Wednesday, January 22, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Naha, Okinawa, Japan

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Naha, Okinawa, in the far south of Japan.

NAHA, OKINAWA, JAPAN
The independent kingdom of Ryukyu
Unlike other parts of Japan, Okinawa has a separate history, having been the independent kingdom of Ryukyu during the 15th century. It is located in an ideal area between mainland Japan and Taiwan; the small kingdom prospered and traded goods with Japan, China, Korea, and Southeast Asia.

Subsequently, Okinawa developed its unique history and culture, which is evident today. Naha, the largest city in Okinawa Prefecture, has nearly 6 million visitors from outside of Okinawa Prefecture every year, and it has been one of the most popular destinations in Japan. What makes this city so unique? You are sure to be fascinated by the magnificent Okinawa landscapes while you are in the city.

Remaining the kingdom of Ryukyu is a “must-see,” but you will also learn the history of Okinawa during World War II. Okinawa prefecture has been under American occupation since 1945 and finally returned to Japanese sovereignty in 1972. You could still see the combination of Japanese and American cultures.
SIGHTS
• Shurijō Castle
• Mihama Town Resort American Village
• Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
• Okinawa World
• Bios Hill
• Southeast Botanical Gardens
• Katsuren Castle Ruins
• Peace Memorial Park
• Nakagusuku Castle Ruins

OKINAWA FOOD GUIDE
In Okinawa, food is life, and the delicious regional cuisine is one of the secrets to Okinawan longevity. Okinawans use the word nuchigusui to describe their cuisine. It means “medicine of life” and indicates how, for the people of Okinawa, food is more than just sustenance; it nourishes both body and mind. Okinawa is also one of the world’s Blue Zones, an area where people live longer than the average life expectancy, and the islands’ diet is considered a significant contributing factor. Visitors can tour Okinawa through their taste buds, sampling tropical fruits, island vegetables, and local dishes unlike elsewhere in Japan. In doing so, they may discover one of the secrets to Okinawan longevity.
Awamori is the oldest distilled alcoholic drink in Japan and is believed to be the predecessor of shochu (another distilled Japanese spirit). The technique for making awamori is said to have remained unchanged for over 500 years. Indica Thai rice is soaked in water and sprinkled with black koji mold, then fermented with water and yeast before undergoing a single distillation to complete the process.

Today’s Excursion – Naha Sightseeing
We enjoyed a lovely panoramic drive past some critical local landmarks. Okinawa-Honto, the main island, is the largest and most important in the Nansei-Shoto Islands. Its cultural differences with mainland Japan were once evident in its architecture, of which almost all traces were obliterated during World War II. The USA retained control of Okinawa after the war, eventually
handing it back to Japan in 1972. Naha is the capital of Okinawa, where little remains of the old Ryukyu culture.

Tonight’s dinner was in The Alantide Restaurant.