Looking to get a tattoo while in Okinawa, or perhaps something to commemorate an event or your time here? Melissa of Inkspirations is the person to go to! She only takes appointments, so no walk-ins. And, just to forewarn, she books up pretty fast so you have to schedule your appointment a little ways out. I knew I was coming back to the island so I contacted her in early August and I had my appointment September 19.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.Melissa runs her shop out of her house (yes, the shop is separate). If she hasn’t opened the shop gate in the front, you’ll likely drive around trying to find it because there is not an outside sign. She is awaiting her new sign, so hopefully by the time this gets published the new sign will be up! (Editor’s Note: If you have a photo of the outside with the sign, please send it to submissions@okinawahai.com.)
The shop walls are covered in her amazing designs, all tattoos that she has done on the island.
The environment was very clean and sterile and she works quickly (which is good when you’re getting a tattoo on your ribs), yet very efficiently! I was in and out in two hours, thrilled with the piece I was leaving with! When you leave she gives you some care instructions to ensure proper healing and tattoo longevity.
If you are looking to get a tattoo done while on island, Melissa is amazing. Her creative talents are priceless. She works with you on design, concept, and color to get a one-of-a-kind piece that you’ll be happy with forever!
She also has another artist who does work out of her shop (using the traditional bamboo tattoo method), if that’s something you’re looking for.
Directions: From Kadena gate 2, drive down Gate 2 street and turn left on 330 (Koza Intersection). Go straight for about 5 minutes, down the hill and through the intersection with 329. You will pass a Family Mart on the RIGHT, make sure you are in the LEFT lane because you will turn left on a small road after the convenience store. There is a small green sign with Kanji on the corner where you will turn left. If you pass a McDonald’s on the RIGHT you have gone too far.
Once you turn left off of 330, go straight up the hill. They are at the top of the hill on the left. Turn left after the studio and there is parking in the second lot behind the building (marked). There are two spots on the left closest to the parking lot entrance.
It is now my second day on Kumejima. The previous day was very busy traveling from site to site, and it was then time to relax. The original plan was to relax and settle in or go snorkeling the first day, since I was arriving in the afternoon, and spend the entire next day sightseeing. Again, be flexible in your planning, because the plans do change, especially when dealing with schedules. Prior to taking off on the unplanned sightseeing adventure switched to the first day, I had made my reservation to one of the most famous beaches in Okinawa, named Hatenohama.
Since this trip begins at 9:00 in the morning and lasts until 2:00 in the afternoon with Eef Sports Club, I wasn’t able to go the first day as planned; my ferry had arrived to Kume too late. Before checking into the trip, I went to the CoCo’s convenience store for a quick breakfast. I bought snacks too, even though lunch is provided on the trip (I get very hungry very easily.) The check-in location was in front of the Eef Sports Club building, behind the lobby of the Eef Beach Hotel. There are lawn chairs in front where you sit and wait. They ask that you pay right before the trip starts, which is 5,500 yen for the entire trip, lunch and parasail.
Before leaving, you have the opportunity to rent whatever you need for the trip. The staff gives you the trip breakdown and safety briefing, as well as the transportation arrangements. They tell you to wear your swimwear going out, since it’s less clothing to carry, and you will get wet on the way out to the beach. On this particular day, everyone was advised to wear wetsuits. (YOU’LL KNOW WHY SOON ENOUGH) Depending on how many people show up, they may have to split the group up into two since their small bus to the nearby port can only fit about 20 or so people. On the trip I went on, I was on the second wave of people to get on the bus.
Once at the nearby port, called “Tomari Fisharina,” two speedboats are ready to depart and take you on the 30-minute ride across the shallow teal water.
Life jackets are free of charge and readily available on the boats. You have to wear them. It was very windy that day and the water was moderately choppy. As soon as the boat cleared the port and set out, the waves pounded the front of the boat and sprayed water over everyone every few seconds. EVERYTHING GOT WET. Combined with the wind, it was like being outside in the beginning stages of a typhoon. It was hard to see and take pictures, unless you are smart, and wear your goggles and snap some shots using your waterproof camera (like me!)
After 20 minutes of ocean spray, the boat changes direction and finally, I got a sneak peek of the island. The last 10 minutes of the trip, we rode parallel to the island chain until reaching our own portion of the island. Unlike Komaka jima, Hatenohama does not have any large hills, rocks or cliffs. It is just a sandbar, with parts submerged underwater in low tide. I know the part of the island they dropped us off at is the larger one spanning a few kilometers long a few hundred meters wide. There is no dock, so you make an ever wetter landing than Komaka by using a ladder in the front of the boat to get ashore.
Once on dry land again after being soaked, you are almost ready to get in the water. The staff rallies everyone together at the station on the island for a final safety brief and schedule. After that they set up the parasails and chairs (if you bought that too) and carefully monitor everyone on the island. The weather calmed down a bit and the water did a little too. Since we were all wet from the ride, most people went and snorkeled in the designated swim area. I went and took a few pictures before going in the water. There is not a lot of coral, but plenty of fish.
ALWAYS bring vienna sausages or a pack of hotdogs for the fish; IT NEVER FAILS IN OKINAWA. There are a variety of fish and squid that will come up to feed if you are patient and not seen as a predator.
Around 11:00 a.m., lunch is served. MMMMMMMM! Delicious homemade curry!
After eating, I didn’t feel like going back into the water just yet since the sun was now blazing and had dried my suit completely. In fact, I didn’t feel like doing anything, so I just laid down under the parasail. After not realizing that I had fallen asleep, I woke up suddenly thinking I was left behind. It scared me for a second since everyone had scattered after lunch to take pictures. Since the beach was so big, there was plenty of room to roam. We were the only people on that section of Hatenohama, so for a split second, I really thought I was alone. I decided to take more pictures and relax under the warm sun for the remainder of the trip.
Finally, when it was time to go, we boarded our boats and made our way back across sea with the 30 minutes of bumpy ocean spray. (Yes, we all got soaked again.) The bus was waiting at the port to pick us all up again, and after being dropped off back at Eef Beach Hotel, I went back to the hostel and took a shower. There was still some things to see before leaving Kume, and I had just enough time to do it. More to come!
