlife in town.

Is Atami or Okinawa Better for Resorts?

Atami
Okinawa

Okinawa is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Atami is not a resort destination.

In Okinawa, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are large resorts as well as smaller, elegant hotels. If you want to be near the water, check out the coastal areas of Onna, Miyakojima, and Ishigaki.

Atami is not a resort destination.


Is Atami or Okinawa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Atami
Okinawa

Okinawa is renowned for its diving and snorkeling. However, Atami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Okinawa is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The waters around Okinawa are filled with a rich biodiversity of corals and tropical fish. You'll also find sea turtles and other larger marine animals. There are also mangrove forests that form the breeding ground for many types of marine life. The snorkeling and diving in the area is world class, and attracts both beginners and experienced divers.

Atami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Atami or Okinawa Better for Beaches?

Atami
Okinawa

Okinawa is renowned for the beache. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Okinawa is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The region is filled with white sand beaches and turquoise water. Some of the beaches are accessible and lively while others are more remote and peaceful. Furuzamami Beach is both easy to access but also has a relaxed atmosphere. Nishihama Beach is more remote but well worth the effort and Aharen Beach is a popular day trip by ferry.

Atami offers a nice beach destination. The most popular beach in the city is Atami Sun Beach, which is right in town. It's a place to relax in the sun, and there are sometimes fireworks throughout the year.

Is Atami or Okinawa Better for Hiking?

Atami
Okinawa

Okinawa is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Atami is not a hiking destination.

Around Okinawa visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The island's tropical setting provides hikers with lush jungles and unique geology to explore. One of the most popular areas for hiking is Yambaru National Park. In this park you can walk through the mangroves and spot local wildlife. The region also has many off-the-beaten-path hiking opportunities for those looking for an adventure.

Atami is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Atami or Okinawa?

Atami
Okinawa

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Atami and Okinawa.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Atami. You'll find a couple of retro shopping streets in town such as Atami Ekimae Shopping Street, Nakamise Shopping Street, and Heiwadori Shopping Street. There are arcades and food stalls where you can sample local dishes.

Many visitors go to Okinawa to go shopping. There are a number of shopping streets in the urban areas. You'll also find large outlet malls near the US military base. A favorite shopping street in Naha is Kokusai-dori Shopping Street, which has local shops and souvenir vendors.

Is Atami or Okinawa Better for Families?

Atami
Okinawa

Okinawa is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Okinawa is an extremely popular archipelago to visit for families. There are so many kid-friendly activities in the area, that this has long been a favorite family vacation destination. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the snorkeling, beaches, mangroves, boat rides, and adventure activities like ziplining. Kayaking in Yambaru Mangrove Forest is a favorite activity, but also check out the sea turtles at Ikei Island.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Atami. The city is a hot springs area, but you can also head to the nearby beaches and other family-friendly activities.

Is Atami or Okinawa Better for Couples?

Atami
Okinawa

Okinawa is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Okinawa is a great archipelago for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its stunning beaches, world class snorkeling, and relaxing resorts, couples and honeymooners will love a trip to these beautiful islands. There's a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural activities that will keep any couple entertained.

Atami is a good town for couples to visit. This is a beach and hot springs resort area, and in historic times it was a honeymoon destination. Today you'll find beaches, hot springs, shopping, and museums to explore, but most visitors use it as a base to explore the nearby areas, as the town itself doesn't have a lot to offer.


Is Atami or Okinawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atami
Okinawa

Atami and Okinawa are both good destinations for backpackers.

Atami is a good town to visit for backpackers. While there aren't a huge number of hostels in the area, and backpackers often skip over this town, prices aren't particularly high so you should be able to find something affordable.

Plenty of backpackers visit Okinawa. Despite being one of the most fascinating places in Japan to visit, it can be challenging as a backpacker. There aren't many hostels in the area and transportation can be a bit tricky.

Is Atami or Okinawa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atami
Okinawa

Visitors will find good public transit in both Atami and Okinawa.

Atami has some public transit options. There are public buses, such as the YuYu Bus, which has two routes and passes by many of the town's attractions.

You'll find some public transit in Okinawa, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Public transit through the area is decent in urban areas but gets more limited outside of the cities. On the main island there are buses, shuttles, and a monorail, but off the main island you'll want your own vehicle.

Is Atami or Okinawa a more walkable city?

Atami
Okinawa

Atami is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Okinawa is not a good archipelago for its walkability.

Atami is a somewhat walkable town. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

Okinawa is generally not a very walkable town. The islands range from developed to remote, so if you want to efficiently explore, it's helpful to have a car or at least a bicycle.


For even more information, also check out Is Atami Worth Visiting? and Is Okinawa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Okinawa or Atami?

How long in Atami or Okinawa?

Both Atami and Okinawa have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Okinawa than in Atami. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Atami, and 3-7 days is enough time in Okinawa.

Families should spend more time in Okinawa than Atami. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Okinawa, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Okinawa than Atami. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Okinawa that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Okinawa than Atami if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Okinawa.


  • How many days in Atami or Okinawa? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atami 1-2 
    Okinawa 3-7

One day in Atami or Okinawa?

In Atami, you'll find nightlife and food. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Okinawa, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this serene destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Atami or Okinawa?

In Atami, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Atami has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Okinawa. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Atami or Okinawa?

Atami is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Okinawa is a fun place to experience. In Okinawa, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Atami or Okinawa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atami. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Atami. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

In Okinawa, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this serene destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Japan, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.


