SUI TAXI · NAHA SHRINE
Naminoue Shrine To the Sacred Precinct Atop the Cliffs.
Naha Power Spot | Guardian Shrine of Okinawa
Visiting Okinawa's Greatest Sacred Site, Naminoue Shrine.
Naminoue Shrine (Naminoue-gu) is the largest shrine in Okinawa Prefecture, located in the Wakasa district of Naha. Counted among the eight shrines of Ryukyu, it has been deeply revered since ancient times as a deity protecting national peace, maritime safety, and the well-being of the people. Known as the guardian shrine of all Okinawa, it attracts numerous worshippers throughout the year. Its history dates back to the 14th century, and the seaside cliff on which the shrine stands has long been a sacred place where Ryukyuan people offered prayers toward the far side of the sea.
What particularly catches the eye within the shrine grounds is the vermilion-lacquered shrine hall standing atop sheer cliffs. The unique design, blending Ryukyu Kingdom-era architectural styles with Japanese mainland shrine architecture, is strikingly beautiful, and the views from the grounds overlooking Naminoue Beach are spectacular. Especially at dusk, the shrine hall silhouetted against the sea and sky dyed orange creates a mystical atmosphere.
Just below the shrine lies Naminoue Beach, a rare urban beach even within the Okinawa main island, which bustles with locals during summer. Thanks to its convenient location, just about 10-15 minutes by car from Naha Airport and Kokusai Street, it is a popular spot to stop by while sightseeing or visiting the shrine. Known for its blessings of matchmaking, household safety, and maritime safety, many tourists also visit to pray for travel safety.
The vermilion shrine hall perched on the cliff. Its presence atop the sheer rock face is truly striking.
Highlights Around Naminoue Shrine
Within the shrine grounds, in addition to the main hall, several subsidiary shrines are scattered about. Tenpi-gu, known as a deity of matchmaking, is particularly popular with female worshippers. Adjacent to the shrine stands Gokoku-ji, a historic Shingon Buddhist temple founded during the Ryukyu Kingdom era, adding another layer of spiritual heritage to the area. Passing through the large torii gate at the entrance to the approach and climbing the stone steps, the view opens up to a panorama of Naminoue Beach and the ocean beyond.
Just outside the shrine grounds, descending steep stone steps leads to Naminoue Beach. Though a compact sandy beach, it is cherished by locals as the only swimming beach located in Naha's urban area. Restaurants and cafes line the beachfront, making it perfect for a rest after your visit. Being only about 10 minutes by car from Kokusai Street, the plan of stopping by after shopping is especially popular.
Naminoue Beach, spreading just below the shrine. A rare beach in an urban setting.
The grand torii gate at the entrance to the approach. Climb the stone steps to be greeted by the vermilion shrine hall.
Getting to Naminoue Shrine by Taxi
Naminoue Shrine is about 10-15 minutes by car from Naha Airport. We offer the "Naha City Half-Day Course (3-4 hours)" from ¥21,000, combining Naminoue Shrine with Kokusai Street and Shuri Castle. Allow approximately 30-45 minutes for visiting the shrine.
During New Year's (January 1-3) and the annual grand festival (May 17), the approach becomes extremely crowded. For those wishing to avoid the crowds, an early morning visit (8-9 AM) is recommended. With SUI TAXI, there's no need to worry about finding parking.
— Pray for Travel Safety: Naminoue Shrine is known for its blessings of maritime and travel safety. The local custom is to visit on the first day of your Okinawa trip to pray for a safe journey. A course heading to Kokusai Street after your visit flows smoothly.
Naminoue Shrine Charter Fares
| Plan | Fare | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Round-trip charter from Naha (3 hours) | ¥21,000〜 | Up to 5 guests per vehicle. From ¥4,200 per person. Expressway tolls and parking charged separately |
| Naha half-day course (3–4 hours, with Kokusai Street and Shuri Castle) | ¥21,000〜 | The same time slot can be rearranged to suit. Expressway tolls, parking and admission charged separately |
| Naha Airport → hotels in Naha (transfer) | ¥14,000〜 | Up to 5 guests per vehicle. From ¥2,800 per person. Expressway tolls included |
| hotels in Naha → Naha Airport (transfer) | ¥14,000〜 | Up to 5 guests per vehicle. From ¥2,800 per person. Expressway tolls included |
Charter fares are time-based at ¥7,000 per hour (¥3,500 per additional 30 minutes booked in advance). Extensions made after departure are ¥4,200 per 30 minutes. Admission, expressway tolls and parking are charged at cost. For charters of 6 hours or more we take a 30% deposit when you book, and the balance is paid on the day. Minimum booking times depend on where you start: from 3 hours in the south and central area, 4 hours in Onna Village and 6 hours in the north, and 8 hours for trips that cross between the south and the north. Where a long transfer is involved, the transfer fare for that stretch is the floor for the price. From 26 December 2026 to 6 January 2027 (New Year holiday period), the minimum charge for charters is ¥56,000.
Address
1-25-11 Wakasa, Naha
Worship Hours
7:00-19:00 (Shrine office: 9:00-17:00)
Admission
Free
From Naha Airport
Approx. 10-15 minutes
Access Information
| Address | 1-25-11 Wakasa, Naha |
| Worship Hours | 7:00-19:00 (Shrine office: 9:00-17:00) |
| Admission | Free |
| From Naha Airport | Approx. 10-15 min (along Route 58) |
| Parking | Available (free) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a taxi from Naha to Naminoue Shrine cost?
A round-trip charter of 3 hours starts from ¥21,000. That is the price for one Alphard carrying up to five guests, so with five people it works out from ¥4,200 each. Both the visit and the car park are free.
How long does a visit take?
Thirty to 45 minutes. If you want an amulet or a goshuin stamp, we time your arrival to the shrine office hours, 9am to 5pm.
Can we come straight from the airport?
Yes, 10 to 15 minutes away. Some guests visit on arrival before checking in; others stop on the morning they fly home.
Can we add Kokusai Street or Shuri Castle?
Yes, 10 and 20 minutes away. All three make a 3 to 4 hour Naha half-day course from ¥21,000.
Is Naminoue Beach worth a look?
It is right below the shrine and gives you the view up at the cliff-top hall from the sea side, which is the better photograph. Ten minutes is enough.
Ready to book?