One of the best things to do in Okinawa is explore its many parks and recreational areas—and the island is certainly full of them! Okinawan parks are often distinguished by their tell-tale faux wooden fence posts and stair steps, and are commonly located near (but not limited to) community centers, elementary schools, beach scenic areas, or tucked away in local neighborhoods. One just has to develop a keen eye to spot the fence posts and be brave enough to get out of the car to take a good look around!
That being said, some of the best parks to be found on island happen to be located near and around a handful of dams that collect and channel fresh water throughout Okinawa’s extensive reservoir system. Kanna Dam Park, located just a few miles north of Camp Hansen along Highway 329, is one such area that has managed to incorporate a rather impressive public park within its setting.
Although Kanna Dam Park does not offer playground equipment on its grounds, there are plenty of paved walking and biking trails; scenic vantage points overlooking the reservoir; picnic and gazebo areas; a lily pond; and a mini museum showcasing the flora and fauna of the Kanna area.
Entrance to the museum is free, however, there is a ledger located at the museum’s kiosk window that visitors should sign into. Your last name and the number of people in your party should suffice.
There are two bathrooms located in the park. One is located in the building attached to the museum, while the other is located within the Kanna Lake Park area. Vending machines can be found within the park as well, but be mindful that there are no garbage cans or recycling receptacles available on the grounds. Whatever trash visitors bring or accumulate during their visit must be taken and disposed of at home.
Directions: Exit the 8 Okinawa Expressway toll road and travel north along Highway 329 passing Camp Hansen. As you travel through the towns of Kin and Ginoza, be on the lookout for a tall Taurus II Restaurant Mansion building on your right (this is your first landmark). Once you see the Taurus II Restaurant Mansion there will be a noticeable curve to the main road and you will see a farmer’s market within a large parking lot off to your left (this is your second landmark). As you pass the farmer’s market, you will immediately see a beige-colored building (Kanna Drive-Thru Restaurant) next to a Kijimuna statue (Kijimuna is the mythical red headed Okinawan sprite.). Turn left onto that corner and make a right onto the street marked by a blue sign with white lettering pointing to Kanna Dam. There are two more signs along this road that lead the way to two separate park entrances. The first one takes you to the museum and dam side, while the other takes you to the lakeside. Once on the park grounds, either area can be accessed by way of a long bridge connecting them by foot, bike, or car.
The 2014 calendar was available for purchase in November and December of 2013, and for a limited time in the early months of 2014. Next year’s calendar will be available for purchase in the next few days.
On our way to the Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum, we stopped into Café Bree Garden for lunch. We discovered it serendipitously. It is conveniently located on the main road 331, on your way southeast from Naha.
Café Bree Garden offers an affordably priced lunch menu with dishes ranging from Japanese-style curry, to pasta, to taco rice, and a daily special. Each lunch meal comes as a set with a drink and a small desert. Most of the dishes include either a soup and/or salad as well. The food was delicious, but the charm of the café is found in its atmosphere.
The waitress wore a bright smile as she welcomed us, beckoning us to come in and sit down. She spoke very little English, but the English menu made ordering easy. The furniture is made of sleek, golden-stained wood, and living plants adorn the windowsills.
The main dining room is spacious, with Scandinavian-style oil paintings of Mt. Fuji, and of Okinawan farmland adorning the walls. Lots of natural light comes in through the large windows, which offer you a view of the spectacular garden.
The large outdoor patio is also lovely. The garden’s main centerpiece is a large coral “mountain” that is home to many small plants and flowers. You can walk completely around the outside of the café and see an assortment of fresh flowers and herbs.
You can even see where your salad comes from! They use many fruits and vegetables harvested on the property, which is also home to a small farm. A beautiful, ancient rosemary plant winds sideways, bark peeling like a juniper tree, in a large planter in the side garden.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.Inside, they even sell seasonal fruit from local trees – we bought a dragon fruit for 100 yen! If you are taking a trip down to Itoman, this is definitely worth a stop-in. The lunch portions were sizeable, tasty, and elegantly arranged with the typical charm of Okinawan Chefs. I especially recommend this restaurant for plant and garden lovers!
Directions: From Naha, take 58 south to 331. Follow 331 south-southeast to Ihara. Before you reach 223, Bree Garden Café is on your right hand side. If you copy and paste 沖縄県糸満市伊原190-1 into your Google maps, this restaurant will come up, kitty corner from the Himeyuri-Mahnmal Memorial and Museum.
What military base is your home located on? Technically it is Kadena but we are outside Kadena Gate 3.
What area of the island is your home located on (i.e. North Island, Central Island, South Island)? Central
What is the name of your neighborhood in which your home is located? Chibana
Generally speaking, most on-base homes are approved for occupancy based on military or government rank. If you would like, please provide the range of ranks that your home is approved for? I honestly have no idea. It seems that everyone on our street are officers. But right across the road are some enlisted houses.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.What DODDS school district is your home attached to? Is there a schoolbus system available? My kids aren’t in school yet but I assume that the kids here go to school on Kadena. There are buses that pick up and drop off kids (I see them pass every afternoon).
Please describe the “feel” of your neighborhood (i.e. pet-friendly, child-friendly, level of safety, friendly neighbors, spacious, etc.) Our neighborhood is a very family friendly, extremely safe place. There is a playground directly behind our building with a basketball court. There are also two other playgrounds in the development. There are kids all around. A lot of people also have pets and can be seen walking them often. I have never felt anything but safe here. I can go running at 8:30 p.m. and have my entire run in light due to the multiple street lights.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.Please describe the style of your home (i.e. detached home, duplex, apartment, age of the home, etc.) I call our house a multiplex. There are 6 units in our building. Three units are downstairs and 3 units are upstairs.
Please provide general information about your home such as square footage, number of bedrooms and baths, number of stories/levels, special amenities, etc. I have no idea the square footage but it is more than enough room for our family. There are 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. It is a single level home for the most part (you have to walk up a flight of stairs to get to our living space but all our rooms are on the same level). We have a large great room that would be great for a living room/office or living room/playroom. The kitchen looks into a dining area. (We use that area as an office and have the living/dining room)
What places of services are available near your home such as restaurants, shops, commissary, playgrounds, parks, etc.? In Chibana, we have a few playgrounds and basketball courts. There is also a baseball diamond. Kadena is conveniently located so trips to the Exchange and Commissary are easy. Also there is a lot to do off base that isn’t far. There is a great farmers market up the street that we frequent weekly. It isn’t far from the Expressway, if you want to go explore. And Camp Shields in right up the road as well. We really like the convenience of the location.