Which place is cheaper, Okinawa or Atami?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Atami is $88, while the average daily cost in Okinawa is $105. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Atami and Okinawa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atami $43
    Okinawa $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atami $86
    Okinawa $146
Compare Hotels in Atami and Okinawa

Looking for a hotel in Atami or Okinawa? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Atami


Hotels in Okinawa


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Atami Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atami $36
    Okinawa $9.43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Atami

Also for Atami, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Haneda Airport to/from Izu or Atami City Private Transfer: $583
  • Narita Airport to/from Izu or Atami City Private Transfer: $680

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Okinawa

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Okinawa:

  • Private Transfer from Naha City Hotels to Nakagusuku Cruise Port : $59
  • Private Transfer from Naha City Hotels to Nakagusuku Cruise Port : $66
  • Private One Way Transfer: Naha Airport (OHA) to/from Okinawa : $128
  • Naha hotels to Okinawa Naha Airport (ОКА) - Departure Transfer: $59
  • Airport Transfer! Naha Airport (OKA) to Center of Naha: $124
  • Airport Transfer! Center of Naha to Naha Airport (OKA): $125

Is it cheaper to fly into Atami or Okinawa?

Prices for flights to both Okinawa and Atami change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Atami $24
    Okinawa $23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Okinawa

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Okinawa.

  • Taste of Okinawa Cooking Experience and Historic Market Tour: $88

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atami $7.78
    Okinawa $14

Tours and Activities in Atami

For Atami, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Odawara Castle and Town Guided Discovery Tour: $108
  • ACAO BEACH: Tent Sauna experience at private resort: $119
  • Ninja, Samurai, Odawara Castle Experience: $135
  • Hakone one day tour: $162

Tours and Activities in Okinawa

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Okinawa are as follows:

  • Okinawa Local Experience and Sunset Cycling Tour: $88
  • 2-Hour Private Gorilla Go Kart Experience in Okinawa: $68
  • 4 Person Group Tour Kerama Blue Cycling in Aka Island : $122
  • American Village &Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium Tour from Naha/Chatan: $78
  • Beautiful sunset kayak tour in Okinawa: $37
  • City of Romance and Great Figures Haebaru Cycling Tour: $101
  • Cycling Experience in the Historic City of Urasoe: $101
  • E-Bike Nature Tour in Shuri: $91
  • Jungle River Trek: private tour in Yanbaru, north Okinawa: $51
  • Karate History Tour in Okinawa: $109
  • Kayak Mangroves or Coral Reef: private tour in north Okinawa : $61
  • Kendo/Samurai Experience In Okinawa: $122

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atami $5.52
    Okinawa $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Okinawa

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Okinawa:

  • Naha Local Pub Crawl: $110


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Atami and Okinawa, we can see that Okinawa is more expensive. And not only is Atami much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Atami would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Atami and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Okinawa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Okinawa than you might in Atami.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Atami Expensive? and Is Okinawa Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Atami or Okinawa?

Okinawa has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Atami. When comparing the sizes of Atami and Okinawa, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Atami or Okinawa?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Atami or Okinawa in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Atami as well as Okinawa. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Atami this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Okinawa for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Atami is cooler than Okinawa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Atami in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Okinawa averages at about 29°C (84°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Okinawa. In the summer, Atami often gets less sunshine than Okinawa. Atami gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Okinawa receives 258 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Okinawa. Atami receives a lot of rain in the summer. Atami usually gets more rain in July than Okinawa. Atami gets 202 mm (8 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Atami 26°C (78°F) 
    Okinawa 29°C (84°F)

Should I visit Atami or Okinawa in the Autumn?

Both Okinawa and Atami are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Atami for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Okinawa in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Atami is generally cooler than Okinawa. Daily temperatures in Atami average around 18°C (64°F), and Okinawa fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Atami usually receives less sunshine than Okinawa during autumn. Atami gets 130 hours of sunny skies, while Okinawa receives 174 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Okinawa. It's quite rainy in Atami. In October, Atami usually receives around the same amount of rain as Okinawa. Atami gets 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Atami 18°C (64°F) 
    Okinawa 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Atami or Okinawa in the Winter?

Both Okinawa and Atami during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Atami in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Okinawa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Atami is much colder than Okinawa in the winter. The daily temperature in Atami averages around 5°C (42°F) in January, and Okinawa fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the winter, Atami often gets more sunshine than Okinawa. Atami gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Okinawa receives 96 hours of full sun.

Okinawa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Atami usually gets less rain in January than Okinawa. Atami gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Atami 5°C (42°F) 
    Okinawa 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Atami or Okinawa in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Atami and Okinawa. Most visitors come to Atami for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Okinawa because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Atami is much colder than Okinawa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Atami in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Okinawa averages at about 22°C (71°F).

Atami usually receives more sunshine than Okinawa during spring. Atami gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Okinawa receives 149 hours of full sun in the spring.

Okinawa receives a lot of rain in the spring. Atami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Atami usually receives around the same amount of rain as Okinawa. Atami gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Atami 14°C (57°F) 
    Okinawa 22°C (71°F)

Typical Weather for Okinawa and Atami

Atami Okinawa
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 107 mm (4.2 in)
Mar 9°C (48°F) 153 mm (6 in) 18°C (65°F) 156 mm (6.1 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 164 mm (6.4 in) 24°C (76°F) 254 mm (10 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 254 mm (10 in) 27°C (80°F) 255 mm (10 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 202 mm (8 in) 29°C (84°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Aug 27°C (80°F) 222 mm (8.7 in) 28°C (83°F) 266 mm (10.5 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 209 mm (8.2 in) 28°C (82°F) 161 mm (6.3 in)
Oct 18°C (64°F) 154 mm (6.1 in) 25°C (77°F) 152 mm (6 in)
Nov 13°C (55°F) 108 mm (4.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)
Dec 8°C (46°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)