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Okinawa is blessed with a subtropical climate and mild weather throughout the year, but summer is typhoon season, and advance preparation is essential for travel.
When planning a trip to Okinawa, it is important to know about typhoons.
There is also the risk that an approaching typhoon may cancel flights or restrict local travel.
We often hear people say that they had a typhoon on the second day of their trip to Okinawa.
Prepare ahead of time so that you can respond calmly!
A recommended hotel in Onna Village, one of the best beach resorts in Okinawa, Japan!
In this issue, we will introduce you to travel sites that are easy to compare so that you can get the best deals on hotels for your special trip. Each site offers limited time discounts and special offers, and depending on the season, you may have the chance to stay at a top resort hotel for up to 20% off! We hope you will take advantage of them.
What if a typhoon hits before we leave?
You are looking forward to your trip to Okinawa, but when you hear the news of an approaching typhoon, you are worried about what to do.
But don’t worry, if you prepare well in advance, you can still enjoy your trip even if a typhoon hits.
Here are some details on what to do in the event of a typhoon before departure.
Here’s how to choose a rental car that won’t fail on your trip to Okinawa
Let’s check the expected path of the typhoon.
First, check carefully for information on the approaching typhoon.
Each typhoon has its own personality, and each differs in size, strength, path, and rain cloud conditions.
It is important to check the typhoon information (typhoon path map) of the Japan Meteorological Agency and understand when and how the typhoon is likely to affect your area.
Remember to check the expected path for the day of departure as well as the day of return.
Check the latest flight status of the airline
When a typhoon approaches, airlines make a decision on whether or not to operate based on the path and size of the typhoon, wind direction and speed, and other factors.
Because of the increased likelihood of flight delays and cancellations, it is important to check the latest flight status and schedules of the airline you are flying with from time to time.
Check the airline’s website or app for information and contact customer service if necessary.
Check the list of airlines!
Check cancellations for hotels and activities you have booked
If the flight you are scheduled to take is subject to change due to a typhoon, you may not be required to pay the necessary fees to change or cancel your flight.
Check in advance the cancellation policy of any airline tickets, hotels, activities, etc. that you have booked.
Check the cancellation fee handling policies on the websites of individual airlines, hotels, and tour companies, and make changes or cancellations as necessary.
Please note the following regarding cancellations and refunds
Cancel a Ticket
In the event of a flight cancellation due to a typhoon, many airlines will waive the cancellation fee. However, conditions may differ for some airlines, such as LCCs, so please check in advance.
Cancellation of Accommodation
In many cases, hotels and inns also waive cancellation fees for cancellations due to typhoons. Please check this in advance as well, and contact them as soon as possible in case of cancellation.
Car Rental Cancellation
Similarly, car rentals are often exempt from typhoon cancellation fees, but it is important to check in advance as each company has different policies.
A great way to reserve a rental car that locals also use!
What to do if a typhoon hits during your stay in Okinawa?
If a typhoon hits during your stay, your sightseeing plans will change drastically.
Okinawa also has many places where visitors can enjoy themselves indoors.
Here are some details on how to spend your time during an approaching typhoon.
Typhoon countermeasures during your stay in Okinawa
If a typhoon approaches during your stay, please take the following measures
- Check local weather information: Keep up to date with the latest weather information on TV, radio, and the Internet to understand the path and impact of typhoons.
- Check the status of public transportation: Ferries, buses, monorails, and other public transportation may be suspended when a typhoon approaches. Check the operation status in advance, and if necessary, secure transportation as soon as possible.
- Secure your accommodations: In case of strong winds or heavy rain, follow the instructions of the hotel or inn where you are staying and be prepared to evacuate to a safe place. If necessary, secure emergency food and drinking water.
Check local weather information
Check the path of the typhoon.
Typhoons can have strong winds not only during their approach, but also when they pass.
Do not let your guard down just because the typhoon has passed; always exercise the utmost caution. Especially after entering and exiting the eye of the typhoon, you are most susceptible.
After passing through the eye of the typhoon, strong winds blow from the opposite direction, so the blowback is felt strongly.
Check the path of the typhoon.
Check the path of typhoons on this site!
Check here for storm warnings and other advisories.
Check frequently as weather conditions change every few hours!
Here’s how to choose a rental car that won’t fail on your trip to Okinawa
Check the status of public transportation services
Facilities and stores in Okinawa are closed due to bus and monorail service. (also schools, etc.).
Check the bus service status.
Check this site for local bus service!
Check the operation status of Yui Rail.
Check this site for monorail service!
Check the situation at Naha Airport.
Check this site for information on the closing status of Naha Airport!
Action Guidelines for approaching typhoons
Typhoons approaching Okinawa are often more powerful than those on the mainland, and strong winds are a particular concern.
When a typhoon is approaching, ferries and other services on outlying island routes may be cancelled, and leisure activities on the beach and marine activities may be suspended.
When a storm warning is issued, public transportation will be suspended and public facilities will be closed.
If it is not safe to go out, try to stay inside the hotel.
Here’s how to choose a rental car that won’t fail on your trip to Okinawa
Can I go out even if there is a typhoon?
