The All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima! This is a video of the 35th All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima, released by Ryukyu Shimpo. 1,700 athletes participated in the rigorous competition in Miyakojima, Okinawa, on April 14th, 2019; Some aiming for glory, and others aiming to just finish. Starting at Yonaha Maehama Beach, athletes rushed through the 3 events, swimming, biking, and running through the 202.195 km course, to the goal at Miyakojima City Track and Field. With voices of cheering spectators on the roadside giving them strength. The Miyakojima Triathlon Photo：Traithlon A triathlon is a sport that involves swimming, cycling, and running. The international distance (used at the Olympics) is 51.5 km long. However, the Miyakojima triathlon is not a normal triathlon. It is classified as an Ironman Triathlon, and covers a total distance of 202.195 kilometres- 3 km swimming, 157 km cycling, and 42.195 kms running. The origin of its name is the combination of the suffix tri, meaning 3 in Greek, and athlon which means "an event." The history of triathlons is relatively short, with the world’s first triathlon held in San Diego, California in 1974. After that, events, such as the World Championship series and World Cup, started to be held in various places. Triathlons Are a Brutal Sport! Photo：Triathlon There are other kinds of triathlon, for example the standard distance mentioned earlier, as well as the Sprint-Distance (27.75km), and the Ultra-Triathlon (226km). The Triathlon, which consists of 3 events- swimming, cycling, and running, is a brutal race, and the name "Ironman" fits it quite well. Because of this, the All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima is also called "STRONGMAN." The All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima Photo：Traithlon・Ikema Bridge The All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima is an event held in Miyakojima, a popular resort location in Okinawa. As seen at 0:08 in the video, the race starts from Shimoji Miyakojima City Yonaha Maehama Beach, known as a diving spot, and the course goes around Miyakojima’s sightseeing spots, finally finishing at Miyakojima City Track and Field, as seen from 1:10 in the video. Summary of the All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima When traveling to Ishigakijima or Miyakojima, be sure to stop by the All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima course! If you are interested in sports, you can train for the All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima, and get wetsuits and marathon clothing in preparation! 【Official Website】All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima https://tri-miyako.com/en/

Introducing the Okinawa Rail - A Protected Species in Japan This video, titled “Wild Okinawa rail (Kunigami, Okinawa prefecture) May 11th-12th, 2019（野生の ヤンバルクイナ (沖縄県国頭村) 2019年5月11-12日) introduces the Okinawa rail, a protected species on the Red List of the Ministry of the Environment. The Okinawa rail is also a critically endangered species and a Specified National Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. They are flightless birds and live only in Okinawa. This video was taken in 2019 on the street in Kunigami, Okinawa prefecture. The bird is an endemic species found only in northern Okinawa prefecture, Kunigami, Ogimison, and Higashison, and is referred to as "Yanbaru." It's a very rare bird, not only in Japan but also around the world. The forest area located in the northern part of Okinawa is called the Yanbaru Forest. Kunigami Village, where wild Okinawa rail (Yanbaru Kuina) appear frequently, is called the Forest of Kuina. There is an Okinawa Rail Ecology Center, and the Yanbaru Kuina observatory is located there. The Ecology of the Okinawa Rail Photo：Okinawa rail The wild Okinawa rail is characterized by the following morphology and characteristics: ・Birds, Order Gruiformes, Family Rallidae, scientific name: Gallirallus okinawae ・Size: approx. 35 cm in length with a weight of 230 gramst ・Wild distribution：The woodlands near Mt. Yonahatake ・Eating habits：Omnivorous ・Nesting：They build nests on the grounds of the forest, and lay about 4 eggs in breeding season. ・They have vestigial wings and are unable to fly, but parent birds have bright red bills and beautifully striped feathers. Chicks have a protective coloring of deep black feathers. ・Their calls are distinctive, and very loud. The Origins of the Name "Yanbaru Kuina," and the History the Okinawa Rail Photo：Okinawa rail The first discovery of the wild Okinawa rail by experts was in 1981, which is actually quite recent. There are various kinds of Rallidae (rails) around the world, but it gained a lot of attention as the first rail species to be discovered in the wild. In Okinawa Prefecture, they were called by different names such as Agachi, Agacha, and Yamadui, depending on the region, and it turned out that they are a species indigenous to the region with a long history. Therefore, they were named Yanbaru Kuina from Yamadui, which means bird of the mountains, using the Kanji "山原"as a phonetic equivalent (pronounced Yanbaru in Okinawa dialect). Other than Yanbaru Kuina, Yanbaru Fumiru and Okinawa Kuina were other possible names. Summary of Very Rare Okinawa Rail Photo：An Okinawa rail crossing sign The Okinawa rail is an endangered species of wild bird that can only be seen in Yanbaru Forest on the main island of Okinawa. Even in Okinawa Prefecture, you cannot see them on remote islands such as Miyako Island. They are a very rare endemic species. The reasons for the decline in the Okinawa rail's population are due to deaths from car accidents and attacks by alien predators such as mongooses, Yellow fever mosquitoes, and stray cats. At 0:10 in the video, an Okinawa rail is seen crossing the road at a brisk pace, raising concerns about traffic accidents. Japan is still an island country with 70% of its land surrounded by forests, and there are many rare wild indigenous species that are only found in Japan, so it is said to be very important for the protection of indigenous species that we do not pollute the natural environment through overexploitation, nor bring dangerous alien species into the country without care. Currently, the Ministry of the Environment is taking the lead in protecting the Okinawa rail, breeding mates, increasing their numbers, and returning them to the wild. However, it is important not only to protect them strictly, but also to make people widely aware of Okinawa rails. In this way there are goods such as stuffed animals sold at roadside stations and airport shops in Okinawa. These awareness raising activities are also part of the important protection policies.

