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Why Okinawa?
Ryukyu Culture
Okinawa's unique culture was formed by the dynamic mix of characteristics from various countries through trade with China, Japan, Korea and other Southeast Asian countries in the Ryukyu era. Since ancient times different cultures from other regions in Japan took root here. Examples include attractive craftwork, performing arts, health conscious diet, unique way of living supporting longevity, and karate which is said to have started in Okinawa.
Craftwork / Performing Arts
Okinawa’s representative fields are crafts used as expensive items for trade by the Ryukyu Kingdom, performing arts which are still part of the lives of Okinawans today, and food regarded as the secret to longevity and health. Through these fields, take your time and expose yourself to this unique culture.
Traditional Food / Healthy Cuisine
Okinawan food is also known for contributing to the longevity of the Okinawan people. This unique food culture differs from regular Japanese food and was strongly influenced by various partner countries in trade. In addition, there are many dishes using original Okinawan ingredients such as Shima Rakkyo pickles.
World Heritage Sites
Okinawa has as many as 9 World Heritage sites including a castle that once belonged to the King of the Ryukyu Kingdom, sacred Okinawan sites, a castle with a legendary hero, and the tomb of the Ryukyu Royal Family, etc. Your visit to Okinawa is not complete without experiencing the unique, deep history and culture of Ryukyu.
Karate
Karate is a world famous martial art. It is said that karate resulted from the integration of martial arts from Okinawa and China before the establishment of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Later, karate became gradually systematized. Here, we’ll trace the roots of karate and its more than 600 years of history.
