(By Tsem Rinpoche and Pastor Adeline)

Introduction

When the word ‘Japan’ comes to mind, people will usually think about Hokkaido, Tokyo, or Osaka, as these prefectures are the most popular tourist destinations. Another prefecture that should not be left out on any trip to Japan, one that is distinct from mainland Japan with its similarly ancient culture, different languages, art and distinct cuisine, is Okinawa.

History

The prefecture of Okinawa consists of a long stretch of islands situated between four main islands: Okinawa Shoto, Okinawa Honto, Miyako Island, and Yaegama Retto. These four are known as the Ryukyu Islands connecting Japan to Taiwan near the East China Sea. The residents of Okinawa call themselves the Uchinanchu (sea people) and gave their island prefecture the moniker of ‘The rope in the open sea’ because the chain of islands resembles a rope.

Being situated in a strategic location in the centre of the East China Sea, the Ryukyu Kingdom was a wealthy trading nation that connected Japan, China, and Southeast Asia. It was during the 15th Century that King Satto formed a tributary relationship between Japan and China, which profoundly accelerated Ryukyu’s culture and politics.

In 1609 the Ryukyu Kingdom was forced to form another tributary relationship with shogunates of the Satsuma and Tokugawa clans, in which the Satsuma clan received small tax profits from the Ryukyu Kingdom’s trade with China. However, the Satsuma clan’s authority over the islands allowed a degree of domestic freedom in terms of politics for more than two centuries.

The Ryukyu Kingdom was finally disbanded in 1872 during the Meiji Restoration initiated by the Japanese government. It was renamed to Ryukyu-han, and then again to the Okinawa Prefecture of Japan in 1879. During World War II, approximately 120,000 Okinawans, or a quarter of their population, perished in the Battle of Okinawa. The battle also devastated the many historical and cultural remnants of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Okinawa remained under United States occupation until 1972.

A number of historical sites did survive the War, such as the newly-rebuilt Shuri Castle located in Naha, and the tiny village of Taketomi in the southern parts of Yeagama Islands. World War II landmarks found in the main island of Okinawa include the Peace Memorial Park in Naha, the Himeyuri Monument, as well as other war-related locations, such as several American military bases.

Location

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Population

Okinawa covers 1,206.96 square kilometres (466.01 square miles) with an estimated population of 1.4 million people.

Contacts for Emergencies and Unexpected Incidents
110- Calls the police to report an accident or crime.
119- Calls an ambulance or fire engine in case of injury, illness or fire.
118- Reports an accident in the sea.

Climate and What to Wear

Summer may be long in Okinawa, but there is a significant difference in temperature between day and night, so it is best to prepare suitable clothing based on the time of year you are planning to visit.

SPRING

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SUMMER

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AUTUMN

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WINTER

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When to Visit

Avoid visiting Okinawa during mid-May to mid-June, as the rainy season might ruin your outdoor plans. If you are interested in water sports such as scuba-diving or snorkeling, it is recommended to visit during July-October since the water temperature will be around 25°C–28°C (77°F–82°F).

Please note that July and September is also typhoon season, so you might experience several days of heavy rain and strong winds. If you are interested in festivals or Okinawan culture, you can visit on New Year’s Day for the Shuri Castle Festival, March for the dragon boat races, August for the Eisa Festival or Naha Festival, and October for Tug of War. Please be aware that crowds may be especially heavy during these times so accommodation may be limited.

Long-Lived Okinawans

There is a famous proverb in Okinawa that goes:

“At 70, you are a child. At 80, you are merely a youth. And at 90, if the ancestors invite you to heaven, ask them to wait until you are 100, and then you might consider it.”

Okinawa is home to some of the longest-living people in the world. Residents have an average life expectancy rate of 86 years for women and 78 years for men.

The ancient Chinese used to call Okinawa ‘the land of immortals’. Unlike other countries, common illnesses like heart diseases, strokes, and high cholesterol are very rare here. This is likely due to Okinawans having very social, active lives; low stress levels, and a tradition of keeping fit through a lot of exercise. They also have a very healthy diet, which is very low in calories and salt, but high in nutrition and antioxidants.

