Okinawa is just one of Japan’s 47 prefectures, and is made up of over 160 islands, 47 of which are inhabited remote islands. Along with its pleasant climate (the average temperature in January is 17 degrees celsius), Okinawa has a unique history and culture, as well as a bounty of beautiful nature. It is also a green holiday destination thanks to several initiatives and good tourism practices carried out by the destination.
1. Culture
Part of Okinawa’s attraction is its rich cultural heritage, and it is making great efforts to preserve the diverse culture that is so unique to the island.
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in December 2000, the “Gusuku and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryuku” composes a group of sites and monuments, including Shuri Castle, which represent five hundred years of Ryukyuan history (12th-17th century). The multiple castle ruins sat on imposing elevated sites demonstrate the social structure over much of that period, while the sacred sites show the rare survival of an ancient form of religion into the modern age. The wide-ranging economic and cultural contacts of the Ryukyu Islands over that period gave rise to a unique culture, and naming the site UNESCO World Heritage is an import step in preserving this heritage for years to come. Although the main part of Shuri Castle was unfortunately destroyed by a fire in 2019, it is currently being reconstructed and is scheduled to be rebuilt by 2026.
In addition to preserving its architectural heritage, Okinawa also continues to protect many of its ancient social practices. There are a number of cultural events; demonstrations of Eisa, a unique Okinawan drumming dance, Ryubu dance performances, karate shows and the great tug of war, whilst tourists can also find out about local crafts products such as Shisa pottery, with its ability to ward off evil spirits, and skilfully made Okinawa tableware. Experiencing the unique atmosphere and traditional houses of the remote islands like Taketomi, and trying out traditional dyeing techniques that have been used in Okinawa for generations, is also an important part of any visit to the islands. Through these activities Okinawa uses tourism to help preserve and honour the skills and heritage of the islands.
Okinawa is the birthplace of karate and welcomes karate practitioners from all over the world. In order to promote this aspect of its heritage, the organisation Karate Promotion Division was established and Okinawa Karate Kaikan (Hall) was opened as a main facility to welcome karate enthusiasts. It was here that a Guinness World Record was set for a group demonstration of the Kata style, and the first Okinawa International Karate Tournament was held. Okinawa was selected as one of the top 100 Green Destinations in the field of culture and community for its efforts to promote “the birthplace of Karate”.
2. Environment
Okinawa is also active as a Green Destiantion in the field of natural environment, and has instigated sustainability measures to preserve its natural heritage.
As the only prefecture in Japan located within a subtropical region, Okinawa is blessed with a mild climate all year round, and is surrounded by beautiful clear blue sea, white sandy beaches and colourful coral reefs.
The surrounding ocean is ideal for swimming, canoeing and paddle boarding, as well as snorkelling and diving amongst its treasure trove of living creatures, from colourful tropical fish to vibrant coral reefs. It’s also possible to seek out some wildlife with a whale spotting trip. Onna Village, on the northwest coast, is well known for diving spots such as Cape Manza and Blue Cave and has the nickname Coral Village. Local organisations such as Onna Village Fisheries Cooperatives and Okinawa Diving Service Lagoon have continued to protect and restore the precious coral reefs for nearly two decades, preserving this essential environment and lively habitat.
The rich natural environment of the northern part of the main island of Okinawa and its remote islands are home to flora, fauna, and insects that are rare both in Japan as well as abroad, hence Okinawa’s other name, the “Galapagos of the Orient.” Activities such as trekking in subtropical jungle or canoeing through lush rivers of mangroves give visitors the opportunity to admire these incredible wonders of nature, a unique environment which Okinawa is making great efforts to preserve, for inhabitants and tourists alike.
