Okinawa

Okinawa Travel Guide

Okinawa means "rope along the open sea," a fitting name for this chain of 140-plus coral-fringed, subtropical islands stretching more than 700 km (435 mi) into the Pacific Ocean. Once part of the ancient seafaring kingdom of Ryukyu, the islands were ruled by the local Sho Dynasty, near the present-day capital of Naha, from the 15th century until the early 17th century. During this time the indigenous Ryukyuans enjoyed a favorable climate and a thriving trade with China. Ryukyu lacquerware and textiles were exchanged for Chinese pottery and herbs, and spices from Southeast Asia. More »

Legend of the Shiisa
Top Reasons to Visit
The Best of Times

Concerning Restaurants & Hotels
Visitor Information

Places to Explore

Elsewhere on Okinawa Honto
Iriomote-jima
Ishigaki-jima
Kerama Retto

Miyako-shoto
Naha
Taketomi-jima
The War Memorials

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