Okinawans also practice hare haru bu, which means only eating until they are 80 percent full. The average calorie intake for elderly Okinawans is only 1,800cal per day compared to a 2,500cal per day diet for the average Western male.

Food

Okinawa is known for its delicious and unique food culture. Due to its location, most of the food in Okinawa is influenced by Chinese culture. Even so, authentic Japanese elements and flavours in their food still remain.

The food varies from sweet to savory, and below are seven must-try local Okinawan dishes.

1. Goya Champurū

‘Champuru’ means ‘something mixed, while ‘goya’ means bitter gourd, which is included in the dish along with tofu, eggs, pork, and vegetables such as soy sprouts, carrots, mung bean sprouts, and sweet potato slices. It is a healthy dish loaded with Vitamin C, and champuru Goya is prized for its restorative effects, especially during the humid summer season.

2. Sea Grapes

Also referred to as umi budo, this dish is known as the caviar of Okinawa. To fully enjoy its unique flavour, dip it into ponzu (citrus vinegar) before taking a bite. It is also served as a garnish for sashimi (raw fish), or as a main topping for a bowl of rice.

3. Mozuku Seaweed

Mozuku seaweed can only be harvested in the oceans of Okinawa, as the temperature of the waters around the islands gives it its characteristic thickness. This seaweed has a distinct sour taste, is low in calories, and rich in fucoidan, making it a healthy snack. Aside from its taste, mozuku seaweed is also enjoyed for its antibacterial functions, strengthening of the immune system, improvement to lifestyle-related diseases, and for its reputed cancer preventative effects.

4. Rafute

Rafute, or what the locals call buta no kakuni (braised pork belly), is similar to the Chinese-style stewed pork ribs/belly which is known as dong po rou. This dish contains succulent slabs of pork belly cooked in soy sauce, brown sugar and sometimes awamori (Okinawa’s alcohol). This dish is said to prolong one’s lifespan.

5. Peanut-flavoured Tofu

This dessert is also known as ‘jimmy-tofu’, and it has a texture denser than regular tofu. Peanuts are squeezed for their liquid which is then mixed with potato starch to create this dessert. You can eat it on its own, or add grated ginger or brown sugar syrup for extra flavour.

6. Sata Andagi

Okinawans call this snack the ‘local donut’, as it is shaped like a donut and made out of flour, sugar and eggs. It has a crispy exterior, but is soft on the inside, and it is best eaten when warm. It can be served with fresh fruits or a scoop of ice cream. Some restaurants also serve them together with savoury vegetables.

7. Shikuwasa

This extremely sour citrus fruit is commonly known as the Taiwanese tangerine. It is loved for its low sugar content and sourness, and is used to produce juices, jams and used as a garnish to dishes. Shikuwasa juice can be made into a sorbet, and it serves well as a refreshing dessert during the hot Okinawan summer.

Places to Go and Things to Do in Okinawa

1. Okinawa World

There are many attractions in Okinawa World, such as the Okinawa Craft Village and the Abu Park, where visitors can discover the secrets of the Habu, a highly poisonous snake.

However, the main attraction of this park is the 300,000-year old Gyokusendo Cave, which is open to visitors to explore.

Gyokusendo Cave, which was discovered in 1967,  is the perfect place for those who need a break from the heat and sunshine, as the cave system has a year-round temperature of 21°C. The cave is filled with thousands of stalagmites and pools of crystal-clear water. It is a peaceful and quiet place that lends itself well to contemplation; all that can be heard throughout the cave is the sound of gently trickling water.

Address: 1336, Tamagusuku, Maekawa, Nanjo-shi, Okinawa, 901-0616
Telephone: 098-949-7421
Hours: 09:00 to 18:00
Admission:

Accommodation

These are the recommended hotels near Okinawa World. It is recommended that you do further research to select a hotel that best suits your needs and budget.

