OKINAWA, jewel of Japan

Jewel in the crown of Asia, the best kept secret in pacific resort destination.

Executive summary by darmansjah

In Okinawa you’ll experience beauty beyond your imagination. For in a land where life under the sea is as beautiful as life above, it’s possible you’ll never want to resurface in your old life.

No wonder Okinawais an ideal choice for those seeking a break from the norm. With domestic flight connecting through major Japanese cities, even the most distant US vacationers can shed their daily grind and bask in Okinawa’s blue ocean in just a day’s journey. The island’s splendor is transcendent, and Mother Nature’s expanse will excite even the most jaded of travelers. One thing is for sure, no matter where else you’ve been or from where you come, you’ll find sun, beaches, and world-class water sports to take you far from the world you left behind.

Okinawa is the best place in Japanfor all types of water activities, and chief among them is diving. Discover its gorgeous undersea world-home to some 360 types of corals, five types of sea turtles, manta rays, whale sharks, tropical fish, and other vibrant marine life-at a myriad of outstanding dive spots renowned for their clarity and perfect water temperatures year-round. Don’t miss Japan’s westernmost island, Yonaguni, which holds an underwater treasure trove filled with breathtaking and mysterious ruins that will delight divers as they swim marinecity. Ishigaki Island, southwest of Okinawa main island, possesses paradisiacal beaches, untouched tropical rain forest, lush mangrove rivers, and one of the world’s largest coral reef systems, accessible at many diver points. The Kerma Island, just a short boat trip away, are well known for their surrounding crystal blue waters, which are transparent for nearly 200 feet. With intricate coral reefs and colorful fish found off of almost any beach, it’s no surprise that bathers and visitors are physically and spiritually renewed with a swim in these beautiful waters.

Encounter : 

Vibrant culture; visit one of Okinawa’s nine world heritage sites to immerse yourself in the history of the Ryukyu Kingdom, which began in the 15^th century. Shurijo Castle, located on the island of Okinawa, is the palace of the Ryukyu kingdom and played a central role in political and religious life. This palace is surrounded by various sites of historical interest, including Shureimon, the main gate reconstructed after WWII, and Tamaudun, the Royal tombs built in 1501. Shiisa, or guard lions, like those seen outside Tamaudun, are though to ward off evil and bring good fortune and can be found throughout Okinawa. The many cultural influences found in Okinawa have contribute to the development of Japan’s martial art’s tradition-specifically karate, Okinawa’s most famous export!

Abundant Nature; Uncover the best of the natural world by hiking, swimming with sea turtles, bird-watching, surfing, and enjoying other activities suitable for the whole family. Ferns carpeting the ground and beautiful birds-including rare sepecies-characterize the nature area of Yanbaru, on the island of Okinawa. Iriomote island is called the last unexplored region in Japan and is also known as the Galapagos of the East because of its extensive green space. This island is home to peculiar animals like the Iriomote wild cat, which can only be encountered here. Experience nature’s bounty on Iriomote by jungle trekking, canoeing through one of Japan’s largest mangrove forests, or keeping a lookout for the beautiful subtropical landscapes.

Soothing Lifestyle Because of the Okinawas’inherently healthful diet and culture, it’s no surprise that the highest concentration of centenarians lives there. So when you go, unwind by immersing yourself in the Okinawan lifestyle. Visit Taketomi, a traditional town where you can wnjoy a lesirely tour around the village on a wagon drawn by a water buffalo and see flowers peeking out from stone walls, Ryukyuan homes with red-tile roofs, and the sandy streets. Be sure to further relax by lounging in the peacefulness of these subtropical islands, where even in January and February the average high temperature is around 70 degrees, making Okinawa the perfect place to travel any time of year. Plan your visit at www.VisitOkinawa.jp