Unlike the rest of Japan’s 47 prefectures, Okinawa has a different climate and distinct cultural customs and practices. Until 1879, this chain of islands was part of a separate kingdom called Ryukyu. Previously, it had tributary relations with China and the Tokugawa shogunate as part of Satsuma Prefecture, now known as Kagoshima. Later, it officially became one of Japan’s prefectures after several military campaigns. Today, it’s a bustling tourist destination partly because of its subtropical climate and idyllic locations, and partly because the main island has frequent flights to and from major cities in Japan.
Okinawan Honto
As the main island of this small archipelago, Okinawa Honto has the largest number of residents and businesses, especially since US bases were located there. Naha City, which is the capital of the prefecture, features Shurijo Castle, a centuries-old castle that served as the administrative headquarters of the Ryukyu Territory before it became a prefecture. About two kilometers south of the castle is Shikina-en Garden with native Okinawan shrubs and trees flourishing around a central pond. The buildings served as extensions to the Shuri Palace and became a second home for the Ryukyu royal family and their relatives.
In the center of Naha, the international highway or Kokusaidori runs for at least two straight kilometers. This main street is lined with restaurants, bars, cafes, hotels, small novelty shops and department stores. More shops are found in the Heiwadori, Mutsumidori, and Ichiba Hondori arcades, which branch off in the middle of the main street. At the end of Heiwa Street is another shopping area commonly known as Tsuboya Yachimun Street, where pottery shops and ceramic art galleries line the paved walkway made of coral and limestone.
Tropical Places and Beautiful Beaches
Located further south are the Sakishima Islands, which are divided into smaller groups of islands, Miyako and Yaeyama. Miyako, the largest island in the eastern part of this tropical archipelago, is the site of the local Strongman Triathlon that takes place every April. One of Japan’s beautiful beaches, Maebama is located in the southwestern corner of Miyako Island.
Tourists can lounge on the beach, play a game of beach volleyball, or go scuba diving or snorkeling during their stay. Miyako watering holes serve Orion, which is the main island’s beer, and awamori, a local beer with up to 30% alcohol by volume. If possible, visitors should avoid the poisonous Habu jellyfish, which appears between June and October.
Meanwhile, in the most southwestern part of Okinawa are the Yaeyama Islands, which have the same climate as a tropical rainforest. Its most popular spots include Ishigaki and Iriomote Islands. Iriomote is the largest of the group of islands with thick jungles and mangrove laden swamps. It is not as densely populated as Ishigaki, which has a seaport and airport.