How is parking provided for your home? We have two assigned spaces per household and there are several visitors spaces as well.
Is there any yard space or outdoor spaces provided for your home? The downstairs units get the backyard space (which is perfect if you have animals or want to fence in a yard). The upstairs units are responsible for taking care of the front yard area. So both units has responsibilities when it comes to yard maintenance.
What do you feel is special about your home or neighborhood – what makes it feel like “home” here on Okinawa? I like the family feel of this neighborhood. My kids have other kids to play with at the playground. I have also met some really amazing people here.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.What housing expenses are included with on-base housing (i.e. utilities, rent, appliances, etc.)Are there any expenses or fees associated with on-base housing? The only expenses we pay every month are for our cable and internet. Everything else is included. We have a fridge, stove/oven, washer, and dryer. The only thing we needed to buy was a microwave.
Are you satisfied with the maintenance services provided by your on-base housing organization? The only expense or fee we would need to worry about would be lawn care. There are multiple lawn care providers that will come out and mow your lawn for a fee. There are also some enterprising teenagers that will knock on doors on the weekends asking to mow and edge your yard for a fee. Or you can buy a mower and do it yourself. That is really the only expense we would have. I have never needed to call maintenance so I can’t comment on them.
Finally, what advantages and disadvantages do you feel have been your experience living on a military base here on Okinawa? The advantage for us to living on base is not having to worry about paying bills every month. It is a nice thing to not have to concern yourself with. I also like that there are a lot of playgrounds close by for my kids to run out energy on. The obvious disadvantage is that is separates us from the full experience of living in a foreign country.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.Please provide any COMMENTS that you feel would be helpful for others about living on-base. Chibana is newly renovated. They are still in the midst of gutting and remodeling several other buildings. I had very low expectations when we looked at base housing. I expected everything to be a little run down and used. I was pleasantly surprised when we looked here and everything looked brand new. This is a nice, quiet
neighborhood that is really perfect for families.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.The view of the Hilton Hotel is a magnificent sight if you are on the harbor part of the seawall, just north of American Village. Standing inside the hotel certainly has the same effect. At first I wondered whether I was up to the Hilton Hotel standards, as I was under-dressed and wearing flip-flops. However, my fears were quickly allayed by the staff. They were very welcoming and warm the minute I stepped through the door, from the front door staff all the way through to the servers in the buffet.
The lunch buffet is on the first floor, just to the left of the entrance. We were seated right in front of the window, which provides a view of the Chatan harbor and is quite stunning.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.The buffet itself is so big that the distance to the end and your table is quite far; I almost feel like you shouldn’t feel any guilt because you are burning calories walking back and forth. The restaurant is spotless and so clean. Everything looks perfectly organized and well-designed.
I thought the food was incredible. The buffet starts with sushi with a sushi chef cutting and slicing fish in front of you. We then move on to the salad section. After salad we hit the meat section and then the vegetable section. Instead of being the usual assortment of plain steamed vegetables, all the vegetables were prepared with exotic sauces.
It was remarkable how unique all the dishes were. Moving on from the vegetables, you come across Indian curries with lamb and traditional Okinawan dishes like goya champur.
Now, for the part that usually every tries to save room for – the desserts. The desserts at the Hilton did not disappoint. There were an assortment of pies, exotic puddings and mousses. As a bonus there was even a yogurt chef who would mix any type of frozen yogurt and fruit for you by hand. The biceps on this yogurt chef were huge from smashing all that frozen yogurt together. I am not a big fan of chocolate waterfalls, but as far as aesthetics go there was a pretty impressive-looking chocolate waterfall.
We started and ended the buffet with coffees, and the coffee was delicious. I felt that it was all such high quality food, and probably some of the highest quality food on the island. Although the Hilton Buffet is a bit more expensive than other places on Okinawa, it is well worth it. One person admission to the buffet is 2400Yen. This would be perfect for any special occasion, a birthday, or maybe just a celebration of your payday.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.After you are finished eating lunch you can take a tour around the hotel. The front pool area is open for use. After we were done eating lunch we didn’t really feel like swimming, but we lodged in the hammocks in the beautiful Okinawan sun and just relaxed. I give it up to the Hilton for creating a very high quality atmosphere along with a spectacular buffet.
Hours: The lunch buffett is served from 11:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Payment: 2400 yen per person
Phone: 098-901-1111
Directions: From the Foster commissary gate, turn right (north) on 58. Turn left at the traffic light where 58 intersects with 24. Head straight towards the harbor and you will see the Hilton ahead.
Editor’s Note:This is the final installment of Quentin’s adventure to Kumejima. Click on the following links to read the others: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3
Returning to the hostel, I met up with the local who spoke English. I told him about my day trip to Hatenohama Beach and my next set of plans to revisit some sites and see a few new ones before the sun goes down. He took my advice about exploring the island while I was out and wanted to join in on seeing more.
We both revisited the main sites from the first day and a few new ones. Since he wasn’t able to go with me on the first day, so I took him to the three sites he really wanted to see from the pictures I had taken, which are very close to where we were staying. After that, we visited the Shrimp Farms on the northern side of the island. Since I didn’t have a cooler, I didn’t buy any (they are sold in bulk).
Heading back, we visited the Yajiagama Cave System. We were not the only tourists there, so we all headed down together. The others were too scared to go inside since they didn’t have a flashlight, so they sent me (the foreigner) to lead the way. Along the way, there are clay pots and human remains inside a small chamber to the left. I didn’t go too deep into the cave, because there are huge swarms of bats inside. The others avoided going in.
Coming back down to the Eef Beach area, the easier entrance to Tori no Guchi Park lies next to a resort hotel. The southern tip of the island hosts a bundle of hiking trails that let you observe the seas, forests and hills from steep observation points. The famous Bird’s Mouth Rock seen from the ferry (if you know to look for it) is found here as well. There were a lot of Japanese tourists here taking pictures and walking up and down the trails.
When the sun was finally setting, it was time to eat. Since we were unable to feast on 6-8 inch black striped shrimp from the farms, we decided to find them at a restaurant in Eef Beach. I did not remember to take a picture of the sign (written in Kanji), but I do remember the menu outside of the building. It is located a minute’s worth of walking on the street on the opposite side of the Marine Resort. Most of the restaurants are located here. I do remember the delicious food.