The Mouthwatering Coconut Crab of Yatai Mura on Kokusaidori This video, titled "Japanese Street Food - GIANT COCONUT CRAB Seafood Okinawa Japan," was uploaded by "Travel Thirsty." It introduces the coconut crab sold at food trucks in Okinawa. Coconut crabs are huge crustaceans that live in Okinawa Prefecture. They have a history of being eaten as a delicacy in parts of Okinawa since ancient times. At Yatai Mura, a popular destination on Kokusaidori in Naha, Okinawa, you can eat gigantic coconut crab dishes. Sometimes called "Okinawa's strange specialty," coconut crab is surprisingly delicious thanks to its plump texture and the delicious broth that can be made from it. How is Okinawa's Coconut Crab Prepared? Photo：Coconut crab cuisine Coconut crab dishes can be eaten at Okinawan food stalls for a few thousand yen. Coconut crab dishes are made in much the same way as normal crab dishes; however, the shells of coconut crab are hard, making them difficult to prepare sometimes. At food stalls, coconut crabs are usually steamed whole, then removed from the shell and eaten with seasonings, such as sauce or soup stock. This can be seen at 8:09 in the video. What Kind of Creatures are Okinawa's Coconut Crab? Photo：Coconut crab Coconut crabs look like crabs, but they're actually a type of hermit crab. In Japanese, they're called "yashi-gani" (椰子蟹 in kanji or the more common ヤシガニ in katakana). Coconut crabs inhabit Miyako Island, Ishigaki Island, and Iriomote Island in Okinawa Prefecture, and the largest crabs can grow more than 40 cm in length and weigh more than 4 kg! The coconut crab is said to be the strongest crustacean, and the clamping force of its giant pincers is about 90 times its weight, which is about as strong as a lion's bite! Fisherman must be very careful when catching coconut crabs, as not to get injured. Points of Caution When Eating Coconut Crab at a Food Stall Photo：Coconut crab cuisine Because coconut crabs are omnivores and eat dead or rotten fish carcasses, they can accumulate pathogens in their bodies. Coconut crabs that have accumulated these pathogens can cause food poisoning if eaten, even after cooking them, so be careful. Coconut crab is a valuable food item that is rarely eaten nowadays, partly because it is listed as an endangered species. Summary of the Coconut Crab at Okinawa's Food Stalls Photo：Coconut crab cuisine The Okinawan culture of eating giant coconut crabs dates all the way back to ancient Japan. Seen at 4:40 in the video are some of the unique gourmet specialties at Okinawan food stalls, including dishes like chanpuru, rafute, mimigaa (pig's ear) and umibudo (sea grapes). If you’re traveling to Okinawa, be sure to try the coconut crab sold at one of the many food stalls! ◆Kokusaidori, Yatai Mura｜General Information◆ 【Address】3-11 Makishi, Naha 900-0013 Okinawa Prefecture 【Access】A 4-minute walk from Yui Rail Makishi Station. 【Hours】Varies depending on other restaurants at the location 【Closures】Varies depending on other restaurants at the location 【Parking】None 【Tripadvisor】Kokusaidori, Yatai Mura https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298224-d11848458-Reviews-Kokusaidori_Yataimura-Naha_Okinawa_Prefecture.html

The Nationally Protected "Iriomote Cat" This video, "Iriomote cat," was created by "okinawastoryMediaLib," and features special footage of the rare and endangered species- the Iriomote cat. In this article, we bring you facts and information on the ecology of the Iriomote cat, a subspecies of the Leopard cat. From 00:24 in the video, you can see the carnivorous Iriomote cat search for and successfully find food amongst the fallen leaves. The Iriomote cat looks different from a domestic cat in several ways: it has round ears with a cloudy white mark on its back (a feature found in many wild cats), a thick, bushy tail, its fur has a spotted pattern, and the area surrounding the eyes is white in color. Take a look at the unique features of the Iriomote cat in this video! More About the Iriomote Cat, a Species Endemic to the Iriomote Island of Okinawa Photo：Iriomote cat The Iriomote cat, native to Iriomote Island, is often referred to as Yamapikarya or Yamamaya by the locals. The call of an Iriomote cat sounds similar to that of a domestic cat, however they rarely cry. Unfortunately, the number of Iriomote cats is decreasing and there are thought to be only around 100 cats remaining on Iriomote Island. In 1965, when the Iriomote cat was first discovered on Iriomote Island, it was thought to be a new species. However, research has categorized the Iriomote cat as a member of the genus Prionailurus, family Felidae. Other than the domesticated cat, the Iriomote cat of Iriomote Island and the leopard cat (scientific name: Prionailurus bengalensis euptilurus) of Nagasaki prefecture's Tsushima Island are the only two known cat species to inhabit Japan. Iriomote cats are nocturnal animals who live in the mountain forest. Outside of breeding season they tend to live a solitary life. The average weight of an Iriomote cat is 3-4kg, with an average height 50-60cm, and an average life span of 7-8 years in the wild. They have a varied diet that consists of small mammals, birds, reptiles, frogs and insects. The breeding season is from February to April during which time they stick to their territory avoiding potential rivals (other members of the same sex). Unfortunately, the survival of the Iriomote cat is under threat from the continued development destroying their habitat, traffic accidents, and contagious diseases. There are no zoos or facilities that breed or raise Iriomote cats. However, the Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center strives to protect the Iriomote cat and at the facility you can learn about the rare cat through various materials, documents, and even stuffed animals. You can also purchase cute Iriomote cat plush toys, T-shirts, and other Iriomote cat related goods at the Iriomote Island Tourist Center. Summary of the Iriomote Cat Source :YouTube screenshot Please take a look at the beautiful Iriomote cat in this video as it's incredibly rare to catch a glimpse of this endangered species in the wild. From 3:51 in the video, you can even see some rare footage of the Iriomote cat climbing a tree. We hope you enjoyed watching this precious footage of the Iriomote cat! 【Official Website】Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center, Iriomote cat https://iwcc.jp/iriomotecat/cat/