1. Hyakunagaran Hotel
Address: 1229-1 Hyakuna Yamashitahara Tamagusuku-Aza, Nanjo 901-0603, Okinawa Prefecture
Phone: 0081-98-949-1011
Website: http://www.hyakunagaran.com/English/

2. Southern Beach Hotel & Resort Okinawa
Address: 1-6-1 Nishizakicho, Itoman 901-0306, Okinawa Prefecture
Phone: +81 98-992-7500
Website: http://www.southernbeach-okinawa.com/

2. Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

‘Chura’ means ‘beautiful’ in the Okinawan dialect, while ‘umi’ means the sea. At the Churaumi Aquarium, visitors have the opportunity to explore the mysteries of the deep blue Okinawa Sea. Filled with mystical and rare creatures, one of the aquarium’s main features is huge water tank called ‘the Sea of Kuroshio Current’ where you can observe one of the world’s largest fish, the whale shark. It is a must-visit place for fish or aquarium lovers.

Address: 424 Ishikawa, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture 905-0206, Japan
Telephone: +81-980-48-3748
Hours: 10:00 to 19:00
Admission:

• GENERAL
  1,850 yen (Adults)
  1,230 yen (High School students)
  610 yen (Elementary and junior high school students)
  Free (Children under six)
• GROUPS (of more than 20)
  1,480 yen (Adults)
  980 yen (High School students)
  490 yen (Elementary and junior high school students)
  Free (Children under six)
• ANNUAL PASSPORT HOLDERS
  3,700 yen (Adults)
  2,460 yen (High School students)
  1,220 yen (Elementary and junior high school students)
  Free (Children under six)

Accommodation

These are the recommended hotels near the aquarium. It is recommended that you do further research to select a hotel that best suits your needs and budget.

1. Okinawa Motobu Guesthouse
Address: 905-0205 Okinawa, Motobu, Yamakawa 571, Japan
Phone: +81 90-9074-0328
Website: https://okinawamotobuguesthouse.jimdo.com/

2. Hotel Orion Motobu Resort and Spa
Address: 905-0207 Okinawa, Motobu, Bise 148-1, Japan
Phone: +81 980-51-7300
Website: http://www.okinawaresort-orion.com/

3. Futenma Shrine

This shrine was built 500 years ago, and visitors and locals go there to pray for good fortune or to enjoy its serenity. Visitors can purchase an omikuji, a strip of paper containing a random fortune, or an ema, a wooden wishing plaque where you can write your prayers or wishes and hang them on the shrine.

There is an underground cave within the temple grounds. To get there, head to the shop next to the main hall and ask the staff for access. Visitors are limited to a maximum 30 minutes each to visit the shrine in the cave. Legend has it that the cave was once home to a lady of unrivalled beauty, who later transcended into a goddess.

Address: Fatima, Ginowan-City, Okinawa Prefecture
Telephone: 098-892-3344
Hours: 10:00 to 17:00
Admission: Free

Accommodation

These are the recommended hotels near Futenma Shrine. It is recommended that you do further research to select a hotel that best suits your needs and budget. Laguna Garden Hotel is a 10-minute drive from the shrine, offers a lot of fun activities, and has a beach nearby.

1. Hotel Southern Village Okinawa
Address: 1359-1 Adaniya | Okinawa, Kitanakagusuku-son, Nakagami-gun 901-2316, Okinawa Prefecture
Telephone: +81 98-935-3030
Website: http://southern-village.okinawa/

2. Laguna Garden Hotel
Address: 4-1-1 Mashiki, Ginowan 901-2224, Okinawa Prefecture
Telephone: +81 98-897-2121
Website: http://www.laguna-garden.jp/

4. War Memorials

Near the end of World War II, Okinawa Honto became the site of one of the war’s bloodiest battles. Over 200,000 people lost their lives during the battle, including more than 100,000 civilians and 12,500 Americans.  The devastating effects of the war made a huge impact on the Okinawans and as a result, there are many monuments and museums scattered throughout Okinawa Hondo.

The main memorial to the Battle of Okinawa is the Peace Memorial Park, which has its own museum. At the museum, visitors will gain an overview of the lead-up to the battle, learn about the battle itself, and discover how Okinawa was reconstructed. There are monuments in the park such as the ‘Cornerstone of Peace’, a collection of large stone plates with the names of all fallen soldiers and civilians.

