Planning a trip to Okinawa this summer?
With the exciting new theme park Junglira Okinawa opening on July 25, 2025, many travelers—locals and tourists alike—are expected to explore the island by rental car.
But before you hit the road, here’s something you should absolutely know:
Driving in Okinawa is not the same as in the mainland U.S.
Here’s what all visitors—especially American tourists—need to watch out for when driving on the island.
🛻 Okinawa = Rental Cars Everywhere
Public transportation in Okinawa is very limited, especially outside of Naha.
So most tourists rent a car from Naha Airport and drive up to popular destinations like:
- Churaumi Aquarium
- Onna Village beaches
- Junglira theme park in Nakijin Village
That’s why you’ll notice roads full of cars with “わ” (Wa) and “れ” (Re) license plates—these are rental cars in Japan.
⚠️ Why “Wa” and “Re” Cars Deserve Extra Caution
The thing is, many of these rental cars are driven by first-time visitors to Japan—including other international travelers who aren’t familiar with:
- Left-side driving
- Right-hand steering wheels
- Japanese traffic signs
This can lead to sudden braking, confused turns, or unpredictable lane changes, especially in unfamiliar areas like rural roads or narrow parking lots.
🚧 Common Trouble Spots for Foreign Drivers
- Parallel parking on the left side of the road
- Backing into tight spaces
- Navigating toll gates or highway entrances
- Changing lanes based on GPS delays
Look for cars with a sticker that says “Foreigner Driving”—and keep extra space. It’s not about judgment, it’s about safety.
🟡 Extra Caution: Y & A Plates = U.S. Military Vehicles
In Okinawa, you’ll also see license plates with “Y” or “A” instead of Japanese kana.
These are cars owned by U.S. military personnel or their families.
| Plate | Owner | Caution |
|---|---|---|
| Y Plate | Active U.S. military members | May have legal complications if an accident occurs |
| A Plate | Civilians attached to U.S. bases | Same caution applies |
These cars are legal and usually driven by residents familiar with the roads.
However, if you get into an accident with one, language barriers or jurisdiction issues may complicate things.
✅ Tips for Driving in Okinawa (Especially for Americans)
- Recognize “Wa,” “Re,” “Y,” and “A” plates
- Avoid tight parking next to rental cars
- Keep extra distance from unfamiliar drivers
- Plan routes carefully—don’t rely solely on GPS
- Drive defensively and be patient
🌺 Enjoy Okinawa—Safely and Smartly
Okinawa is a beautiful place, with kind people, amazing food, and breathtaking scenery.
But one small accident can ruin a perfect vacation.
So whether you’re driving to the beach, the new theme park, or just exploring local spots,
stay alert, be considerate, and drive safe.
Let’s make your Okinawa trip an unforgettable (and accident-free) memory!
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