Miyakojima's Paantu! This video is titled "Miyakojima Shimajiri Paantu 2018 Unesco World Cultural Heritage." (宮古島・島尻パーントゥ2018　UNESCO World cultural heritage). It introduces the traditional festival in Miyakojima, Okinawa, "Paantu." During the festival, supernatural gods called Paantu wear masks and chase out evils to bring luck to the villagers. The traditional event is held in two locations in Miyakojima: the Hirano Shimajiri region and the Ueno Nohara region. Each location has its differences. In 1982, both events were selected as Intangible folk cultural properties, and in 1993, they were designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Assets. "Raihojin," (ritual visits of deities in masks and costumes) was added to UNESCO’s intangible folk cultural asset list in 2018. Paantu and Satupunaha Source :YouTube screenshot According to the local history records, the origin of the word "Paantu" is a combination of two words "Paan"(to eat) and "Pitu" (people). It has the meaning of a ghost or a demon. "Satupunaha" (wishes for home) of Shimajiri, Miyakojima takes place three times a year. Paantu is an event that takes place at the third event and it is called Paantu Satupunaha or Paantu Punaha. It was originally held on the "lucky day" (an unspecified day of the month) of the ninth month of the lunar calendar, but now it is held in October. Paantu’s appearance is similar to Namahage, another spiritual creature in Japan. Local young adult men are chosen to become Paantu and there are three roles available (Uya, Naka and Fufa). Check out the video at 0:06 to see what the Paantu look like. The three chosen men wear ivy grass called "Shionokikazura" and apply mud from the bottom of a well called "Nmarigah," which The Nmarigah is located in the vicinity of Miyajima Elementary School, and the mud is smeared on people and houses in the pantu. Children cry and scream and the smell of the mud is so bad that it cannot be removed for several days. You can see the children screaming and crying at 0:14, and teenagers running away at 1:21. Paantu even smear mud on the police car at 1:27. Playing Tag With the Gods Source :YouTube screenshot Local people explain that this event is like playing tag with the gods. The event is loved by the local people, and it's considered lucky to get muddy, as the mud will keep bad spirits away thank to its horrible smell. At first glance, it looks scary, as you see the whole village running away, but when you see the smiling faces of the villagers after being covered with mud, you'll understand the beauty of the festival. In recent years, the festival has been in danger of being cancelled due to complaints of being dirtied and problems with the festival causing trouble. Paantu would smear mud on everyone, including tourists, elderly people, police, and little children. However, the event is very important for the local people as it helps to drive out demons and cleanse the island of bad luck. Therefore, this event still continues and only people who can accept this event should participate this event. Source :YouTube screenshot Please be aware that if you are visiting Shimajiri, Miyakojima during the festival, you WILL get muddy. If you would like to know more about this event, you can also visit the Miyakojima City Museum. At this facility, you can learn about the history of Paantu and Miyakojima. You can also wear Paantu masks and take pictures. The mask is said to have washed ashore on the coast of Miyakojima Island more than a hundred years ago, wrapped in kuba leaves. Summary of Paantu Source :YouTube screenshot Are you looking forward to Paantu? The unique culture of Miyakojima, a remote island, brings many visitors to the island every year. Special goods and T-shirts are also sold, and they help stimulate the local economy, so if you're looking for souvenirs to commemorate your trip, don't miss out on them! Bisit Shimajiri, Miyakojima and have a fun-filled experience in the mud! 【Tripadvisor】City of Miyakojima https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g680765-Miyakojima_Okinawa_Prefecture-Vacations.html

This Introductory Video of Iheya Island, Okinawa, Shows the Incredibly Beautiful, Dreamlike Scenery of the Island This introductory video, "The Mystic 'Iheya Island'" (神秘の島「伊平屋島」) was produced by the Iheya Island Tourist Association using aerial drone footage. You'll see the incredibly beautiful scenery of the isolated Iheya Island, in Okinawa. Iheya Island is a remote island with breathtakingly clear, pristine waters and nature. It is even famous in Okinawa, one of Japan's most popular tourist resorts. In this article, you'll find recommendations for places to see and things to do around Iheya Island, Okinawa. The video shows aerial photos of the emerald green coral reefs and the natural mountains of Iheya Island in Okinawa. You'll be astonished watching the video and realizing that such beauty exists in Japan. All About Iheya Island, Okinawa Photo：Iheya Island's sandy beach and sea Iheya Island is located 117 km north of Naha on the main island of Okinawa, a part of Japan's southwestern archipelago. It is also north of the main island of Okinawa, 41.1 km from Nakijinson Kamiunten harbor, a ferry depot in the northernmost inhabited island of Okinawa. At southern end of Iheya Island, there is Izena Island. Iheya Island is a mysterious island where the original landscape of Okinawa has been preserved, and many legends and gods continue to live on. Iheya Island (Area: 20.66km2 Perimeter: 34.23km) is a long, thin island connected to Noho Island (Area: 1.06km2 Perimeter: 4.8km) by the Noho bridge and as of July, 2009, has a population of 1,405. To get to Iheya Island, you can take a bus or car from Naha Airport on the main island of Okinawa to Unten Port in Nakijin Village where the ferry dock is located. An 80-minute ride on the ferry takes you to Iheya Island. As there are only two ferry services a day, and a day trip is difficult, we recommend spending at least one night on Iheya Island. Local transportation is either rental cars, taxis, the island's community bus, or rental bicycles, as well as the ferry that takes you to Iheya Island. It's also possible to bring your own car onto the ferry as well. If the weather is good, we recommend renting a bicycle to see the island and enjoy the natural scenery. Touristic Information to Enjoy Iheya's Beautiful Emerald Green Sea Photo：Sea turtle The brilliant emerald-green sea shown in the video is so beautiful that you might feel