You can order just about any popular Japanese/Thai/Indian dish you can think of, they do it all and more. Their bar is fully stocked with a variety of liquors (we chose Kumesan… mmmmmmm!) and they served the local shrimp baked (the best!), fried or raw. I suggest all three. Since the prices were decent (if you are used to the economy), we sampled a variety of dishes until we were full. We sat there for about two hours.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.After dinner, I re-visted Spiral Market Reggae Bar to hang out with the owner, Morishima-san and his regulars at his bar. The locals are extremely nice and love talking with foreigners. With the help of the staff, I was able to exchange stories and meet a lot of nice people. The tour guide from the Hatenohama trip eats dinner and hangs out there regularly. After enjoying more Kumesan, (mmmmmmm!) it was time to go to bed and catch the 8:30 a.m. ferry back to Naha. If you brought a car, you have to show up early and re-register the car with the original ticket at a building at the rear of the ferry. In closing, I highly recommend this trip, and wish I had the opportunity to stay here during the summer to go back.
If you have spent any significant time on Okinawa, you are well aware of the base flea markets that are held periodically. If you thought that these were the only open air places to get a deal on the weekend then you would be missing out, big time. The locals have their own flea markets and one of the best I have come across is Ginoza Flea Market just north of Camp Hansen. If you have traveled up north on Highway 329 on a weekend, then you have likely seen the large lot decorated with colorful flags and packed with vendors.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view. This flea market is worth your time as it has a multitude of items to be found. I personally have picked up collectable toys such as Godzilla, Ultraman, Pokemon and Alien rarities. You can also find industrial grade cook and dishware, tools, clothes, crafts, antiques, etc… Vendors also switch out from week to week so it is always worth taking a peek.
If you are interested in selling at Ginoza flea market then you have to show up about 7:00 a.m. to be given a spot. It costs 500 yen for the day which is collected by an attendant a few hours after the flea market opens. Most customers will show up around 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. depending on weather. The American sellers I chatted with said their goods sold quite well and quickly.
The farmer’s market is housed in the central building on the lot. This market has seasonal vegetables, fruit, herbs, and local treats. Like most farmers markets the prices are outstanding compared to the commissary or supermarket. You can even find souvenir items such as sanshin instruments, pottery, and statues. Just like the flea market outside, it is always worth taking a periodic peek inside to see what produce is available for that particular harvest.
Finally, if you work up an appetite shopping there is a covered food court which houses a variety of vendors that sell everything from sandwiches to shaved ice with mango (the latter I personally recommend). A decent looking soba restaurant is also in the building next to the farmer’s market but I have not tried it out yet.
Directions: From the Okinawa Expressway 8 exit travel north toward and past Camp Hansen. After passing Camp Hansen the road curves down a hill past Taurus apartment/restaurant. When you pass the apartment building you will see the ocean on the right and the flea market on the left.
This post was originally published on this site on November 16, 2009. We’re pulling it out of the archives for those of you who haven’t seen it before. Happy Veterans Day to all our readers who have served, and those who continue to do so!
The other morning, when I was nosing about on Facebook, I noticed the following comment posted by one of my close friends:
“Every night at 9pm sharp I hear “Taps” playing…..I always stop to think about all my heroes and their families in hopes that their service for our country will never be in vain…. God bless you all…..”
I couldn’t agree more with my friend’s sentiments; there is no sacrifice greater than that which our military men and women are willing to make. Our recent observation of Veterans Day was a reminder for all of us that we must never forget the heroic duties performed by all those who have served in the past, as well as those who are serving now. But equally important, are those who stand immediately behind our service members. Just as Veterans Day is a time to honor our service members, the month of November is a time to recognize our military families for the noble contributions that they also make. Beyond the call of duty lies the call of family members to love, support, and honor their active duty loved ones, even through the most difficult of times. I’ve seen and experienced various types of hardships over the years, and cried for others who have seen even greater hardships, and all the while I am amazed at the spirit and resilience of the military family.
Several years ago, while working as a youth facilitator with “at-risk” military kids, I realized for the first time that the military lifestyle adversely affects more than just a few of our children. I mentored children whose fathers had died in war, children with disorders such as ADHD and autism, and children with behavioral, social, and/or academic problems. Those children in the latter category were presumed to have developed such problems due to factors ultimately derived from their military family lifestyles. I listened to these children tell me stories about losing friends, moving away from loved family members, and feeling angry because Dad deployed all the time, or resentful because they were tasked with so many responsibilities when only one parent was at home. It’s no wonder these kids were troubled, and yet through all their pain, I sensed that many of them understood and respected the paths their parents had chosen.
Military spouses don’t have it any easier either; the burden they must carry when their loved one is away is one that a civilian spouse could not possibly appreciate without first experiencing it for themselves. I’ve seen many a friend this past year wear the pants of both mother and father and play out this dual role to both older and younger children, while also attempting to keep the house clean, pay the bills, put meals on the table, maintain and clean cars, take care of the yard, get kids to appointments and after-school activities, and perform numerous other must-do chores. They understand what it is to be a single parent, but furthermore, they are often challenged to maintain a positive and cheerful attitude in situations which are less than desirable.
My thanks go out to all the family members of our military men and women, not just spouses and children, but also grandparents and extended family members who help to fill the gap when loved ones are away. It’s because of your dedication and and continuous support of our uniformed members that they in turn are able to go out and effectively complete their tasks.
Humorist Will Rogers once said, “We can’t all be heroes, because somebody has to sit on the curb and applaud as they go by.” Nobody does a better job of applauding our heroes than the military family, and for that, you should all be applauded too!
Along the northeastern coastline of Okinawa, dotted by sleepy fishing villages and occasional signs pointing tourists towards secluded cafes, sit a unique group of rock outcroppings fifty-four to thirty-seven millions of years old called the Fold of the Kayo Formation.
The Fold of the Kayo Formation was designated by the Japanese government as a Natural Monument September 19, 2012. The “fold” refers to layers of sandstone rock that dip and rise noticeably and quite erratically along a stretch of beach and highway in Teniya, Okinawa. One does not necessarily need to be a geologist in order to appreciate the significance of the area. These rock formations are unlike any you are bound to have come across on island before.
