Distance Between Memphis, Tennessee and Okinawa, Japan: Why It's Not a Simple Drive

Memphis (Tennessee, USA) and Okinawa (Japan) are separated by the Pacific Ocean — no road connects them. The question of driving distance is nonsensical.

Great-Circle Distance

Straight-line (air) distance: ~8,062 miles (12,975 km).

Travel Reality

• Flight: Memphis (MEM) → Tokyo (NRT/HND) ~13–15 hrs (1 stop); Tokyo → Okinawa (OKA) ~2.5 hrs. Total ~16–18 hrs.
• Time zones: Memphis (CT, UTC−6/−5); Okinawa (JST, UTC+9) — 14–15 hour difference.
• No ferry/cargo ship for passengers on this route.

Why the Confusion?

Perhaps confusion with Okinawa, Bolivia (a small town) or Memphis, Egypt (ancient capital). But the well-known Memphis and Okinawa are an ocean apart.