like you're dreaming. The sea is transparent up to 50 meters and the view of a small boat casting its shadow on the seafloor is fantastic. You can see this amazing scenery from 1:12 in the video. The sea of Iheya Island is comparably beautiful to that of popular Yaeyama Island and Miyako Island. In these beautiful waters, you can enjoy coral reefs, marine life, snorkeling, diving, sea kayaking and other marine sports, as well as fishing to your heart's content. The beaches which are worth visiting on Iheya Island are ‘Kumaya beach’ for fishing, and ‘Suga-hama’ and ‘Yonesaki-kaigan’ for enjoying beautiful scenery. Because there are only two ferries a day and no large tourist facilities, there are very few tourists in Okinawa, so you can enjoy the sea to your heart's content, as it is a lesser-known beach in Okinawa. White sandy beaches with endless blue skies and seas await you. Enjoy the Sights and Sounds of Iheya Island Photo：Hiramatsu Starting at 1:31 in the video, the sights of Iheya Island, with its unspoiled nature and culture, are introduced. One of the must-see spots is “Kumaya Cave” which is said to be the southernmost place related to a legend about Amaterasu Omikami. Japan has a lot of places where the “Amano Iwato legend” allegedly took place. The natural light that floods the cave is so magical and Instagram-worthy. It's also a popular power spot not to be missed when visiting Iheya Island. At 1:46 in the video, “Nento hiramatsu” is also a popular touristic spot on Iheya Island and visitors will be overwhelmed when they see the branches of the “Ryukyu matsu” looming over them. We also recommend visiting the Iheya Lighthouse from which you can overlook the whole of Iheya Island. This can be seen in the video from 1:51. You can enjoy a spectacular view of nature with 200-meter-high mountains and blue waters. There are also plenty of other places with beautiful scenery as well. From 1:58 on the video, “Yahe Rock” is a historical place and said to be the ruins of an old castle that protected the island from the Nakijin army. The sunset seen through the rocky mountains quite the spectacle as well. If you're looking for something good to eat, be sure to try the fresh seafood dishes on Iheya Island. As it's surrounded by the sea, it has some of the freshest seafood you can get! After a day of fishing, a seaside BBQ with the fish you caught will make for an unforgettable experience. Mozuku seaweed and local sea salt from Iheya Island make for great souvenirs as well. Other Tourist Attractions at Iheya Island There are even more tourist destinations on Iheya Island that weren't shown in the video! “Kuba mountain at Tana”, “Tiger head Rock”, “Yagurabaka”, “Iheya History and Folklore Museum” and “Kami asagi” are also places we recommend visiting. If you prefer joining activities or events, "Iheya Village Trail," "Iheya Moonlight marathon," "Iheya Festival," "Iheya Scarecrow Festival," and “Iheya New Year Trim Marathon” are some things that might interest you. Of course, there are also hotels and inns on Iheya Island, so you can stay overnight for sightseeing. Wrap-Up Photo： Iheya Island from a plane The video, "The Mystic 'Iheya Island'" (神秘の島「伊平屋島」), introduces the beautiful, clear sea and the splendid natural scenery of Iheya Island, one of Japan’s remote islands. Sometimes the waves are so calm, and you can see the seafloor so clearly, that it's as if there's no water at all. Be sure to check this out in the video! In this article, we introduced you to Iheya Island's attractions, marine activities, and food, as well as how to access it. There are also agriculture and fishing experiences, as well as home-stay accommodations where you can interact with the islanders and experience Japan's original landscape and nature. Take a trip to the remote Iheya Island, forget about your troubles, and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. 【Tripadvisor】Iheya Island https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121620-d1373491-Reviews-Iheyajima_Island-Iheya_son_Shimajiri_gun_Okinawa_Prefecture.html

The Lively, Tropical Ishigaki City Public Market- The Kitchen of the Island “What the Guidebooks Won’t Tell You About Ishigakijima! Kitchen of the Island! City Public Market!” (ガイドブックでは分からない石垣島！島の台所！公設市場), was created by “Okinawa Katteni Guide.” It introduces Ishigaki City Public Market along with the song, “Nada Sousou” by BEGIN. Ishigaki City Public Market is located inside Euglena Mall (formerly Ayapani Mall), which is a bazaar along Ginza Street. It's in the center of Ishigaki Island. (石垣島, Ishigakijima) This article will introduce the charms of Ishigaki City Public Market, side by side with the video. Enjoy the tropical and lively atmosphere of the market! Introducing Ishigaki City Public Market Source :YouTube screenshot The market is along Chuou Street and inside the shopping district “Euglena Mall. There are supermarkets and izakaya inside the market as well. It's very popular and has a history of more than 100 years. There are street booths along the market selling rare tropical fruits, veggies, local specialties, souvenirs, and more. This can be seen at 0:22 in the video. From 0:51, we see the inside of the market. The first floor sells meats and fish. You can get fresh tropical fish, shrimp, and natural mozuku seaweed at “Manna Sengyoten,” “Kuba Sengyoten” and so on. Source :YouTube screenshot The meat is mainly Ishigaki beef, a specialty of Ishigaki Island. There's also "Chiragar," (smoked pig skin) which can be seen at 1:32 in the video. The Uehara Butcher Shop and Tamashiro Meat Shop are two of the butcher shops in the area. There are also other stores that sell seashells. The magnificent shells make great tropical souvenirs. As seen at 1:47 in the video, there's a shop called “Ishigakishi Tokusanhin Hanbai Center” that sells specialty goods on the second floor. This shop is approved by the Ishigaki Chamber of Commerce. In the spacious shop, there's Shisa pottery, Ryukyu glass, Yaeyama textiles, Angama masks and Ohoho masks of the gods, local beer made on Ishigaki Island, fresh chinsuko, passion fruit drinks, and more! Although not featured in the video, there's a restaurant called “Ichiba Shokudo” on the third floor that serves local cuisine. You can enjoy buying food, souvenirs, and the local flavors all in one area! Information About Ishigaki City Public Market Photo：Scenery from New Ishigaki Airport Observation Deck To get to Ishigaki City Public Market, it takes about 30 minutes by bus and train from Ishigaki Airport. There is no parking at the market itself, but there are parking lots around the market. Hours are from 9 am to 9 pm. Summary of the Ishigaki City Public Market Photo：Okinawa Prefecture, Shisa souvenir “What the Guidebooks Won’t Tell You About Ishigakijima! Kitchen of the Island! City Public Market!,” gives an inside look at the amazing Ishigaki City Public Market. Be sure to watch the video and see the lively market, which has a bazaar-like atmosphere that you normally wouldn't find in Japan. There are a lot of sightseeing spots such as Ishigaki Stalactite Cave, hotels, and beaches around the market as well. Visit Ishigaki City Public Market when you travel to Ishigaki Island! 【Tripadvisor】Ishigaki-jima https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g14210285-Ishigaki_jima_Ishigaki_Okinawa_Prefecture-Vacations.html