On the main island of Okinawa, it is recommended not to go outside during the typhoon’s closest approach.
When driving a rental car during an approaching typhoon, be careful of flying objects and doors opening and closing due to strong winds.
Roads may be blocked by broken street trees, etc., and some bridges may be closed to traffic.
Many areas are flooded, so please refrain from unnecessary and widespread outings.
When a storm warning is issued, tourist facilities will be closed and public transportation will be suspended, so please check local weather and traffic information before taking action.
Most stores and businesses will be closed in Okinawa, along with public transportation (buses and monorail) stops. It is advisable not to go out when a storm warning is issued.
When a typhoon is approaching, please pay attention to the transportation situation.
public transportation
Monorail and bus services may be suspended due to the typhoon. Please check the latest operation information and secure a safe means of transportation.
rent-a-car
Driving in strong winds is dangerous. In particular, the risk of accidents due to flying debris or falling trees is increased. It is safer to avoid driving whenever possible and to take a cab if necessary.
Basically, do not go out when a typhoon is directly hitting or is expected to approach.
Spend time indoors
When a typhoon strikes, avoid going out and staying indoors at accommodations or other facilities because of the danger of flying debris and falls caused by strong winds.
Many hotels also offer resort-like facilities. Some hotels offer swimming pools, spas, and craft experiences, while others offer game items and kitchenware for rent.
If the power goes out in the Okinawa area, hotels may also lose power. Some hotels, however, have their own power generators so that guest rooms are not blacked out, so it is best to contact the hotel directly.
There may be some good things about Okinawa that can be discovered because of the typhoon.
Here’s how to choose a rental car that won’t fail on your trip to Okinawa
How to spend time during typhoons (daytime and nighttime)
Here are some pointers on how to spend your time during the approaching typhoon, both during the day and at night.
daytime
Avoid outdoor sightseeing when a typhoon is approaching.
Instead, visit indoor facilities such as museums, art galleries, and shopping malls.(This is just a case of not much impact)
These facilities can be enjoyed regardless of the weather.
at night
It is most important to stay safe in your accommodations during the night.
Relax and take advantage of the hotel’s restaurant, bar, and spa facilities.
It is also a good idea to prepare emergency lights and chargers in case the typhoon intensifies.
If a typhoon approaches during your trip to Okinawa, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip by taking appropriate measures and actions. Please gather information and make preparations well in advance and enjoy a wonderful trip to Okinawa.
Here’s how to choose a rental car that won’t fail on your trip to Okinawa
Power Outage
Okinawa always loses power when a typhoon hits the island.
In 2023, Typhoon No. 6 caused power outages on the main island of Okinawa for several days, forcing tourists to live in evacuation centers. Power outages in summer can be a real pain, so be sure to take precautions.
Check to see if the hotel you are staying at has its own power generation system.
Even during a power outage, refrain from going out unnecessarily. The streets are littered with broken power lines and various other things.
Also, the traffic lights are out, which is very dangerous.
Please check this page of Okinawa Electric Power Company for information on power outages.
Power Outage Countermeasure Items
It is recommended to carry a small rechargeable light.
If there is a possibility of power failure, please be prepared in advance to charge mobile batteries, etc.
In Okinawa, when a typhoon approaches, various items disappear from convenience stores and supermarkets. Among them, batteries and mobile batteries are the first to sell out, so it is recommended that you purchase them before your trip.
In addition, when a power outage occurs, the Internet may also be disrupted, so in that case, wait for the Internet to be restored in a safe place.
Here’s how to choose a rental car that won’t fail on your trip to Okinawa
stay away from the coast
When a typhoon is approaching, the sea is rough with strong winds and high waves. Marine activities such as snorkeling and diving are very dangerous. Please do not try them.
Stay away from the coast and riverside areas as there is a risk of being washed away by the storm surge. Even after the typhoon has passed, “swells” may become stronger at sea, so please stay away from coastal areas.
Some people approach the sea or rivers out of curiosity, but never do so.
If the typhoon does not hit directly and does not have much impact
If the wind is not so strong, look for sights that can be enjoyed even on a rainy day to stay safe.
Here are some spots you can enjoy even on rainy days.
Here’s how to choose a rental car that won’t fail on your trip to Okinawa
The plane may not fly and you may not be able to return home! What do you do in such a case?
Flights may be cancelled due to the typhoon. Make sure you know what to do if you are unable to return home.
It is important to gather information before going to the airport
Flight status may change at the last minute due to the path of typhoons and other factors.
Before going to the airport, check the latest flight status on the airline’s website.
When traveling to the airport, please exercise caution and be safe.
Click here for a list of each airline
Check this page for airline information!
Click here for information on Naha Airport operations.
Check this site for information on the closing status of Naha Airport!
What are the change fees and cancellation fees for flights?
If the flight you were scheduled to take is cancelled, cancellation fees are waived by almost all airlines (LCCs and other carriers have conditions).
If the flight is subject to change, you may have to pay for the change of flight or purchase an additional ticket, so please check in advance.
