Prepare for a Typhoon early! Okinawa Typhoon season officially starts June 1 and ends November 30 of each year. They can also come early or later than this season, but primarily come during this typhoon season when the water and weather is warmer. It helps to be...
So, you’re moving to another country where you don’t know the language, they drive on the wrong side of the road, there is a “not one drop” alcohol policy when it comes to drinking and driving, spiders the size of your head, and housing on base is full. You know...
The Patriot Express is the military flight that takes service members and families to and from their overseas duty stations. Packing for the Patriot Express Flight is crucial, as it is a very long flight with minimal amenities. These are regular airlines, but usually...
One of the first things that runs through your mind when you get orders to Okinawa is, "Ok, so what do we need to do first?" Don't worry; we have you covered. Here is a list of OCONUS paperwork for Okinawa you need to do first. There are certain things you will need...
The long flight on the Patriot Express is behind you and you finally have your feet planted firmly in Okinawa. You are probably anxious to get off the plane and get settled in your home or lodging for some much needed rest. Since you're on the Patriot Express, you...
Learning how to buy a car in Okinawa and navigate the island’s vibrant market can be intimidating for newbies. With unique shapes and colors unlike anything in the states, Okinawa offers a diverse array of options tailored to meet your needs – whether you’re seeking...
What Okinawa Facebook groups should you know while your stationed here? Okinawa runs on Facebook! Each base will have a different page for its residents. Each facility will have a different Facebook page for its facilities and each housing area will have its own as...
We all know the "official" things you need to do before you get to Okinawa: the no-fee passports, overseas screening, apply for housing, etc (and if you don't, read this). But we have come up with a list of things you should do before you PCS to Okinawa to make things...
When moving to Okinawa for the first time, whether you're an active-duty military member or a family member accompanying them, the transition can feel overwhelming. One of the most valuable resources at your disposal is your command sponsor. Your sponsor is there to...
Internet is a huge part of life, and being connected to family and friends back home is something we all think about before we even arrive in Okinawa. Luckily, getting connected to friends and family with MBC is very simple. In fact, you could have Internet before you...
It doesn't matter if you're just checking in or halfway through your time in Okinawa—you'll want to stay on top of your house maintenance during your stay. Eagle Hardware is a self-help shop available to all on-base residents to ensure you're covered for all your...
Moving is stressful, add in a move to a foreign country, and stress levels go through the roof. One thing you may begin to stress about is what you’ll be able to purchase and what things to buy before moving to Okinawa. In this article, we will cover some suggestions...
Navigating Okinawa’s narrow roads and discovering its hidden gems is not just a privilege but a necessity, which is why your SOFA drivers license is so important. Enter the realm of SOFA (Status of Forces Agreement) – a crucial document granting military personnel and...
The list of things to do when arriving in or leaving Okinawa can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s your first or fifth move, it can be undeniably stressful—especially when you’re trying to navigate daily life while waiting for your household goods to arrive. The Lending...
The age of the mall is not dead here in Okinawa—in fact, quite the opposite. Malls are thriving here and are nothing short of amazing. From all the food options you could imagine, high-end retailers, 100-yen shops, kid play areas, and aquariums, a place like AEON...
The answer to what should be in your OCONUS PCS binder is going to vary from family to family, so I'm going to share what is essential in an OCONUS PCS binder. Keep in mind that this could vary widely based on the different needs and ages of those in your family. The...
The Kadena Gift Corner (KGC) is a lovely Okinawa gift shop boutique located on Kadena Air Base. It is a non-profit organization governed by the Kadena Officers’ Spouses’ Club (KOSC). The primary mission of the Kadena Gift Corner is to raise funds for the KOSC’s...
There are no shortages of parks and playgrounds in Okinawa. The summers are hot, so morning and late evening trips are the key to enjoying your time to the fullest. The weather during the rest of the year is mild, even during the rainy season! Be sure to bring some...
Embarking on a food tour with Food Monsters at Home offers a unique opportunity to delve into Okinawa’s rich culinary scene. Food tours by Food Monsters at Home was founded by local Okinawan Chef Hirofumi Ozawa. He has worked as a chef in Tokyo, New Zealand,...
Transit Café, located in Sunabe, Okinawa, offers patrons a relaxed atmosphere that allows you to truly enjoy the beauty and hospitality of Okinawa. It is located directly across the street from the sea wall, with incredible views of the sparkling turquoise water. The...
Have you received PCS orders to Okinawa, Japan? If so, congrats! Japan has so many wonderful experiences to offer for all, including furry family members! After the initial excitement wears off, the task of getting your household in order can feel daunting, especially...
It is no secret that Japan is one of the world's culinary powerhouses. While there are so many foods to try, Okinawan sushi is a must! The best sushi restaurants in Okinawa are scattered all throughout the island and sushi is sold at a large number of places. In...
For military families moving to Okinawa, Japan, the prospect of finding the right school for their children can be both exciting and daunting. Elementary schools on base in Okinawa follow a 21st-century style of education where students are placed in "studios" with 2...
One of the first things that runs through your mind when you get orders to Okinawa is, "Ok, so what do we need to do first?" Don't worry; we have you covered. Here is a list of OCONUS paperwork you need to do first. There are certain things you will need for this PCS...
PCS Okinawa is here to help guide you through the process of getting yourself and your family to Okinawa, as well as to provide you resources, activities, and current events of things going on all around the island during your tour here.
PCS Okinawa is run by military spouses of all branches, so that we can provide a comprehensive guide for unaccompained, UDP, and incoming families and help make the transition to and stay in Okinawa even better.
DOWNLOAD OUR FREE 57-page PCS GUIDE TODAY!