The Spectacular Beaches of Kouri Island, Okinawa: Video Introduction This video, titled "Superb Beaches on Kouri Island ( Okinawa, Japan ) / Spectacular Views of Japan," was uploaded by "HealingJapanTV." In the video, you can enjoy beautiful visuals and the sound of waves at Kouri Ohashi Bridge by Tinu Beach, as well as footage of Heart Rock, and more. Be sure to check it out! Kouri Island – Features of the Unique Sightseeing Spot in Okinawa, Japan Photo：Kouri Ohashi Bridge Kouri Island (Kourijima) is located in Nakijin, a village in Okinawa Prefecture, in Japan's Kyushu region. Although the island is small enough that a 10-minute drive will take you around the whole island, it's visited by many tourists each year. Kouri Island is famous for its sightseeing spot, Kouri Ohashi Bridge. It's a 2-km-long bridge connecting Yagaji Island and Kouri Island, and when it opened in 2005, it was the longest free bridge over a remote island in Japan. The blue ocean seen from Kouri Ohashi Bridge is beautiful and has been the setting for commercials, TV dramas, and movies in Japan. There is also a unique rock formation near the bridge that looks like a shisa facing to the side. Around Kouri Ohashi Bridge, there are several observatories from which you can view the bridge itself. In the video, you can see the view from the Unten Observation Deck and from the observatory in Unten Forest Park. [Video] 0:04 - Kouri Ohashi Bridge Kouri Island, also known as Kuijima (恋島) in Japanese, making it a popular power spot for couples, as the nickname literally means 'Love Island' in Japanese. With blue skies, crystal clear waters, and several beautiful beaches, it's a popular tourist spot. Kouri Island is also known as the "Island of Love" or "Island of Gods" based on a legend of the Okinawan version of "Adam and Eve," making Tinu Beach's Heart Rock a must-see tourist attraction. Heart Rock – A Famous Power Spot on Kouri Island's Tinu Beach Photo：Heart Rock, Kouri Island, Okinawa [Video] 9:12 - Heart Rock As the name suggests, this spot is popular for its heart-shaped rock, which is popular for photography. Heart Rock became popular after it was used in a Japanese airline commercial. It's famous for two rocks that overlap and look like a heart, but it's also popular for the upside-down heart that forms between two overlapping rocks. It is said that seeing Heart Rock will make one's love come true, making it a popular destination for couples. If you're planning to visit Heart Rock, we recommend going by car. From Naha Airport, take Naha Nishi Road (那覇西道路) and get on the Okinawa Expressway (沖縄自動車道) (toll-free) from the Nishihara IC (西原IC). Exit at the Kyoda IC (許田IC), the final stop on the way to Nago, and drive to Kouri Island via Yagaji Island while seeing the beautiful view from Kouri Ohashi Bridge. Both free parking lots and paid parking can be found around Tinu Beach. Kouri Island can be reached in about an hour and a half from Naha Airport. The scenery on the way to the island is beautiful, so time will pass quickly. We recommend checking high and low tide times in advance. Beautiful Beaches to Visit on Kouri Island Photo：Plums on Kouri Island Kouri Island has other beautiful beaches in addition to Tinu Beach. ・Kouri Beach Kouri Beach is a beautiful, sandy white beach with shallow waters near Kouri Ohashi Bridge. It's dotted with fashionable cafes and is popular with families with small children. [Video] 3:55 - Kouri Beach ・Tokei Beach Tokei Beach, located at the northernmost tip of the island on the other side of Kouri Ohashi Bridge, is a quiet and beautiful natural beach. It can be reached by walking along a grassy path. The water is crystal clear, and swimming is possible outside of low tide. It is small but quiet, and you can enjoy the atmosphere of a semi-private beach here. ・Peace Beach Like Tokei Beach, this is also a secluded beach. After passing through a small forest-like pathway, the view opens up to reveal the beautiful ocean. At low tide, you can walk to the outer reef. When swimming, be careful as the water may be deep in some places. Tokei Beach and Peace Beach, are two secluded beaches located side by side on the north side of Kouri Island. Must Try Foods on Kouri Island! If you're looking to try the local cuisine, Kouri Island is known for its delicious seafood. One dish you've got to try is the sea urchin donburi (uni-don) at Shirasa Shokudo. The uni-don set meal, which comes with a large helping of fresh sea urchins caught on Kouri Island, is reasonably priced at 2,000 yen! Shirasa Shokudo also offers overnight accommodations. The garlic shrimp at KOURI SHRIMP, where you can enjoy Hawaiian-style snacks, is also very popular and they even offer take out as well. We also recommend checking out local cafes where you can enjoy gourmet food while taking in the spectacular views! Cafe Fukurubi, not far from Tinu Beach, where Heart Rock is located, is also a great place where you can enter even in a swim suit. Lunch on the terrace while feeling the ocean breeze at this stylish and fashionable café makes for a wonderful experience. Be sure to take a photo with the ocean in the backdrop during your visit. It's popular on Instagram for being photogenic! Summary of Kouri Island, Okinawa Photo：Heart Rock, Kouri Island, Okinawa Kouri Island is so small that it can be circled in about 10 minutes by car. Also known as 'Love Island,' the island has a legend an Okinawan version of "Adam and Eve," and is visited by couples from all over Japan. Another interesting feature is that the shape of Heart Rock changes depending on the angle from which you view it. Be sure to try viewing it from different angles! Snorkeling and other marine activities can be enjoyed in the beautiful waters of Kouri Island, but since the island is crowded during tourist season, we recommend making reservations in advance. Also, the view from the Unten Observatory and Kouri Ocean Tower, which opened in 2013, is a must-see. Be sure to stop by. Even if you're staying at a hotel on the main island of Okinawa, you can easily visit the island via car. If you want to see the nature and waters of Kouri Island, or if you want to try delicious sea urchin bowls or garlic shrimp, definitely check it out! If you still haven't yet, be sure to check out the video as it gives you a good idea of what you can expect on the island. 【TripAdvisor】Kouri Island https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g14139570-Kouri_jima_Nakijin_son_Kunigami_gun_Okinawa_Prefecture-Vacations.html