Rakuten Travel offers a full refund package!It is also recommended that you purchase travel insurance.
In case of flight cancellation
If your flight is cancelled, you will need to remain in your current accommodations or find new ones.
Hotels in Naha City near the airport often fill up quickly, so arrange reservations early.
Also, do not forget to return or extend the rental car you rented. Please note that there are no accommodations within Naha Airport.
This photo was taken on May 31, 2024, when JAL and ANA aircraft from the U.S. military base in Kadena made an alternate landing (divert) because Naha Airport could not land due to poor visibility. This photo was taken from Roadside Station Kadena. Due to the lack of fuel, the aircraft could not take off and was stuck in the cabin for more than 10 hours after takeoff from Haneda. They could not even open the shades because it was a U.S. military base.
Weather is scary because such things can happen.
Here’s how to choose a rental car that won’t fail on your trip to Okinawa
Precautions and measures to be taken when a typhoon approaches
Okinawa is a tourist destination with beautiful beaches and natural beauty, but special care must be taken during typhoon season.
This section details precautions and measures to be taken in the event of an approaching typhoon.
When is typhoon season in Okinawa?
Many typhoons approach and land on Okinawa every year.
Typhoons are especially frequent from July to October. This period also coincides with summer vacation and Obon vacations, when many tourists visit the area.
Therefore, while it may be difficult to plan a trip to avoid typhoon season, you can enjoy a safe trip by taking precautions in advance.
This chart shows the number of typhoons approaching the Okinawa region from 2010 to 2023.
Here’s how to choose a rental car that won’t fail on your trip to Okinawa
How many typhoons make landfall on Okinawa each year?
On average, about 8.4 typhoons approach and land on Okinawa each year.
In particular, they are concentrated between July and October, and it is important to pay attention to the weather in Okinawa during this period.
| counter for years (following a number in the hito-futa-mi counting system) | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December | total amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 6 | |||||||||
| 2011 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 7 | |||||||
| 2012 | 3 | 2 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 11 | |||||||
| 2013 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 4 | 9 | |||||||
| 2014 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 10 | |||||||
| 2015 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 6 | ||||||||
| 2016 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 1 | 7 | ||||||||
| 2017 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 7 | ||||||||
| 2018 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 13 | ||||||
| 2019 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 7 | |||||||
| 2020 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 6 | |||||||||
| 2021 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 7 | |||||||
| 2022 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | |||||||||
| 2023 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 6 |
When a typhoon approaches, strong winds and torrential rains can affect sightseeing and traffic, so it is essential to gather information and prepare in advance.
Here’s how to choose a rental car that won’t fail on your trip to Okinawa
Why is Okinawa prone to typhoons?
Geographic location
Okinawa is located in the western Pacific Ocean and is in the path of typhoons originating from the South China Sea and the Philippine Sea. These areas are known as the source of typhoons, and typhoons often pass through Okinawa on their way north.
weather conditions
Typhoons tend to form in warmer waters, and the high seawater temperatures around Okinawa make it an ideal environment for typhoons to form. Warm seawater is a source of energy for typhoons, causing them to become stronger.
Pacific anticyclone
The Pacific High often extends over the Japanese archipelago from summer to autumn, affecting the path of typhoons. As typhoons move around the edge of this high-pressure system, Okinawa is more likely to be in the path of typhoons.
wind flow and pressure pattern
Typhoons are low-pressure, strong winds that are greatly affected by the surrounding winds and pressure patterns. The pressure pattern and wind currents around Okinawa often attract typhoons, and as a result, they approach and land on Okinawa more frequently.
This is a typhoon countermeasure manual compiled by Okinawa Tourism Pamphlet Gallery.
summary
The approach of typhoons during a trip to Okinawa is an unavoidable natural phenomenon.
However, with proper preparation in advance, you can maintain a safe and enjoyable trip.
The following measures to prepare for approaching typhoons were explained in detail: checking local weather information, confirming airline contact information, and procedures for changing or canceling itineraries.
Make sure you have all the necessary information well in advance so that you can calmly cope with an approaching typhoon. Enjoy a safe trip.
After the typhoon passes, let’s have fun in Okinawa!
How to choose a car rental without making mistakes! Thorough explanation!
Car Rental
Be careful with cheap rental cars…
A rental car is essential to fully enjoy sightseeing in Okinawa. However, there are several points to consider when choosing a rental car company.
If you want to enjoy Okinawa, get discount tickets online!
special feature article
Roadside Stations and Direct Selling Stations Special Feature!
Michi no Eki (Roadside Stations) and direct sales shops in Okinawa are very popular tourist attractions. Each has its own unique characteristics, making them 200% worth visiting! Please visit them!
Special feature on beaches on the main island of Okinawa!
The main island of Okinawa has many wonderful beaches that can only be found in the tropics. We will introduce each of them in an easy-to-understand manner, from the very secluded to the well-serviced executive beaches.
Typhoon Okinawa
We have compiled a list of points to keep in mind when a typhoon approaches so that you can respond without panic before or during your trip. We hope you will find it useful.
One of the best spots for lunch in Okinawa!