Beyond the rock formations are several “caves” where the sandstone has given way to gravity and tumbled out onto the beach. In such spots, the rocks weep profusely with waters born from the Teniya River that flow from the mountainside. This same river feeds two notable waterfalls near Teniya Beach’s entrance, and out into the area’s turquoise waters where Shark Fin rock formations may be easily spotted off in the distance as well.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.The placard placed near the beach entrance gives a better overview of the Fold of the Kayo Formation’s geological activity than this novice rock hound could ever hope to give readers. It is worth noting though that the placard highlights trace fossils in the rock formation.
I and my husband trekked a good three kilometers along the coastline looking for these trace fossils (particularly the “snake-like” ones we believed would be the easiest to spot) but were unable to find the specific rock outcropping illustrated in the placard. We did observe evidence of several significant landslides along the stretch of beach the trace fossils were supposed to have been. And although we are not one-hundred-percent sure that we may have simply overlooked the area we should have been looking for them in, (I can only hope!) we feared the possibility that these trace fossils may have been swept away in one of the landslides.
However, all was not lost! I managed to snap pictures of a few rocks I was lucky enough to have spotted on the beach that seemed to bear the characteristic “snake-like” pattern of the trace fossils we were looking for.
Location: Teniya Beach, Teniya, Nago-Shi, Okinawa-ken, Japan
Map Coordinates: 26.5676746, 128.13648349999994
Address: 1-71 Teniya Nago-shi, Okinawa-ken, Japan
Directions: Travel north on the Okinawan Expressway to the 9 Exit and make a left onto Route 329. Once you have passed Camp Schwab take Route 331 towards Higashi through the Futami Bypass Tunnel. Keep straight along this road hugging the coastline and passing the Kanucha Resort. You will want to keep your eyes out for a set of white and blue signs that point to “Fold of the Kayo Formation” on the left side of the road. There will be two of these, but take note that each is merely a separate entrance to the same rock formation. So if you happen to miss the first sign, be sure to look for the second sign immediately after you pass the 40 km road sign and park your vehicle near the road blocks that prevent thru traffic from disturbing the formation.
The third Fold of the Kayo Formation sign will be approximately half a kilometer down the road from the first two signs, but on the right. In addition to this sign there are other signs pointing to Teniya (at the time of this posting) that should help point you in the right direction. Follow this road straight. You will pass farmland, an old playground, and a small shrine. As you continue to travel along this road, you will notice that the road will come to the top of a hill and then curve back around steeply. Take the first left that you see as you come down this portion of the road.
Additional notes: The beach area is mostly comprised of rocks (not sand) making the trek treacherous in places that a pair of flip flops would otherwise ruin your feet. Therefore, wear water booties or an old pair of trusty sneakers. Be aware of falling rock and slick algae growing on river and beach rocks. Pace yourself, and most importantly, bring someone along with you in case things get hairy. This is not a day trip that you want to go alone and wind up stranded. Nor is this a trip that families with small children should attempt lightly. Be aware of the tides!
When my family visited for the first time, only a few months after we arrived on island, my sister and I drove around exploring. One of the beautiful outcomes was discovering N’s Garden! It’s an interesting, secluded restaurant that has the best croissants ever!
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
We saw red, blue and yellow striped signs along the road and decided to follow them. After taking some turns we went down small, country roads and eventually saw a few signs in Japanese. We trusted it and followed them. At the end, we saw a larger sign right before the driveway of N’s Garden. We made it!
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Google Street View Image
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
When you walk into the restaurant, the wood floors and piano make you feel like you’re at a rather fancy restaurant. Then you see the full wall of glass windows and doors that overlook their garden and it definitely feels welcoming. You can sit indoors or there is a very nice patio that provides a lot of shade and, on the perfect day, the breeze is delightful!
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
You can stroll through the garden while you’re waiting for your meal and enjoy the flowers. I have to admit, when I took the photos not much was blooming. However, I’ve seen it flourishing and looking amazing!
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The food is always good. They offer curry, a nice lunch set that covers all of the bases from seafood to spaghetti, and other sets. I can’t even deny it… I really go for the croissants! They are served warm and are flaky perfection. I always order a regular one with my meal and some chocolate ones to enjoy at home… or on the way home, depending on how tempting the smell is!
There is an English speaking person that can help you make a reservation if you call, or just try walking in. Either way, be sure to check this cafe out and bring me some croissants or enjoy keep them all for yourself. Also, don’t forget to get your stamp card – I know you’ll be back!
Hours: 11:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. daily. Closed on Tuesdays.
Directions: *If you have an iPhone you can enter their phone number into the Maps App with the dashes and it will generate* From Exit 5 of the Expressway, keep straight on 36. You’ll pass a street “cart” on the right and a building on the left with a curved blue metal roof on the left (and a lot of port-a-potties). Just past the next crosswalk, you’ll turn right and see your first N’s Garden sign like the one I posted above. Drive about 160M and you’ll make another right turn (there’s another sign). Wind down a hill and make a left turn at the next sign. This sign is smaller and is in the shape of an arrow. Follow this road for about 82M and make a left where you’ll see the Japanese sign that I posted above. Lastly, turn right at the N’s Garden billboard and follow the driveway up to the parking lot!
Editor’s Note: This article is an update on a post we originally posted an article about N’s Garden in 2007. You can read that post – and its associated comments – HERE.
Generally speaking, most on-base homes are approved for occupancy based on military or government rank. If you would like, please provide the range of ranks that your home is approved for? O-1 through O-3 (CGO) and civilian equivalents
What DODDS school district is your home attached to? Is there a schoolbus system available? Elementary-Kadena Elementary School, Middle-Ryukyu Middle School, High School-Kadena High School. There is bus service for the high school but not for elementary or middle school.
Please describe the “feel” of your neighborhood (i.e. pet-friendly, child-friendly, level of safety, friendly neighbors, spacious, etc.) Our neighborhood is very child and pet-friendly. The neighbors are welcoming. We feel very safe here.
Please describe the style of your home (i.e. detached home, duplex, apartment, age of the home, etc.) We are in a duplex.