A few kilometres west of the Peace Park stands the Himeyuri Monument, also known as the Himeyuri no To, which commemorates the fate of the female high school students who worked under harsh conditions in the army field hospitals.

Another place related to the Battle of Okinawa is the Former Navy Underground Headquarters, which consists of underground corridors and rooms that were once used as the Japanese navy’s headquarters during the war.

• Peace Memorial Park
  Address: Mabuni, Itoman 901-0333, Okinawa Prefecture
  Telephone: 098-997-3844
  Hours: 09:00 to 17:00
  Admission: 300 yen (Adults), 150 yen (children)
• Himeyuri Monument
  Address: 671-1 Ibara, Itoman-shi, Okinawa
  Telephone: 098-997-2100
  Hours: 09:00 to 17:30
  Admission: 310 yen (Adults), 210 yen (High school), 110 yen (Junior high and elementary)
• Former Navy Underground
  Address: 236 Tomigusuku, Okinawa Prefecture 901-0241, Japan
  Telephone: 098-850-4055
  Hours: 08:30 to 17:00 (October to June)
  08:30 to 17:00 (July to September)
  Admission: 440 yen (Adult), 220 yen (Children)

Accommodation

The following hotels are a 12 to 24-minute drive to the Peace Memorial Park or Himeyuri Monument. It is recommended that you do further research to select a hotel that best suits your needs and budget.

1. Southern Beach Hotel & Resort Okinawa
Address: 1-6-1 Nishizakicho, Itoman 901-0306, Okinawa Prefecture
Phone: +81 98-992-7500
Website: http://www.southernbeach-okinawa.com/

2. Hyakunagaran Hotel
Address: 1229-1 Hyakuna Yamashitahara Tamagusuku-Aza, Nanjo 901-0603, Okinawa Prefecture
Phone: 0081-98-949-1011
Website: http://www.hyakunagaran.com/English/

The following hotels are near the Former Navy Underground. We recommend that you do further research to choose a hotel that suits your needs.

3. Hotel Gran View Okinawa
Address: 2 Chome-3-2 Akamine, Naha-shi, Okinawa-ken 901-0154, Japan
Phone: +81 98-859-4890
Website: granview.co.jp

4. Mecure Okinawa Naha
Address: 3-3-19 Tsubogawa, Naha, 3 Chome Tsubogawa, Okinawa, 900-0025, Japan
Phone: +81 98-855-7111
Website: accorhotels.com

5. Makishi Public Market

The Makishi Public Market, also known as ‘the kitchen of the people’ in Okinawa, was established in 1972. There are more than 150 stalls that sell Okinawan products, covering a huge variety of produce from fresh vegetables and fruits, to fresh meat and seafood. A hugely popular tourist destination, the market is always crowded and busy with many tourists coming to get a taste of the local dishes while locals do their daily grocery shopping.

The first floor is mainly for leisure shopping; on this floor, you will find perishables, souvenirs and even cosmetics. Make sure to shop wisely and to compare prices as they may differ between stores.

After exploring the first floor, you can head to the second floor where you will find approximately 10 restaurants. If you are not interested in eating seafood (which is the speciality of most restaurants), then Kiraku offers a variety of 120 dishes to choose from.

Address: 2-10-1, Matsuo, Naha-City, Okinawa Prefecture
Telephone: +81 98-867-6560
Hours: Varies by shops

Accommodation

The following hotels are near the Makishi Public Market. It is recommended that you do further research to select a hotel that best suits your needs and budget.

1. Hyatt Regency Naha
Address: 3 Chome-6-20 Makishi, Naha-shi, Okinawa-ken 900-0013, Japan
Phone: +81 98-866-8888
Website: naha.regency.hyatt.com

2. Crowne Plaza ANA Okinawa Haborview
Address: 2 Chome-46 Izumizaki, Naha, Okinawa Prefecture 900-0021, Japan
Phone: +81 98-853-2111
Website: ihg.com

6. Cape Manzamo

The name ‘Manzamo’, which means ‘ten thousand men sitting on the grassland’, was given by the Ryukyu King Sho Kei. He was so impressed with the wide space that he named it ‘Man’ (10,000), ‘Za’ (to sit), ‘Mo’ (field). Facing the East China Sea, this cape has an interesting shape – that of an elephant. You can see its ‘trunk’ (zoe no hanna) dipping into the ocean.

