Naha is Okinawa's capital and by far its largest city, home to about 320,000 people. It is where most visitors arrive and where the island's urban life is concentrated. Kokusai Street (International Street) is the main drag — a 1.6-kilometre stretch of souvenir shops, restaurants, and izakayas that fills up every evening. Duck into the covered Makishi Public Market just off Kokusai for fresh seafood, tropical fruit, and Okinawan specialties like pig's face and sea grapes.
The reconstructed Shuri Castle sits on a hill overlooking the city, a reminder of Naha's centuries as the capital of the Ryukyu Kingdom. The Tsuboya pottery district, a short walk from Kokusai, is quieter and worth exploring for its traditional workshops and small galleries. Fukushuen, a classical Chinese garden near the old Kumemura district, reflects the deep historical ties between Okinawa and China.
Naha is the only part of Okinawa with decent public transport — the Yui Rail monorail connects the airport to the city centre and up to Shuri. Beyond that, you will need a car or bus.