Introducing Okinawa! This one and a half minute long promotional video "IS JAPAN COOL? OKINAWA," was created by "ANA Global Channel." It introduces popular sightseeing spots, as well as the food and culture of Okinawa. Tourists travel from all over the world to Okinawa for its beautiful beaches, delicious food and comfortable climate. For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax both body and mind, we highly recommend a trip to Okinawa! There are so many places to enjoy your time in Okinawa. Not only is there the popular main island but there are also many beautiful, smaller islands such as Ishigaki island (石垣島, ishigakijima) and Taketomi island (竹富島, taketomijima) where you can spend your holiday relaxing in the sun. In this article, we'll introduce popular sightseeing spots and delicacies we recommend you try on your trip to Okinawa! Be sure to follow along with the video! The Top Sightseeing Spots in Okinawa ・Islands to visit on your trip to Okinawa The smaller islands off the mainland of Okinawa are a great place to go to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life in the city. All of the islands are abundant with nature and the scenery is unbelievably beautiful. We highly recommend Taketomi island, Ishigaki island, and Miyako island (宮古島, miyakojima). All are fantastic places where you can take part in fun activities, such as banana boating, scuba diving, parasailing, or walking along the sea floor (an activity known as "sea walk" in Japanese). You can take a look at these water activities from 0:15 in the video. Don't they look exciting? Photo：Sefa-Utaki ・Historic sites to visit in Okinawa There are numerous spots in Okinawa steeped in history, such as Sefa-Utaki (斎場御嶽), Shuri Castle (首里城, shurijou)and Choju no mura (長寿の村). We highly recommend visiting Utaki, which is known for being a power spot in Okinawa. It's a very mysterious and fascinating place where people often go to say prayers. Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Okinawa Photo：Churaumi Aquarium There are many spots in Okinawa to enjoy with the whole family, such as Churaumi Aquarium (美ら海水族館) and International Avenue (国際通り) (known in Japanese as Kokusai Dori). International Avenue is home to the biggest shopping district in Naha (那覇) and is a place where you can enjoy eating out, shopping, or buying souvenirs. It's definitely a place worth visiting if you plan on travelling to Okinawa's main island. Okinawan Cuisine and Souvenirs If you would like to try Okinawan cuisine, we highly recommend ordering some Okinawa Soba (沖縄そば) or Goya Chanpuru (ゴーヤチャンプル). Agu pork (アグー豚), with its characteristic high quality fat, is another dish we recommend you try during your visit to Okinawa! You can see these dishes in the video at 0:45. Okinawa's famous shochu "Awamori" (泡盛) makes a great souvenir for family and friends! Areas We Recommend to Enjoy the Best of Okinawan Cuisine Photo：public market, Okinawa For those looking forward to experiencing Okinawan cuisine, we highly recommend visiting the public parket. The public market, also known as Nahashi no daidokoro (那覇市の台所) which translates to "Naha City's Kitchen," sells fresh fish, pigs feet, shimarakkyo (島らっきょ), goya, and other popular Okinawa foods. It's popular with both locals and foreign visitors. There's also a dining area in the public market where you can enjoy trying Okinawan cuisine. However, please take note that the public market is currently under construction and has been temporarily relocated to the nearby "Nigiwai Hiroba" (にぎわい広場) (rebuilding of the public market is due to be completed by March 31st, 2022). Summary of the Okinawa Sightseeing Video We hope you enjoyed learning about the popular sightseeing spots introduced in this promotional video, and taking a look at the beautiful scenery of Okinawa. More information regarding Okinawan culture, such as Hari boats (ハーリー), the Sanshin (三線) and Kachashi (カチャーシー) is also included in the video making it a must-see for anyone who has yet to visit Okinawa! 【Official Website】Okinawa City Hall https://www.city.okinawa.okinawa.jp/english/

Highlights in the Video This video, titled "[ver.2] JAPAN - Where tradition meets the future | JNTO," was created by "visit japan." It summarizes popular sightseeing spots in Japan, the charms of Japan, the wonders of Japan, and recommended destinations in Japan. Many people think of Tokyo and Kyoto as tourist destinations. However, there are many other traditional tourist spots in Japan as well. This video introduces Japan’s scenic beauty and superb views, tradition and beliefs, traditional performing arts, martial arts, and festivals, using the latest technologies, such as time-lapse and drones, in a quick, 3-minute video. There's a lot of scenery introduced in the video that even Japanese people don't know about! I hope that everyone can discover the wonder and beauty of Japan by watching this video! The video introduces countless tourist destinations, the charms of Japan, the splendor of Japan, recommended spots in Japan, and Japanese culture. This article will also introduce some of the information in the video, so be sure to follow along with the video as you read this article! Recommended Tourist Destinations in Japan ©Michio_Matsuoka Modifying This video also introduces many tourist destinations in Japan. There are many World Heritage Sites in Japan, some of which have unique cultures and history that you can't experience in other countries. For example, Itsukushima Shrine, which has an impressive vermillion red torii gate