Naha Airport, International airport in Naha, Japan
Naha Airport is a large civilian airport on the main island of Okinawa with separate areas for domestic and international flights across multiple levels. The terminal connects the prefecture to major Japanese cities as well as several East Asian destinations and features retail, dining, and service areas.
Originally used as a military base during World War II, the facility was later expanded for civilian traffic in the 1970s. In the following decades, passenger numbers grew considerably as Okinawa became a popular travel destination.
The terminals display local crafts and architectural details that reference the old culture of the Ryukyu Islands. These exhibits give travelers waiting a first glimpse into the regional identity of Okinawa.
A dedicated monorail connects the terminal directly to central Naha and runs regularly throughout the day. Travelers should allow extra time as the terminal is large and departure and arrival areas are on different levels.
The runways and apron are shared by both civilian airlines and the Japan Self-Defense Forces, which operate a separate facility adjacent to the passenger terminal. This dual use sometimes leads to military aircraft visible alongside commercial jets.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