Address: Onna-Village, Okinawa Prefecture

Accommodation

The following hotels are near Cape Manzamo. It is recommended that you do further research to select a hotel that best suits your needs and budget.

1. ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort
Address: 2260 Serakaki, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa-ken 904-0404, Japan
Phone: +81 98-966-1211
Website: anaintercontinental-manza.jp

2. Sheraton Okinawa Sun Marina Resort
Address: Japan, 〒904-0494 JP-47Kunigami-gun, Kunigami-gun Fuchaku, 66-1 Aza Fuchaku, Onna-son
Phone: +81 98-965-2222
Website: starwoodhotels.com

7. Shuri Castle

Named after the capital of the Ryukyu Kingdom, this castle served as the administrative centre and home for several centuries of Ryukyu kings until Okinawa became a Japanese prefecture in 1879. Some buildings are replicas of the original which had been badly damaged during the war; reconstruction efforts took place in the late 1980s.

Located high on a hill, the castle is covered with dragons, the symbol of the Ryukyuan King. You can easily spot them on the roof and pillars before entering the Main Hall (Seiden). With its ancient architecture, the castle transports you back to a different time and place, and is well-worth a visit if you are curious about the Ryukyu Kings and Okinawan history.

Address: 1 chome-2 Shurikinjocho, Naha, Okinawa Prefecture 903-0815, Japan
Telephone: +81 98-886-2020
Hours:

• 08:00 to 19:30 (April – June, October – December)
• 08:00 to 20:30 (July – September)
• 08:00 to 18:30 (December – March)

Closed on the first Wednesday and Thursday of July
Admission: 820 yen (Adult), 310 yen (Child)

Accommodation

The following hotels are near Shuri Castle. It is recommended that you do further research to select a hotel that best suits your needs and budget.

1. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Naha Shuri Castle
Address: Japan, 〒903-8601 Okinawa, Naha-shi, 1 Chome-132-1 Shuriyamagawachō
Phone: +81 98-886-5454
Website: doubletree3.hilton.com

2. Okinawa Island Hotel
Address: Japan, 〒902-0066 Okinawa-ken, Naha-shi, 35 Daidō
Phone: +81 98-884-3191
Website: okinawahotel.co.jp

8. Blue Cave

The Blue Cave, so named because of the blue lights which vary in hue and shade according to the time of day, is one of the most famous snorkeling and diving spots on the main island of Okinawa. At this popular underwater destination, not only can you marvel the changing lights but you can also see friendly fishes, some of whom are so used to visitors that you can even catch some of them sleeping!

Those who are not certified divers can also snorkel under the guidance of experts, in order to enjoy the underwater delights. Since the Blue Cave is a famous attraction, it is recommended to reserve the first tour in the morning to try and avoid the underwater crowds.

Address: Cape Maeda, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun 904-0417, Okinawa Prefecture
Telephone: +81 98-963-0166

Accommodation

The following hotels are near the Blue Cave. It is recommended that you do further research to select a hotel that best suits your needs and budget.

1. Hotel Nakadoma Inn
Address: 258 Maeganeku, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa-ken 904-0414, Japan
Phone: +81 98-982-5337
Website: nakainn.com

2. Renaissance Okinawa Resort
Address: Japan, 〒904-0416 Okinawa-ken, Kunigami-gun, Onna-son, Yamada, 3425-2
Phone: +81 98-965-0707
Website: http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/okarn-renaissance-okinawa-resort/

9. Katsuren Castle Ruins

If you are interested in historical sites, the Katsuren Castle Ruins is the place for you. It was once the seat of Lord Amawari in the 15th Century. According to legend, Lord Amawari was left in the mountains to die because he was a very sickly child. However, the child grew into a powerful leader who took over the Katsuren Castle. He later died during a failed attempt to take over Shuri Castle. Today, only a few stone walls remain of the formerly majestic castle.

