Introduction to Okinawa Prefecture
Beautiful beaches, crystal clear blue waters, and abundant nature make this place one of the most attractive destinations even for Japanese.
Okinawa is also known for its unique culture and history, and the traditions handed down from the days of the Ryukyu Kingdom are still alive today. Shurijo Castle, in particular, is a historical landmark that attracts visitors, and traditional performing arts such as Ryukyuan dance and sanshin (Okinawan guitar) performances can also be enjoyed.
Also not to be missed is the gastronomic offerings of Okinawa. Fresh shikwasa, bitter melon, and other island specialties are a great way to experience the local culinary culture. Local delicacies such as Okinawa soba and taco rice are also highly recommended.
In addition, Okinawa is a paradise for diving and snorkeling. Colorful coral reefs and a wide variety of marine life await you underwater. You can also experience an adventurous activity called the Blue Cave, which is a fun way to explore the caves.
Access to Okinawa is also convenient, with direct flights from Naha Airport to many domestic and international destinations.
Geographic location
Located in the Ryukyu Islands, it features a mild climate and beautiful beaches.
History
From the end of the 19th century through the 20th century, Okinawa experienced a turbulent history.
Abolition of the Ryukyu Kingdom
In 1879, the Ryukyu Kingdom was abolished and Okinawa Prefecture was established. Thereafter, the policy of assimilation into mainland Japan was pursued, but the Okinawan people strove to preserve their unique culture and identity.
Pacific War (1941-1945)
In the mid-20th century, Okinawa was the scene of the Pacific War and a fierce ground battle known as the Battle of Okinawa. After the war, Okinawa, which suffered many casualties, remained under U.S. military rule, and the road to recovery was a difficult one.
In 1972, Okinawa finally returned to Japan. However, it still faces various issues such as base problems and economic disparities.
Modern Okinawa
In recent years, there has been a growing movement to rediscover Okinawa’s history and culture and to seek new paths for the future. Young people in Okinawa are transmitting their own unique culture, incorporating modern expressions while carrying on the traditional performing arts.
Okinawa’s history is not only a story of hardship and sorrow, but also one of hope and recovery. By learning about Okinawa’s history, foreign visitors to Japan will gain a deeper understanding of contemporary Okinawan society and enjoy a more fulfilling trip.
Culture
Okinawa, which developed as a unique kingdom called the Ryukyu Kingdom, has nurtured an inspiring culture of sea and history.
Sophisticated culture born of the Ryukyu Dynasty
The Ryukyu Dynasty developed its own culture through trade with China and Southeast Asia. Representative examples are Bingata, known for its gorgeous costumes and delicate patterns, and Ryukyu lacquerware influenced by China. Ryukyuan dance with its unique melody and dance, and Ryukyuan folk songs told to the tune of a stringed instrument called sanshin are also symbolic of the culture of the Ryukyu Dynasty.
People’s Lives with the Sea
Surrounded by the sea, the people of Okinawa have long led a lifestyle based on fishing and trade. Reflecting this lifestyle, traditional dwellings with red-tile roofs and sabani, which were widely used as fishing boats, are an integral part of the Okinawan landscape. The unique food culture, including goya chanpuru (bitter melon stir-fry) and soki soba (buckwheat noodles), which are made from marine products, is also an attraction that allows visitors to fully enjoy the bounty of Okinawa’s sea.
Stories Spun by Traditional Performing Arts
Okinawa is home to a variety of traditional performing arts, such as the Bon dance called eisa, lion dances, and stick dances. These performing arts are not mere dances or music, but express history, myths, and people’s wishes. Eisa, in particular, is known as an Okinawa’s unique performing art that offers offerings to the war dead and prayers for peace.
Thus, the culture of Okinawa is full of profound charm, woven by the sea, its history, and the lives of its people.
Tourist attraction
Okinawa is dotted with beautiful sightseeing spots, some of which are introduced below.
Shurijo Castle Park
Shuri Castle, once the royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom, is a symbol of Okinawa’s history and culture, and Shuri Castle Park, restored in 2010, is a World Heritage site and an essential part of Okinawa tourism.
Naha Kokusaidori Street
Located in the center of Naha City, Kokusai Street is Okinawa’s largest downtown area. Lined with Okinawan cuisine and souvenir stores, you can enjoy a lively atmosphere. There are also many lodging facilities, making it convenient for drinking and eating out. Whenever I visit Okinawa, I always stay at least one night in the Kokusai-dori area.
Churaumi Aquarium
Churaumi Aquarium, located in the northern part of Okinawa’s main island, is a large aquarium where visitors can observe whale sharks, manta rays, and other marine creatures of Okinawa up close.
Cape Manzamo
Cape Manzamo, located in the northern part of the main island of Okinawa, is a strange rock formation with the tip of a precipitous cliff jutting out. The majestic scenery allows visitors to fully appreciate the natural beauty of Okinawa.
Cape Manzamo (Japanese only)
Seifa-Utaki
Saiba Utaki, located in the southern part of Okinawa’s main island, has been a sacred site since the days of the Ryukyu Dynasty. The mystical atmosphere, at one with nature, makes it a precious place to experience the spiritual culture of Okinawa.
Himeyuri Peace Museum
Himeyuri Peace Museum, where many victims of the Battle of Okinawa were killed, is a peace memorial facility that conveys the tragedy of war. It is a place where visitors can learn about the history of war and recognize the importance of peace. Although the Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima is well known to foreigners, the war that took place in Okinawa is another history that should be learned.
