One of my favorite things about Okinawa is the adorable and delicious café’s. I can and have spent an entire day just café hopping and taking in the sights along the way. There are a few things to know before you head out on your café adventure.
- Most cafes, especially those up north, do not take cards so ensure you have enough yen to pay for your meal.
- There are a lot of Japanese holidays and many cafés will close for these holidays. You may not know if a café is closed until you arrive, so be flexible (and if you’re like me, carry a snack!).
- Café’s that are used to having foreigners dine with them may have English on the menu, but don’t expect it. Before you head out, download Google Translate so that you don’t have to completely guess at what you’re ordering, unless you like your meal to be a surprise.
- In general, tipping is not customary in Japan. If there is a tip jar at the register, you can choose to add something, but it is not required or expected.
- Parking is usually pretty limited as many cafes are located in neighborhoods, and sometimes even in converted houses. Don’t be alarmed if a café employee asks for your keys so they can move your car for you, or if they pull out a map and show you a better place to park.
Want to learn more? Check out part two of Okinawa Cafés: Know Before You Go.
