How can I transport my bike? Use our delivery and temporary storage services to enjoy sightseeing hands-free!

Okinawa is a popular destination for cycling, offering coastal routes where you can ride while gazing at the blue sea and sky, as well as spots where you can enjoy the island’s laid-back scenery. Riding while feeling the sea breeze is a special experience unique to Okinawa.

I’m sure many of you are thinking, “Since I’m here, I’d love to ride my road bike or my favorite car around Okinawa.”

Since most people fly when traveling to Okinawa, one common concern is how to transport a bicycle.
In addition to “bike packing”—where you disassemble your bike to transport it on a plane—you can also use delivery services to ship your luggage from the airport to your accommodation, or take advantage of temporary storage services. This allows you to enjoy sightseeing with a light load while still getting the most out of your cycling experience.

This article is designed for those who want to enjoy cycling in Okinawa, and it covers how to transport your bike as well as convenient services available at Naha Airport. We hope you’ll find this information useful as you plan your cycling trip to explore Okinawa’s scenery on your own bike.

The main ways to bring a bicycle to Okinawa

If you’re planning to go cycling in Okinawa, there are several ways to rent a bike. We recommend choosing the option that best suits your travel style and cycling goals.

① Transporting a bicycle on a plane

This method involves disassembling your bicycle, packing it into a specialized bike bag, and carrying it as carry-on luggage on a flight.
This is arguably the most common method for cyclists who want to ride their own road bikes or favorite bikes.

Once you get used to it, it’s easy to transport, so you can enjoy cycling in Okinawa on the same bike you use every day.

② Have it delivered to your accommodation

Here’s how to ship your bicycle from your home to your accommodation.
If you ship it in advance, you won’t have to lug heavy luggage around the airport, making your trip much easier.
*Please contact the respective shipping companies for details on shipping from your home.

Once you arrive at Naha Airport, if you have your luggage—such as your bike bag—sent directly to your hotel, you can start sightseeing or traveling immediately upon arrival.
Please check the details of the "Travel Light" service below.

About the "Travel Light" service↓

It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer to enjoy sightseeing first and then pick up their bicycles at the hotel.

③ Bicycle Rental while there

There are also bike shops in Okinawa where you can rent road bikes, e-bikes, and other types of bicycles.
Since you don’t need to bring your own bike, this is a convenient option for those who want to enjoy a casual ride.

How to Transport a Bicycle by Plane

"Rinkō" refers to the practice of disassembling a bicycle, packing it into a bag or case, and transporting it via public transportation such as airplanes or trains. Many cyclists who want to ride their own bikes in Okinawa use this method.

When traveling by plane, bicycles must be checked as baggage.
Remove the front wheel (or both wheels) to make the bike more compact, pack it into a bike bag or case, and check it in at the counter.

Here are some ways to store bicycles.

• Bike Travel Bag: The Most Common Method
• Cardboard boxes: How to have them packed at a bike shop
• Hard Case: A case designed for air transport that provides excellent protection against impacts

It is important to secure and protect the parts to prevent the frame and other components from getting damaged during transport.

It’s also a good idea to pack the following items when traveling with your bike on a plane.

End fitting

A part used to secure the ends of the frame when the wheels are removed.
It prevents the frame from warping during transport.

Derailleur-side end cap

End caps designed to protect the rear derailleur.
They prevent damage by securing the derailleur in a tucked-in position.

Sprocket cover

A cover that protects the rear sprocket.
It protects the frame and bike bag from scratches and dirt.

Additionally, since changes in air pressure during air travel can cause tires to burst, be sure to deflate them beforehand.
Since carry-on baggage regulations may vary slightly by airline, it’s a good idea to check the rules of the airline you’re flying with in advance.

Airline Rules for Bringing Bicycles on Board

When transporting a bicycle by plane, you will generally need to check it as checked baggage.
Many airlines allow bicycles to be checked as sports equipment, provided they are packed in a bike bag or similar container.

However, since size and weight restrictions, as well as fee policies, vary by airline, it’s best to check in advance.

Examples of major domestic airlines include the following.

Some airlines may have size or weight restrictions (e.g., total of three dimensions or 20 kg).
Additionally, with low-cost carriers (LCCs), these items may be classified as sports equipment, which may incur an additional fee.

For peace of mind, be sure to check the latest rules on each airline’s official website when making your reservation or before departure.

Hands-Free Sightseeing Service

[1st Floor Arrivals Lobby] Okinawa Yamato Transport

[1st Floor Arrivals Lobby] Sagawa Express

[Near Security Checkpoint C on the 2nd Floor] Okinawa Yamato Transport

Reference: Naha Airport Passenger Terminal Building Website / Hands-Free Sightseeing

At Naha Airport, you can use the "Hands-Free Sightseeing Service," which allows you to check your luggage at the airport or have it delivered to your accommodation. By leaving your luggage—such as suitcases or bike transport bags—at the airport, you can enjoy sightseeing and getting around with ease after your arrival.

Hand-Free Sightseeing Service Reception Counter

Since the location and operating hours of airport counters vary by service, it’s a good idea to check them before you go.

Even when traveling by bike, sending your luggage—such as your bike bag and a change of clothes—to your hotel or checking it in at the airport can make your travels go more smoothly, allowing you to enjoy sightseeing and cycling more comfortably.

Convenient luggage storage for hands-free sightseeing

You can temporarily check your luggage at the counter inside Naha Airport. This service is convenient if you want to store your luggage while sightseeing or traveling.

Naha Airport Temporary Luggage Storage Fees

*The temporary storage fee is calculated as "daily rate × number of days."
*Size refers to the total length of the three dimensions (length, width, and height).

This service is also convenient when you have bulky items to carry, such as bike bags or cycling gear.

Luggage delivery service from the airport to the hotel

You can also use a service that delivers your luggage from Naha Airport to your accommodation. If you send your luggage—such as suitcases or bike bags—to your hotel in advance, you can start sightseeing or traveling immediately upon arrival at the airport.

Airport → Accommodation Delivery Fee

Enjoy cycling in Okinawa by using our transportation services

There are various ways to enjoy cycling in Okinawa, including not only transporting your bike on a flight but also using delivery services or airport luggage storage.

If you plan to bring your bicycle on a flight, it’s important to check the airline’s rules in advance. Additionally, at Naha Airport, you can use the temporary luggage storage or hotel delivery services, allowing you to enjoy sightseeing and getting around without having to carry your bike bag or suitcase.

Okinawa offers a wide variety of attractive cycling routes, including scenic coastal paths and cycling tours of the outlying islands. Make the most of transportation options and "hands-free" tourism services to enjoy a cycling trip that’s uniquely Okinawan.