Located far southwest of mainland Japan, Okinawa Prefecture is made up of 160 islands of various sizes. Blessed with a unique culture and a lush natural environment, Okinawa attracts many visitors from both Japan and abroad who seek a resort destination.

History

The Kingdom of the Ryukyu was founded in 1429 and reached its zenith under the Sho Dynasty. Between the fourteenth and sixteenth centuries, the Kingdom actively traded with Japan, China, and the countries of Southeast Asia, creating a uniquely Okinawan cultural sphere. In 1879, the Japanese government annexed the islands as Okinawa Prefecture, signaling the demise of the 450-year-old Kingdom. After World War II, Okinawa was occupied by the United States. It was returned to Japan in 1972.

Sightseeing and Activities

The main island of Okinawa is dotted with historical sites that provide insights into the traditional culture of the region. While access is possible by public bus, it is easier to get around by car. Away from the main island, the smaller islands offer visitors the chance to spend time in glorious natural surroundings.

Shuri Castle

A World Heritage site located on a 120 meter hill overlooking the port of Naha. It is not known exactly when Shuri was built. As the residence of the king, it was the scene of political dramas as well as rituals and festivals throughout the history of the Kingdom and now it serves as a history and culture museum.

(Photo: The main pavilion of Shuri Castle)

Marine Sports in Okinawa

Okinawa is the only part of Japan with a subtropical oceanic climate; it enjoys a year-round average temperature of around 23 degrees Celsius. Some of the world's finest, Okinawa's beautiful coral reefs are set in shimmering emerald green waters. Visitors to the islands enjoy a wide range of marine sports, including diving, boating, surfing and sea kayaking.

(Photo: Okinawan seas: a home for marine sports)

Specialties of Okinawa

People in Okinawa have the longest average life span in Japan, probably in part because of the native diet. Ingredients such as goya (bitter melon), full of vitamin C, and mineral-rich brown sugar are essential elements of Okinawan cooking. Okinawans also cook and eat every part of the pig, from head to tail. Dishes such as soki soba, noodles topped with pork, and goya champuru are unique to the islands. Okinawa retains a culture born of its unique natural features and history. Examples include brightly-colored bingata textiles, the sanshin, a stringed instrument, and shisa lion ornaments used to ward off bad luck.

(Photo: Goya champuru, bitter melon saute with pork and egg)

Access Information

By air, Naha is 2.5 hours from Tokyo and 2 hours from Osaka. Flights also arrive from other Japanese cities, Hong Kong, Seoul, Taipei, and other overseas locations.

Websites with More Information:

Okinawa Prefecture Web site
JNTO's Information on Okinawa

(Photo Credits: Sekai Bunka Photo)