Address: Kudeken Chinen Nanjo, Okinawa prefecture 901-1511
Telephone: +81-98-949-1899
Hours: 09:00 to 18:00
Admission: 200 yen (Adults), 100 yen (Children)

Accommodation

The following hotels are a 16 to 20-minute drive away from the Katsuren Castle Ruins. It is recommended that you do further research to select a hotel that best suits your needs and budget.

1. Okinawa Grand Mer Resort
Address: 〒904-2174 Okinawa-ken, Okinawa-shi, Yogi, 2 chome 8-1
Phone: +81 98-931-1500
Website: www.okinawa-grandmer.com

2. Hotel Southern Village Okinawa
Address: 1359-1 Adaniya | Okinawa, Kitanakagusuku-son, Nakagami-gun 901-2316, Okinawa Prefecture
Phone: +81 98-935-3030
Website: http://southern-village.okinawa/

Festivals in Okinawa

Okinawa is well-known for its cultural festivals, such as the Eisa Dance Festival, Shuri Castle Festival, Hari Festival, Yaeyama Beach Opening Festival, Naha Tug-of-War Festival, and the Pantu Festival of Miyakojima.

1. Eisa Dance Festival

The Eisa Dance Festival was originally a dance performed during O-Bon, when synchronised drumbeats bade farewell to the visiting spirits of ancestors. The Eisa dance has since evolved into an entirely different kind of performance, characterised by colourful costumes, coordinated movements and a large number of dancers.

While Eisa performances are held all around Okinawa for various occasions, by far the largest and most spectacular Eisa event is the annual All-Okinawa Eisa Festival staged in Okinawa City every August or September. Combining folk music, traditional food and fireworks, the Eisa Festival is immensely popular amongst tourists and locals alike, drawing crowds of more than 200,000 spectators to the Okinawa Koza City Sports Park and Goya Crossing.

Since the end of World War II, the outer islands such as Ishigaki and Miyakojima have assimilated Eisa dancing into their annual calendar due to its growing popularity. Each of them hold their own Eisa festivals and put their own local spin on the dance. Attendance to this festival is free as it is meant for everyone to have fun and enjoy the culture of Japan.

2. Shuri Castle Festival

Every year, the splendour of the Ryukyu Kingdom is brought to life during the Shuri Castle Festival. Taking place over three days near the end of October, the Okinawa Festival features classical Ryukyu music, dance and parades as well as a reenactment of the coronation of the first Ryukyu king.

One highlight of this festival is the Sapposhi Parade between Shureimon and Hoshinmon Gates, during which a procession of people dressed in Ryukyu-era garb traverse a historic route taken by imperial envoys in the days when the tiny kingdom paid tribute to the Chinese throne.

A second grand parade commemorates the rituals of the royal court along Kokusai Street. The third parade held on the final day of the festival retraces the route taken by the king and queen as they visited the magnificent temples which once stood around Shuri.

As the festival is held only once a year, it is easy to miss it but you can still participate in the daily Ukejo ceremony, at 8:25am every morning when the main gates of the castle are opened with great pomp and pageantry.

3. Hari Festival

‘Hari’ are the traditional Okinawan dragon boat races that take place on various dates all over the islands. Of these, by far the most historical and possibly largest race is that in Itoman, held annually around the beginning of June. Immersed with religious ceremonial trappings that date back to the original races held by the king of Nanzan in 1403, the Itoman race is thought to be a ritual to invite bountiful catches by the local Uminchu (fishermen).

Less traditional but equally exciting is the Naha Hari, which features the same colourful boats (called sabani in the local language) as the Itoman race, without quite as much ceremony. What all the races have in common is delicious local food, a festive atmosphere, and dazzling fireworks to cap off a fun-filled day. The race takes place at Tomari Port, which is a fishing port near the Tomarin ferry terminal in Naha City.