Please provide general information about your home such as square footage, number of bedrooms and baths, number of stories/levels, special amenities, etc. Our home is two stories and has three bedrooms, one full bath, and one half bath (powder room). The kitchen is very cozy and equipped with a dishwasher and disposal, and the laundry room has a utility sink and room for three large baker’s racks.
What places of services are available near your home such as restaurants, shops, commissary, playgrounds, parks, etc.? We are closest to Gate 3. Kadena Elementary School is in walking distance and has two playgrounds–one for smaller children and a large one for older children in a large open field. We are also in walking distance of the Fairchild Shoppette, Video Rental Store, Burger King and Youth Center.
How is parking provided for your home? We have one assigned parking and park our second car on the curb in front of our house.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.Is there any yard space or outdoor spaces provided for your home? We have a small front, side and back yard. However, both our neighbors have larger amounts of land on all sides. We are directly behind a creek/boonies which limits our yard space but gives us privacy.
What do you feel is special about your home or neighborhood – what makes it feel like “home” here on Okinawa? Our home is on a culdesac surrounded by families with children in the same age range as ours. We’ve lived off base and on base while here in Okinawa. While we enjoyed both, we prefer life on base. We have tweens and a teen who are active in sports and school functions. I like that they are able to be self-sufficient and walk or bike to their activities on their own.
What housing expenses are included with on-base housing (i.e. utilities, rent, appliances, etc.) We do not pay anything to live in base housing. Appliances are provided by the base.
Are you satisfied with the maintenance services provided by your on-base housing organization? There are no fees associated with our home. Housing Maintenance is amazing here. I’ve always had prompt service. I opened a ticket yesterday for a broken window and mirror, and both were replaced by lunch today.
Finally, what advantages and disadvantages do you feel have been your experience living on a military base here on Okinawa? Disadvantages: smaller square footage than the houses we lived in off base, not being to leave after a typhoon until All Clear, having to mow a yard, close to work.
Advantages: rent and utility free, no moving in/out stress/fees from rental agencies, free maintenance (parts and service), close to schools, having a yard to mow, close to work.
Editor’s Note: N’s Garden was originally reviewed on Okinawa Hai on August 27, 2007; you can read a PDF copy of that original review HERE. The post below is an updated take on this restaurant, published November 13, 2014.
When my family visited for the first time, only a few months after we arrived on island, my sister and I drove around exploring. One of the beautiful outcomes was discovering N’s Garden! It’s an interesting, secluded restaurant that has the best croissants ever!
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
We saw red, blue and yellow striped signs along the road and decided to follow them. After taking some turns we went down small, country roads and eventually saw a few signs in Japanese. We trusted it and followed them. At the end, we saw a larger sign right before the driveway of N’s Garden. We made it!
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Google Street View Image
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
When you walk into the restaurant, the wood floors and piano make you feel like you’re at a rather fancy restaurant. Then you see the full wall of glass windows and doors that overlook their garden and it definitely feels welcoming. You can sit indoors or there is a very nice patio that provides a lot of shade and, on the perfect day, the breeze is delightful!
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
You can stroll through the garden while you’re waiting for your meal and enjoy the flowers. I have to admit, when I took the photos not much was blooming. However, I’ve seen it flourishing and looking amazing!
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The food is always good. They offer curry, a nice lunch set that covers all of the bases from seafood to spaghetti, and other sets. I can’t even deny it… I really go for the croissants! They are served warm and are flaky perfection. I always order a regular one with my meal and some chocolate ones to enjoy at home… or on the way home, depending on how tempting the smell is!
There is an English speaking person that can help you make a reservation if you call, or just try walking in. Either way, be sure to check this cafe out and bring me some croissants or enjoy keep them all for yourself. Also, don’t forget to get your stamp card – I know you’ll be back!
Hours: 11:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. daily. Closed on Tuesdays.
Directions: *If you have an iPhone you can enter their phone number into the Maps App with the dashes and it will generate* From Exit 5 of the Expressway, keep straight on 36. You’ll pass a street “cart” on the right and a building on the left with a curved blue metal roof on the left (and a lot of port-a-potties). Just past the next crosswalk, you’ll turn right and see your first N’s Garden sign like the one I posted above. Drive about 160M and you’ll make another right turn (there’s another sign). Wind down a hill and make a left turn at the next sign. This sign is smaller and is in the shape of an arrow. Follow this road for about 82M and make a left where you’ll see the Japanese sign that I posted above. Lastly, turn right at the N’s Garden billboard and follow the driveway up to the parking lot!
Ask around: What does the name Ishigufu mean in the Okinawan language? I can’t seem to find an answer.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.My husband and I stopped at this brightly colored café on our way home from a camping trip near Higashi. This local café prides itself on its tasty local pork and handmade Okinawan pottery. Many places on Okinawa feature a modicum of these two elements of Okinawan culture, but Ishigufu elegantly showcases both handmade dinnerware and free-range pork to the max.
As we walked into the restaurant, it smelled of Okinawan 5-spice, fresh ginger and unstained wood. Inside, the terra cotta stucco created a relaxed dining space, coupled with a French café music album similar to Carla Bruni. Service was prompt, but the waitress did not speak English and there was not an English menu. The picture menu sufficed to order a lunch, and we were pleasantly surprised by what we ordered.
I ordered ten pieces of freshly handmade gyoza featuring the local, free-range pork. A simple yet delicious butter-leaf lettuce salad with a fresh miso-ginger dressing preceded my main course. Steamed rice and green onion soup were served as sides to my succulent gyoza.
My husband ordered a soba set that he claimed was equally delicious, but it could not possibly have been true. My meal was heavenly! And to top it off, our water was served in gorgeous cups made of hand-blown Ryukyu glass. It made for a charming shabby-chic place setting. All of the pottery and glassware was handmade, to include the napkin holders, chopstick holders, and even toothpick containers! The soba bowl stood on a short tripod of clay legs to keep the heat off of the table, acting as a built in hot pad. They even featured clay pottery for sale.
If you find yourself traveling up north, I recommend a quick stop for lunch at this little, mysteriously named café. And while you are at it, pick up a smoked octopus from the local shop across the street. Don’t forget to ask for the special octopus sauce!
Directions: If you are travelling north from Camp Schwab, take 329 to 331. Continue north toward Abu and you will see Café Ishigufu on the right hand side.
