Okinawa Whale Watching Tour Chatan Departure

Chatan-cho , Japan

Okinawa Whale Watching Tour Chatan Departure

Active

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Witness the grandeur of humpback whales in their natural habitat on this thrilling whale watching tour from Chatan. Set sail in the warm waters of Okinawa for an up to three-hour excursion, including an hour of observation time once whales are spotted. With a multilingual audio guide on your smartphone at the port, enrich your understanding of these magnificent creatures while capturing stunning photographs as they breach and splash around your boat. With a commitment to safety and animal welfare, this tour provides a memorable opportunity for nature enthusiasts and families alike.

- Depart from Chatan at 9:00 or 13:30 for a three-hour maximum whale watching experience
- Enjoy one hour of whale observation, showcasing the beauty of humpback whales
- Multilingual audio guide available in multiple languages at the port for an enriched experience
- Minimum of 15 participants required for the tour to proceed, ensuring a personalized experience

Available options

CHATAN departure

Departure from Chatan: Please choose Hamagawa fishing port as pick up location. The other pick up place are not available. for this option.

What's included

Photo data of whale (provided via dropbox after the tour)

The crew speak japanese and some english. But There is no Guide

From Feb 1 to Mar 15, 2025, a refund or reboarding is offered only if no whales are seen.

If 1–2 guests spot a whale or blow, the tour is successful. Booking means you accept these terms.

What's not included

From Chatan : Port facility fee tax is to pay by cash at the port

Motion Sickness medicine

Food/drinks not provided

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Intoxicated travelers (drug, alcohol ...) are not allowed on board.

pregnant travelers are not allowed on board

If any of the above conditions are observed on the day of the tour, we may refuse your boarding without a refund.

Meeting point

The time is the meeting time.
Our staff will be waiting outside the building near the dock.
You will have to signe a consent form
The meeting location may change to the opposite side of the marina depending on port congestion. In that case, we will contact you the day before the tour.

Important notes

You can just check in with the main name on your booking.

About Chatan-cho

Chatan-cho, also known as Chatan Town, is a coastal town in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. It is famous for its American Village, a popular tourist spot with a mix of American and Japanese culture, beautiful beaches, and historical sites.

Top Attractions

American Village

The American Village is a popular tourist spot in Chatan-cho, featuring a mix of American and Japanese culture. It includes shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, as well as a large Ferris wheel and a beach area.

Cultural 2-4 hours Free to explore, activities and attractions have varying costs

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

One of the largest aquariums in the world, the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, and colorful tropical fish.

Nature 3-4 hours Moderate (¥2,060 for adults, ¥1,240 for children)

Himeyuri Peace Museum

The Himeyuri Peace Museum commemorates the student nurses who died during the Battle of Okinawa in World War II. The museum provides a poignant and educational experience about the war's impact on the region.

Historical 1-2 hours Budget (Free admission, donations welcome)

Mihama American Village Beach

Mihama American Village Beach is a popular beach in Chatan-cho, known for its clear waters, white sand, and vibrant atmosphere. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach 2-4 hours Free (water sports and rentals have varying costs)

Okinawa World

Okinawa World is a cultural theme park that showcases the history, traditions, and natural beauty of Okinawa. It includes a cave with stunning rock formations, a traditional Ryukyu village, and a museum.

Cultural 3-4 hours Moderate (¥1,850 for adults, ¥1,230 for children)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Goya Champuru

A stir-fry dish made with bitter melon (goya), tofu, eggs, and various vegetables. It is a popular Okinawan dish known for its unique flavor and health benefits.

Main Dish Vegetarian (can be made vegan by omitting eggs)

Rafute

A traditional Okinawan dish made with slow-cooked pork belly, simmered in a sweet soy-based sauce until tender and flavorful.

Main Dish Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Okinawan Soba

A noodle dish made with wheat noodles, served in a savory broth with various toppings like pork, seaweed, and green onions.

Main Dish Can be made vegetarian or vegan by omitting pork and using a vegetable-based broth

Shima Tofu

A traditional Okinawan tofu dessert made with silken tofu, served with brown sugar syrup and sometimes topped with kinako (roasted soybean flour).

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan-friendly

Popular Activities

Snorkeling and diving Hiking and nature walks Island hopping Beach relaxation Spa and wellness treatments Scenic drives and viewpoints Visiting historical sites and museums Watching traditional performances

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

The best time to visit Chatan-cho is during the spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are manageable. The temperatures are comfortable, and the humidity is lower compared to the summer months.

18-28°C 64-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Okinawan (limited)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Chatan-cho and the surrounding areas are generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, it is always advisable to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
• Use reputable transportation services and avoid unlicensed taxis
• Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Naha Airport • 20 km from Chatan-cho

By bus

Naha Airport Bus Terminal, Chatan-cho Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transportation in Chatan-cho. The bus network is extensive and connects to most tourist attractions, shopping areas, and residential neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

American Village Mihama Onna Village

Day trips

Naha

20 km from Chatan-cho • Half day to full day

Naha is the capital city of Okinawa Prefecture, offering a mix of history, culture, and shopping. It is home to Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the Makishi Public Market and Kokusai Dori, a bustling shopping street.

Ishigaki Island

450 km from Chatan-cho • Overnight or multi-day trip

Ishigaki Island is a beautiful tropical island in the Yaeyama Islands, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery. It is a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and other water activities.

Kerama Islands

30-40 km from Chatan-cho • Full day or overnight

The Kerama Islands are a group of beautiful islands located near Chatan-cho, known for their stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine life. They are a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on the beach.

Festivals

Naha Great Tug-of-War Festival • Third Saturday and Sunday of October Okinawa Shurijo Castle Festival • Late October to early November Okinawa International Movie Festival • Late March to early April

Pro tips

Visit the American Village in the evening for a lively atmosphere, with the Ferris wheel lit up and a variety of dining and entertainment options
Try the local seafood dishes, such as sashimi, sushi, and grilled fish, at the beachside restaurants and markets in Mihama
Explore the historical sites and cultural attractions in Naha, such as Shuri Castle and the Makishi Public Market, for a deeper understanding of Okinawan history and culture
Take a day trip to the Kerama Islands for a peaceful and relaxing escape, with beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and opportunities for snorkeling and diving
Visit the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium to see the famous whale sharks and manta rays, as well as a variety of other marine life