Okinawa-Honto (or simply Okinawa) is one of the largest islands in the chain of more than 160 islands that make up what was once called the kingdom of Ryukyu. Naha, the capital, is a busy and modern city that has many amenities for visitors. It is the base for the majority of U.S troops. Here visitors will find a pleasing blend of the new with the traditional and find many things to do.
What Okinawa Has to Offer Tourists
Okinawa has beautiful beaches and quaint towns. It is a favorite with Japanese vacationers because of its temperate climate with an average temperature of 72 degrees. Good accommodations, restaurants, interesting markets, gorgeous beaches, jungle trekking, warm climate and congenial Okinawans are reasons to consider Okinawa an out-of-the-way destination for Americans who visit Japan and want to get off the beaten track.
History and Culture of Okinawa
In many ways the history and culture of Okinawa is very unlike that of the country itself. The natives of Okinawa are thought to have migrated from the Japanese mainland and not neighboring countries. They have ties to China, Taiwan and Indonesia through trade that is evidenced in the patterns of their textiles and pottery.
The Indonesian influence is noticeable in the cuisine and traditional music. The Chinese influences can be seen in architectural motifs and decorations such as dragons and lion-dogs that are said to drive out the evil spirits.
Best Time to Visit
Japanese tourist still out-number foreigner visitors. They flock to the beaches, golf courses and resorts during the summer to soak up the sun. There is very good snorkeling and reef diving on the island. Be aware that the weather during May and June is quite rainy. Typhoons hit around July through October making the best time to visit March through May. It is important to make hotel reservations well in advance.
Places to Visit
Most Americans associate Okinawa with World War II when the U.S. army occupied the region. On April 1, 1945, troops landed and fought a long, hard, bloody battle against the Japanese Imperial Army that lasted 82 days. There are war memorials commemorating the hundreds of thousands of Japanese and Americans who lost their lives. History buffs will want to visit Mobuni Hill, Peace Memorial Hall and the Underground Imperial Navy Headquarters. A visit to the town of Naha and a tour of the wonderfully reconstructed Suri-jo or World Heritage Site is alone worth the trip to Okinawa. Other places to visit are the local markets, pottery district and museum.
Concerning the Food, Restaurants and Hotels of Okinawa
Because of the large concentration of American soldiers based in Okinawa there are many western amenities. Tourists will find burgers, a Starbucks as well as noodle shacks and Japanese delicacies. There are lots of bars and nightclubs, modern hotels. Friendly locals, many who speak some English because of the large American presence, are willing to help a lost traveler.
Therefore, when looking for an unusual sunny vacation spot, consider Okinawa and discover the Kingdom of Ryukyo when you travel to East Asia.