There are all types of dining experiences in Okinawa. You have the chain giants like CoCo Ichiban and Joyful which provide great quality and continuity. There are also the fast food standbys like McDonald’s and Hotto Motto which are good in a pinch. If you are feeling adventurous you can even peruse the archives of Okinawa Hai! to find that special café hidden away in a jungle or atop a beautiful mountain vista. Somewhere in between all that is the good old fashioned mom and pop place that all the locals go to get good food for a good price. Just such a place can be found in Kanna Drive Inn Restaurant.
Kanna Drive Inn is a family owned restaurant which is frequented by mostly locals and a few Americans who are “in the know.” Upon entering the establishment, you are greeted and gestured to take any open table of your choice.
After you take a seat, the servers bring glasses and a pitcher of un-sweet tea to you, which is what the local residents usually have with their meal. The tea is good and is on the same level as ice water with lemon.
For Americans there is an English menu which does not have pictures but is easy enough to follow. Most meal sets are priced in the 1100 to 1600 yen range and are quite substantial. Meals are also separated in the menu by Japanese and Western dishes, which also include kids’ meals.
I have to admit that my family and I are regulars at Kanna Drive Inn and have had more than 75 percent of the items on the menu. It is because of this that I took pause in writing this review as it sort of gives up one of our “secret hangout” places. I finally realized that we were being selfish in keeping the place to ourselves and this is why I write about it now.
On the day I finally took my camera to take pictures, I ordered the Japanese set meal with deep fried fish and my wife ordered the house special lunch. My meal came with deliciously battered fish with a side dish of tartar sauce, bowl of sashimi, salad, pickled seaweed, rice, and tofu miso soup.
The house special lunch (popular with many of the blue collar types who were also dining) was much heartier. It came with an advance bowl of creamed mushroom chowder. When the main entrée was served it was presented with a plate of white rice and a main platter which had fried pork cutlet, fried prawn, sunny side up egg, country-style bacon, ham, pineapple, salad, hamburger steak (under the egg), and fried potato wedges.
Needless to say since this was enough food to feed a professional wrestler or lumberjack, I tried my best to help my wife finish her dish. It was all good but I think we actually had to waddle back out to our car when all was said and done. Considering we had all that food for just over two thousand yen was a heck of a bargain.
There is a takeout window which I have seen locals use, which lends to the name “Drive Inn.” Unless you are proficient in reading and speaking Japanese, I recommend you just dine in.
Directions: From the Okinawa Expressway 8 exit travel north on Highway 329 past Camp Hansen. Once past Camp Hansen the road curves left and you will see Ginoza Flea and Farmers Market on your left with a beautiful view of the ocean on your right. Kanna Drive Inn Restaurant is the large pink/orange building adjacent to the flea market lot, with the Kijimunaa (Okinawan Elf/Leprechaun) standing outside. (Note: Kanna Dam Park is also nearby and might make a nice stop before or after your visit to the Drive Inn).
Sadly, my time in Okinawa is over for now. I left Okinawa like many do – on the rotator. As we walked across the tarmac to the waiting plane, a quick rainstorm planted a rainbow over the East China Sea and I cried as I watched the island I called home for three years disappear out my window. We needed to promise ourselves that we would some day come back home to Okinawa. Promising to return someday seemed to be the only way we could walk away.
This week I returned briefly. Not by rotator or any other plane, but by book. I was sitting in my present house in Germany, but I was brought back home to Okinawa – steamy Obon nights, salty seas filled with coral and sea turtles, womb or turtle-shaped tombs of ancestors and conflicting feelings about America’s role on this tiny island.
Sarah Bird has written about Okinawa before in her book Yokota Officers Club. Sarah was a military brat who grew up like many military children before and after her – American kids with nomadic lives across continents. She writes with the voice that I think can only truly come as one who has lived that life. But somehow, with constant moves Okinawa must have stuck with her a little more than some of the other places.
Bird’s story intertwines two main characters: Luz who is a modern-day American teenaged military brat and Tamiko, an Okinwan girl joining the Lily girls during the days of the WWII Battle of Okinawa. While these two at first have little more in common than gender and location, the book ties them more and more closely together right up until the last chapter.
Luz is struggling with many things: A fractured relationship with her single-parent, active duty mom; The loss of her sister who is also her best friend; The daunting task of moving to a new base yet again; And finding her place in a culture that she is biologically a part of (Her mother is half Okinawan.) but has no knowledge of. All of these things have her wondering if there is a reason to keep on living.
Tamiko’s struggles are also revealed. From the start we know that she has made the choice not to keep on living, that she was one of many who took their last step off of the suicide cliffs. Her beautiful home is being used like a disposable shield, ripping apart her family and all that she has been brought up to believe in.
The setting drives the story as much as the heroines: Okinawa. Bird describes it so accurately and with so many of the details those of us who have had the privilege of living in Okinawa have imprinted on our memory. All kinds of things from the coral dust that infects our scrapes, the A&W’s that can be found in such a strange abundance, the unique spiritualism of Okinawa, the differences between mainland Japan and this formerly separate nation. It’s all there.
“I see the colors of paradise. The pink of the baby piglets. The gold of the trunks of our bamboo grove. The purple of my mother’s sweet potatoes. The yellow of the flowers on the sea hibiscus hedge that lined the path leading to our house. The red of the blossoms on the deigo tree, blazing as though the side of the mountain were on fire. The colors sparkle against a background of infinite green. Leaf, vine, grass. Above and below are blue. The ocean is the blue of jewels. The sky is the blue of softness.” (pages 3-4)
But Bird doesn’t soften the reality of Okinawa’s history. Tamiko’s eyes see the glory of Shuri castle turned into rubble. The Okinawan people believed that Japan and the god-like emperor would save them from the bloodthirsty, savage Americans. After the battle, they were left wondering who the true enemy was. Neither their imperialistic rulers nor the allied forces were blame-free. Luz’s eyes see the sharp lines between the worlds inside and outside the base gates. Her friend champions the Okinawan view that burden of the US military bases was not distributed fairly. The book, though fictional, opens eyes to harsh reality of how WWII has scared the island.
The fourth force Above the East China Sea is the belief system of the Okinawan people. The traditional Ryukyuan ancestor respect and the relationships between the living and the dead affect all the main characters. Bird portrays the kami spirits of the ancestors, the Obon festival welcoming back the spirits from the ocean, the noro priestesses, and yuta with well-researched respect.
