Travel

As with most things in Okinawa, I often wonder about the history behind the area. Thankfully I am part of a Facebook group called "Hike Okinawa" and it is run by the very knowledgable Rob Oechsle.

Pachinko parlors dot the Japanese archipelago from northern Hokkaido to the southern island of Okinawa.

If you live on or near Kadena Air Base you may have spotted a series of murals on several buildings of the local Ginten Gai market.

Hagi in Yamaguchi Prefecture is a small yet fascinating castle town filled with a classical Japanese atmosphere and UNESCO World Heritage sites.

If you are on the island of Okinawa, you have the opportunity to see world-class reefs in crystal clear water. And you can explore this marvelous water world with a mask, fins and snorkel. Once you learn how to snorkel properly, it could become your favorite hobby during your stay on Okinawa.

Hiji Otaki, or Hiji Waterfall, is a great destination for exploring on the northern part of Okinawa.