4. Yaeyama Beach Opening Festival

An annual event held on Kurojima, about half an hour boat ride from Ishigaki, the festival has the distinction of being the first of such festivals to take place every year in Japan. Travelers can sample the ever-popular Ishigaki beef, meet Miss Yaeyama, and dance kachashi-style to the accompaniment of a sanshin band, as residents and tourists alike celebrate on Miyazato Beach.

After a formal proclamation is delivered with traditional and religious undertones, everyone races into the clear sub-tropical waters for a refreshing swim.

5. Pantu Festival of Miyakojima

Rather than sampling local food, listening to folk music, or watching traditional performances, travellers venturing to Miyakojima during the Pantu Festival will more likely find themselves being chased by mud-slinging demons dressed in leaves and wearing fearsome masks.

Also called ‘Pantupunaha’, this festival has its roots in ancient times. Locals in those times believed that on a special day every year, three demons (called pantu in the unique Miyakojima language) formed from a patch of sacred soil. According to local folklore, the pantu emerge from a famous spring near the village of Shimajiri and the three demons – Uya (‘Parent’), Naka (‘Middle’) and Zur (‘Child’) – race through the town rubbing mud on all who cannot get away fast enough.

Perhaps ironically, getting rubbed by the sanctified mud drawn from that ancient spring is thought to be an omen of good fortune, which is why parents and grandparents often put their reluctant children in the path of the volunteers chosen by local priestesses to play the role of the pantu. It takes place in Miyako Island, in early October, with free admission.

6. Naha Tug-of-War Festival

With a 560-year history, this is one of the most anticipated festivals in Okinawa. The Naha Tug-of-War Festival takes place every October. The origin of this tradition dates back to 17th Century competitions between the eastern and the western rulers of Naha. In modern times, this custom is still performed to bring prosperity to Okinawa.

The giant 172-meter long, 32-tonne rope used during the Naha Great Tug-of-War was registered in the 1995 and 1996 Guinness World Records as the largest rope made of rice straw. Thousands of people of all ages, gender and nationalities participate in this festival each year. Admission is free to this festival which also features performances such as lion dancing, fan dancing and martial arts.

Travel Guides on Okinawa

Before travelling to Okinawa, it is advisable to read up on some travel books, or search online to help you plan your trip better. The book and app below are recommended to help you plan your trip.

1. Okinawa and the Ryukyu Islands

This convenient travel guide written by experienced traveller Robert Walker includes comprehensive information of the 150 Ryukyu Islands, highlighting interesting vacation spots, such as active volcanoes, hot springs, white sand beaches and surf spots, home-grown cuisine, ferry and flight schedules, lodgings, hiking trails and nature walks, family and children-oriented sights, and historical and cultural landmarks.

The guide is illustrated with over 200 colour photos, contains 40 maps, including a large fold-out map of Okinawa and the Ryukyu Islands with insets for major cities, and also provides practical tips to help you avoid costly mistakes.

2. Okinawa Guide NAVITIME Travel App

NAVITIME Travel is a Japanese website with more than 20,000 articles on Okinawa tourist information, such as beaches, foods, souvenirs and accommodations. The Travel App will be very useful for planning your trip and calling up information on the spot.
References:

• http://www.ladyironchef.com/2017/02/okinawa-food/
• http://www.visitokinawa.jp/category/destinations
• http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e7105.html
• http://www.fodors.com/world/asia/japan/okinawa/travel-tips/when-to-go-106418100
• http://thesmartlocal.com/read/things-to-do-okinawa
• http://factsanddetails.com/japan/cat18/sub119/item637.html
• http://wikitravel.org/en/Okinawa
• https://www.nanseirakuen.com/en/blog/okinawa-food.html5-okinawa-festivals

For more interesting information:

• Wonderful Japan – Hokkaido
• Wonderful Japan – Shikoku
• Wonderful Japan – Honshu
• Wonderful Japan – Kyoto and Nara
• Wonderful Japan – Kansai
• Wonderful Japan – Kyushu
• Wonderful Korea – Gyeongsang
• Wonderful Korea – Seoul
• Wonderful Bhutan
• Wonderful Nepal
• Wonderful Vietnam
• Wonderful Laos
• Wonderful Myanmar
• Wonderful Sri Lanka

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