OKINAWA

Travel

Photo Of One of the beaches o Yongaguni.

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Traditional culture lives on: Spirits thrive on Yonaguni, Japan’s westernmost island

The nearest island is Taiwan, located 68 miles (111km) away. Yonaguni has become one of Japan’s most intriguing destinations for travelers from around the world.

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VIDEO: Cutting-edge and nostalgic fun at Little Universe Okinawa

If you’re looking for something new on the island, you should check out Little Universe Okinawa.

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Did you know?: Karaoke was invented in Japan

Daisuke Inoue is believed to be the inventor of karaoke. Inoue was a businessman and a musician who used to sing popular songs at parties.

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VIDEO: Exploring Okinawa’s beautiful Yagaji Beach

Yagaji Beach is located by Route 110, which connects the northwest coast of Okinawa’s main island and Yagaji Island.

Photo Of Ryukyu Yokai 2025

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Let Okinawan demons chill you at Murasaki Mura lantern festival till Aug. 31

Summer is considered a spooky season in Japan and Okinawa. Locals seek a chill through Kimodameshi (test of guts) in an effort to have a break from the steamy heat.

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VIDEO: Quick trip to Okinawa’s Miyako Island

Miyako Isand is quick flight from Okinawa. Miyako Island has plenty of culture, shopping, activities and food, which make it a great place for a getaway.

Photo Of Yachimun

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VIDEO: Naha’s Yachimun Street a treasure trove of Okinawan traditional Yachimun pottery

In Naha’s Tsuboya District, you’ll find a street dedicated to the ancient craft of Okinawan Yachimun, or pottery in Ryukyu dialect.

Photo Of two ships can be seen near the beach.

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Ishigaki Island Travel Guide: Beaches, food, and hidden gems in Okinawa

In 2018, Ishigaki Island beat out Maui, Reykjavik and other major destinations to top TripAdvisor’s list of trending spots.

Photo Of Takahiro Takiguchi and Shoji Kudaka illustration

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Speakin’ Japanese: Car talk

A personal vehicle is a great way to get around base and help you explore. Here are some helpful phrases to help you down the road!

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VIDEO: Return to Kouri Island, Okinawa

Kouri Island is a relaxing getaway from Okinawa’s main island with beautiful beaches to help you disconnect from the busy world and reconnect with nature.

Photo Of Cape Shiriyazaki

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Japan’s Ocean Day to be observed July 21

Japan’s Umi-no-hi, or Ocean Day, will be observed July 21 this year. This national holiday is the unofficial start of the summer season for students, but there are not official celebrations.

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VIDEO: Okinawa’s beautiful bingata traditional cloth dyeing

Bingata is a traditional cloth-dyeing method that spans generations and has a 500-year history on Okinawa.

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VIDEO: Exploring Itokazu Castle Ruins on Okinawa

Itokazu Castle is believed to have been built on Okinawa’s main island in the early 14th century with the purpose of defending Tamagusku Castle, which is located nearby.

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Speakin’ Japanese Baseball Banter

If you are at a ballpark in Japan, here are some phrases to help you to enjoy the ballgame.

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