Kouri Island
Kouri Island, located in the northern part of Okinawa’s main island, is a remote island with beautiful ocean and white sand beaches. It is recommended for those who want to enjoy the typical Okinawan scenery. The view of the ocean from the Kouri Bridge is spectacular. Not far from the Kouri Bridge is the Kouri Ocean Tower, where you can see the entire Kouri Island from the observation deck. There are also many cafes where you can enjoy a stylish and elegant time.
Remote Islands of Okinawa
In addition to the main island, Okinawa has many remote islands, some of which are highly touristy, and many of which are local islands rich in nature and seldom visited by tourists.
The following islands are recommended among them.
Ishigaki Island
It is the second most popular tourist destination after the main island of Okinawa. Many people come here for snorkeling and diving.
Ishigaki Island Tourist Association
Taketomi Island
It is a small island accessible by boat from Ishigaki Island in about 20 minutes, and we recommend the experience of being guided around the village while riding a buffalo, which is very special.
Iriomote Island
Most of the island is covered with jungle and is popular for activities that allow you to venture into unexplored areas. You are very lucky if you see the endangered Iriomote wildcat.
Kerama Islands
The islands are popular among divers for their beautiful waters, which are known as Kerama blue. It takes about 40 minutes from the main island.
Miyako Island
It is the largest island in the Okinawa archipelago and has been developed into a resort area with beautiful hotels. There are many beaches where you can easily enjoy snorkeling. Away from the center of the island, you can enjoy the countryside scenery of Miyako Island, and the atmosphere is very nice.
Hateruma Island
It is the southernmost island in Japan and can be accessed by regular boats. Because the sea is often rough, many voyages are cancelled, and if you are unlucky, you may not be able to visit the island. There are not many tourist resources, but it is an attractive island for those who want to spend a relaxing time.
Okinawa Island Walk (Japanese 0nly)
Food culture
Okinawa, a land blessed with beautiful ocean and rich nature, has also developed a unique food culture. From dishes using fresh seafood and vegetables to traditional Okinawan seasonings, Okinawan gourmet foods are full of charm.
Bitter melon champuru
This is a classic Okinawan dish of stir-fried bitter melon, tofu, and pork. The bitter taste of the bitter melon accentuates the dish, making it a perfect accompaniment to rice.
Soki soba
Soki with cartilage bones simmered in pork bone broth and thick noodles are the distinctive features of this Okinawa soba. It can be enjoyed at restaurants specializing in Okinawan soba, as well as at diners and izakayas (Japanese style pubs).
Sea grapes
This seaweed has a crunchy texture and an aroma of the sea. It is delicious eaten as is or with soy sauce or sanbaizu (vinegar), and is a unique Okinawan ingredient.
Taco rice
Taco rice has been gaining popularity in recent years as a local delicacy in Okinawa. It is a hearty dish of rice topped with taco meat, cheese, lettuce, and other ingredients.
Sataa andagi
A classic Okinawan deep-fried pastry, sataa andagi is characterized by its crispy texture and gentle sweetness. It is recommended as a souvenir.
Jimami Tofu
It is a unique Okinawan tofu made by grinding peanuts. It has a texture more like cheese than tofu, and can be used in a variety of dishes such as salads and as a topping for Okinawan soba noodles.
Okinawa zenzai
Okinawa zenzai is made by simmering shiratama dumplings, azuki beans, kidney beans, and other ingredients in brown sugar. It is recommended to eat Zenzai warm or chilled like shaved ice.
Rafute
Rafute is slow-cooked pork belly stewed into cubes. The tenderly braised rafute can be eaten as is or as a standard topping for Okinawan soba noodles, enhancing the flavor of the dish.
Activities
There is a wide range of activities that can be enjoyed in Okinawa.
Snorkeling and Diving
The waters of Okinawa are crystal clear and teeming with tropical fish, coral reefs, and a variety of other creatures. You can observe the Okinawan sea up close by snorkeling or diving. Many tours are available for beginners.
Marine sports
Jet skiing, parasailing, banana boating, and many other marine sports can be enjoyed in the Okinawan sea. These exhilarating experiences allow you to fully enjoy the Okinawan sea.
Kayak and Canoe
Kayaking and canoeing through mangrove forests and rivers are activities that allow you to fully enjoy the nature of Okinawa. You can feel the breath of nature as you paddle on the quiet surface of the water.
Seasonal Recommendations
Spring
In spring in Okinawa, flowers are in full bloom and you can enjoy cherry blossoms in Churaumi Park. The sea opens earlier than any other time in Japan, and visitors can enjoy swimming in April.
Summer
The beaches are lively with water sports and summer festivals. The weather is also prone to typhoons, so be careful of the weather.
Autumn
Vegetables and seafood are delicious in this season, and it’s fun to eat and walk around. you can go into the sea until October.
Winter
The mild climate allows for year-round sightseeing. If you do not play in the ocean, winter is the best time to visit. This is because there are fewer tourists in Okinawa in winter, and airline tickets are relatively inexpensive.
Local Culture
Eisa Dance
It is a traditional Okinawan dance performed at local festivals.
Okinawa folk song
There are many izakayas where you can listen to live traditional Okinawan folk songs and enjoy delicious food and drinks in a very lively and friendly atmosphere.
Transportation
Okinawa can be accessed by the following methods
Airplane
It is the gateway to Okinawa and provides convenient access to major cities.
Ferry
Ferry services operate to and from Honshu and other remote islands.
Rent-a-car
Okinawa may seem small, but it is large, and it is recommended that you rent a car to explore the island. Buses and other means of transportation are available, but most islanders travel by car.
Lastly
Okinawa offers a wide range of attractions to visitors to Japan, including beautiful beaches, unique culture, delicious food, and a wide variety of activities. Its natural beauty and warm welcome promise an unforgettable experience.