Okinawa
Southernmost prefecture with unique culture and history as the kingdom of Ryukyu
Okinawa is the southernmost prefecture that consists of various islands. Okinawa developed its unique culture and history as the kingdom of Ryukyu under the influence of Japan, China and Southeast Asian countries. In late 19th century, the Ryukyu Kingdom was dissolved and Okinawa became part of Japan. Okinawa has US influence too due to the most number of US military bases following battles during the World War II.
Ryukyuan cuisine - It represents local cuisine in Okinawa made by only local ingredients from Okinawa. It includes Mimiga, boiled or steamed pig’s ear, Goya Champuru, stir-fried goya with tofu, sliced pork and egg, and Soki Soba, noodles topped with spare ribs.
Satoukibi - Satoukibi, sugarcane, is produced the most in Okinawa due to its resistance to typhoon.
Chinsukou - traditional sweets that is the mixture of Chinese and Japanese sweets since the Ryukyu Dynasty
Awamori - one of the most famous local alcohol of Okinawa
Shuri Castle served as the center of the Ryukyu Kingdom for politics, international relationship and cultural communication from 1429 to 1879 until Okinawa became a Japanese prefecture.
Its unique architectural style of the combination of Japan and China.
Okinawa is known for magnificent beaches across the prefecture in warm climate.
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world, is a place to see lives of ocean animals. It has succeeded in raising a number of whale sharks and mantas.
Ryukyu Bingata is an Okinawa’s original technique in dyeing. It was originated around 14th or 15th century during the reign of the Ryukyu Kingdom by combining dyeing techniques from China, India and Indonesia through trading.
Yachimun pottery is another example of Okinawa’s local unique product that was developed under the influence of Asian countries that had close connection with Okinawa through trading. Yachimun means ware in Okinawa’s dialect.
Ryukyu Glass has improved its technique after the World War II in response to making glasses for American militaries at bases in Okinawa by using recycled glasses from coke and beer.
