Nestled in the heart of Naha, Okinawa, e-CHARIty is transforming the way visitors experience this beautiful island through eco-friendly e-bike rentals and engaging local guided tours. Founded in 2008 in Kobe and Yokohama as a shop selling reused e-bikes, e-CHARIty expanded to Okinawa in 2023. Today, it offers a blend of e-bike rental services and guided tours, helping tourists connect with Okinawa’s rich history and vibrant culture.
I had the chance to speak with Maki Paterson, a key team member at e-CHARIty in Naha, to learn more about the story behind e-CHARIty.
History of e-CHARIty in Okinawa
e-CHARIty’s owner, Hiroaki Inubuse, first arrived in Naha in 2022 with an intention of selling used e-bikes, similar to the stores in Kobe and Yokohama. However, he quickly discovered that cycling wasn’t as popular in Okinawa. As the COVID-19 pandemic waned and tourists began returning, Hiroaki saw an opportunity to start an e-bike rental service. Maki, who was then working at a different bicycle rental shop, partnered with him to create e-CHARIty’s rental and guided tour offerings in 2023. In just 1.5 years, the service has attracted a diverse range of international tourists, particularly from Europe, America, and Australia.
Discovering the Hidden Gems of Okinawa
Maki highlights the morning cycling tour in Shuri as their most popular offering. The tour takes participants to Shuri Castle, the historic royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom, which stood for over 400 years. However, the true essence of the tour lies in exploring local neighborhoods and natural sites, where participants can immerse themselves in Okinawa’s culture and history.
A highlight of the tour includes a visit to a local sweet shop that has been operating for over a century, run by an owner who once served as the chef for the Ryukyu royal families. Her warm welcome and energetic spirit always leave a lasting impression on participants. The tour also features breathtaking waterfalls and hidden spots that are not found on guidebooks and known only to locals.
Learning about Okinawa’s Culture and History through Tours
Participants on e-CHARIty tours gain valuable insights into Okinawa’s culture, including its nature worship traditions. Maki emphasizes the importance of discussing Okinawa's history, including its wartime experiences, as long as participants feel comfortable. "While these topics may not be easy to talk about, I believe it’s crucial to convey these messages to promote world peace," she explains. The tours also touch on Okinawa’s reputation for longevity and its recognition as a blue zone, along with insights about its distinctive plants and natural surroundings along the route.
Feedback from Participants
Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the knowledgeable tour guides and the friendliness of the staff. "We start off as tour guides and customers, but by the end of the tour, we all become friends," Maki shares. Tourists particularly appreciate the welcoming atmosphere that e-CHARIty provides.
Looking Ahead
As e-CHARIty continues to grow, Maki reveals plans to expand its services to Kyoto and Tokyo. The team is currently developing new tour routes and training tour guides, with excitement about bringing their unique offerings to new locations.
Booking Your Adventure
Interested travelers can easily book e-CHARIty tours through their website, which links to TripAdvisor booking pages, or they can reach out via direct messages on Instagram or Facebook.
e-CHARIty tours not only provide a unique and authentic experience led by local guides but also ensure that their operations are eco-friendly. With Okinawa's rich tapestry of Japanese, Chinese, and Southeast Asian influences, there is so much to learn and cherish, making these tours a perfect way to create lasting memories and stories to share with friends and family back home.