I enjoyed taking this literary trip back to Okinawa, but I’m suspicious that it stoked instead of satiated my wish to physically return to this special place. My advice to those of you that are there now (besides reading this book) is to soak up every opportunity you have while you are on Okinawa. Someday you won’t be there anymore and I promise you will miss it!
In the town of Kin there is a natural spring that bubbles and pours forth from the confines of a shrine-like structure where children are found often at play in its gentle waters and the surrounding park area.
The park—Kin Okawa Spring—is a favorite attraction amongst the residents of Kin who frequent its grounds for bocce ball and croquet; catching tadpoles with nets and buckets; and frolicking in water fountains near a charming jungle gym and slide.
Though the park is not quite as large as others found on island, Kin Okawa Spring offers visitors a respite from the crowds that so often plague the better known parks down south under the shade of mature trees and the gurgle of spring water diverted throughout several manmade water features in the area.
And here is a tip—if you are extremely patient, you may be lucky enough to catch sight of an eel that darts in and out of the rocks of the spring’s terracotta framed structure. Apart from being sensitive to movement (Watch your shadow!) and sound, the eel seems to prefer making its appearance in the evenings more so than during the day. But even if you are not able to catch a glimpse of the eel, there are a few crabs and freshwater shrimp that are always present at the bottom of the spring’s pool.
Hours: None posted but activity in this area tends to die down around 7:00 p.m.
Admission: Free (Bring ¥ for Dydo machine drinks that may be purchased across the street from the parking lot.).
Location: Kin, Kin-Cho
Directions: Take the Okinawa Expressway North (towards Nago) to the 8 toll road exit. Turn left onto Route 329 and pass Camp Hansen’s Gate 1. You will eventually see a large Family Mart billboard placed prominently atop a building with a blue painted roof on the right hand side of the road. Make a right onto the corner where this building is located. The road here is painted green (a tell-tale sign you are on the right track) and extremely steep. As you follow the road down to the bottom where the park and spring are, note that it is very much in a residential area where the street curves in places and children are often at play. So please watch your speed! There is a parking lot off to the right of the road just past the spring.
Address: 564-1 Kin, Kin, Kunigami District, Okinawa, Japan
Without a doubt, Okinawa has a wide array of restaurants to choose from. A diligent individual could have his or her choice of what to eat and how much to spend on any given night.
But what if you happen to have a few rugrats running around and are on a tight budget? A weekend out isn’t always a possibility. Until now.
Living along the seawall, it was awesome to watch people go about their way doing their own special things. Fishing, jogging, or just enjoying the view. Then one evening, as we were walking along the seawall, we noticed a group of friends sitting in a circle with a lamp, some coolers, a picnic blanket and food! It seemed like a very enjoyable evening. AND CHEAP!
So we gave it a try. We put together some of our favorite finger foods (chicken wings, sandwiches, celery and carrot sticks) so we wouldn’t be too messy, brought a lamp and a cooler of drinks and a portable speaker. We headed to a nice spot under a pavilion around 5:30 p.m. (sunset was slated to be at 6:00 p.m.) and we sat down on one of the three table/seats available and enjoyed the sunset. Then we dug into the grub.
Without a doubt it was one of our most fun activities as a family. We were able to sit along the seawall and watch the waves; the breeze was awesome and the fresh air was invigorating. The best part was that the children were able to run around the sea deck and were always within sight. Bonuses? No reservations, no closing hours and NO ELECTRONICS!
Directions: From Kadena Gate 1, drive south on 58 and after passing the 23 on your left, take a right at the first stop light. You should pass the Hamagawa Lodge and a SanA on your right as you drive straight to the seawall. Take a right and drive along the seawall until you find a pavilion of your choice. If you’re lucky you can find one with a public restroom next to it and parking away from the seawall so you won’t have to leave at 10:00 p.m. before they close the side parking.
Address (Approximate): 1-722 Miyagi, Chatan, Nakagami District, Okinawa, Japan
Tips: Prepare to leave by 10:00 p.m., because they close the parking along the wall (you can park along the inside roads if you find space and stay longer); bring hand wipes since there may not be a faucet nearby; check for good weather the night before and the day of the event; bring a jacket in case the breeze gets too cool for you; bring a trash bag to CLEAN UP after yourself please.
Early in 2014, a few of the bases on Okinawa changed their telephone policies, preventing people direct dialing from Japanese commercial phones to on-base DSN lines. Here is an updated list of instructions to call each military base on Okinawa. I’ve also included important military emergency numbers for quick reference.
To call a DSN from Off-Base
Substitute the following DSN numbers to direct dial from off-base including cell phones.
DSN 622-xxxx, dial 098-954-xxxx
DSN 622-xxxx, dial 098-954-xxxx
DSN 623-xxxx, dial 098-969-xxxx
DSN 632-xxxx, dial 098-962-xxxx
DSN 633-xxxx, dial 098-959-xxxx
DSN 634-xxxx, dial 098-961-xxxx
DSN 645-xxxx, dial 098-970-xxxx
DSN 646-xxxx, dial 098-971-xxxx
For those numbers without direct dial access, please use the operator numbers below.
Kadena Air Base
Operator at 098-961-1110
Or dial 098-631-1111 / 098-938-1111. Wait for second dial tone, dial 7-digit DSN number.
Camp Kinser, MCAS Futenma, Camp Lester, Camp Henoko, Camp Schwab, Camp Gonzalvez, Fort Buckner, White Beach, Torii Station, Camp Courtney, Camp Foster, Camp Lester, Camp Hansen,Camp McToreous, and Chibana
Operator 098-911-5111. Wait for second dial tone, dial 7-digit DSN number.
Camp Shields
Operator 098-938-1111
** From the U.S. to any base on Okinawa, dial 011-81-6117, then the last seven digits of the phone number.
** To call off-base from on-base, dial the access code 99, then the telephone number of the party you wish to call.
Melissa runs her shop out of her house (yes, the shop is separate). If she hasn’t opened the shop gate in the front, you’ll likely drive around trying to find it because there is not an outside sign. She is awaiting her new sign, so hopefully by the time this gets published the new sign will be up! (Editor’s Note: If you have a photo of the outside with the sign, please send it to submissions@okinawahai.com.)