standing in the sea, and Himeji Castle, which has impressive, white castle walls, are both popular with domestic and foreign tourists. Itsukushima Shrine is shown from 0:35 in the video. Shirakawa-go, where you can stay in historic thatched-roof houses, is another tourist destination in Japan. Other tourist destinations that we highly recommend visiting include Shuri Castle (1:26) and Osaka Castle (1:41). If you're looking to go for a walk amongst magnificent natural scenery, we recommend places like Mt. Fuji and Kumano Kodo. Beautiful Sightseeing Destinations in Japan's Great Outdoors ©Kagoshima Prefecture Modifying The magnificent view of the natureof Japan shown in the video is spectacular. As of June 2019, Japan's four natural heritage sites are Shiretoko in Hokkaido, Shirakami Mountains that span Aomori and Akita, the Ogasawara Islands of Tokyo, and Yakushima in Kagoshima prefecture. Natural heritage spots where you can enjoy seasonal landscapes unique to Japan are also attracting attention as a valuable tourist destinations. Yakushima is shown from 0:35 in the video. We recommend it to those looking to go on a trip to unexplored places with spectacular views of nature that will make you forget all about the troubles of daily life. The video introduces a ton of other spots full of natural beauty that aren't listed above. There are still so many wondrous views in Japan! Sightseeing in Japan's Lively Cities! Photo：Dotonbori Walking through the bustling cities of Japan also makes for an unforgettable experience. If you're looking to visit lively spots, we recommend the Dotonbori area in Osaka. This is shown from 1:14 in the video. There are many restaurants and shopping districts around Dotonbori, Osaka, which is known as Kuidaore Town. Many popular events are held in tourist areas as well, so be sure to keep your eyes open for them. In Osaka, there's the Tower of the Sun, which was created by the artist Taro Okamoto as a symbol for the Japan World Exposition (Osaka Expo) held in Suita City, Osaka Prefecture in 1970. This famous tourist destination is introduced from 2:16 in the video. Going out to see Japanese festivals and learning about traditional Japanese performing arts and martial arts is sure to make for an unforgettable experience. Summary of Modern Day Japan After watching the video, which place caught your eye? Of course, there are many more tourist destinations, charms, and wonders in Japan, but at the very least, this article and video will get you started on your adventure! One of the best parts about sightseeing in Japan is that you can enjoy it in a way that will suit each and every person. We hope that with this video and article you've found something that piqued your interest in Japan!

Introducing the Marine Walk (Sea Walk) at Onna Village! This video, titled "Onna village Sea Walk" (恩納村マリンウォーク), introduces the popular resort destination Onna in Okinawa prefecture. If you enjoy water sports we highly recommend you give this video a watch! From 0:16 in the video you can see the popular Sea Walk, which is, as its name suggests, literally walking underwater in the sea. It is also known as Ocean Walk, Marine Walk, and Sea Walker. Oxygen is supplied via a helmet that looks similar to an astronauts helmet, allowing you to dive down and walk along the sea floor. The great part is that even those that can't swim can enjoy this activity. Enjoy the views of the ocean floor in this video! More About the Marine Walk at Onna Village Source :YouTube screenshot There's no doubt many people who would like to take part in marine activities, such as scuba diving or snorkeling, yet worry about their swimming ability or fear that the activities are too difficult and out of reach. However, as you can see in the video, during a Sea Walk you only need to be able to walk underwater, so even those who cannot swim can enjoy this activity to the fullest. An instructor is always present to make sure no accidents occur, so even those trying it for the first time can feel safe and comfortable. You can also enjoy taking pictures underwater and feeding the tropical fish! At 0:42 in the video, you can see two people having fun as they're surrounded by fish while feeding them. The colorful orange clownfish, which became famous due to the huge popularity of the movie Finding Nemo by Disney Pixar, can be seen at 1:04 in the video. This is the kind of beautiful scenery you can enjoy if you take part in a Sea Walk! Other activities you can enjoy in Onna village! Photo：Banana boat If you are planning on taking a trip to Onna, there are many activities and water sports you can try! For example you can enjoy riding a banana boat, sea kayaking, jet skiing, intertubing, wakeboarding, SUP, and more! Other activities you can enjoy include flyboarding, parasailing, surfing, and trolling. We recommend taking a look at prices and booking online before your trip to Okinawa! Summary of Onna Village's Sea Walk Source :YouTube screenshot This video was created by Blue Ocean Okinawa. In this quick 2 minute video, you can see the fun-filled Sea Walk taking place at the Blue Cave (青の洞窟, aonodoukutsu) in Onna village. Taking part in a Sea Walk is guaranteed to be a rare and unique experience you won't soon forget. If you plan on taking a trip to Onna, we highly recommend you try out the Sea Walk! 【Official Website】Experience a Sea Walk in Onna village, Okinawa! (Blue Ocean) http://blue-cave.com/seawalk.html

Miyakojima '17END': Video Introduction This video, titled "[8K 60P] 17END - A Beautiful Beach on Miyakojima, Okinawa, Japan" ([8K60P] 17END 宮古島の絶景ビーチ Beautiful Beach Miyako,Okinawa,Japan), was uploaded by "Saha Entertainment TV." Miyakojima (Miyako Island), the pride of Okinawa, has many beautiful beaches. Among them, Yonaha Beach (Yonaha Maehama Beach) is famous as one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. However, these actually a beach that is even more beautiful than Yonaha Beach... That is '17END.' The name 17END comes from the fact that the runway is angled at 170 degrees from north (0 degrees), and the runway identification number is 17. The 'END' portion comes from the aviation term "Runway End" where the beach is located. 17END is a fantastic beach that can be seen only when certain conditions are met. Before going any further though, be sure to check out the beauty of the beach in this 8K video. 