Okinawa

Interesting Facts  Okinawa used to be separate from Japan. It only became a prefecture of Japan when the Meiji government decreed it so in  Karate originated in Okinawa, and spreaded when civilians carrying weapons were banned.  Okinawan cuisine, unlike the rest of Japan’s, has a huge emphasis on pork.  Okinawan people live on average much longer than anyone else in the world ( 100 up).  Irimote Wildcat can only be found in Okinawa.

Questions & Answers  WHERE CAN OKINAWA BE FOUND? Okinawa can be found between Taiwan and the rest of Japan.  IS OKINAWA OFFICIALLY A PART OF JAPAN? Yes.  DOES THE OKINAWAN CULTURE DIFFER FROM THE JAPANESE CULTURE?Yes.  DOES THE OKINAWAN LANGUAGE DIFFER FROM JAPANESE? Yes.  WHAT WAS OKINAWA CALLED IN THE TIMES OF SHOGUNS AND EMPERORS (FEUDAL JAPAN)? The Kingdom of Ryukyus.

History  In the mid eleventh century, along with the inhabitation of mainland Hokkaido and other Japanese islands going on, numerous political factions were formed when castles began to sprout up all over Okinawa. With these castles and political factions, party leaders also began to emerge. Soon there would be a huge power struggle between all of the parties and their leaders.  In the late twelfth century, one such leader formed the Shunten Dynasty ( ). Then came the Eiso Dynasty ( ). Then came the Satto Dynasty ( ). Then the first of two Sho Dynasties came up ( ). Then came the second and final Sho Dynasty ( ).  Later the second Sho Dynasty became a Japanese prefecture with officials from Tokyo governing. When the United States of America arrived and started occupying Japan in World War II, Okinawa was also occupied. It was ruled for twenty seven years by the American ‘imperialists.’  In 1422 The First Sho Dynasty politically and officially unified Okinawa.

Eisa  Eisa is a spirited dance done during the Okinawan festival of Bon. It is a circular dance performed by both genders. On the eve of July fifteenth dancers gather in the village worship center, and dance to appease and praise the gods with their eisa dance. Then they continue, making rounds throughout their village, dancing. Eisa is somewhat derived from Buddhist rituals and other Buddhist ceremonies and various prayers.

Tourism Information  Okinawa has the biggest rope in the world.

Tourism Information  Rope Festival Travel Menu

Tourism Information  Shuri Castle

Tourism Information  Shisas. (The Male has his mouth open and the Female has her mouth closed.)

Tourism Information  Shishimai.

Tourism Information  Habu snake

Tourism Information  Dragon Boat Race.

Tourism Information  Sanshin

Tourism Information  Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Tourism Information  Manza-mo cape (Elephant rock)

Tourism Information  Resort Hotels

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