"A short drive to the South of Naha City on Okinawa's main island brings you to O-jima.
This tiny island might not seem like it has much to offer, but in fact it's brimming with nature, culture and most importantly delicious Okinawan tempura!
On summer days Naha City becomes a hot and sweaty jungle of concrete.
In the midday heat it can seem inescapable! But don't worry!
The perfect respite lies just 15 kilometers from Naha.
A short drive past mango farms, sugar cane fields and ancient shisa (guardian lions) will take you to one of the most scenic parts of the island.
Nestled beneath the hills of Tamagusuku on the south coast of Okinawa, O-jima Island is a hidden gem!
O-jima's merits are numerous.
The calm and sandy waters next to the island's bridge provide a safe place to cool off from the heat.
This is a popular spot during the summer holidays and many local children can be seen enjoying themselves in the water.
When the tide is high, they even jump off the seawall
O-jima Island is a very small island and you can easily take a leisurely stroll around the perimeter in less than 40 minutes.
Turning left after the bridge will take you to the fishing port and the island's market.
Continue along the small roads on the edge of the island and you will soon come to the south coast.
There is nothing better than a fresh sea breeze to cool you off while you gaze out at the beauty of Okinawa's emerald ocean.
At low-tide you can also walk next to the water beneath the seawall.
Now that you've worked up an appetite simple follow the road around to the right and continue until you come across Oshiro Tempura Shop (お城てんぷら店).
Located next to the ocean, and shaded from the sun by large trees there couldn't be a better place to eat some of Okinawa's best tempura.
Oshiro Tempura Shop has a wide selection of battered and fried vegetables and seafood all for just 60 yen apiece.
Sakana (fish) yasai (vegetable) and ika (squid) tempura are the most popular varieties, but I always like to try some of the local specialties.
Imo (sweet potato) is a crowd favorite, while mozuku and ahsah (both kinds of Okinawan seaweed) are renowned for their health benefits.
Ahsah (both kinds of Okinawan seaweed）
If you're still feeling hot you could treat yourself to some Okinawan desserts!
Kakikouri (shaved ice)
Zenzai is one of the most popular options and is made from a bed of delicious red adzuki beans, shaved ice and the option of condensed milk for added sweetness.
If you're not so keen on the beans, kakikouri (shaved ice) is a safe bet to beat the heat!
Once you've had your fill of delicious Okinawan treats it's only a short 5-minute walk back to the bridge.
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