Okinawa World is one of the most iconic sites on the main island. More than just a park, it is a true journey into the heart of the traditions, nature, and heritage of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Located south of Naha, this immersive place appeals to both families and Japanese culture enthusiasts thanks to its diverse […]
Located just a few minutes from downtown Naha, Fukushuen is a Chinese inspired garden unique in Okinawa. Designed as a space for walking and contemplation, it offers a peaceful break away from urban activity while telling a deep story of cultural ties and exchanges between peoples. A Chinese Garden Born from a Historic Friendship Fukushuen
Small in size but intense in character, Shikuwasa holds a special place in Okinawan culinary culture. Present in home kitchens, beverages, and certain local alcohols, it accompanies daily life with its vibrant flavor and distinctive aroma, while fitting into a simple and natural diet. What is shikuwasa? Shikuwasa belongs to the large citrus family. It
Shikuwasa, the emblematic citrus fruit of Okinawa Read More »
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque village of Yomitan on the island of Okinawa in Japan, the theme park “Murasaki Mura“‘” invites you on an enchanting journey through time during its famous “Ryukyu Lantern Festival“. This annual event, held from December 1st to March 31st, transforms the park into a magical spectacle of lights
Pineapple is an integral part of Okinawa’s agricultural landscape. This tropical fruit, perfectly suited to the climate and soils of the archipelago, tells its own story of local farming traditions and agricultural diversification. Mainly grown in the northern part of the main island and in the Yaeyama Islands, Okinawan pineapple stands out for the diversity
When we talk about Japanese cuisine, we often think of sushi, ramen and tempura. Yet, in the south of Japan, the Okinawa archipelago has a very different gastronomy, influenced by its tropical climate and by the heritage of the Ryukyu Kingdom.This Okinawan cuisine is distinguished by its nutritional balance, the diversity of its vegetables, fish,
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Kitanakagusuku Ruins: Coral Limestone Walls Why are these ruins important? At the top of a ridge overlooking the bay of Nakagusuku city, the Kitanakagusuku Ruins refer to the site of Nakagusuku-jō (which means Nakagusuku Castle). The remains of castles and sacred places called “Gusuku” are part of a larger ensemble listed by UNESCO. Since the
The Chief’s House: a key role in village administration The Jitūdē, sometimes translated as “lord of the manor” or “local chief,” was the municipal authority of a village in Okinawa between the 17th and 19th centuries. His role went far beyond that of a simple representative. He managed the distribution of agricultural land, supervised the
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Located in the north of Okinawa, on the Motobu Peninsula, the Native Okinawa Village is a peaceful place rich in history. Situated in the heart of the vast Ocean Expo Park, this reconstructed village offers visitors an authentic immersion into the daily life of ancient Okinawa, particularly between the 17th and 19th centuries, during the
Yokai, Mirrors of the Japanese Imagination In Japanese culture, the Yokai (properly written with a macron over the “O” as Yōkai according to academic romanization standards, 妖怪 in Japanese) are beings that defy usual categories.Neither gods nor true ghosts, they embody a sense of strangeness: rarely benevolent, they often provoke unease through their unsettling and
Japanese Yokai of Okinawa: Local Creatures and Legends Read More »