17END - A Phantom Beach With White Sand and Clear Blue Waters! Photo：17END, a phantom beach Next, we'll go over some of the charms of 17END, a fantastic beach that can only be seen when the weather and tides are in harmony. [17END Attraction #1] White Sandy Beaches and Clear Blue Waters The beautiful white sand and the clear turquoise blue sea make this beach one of the most beautiful spots on Miyakojima. [17END Attraction #2] Awesome Airplanes Overhead! The island is located directly behind Shimojishima Airport, so if you time it right, you can watch airplanes take off and land up close. It is also the only place in Japan where visitors can watch touch-and-go landing drills. [17END Attraction #3] Breathtaking Sunsets Although famous for its white sandy beaches and clear blue waters, 17END is also known for its beautiful sunsets, with the sky and sea turning to vibrant shades of orange. 17END is a photogenic spot, as it offers an unobstructed view of the ocean. Things to Do at 17END Photo：People enjoying the beach at 17END At 17END you can do more than just walk along the beach and admire the spectacular views. Swimming is also allowed in the clear blue waters. If you make reservations at one of the marine shops nearby, you can even try SUP (Stand-up Paddleboarding) and have a blast while enjoying the water. In addition, you can take a jet ski tour to a mysterious cave at 17END while enjoying the beautiful beach to your heart's content. When the weather is nice, we also recommend renting a bicycle to cross Irabu Ohashi Bridge and exploring the area from Irabu Island to Shimoji Island. Location and Access Information for 17END, Miyakojima Photo：Shimojishima Airport, Miyakojima, Okinawa If you're considering visiting 17END, please keep in mind that you have to visit at low tide. At low tide, the pure white beach is revealed, but at high tide, the beach is submerged, and cannot be seen. Located on Shimoji Island, a remote island on Miyakojima, access is a 10-minute drive from Shimojishima Airport. Vehicles are not allowed on the beach, so please use a nearby parking lot. There are no lifeguards on duty at the beach either, and because there are places where rip currents occur, be sure to check dangerous places in advance and avoid them during your visit. Be sure to take care of your belongings as well. Summary of 17END If you still haven't watched the video yet, we definitely recommend checking it out as you can see hear the sound of the wind and waves while viewing the beautiful waters of the beach. 17END is a fantastic beach located on Shimoji Island, a remote island of Miyakojima, which only appears at low tide. By carefully monitoring the weather conditions and tides, you'll have a higher chance of seeing this fantastic beach. It's a spectacular spot that Miyakojima takes pride in, and you should definitely see it of you have the chance. For lodging, there are hotels available on Shimoji Island as well as on the neighboring Irabu Island. Some people say that of all the beaches on Miyako Island, 17END is by far the most beautiful. Come and see the sandy white beaches and clear blue waters with your own eyes! The amazing scenery will surely make for a memorable part of any trip to Okinawa. 【Official Website】Shimoji Island | Miyakojima | Official Okinawa Travel Guide https://visitokinawajapan.com/destinations/miyako-islands/shimoji-island/ 【TripAdvisor】Shimoji Island https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g680765-d1373557-r426945332-Shimojishima_Island-Miyakojima_Okinawa_Prefecture.html

Aerial Footage of Sunayama Beach on Miyakojima: Video Introduction This video, titled "[Drone Aerial Photography] Sunayama Beach, Miyakojima｜Healing Drone Okinawa" (【ドローン空撮】宮古島 砂山ビーチ Healing Drone Okinawa), was uploaded by "Umi Note." It introduces the beautiful blue skies, sandy white beach, and clear waters of Miyakojima. Highlights of Sunayama Beach – Spectacular Views at Every Turn! Photo：Sunayama Beach, Miyakojima, Okinawa Sunayama Beach is located approximately 4 km from the center of Hirara, a city in Miyakojima, Okinawa Prefecture, in Japan's Kyushu Region. Despite its easy accessibility, the beach is surrounded by unexplored nature and beautiful, clear waters. The video shows the spectacular views of Sunayama Beach from beginning to end. The drone offers a unique view that you wouldn't normally be able to see, and the beach seen from the ocean side is so beautiful that it will leave you speechless. [Video] 0:35 - View From the Beach As the name of the beach suggests (砂山, Sunayama; lit. "Sand Mountain"), it's located over a small sand hill. From the parking lot near Sunayama Beach, there is a narrow path leading uphill. It's a bit difficult to climb while carrying luggage, but the view after reaching the top makes it totally worth the effort. You can't help but stop to take in the view. The Rock Arch at Sunayama Beach – A Popular Instagram Spot! The rock arch is a popular spot at Sunayama Beach. You can see the blue ocean through the rock and take photogenic pictures as well. It's also known as a sunset spot, where you can even see the sunset over the ocean inside the rock arch. We recommend relaxing on the beach and watching the sun set inside the rock arch. Things to Be Careful of at Sunayama Beach Photo：Sunayama Beach, Miyakojima, Okinawa The fact that Sunayama Beach is mostly unspoiled by human hands, means that it's full of natural beauty, but this also means there are a few precautions you should take when visiting the beach. The rock arch is currently closed off due to the danger of falling rocks and collapse. Visitors are advised to only go close to the rocks to take pictures. You can also swim at Sunayama Beach, but the waves are surprisingly tall and accidents have been known to occur. Be careful when snorkeling in areas where the water is even a little deep. Swim rings and life jackets may be necessary. There are also signs warning of sharks. We recommend staying in the shallow areas at Sunayama Beach, as there are no lifeguards on duty. Stay away from the beach when there is a surf advisory in effect. It's important to remember that you're dealing with nature, so please keep this in mind while enjoying your time on the beach. Restrooms and shower rooms are located in the parking lot. Toilets should be used before heading to the beach. The path to the beach is hilly and a bit long, so flip-flops or comfortable walking shoes are recommended. If you're with children, be sure to hold their hands when walking. There are no beach houses or restaurants on Sunayama Beach, so be sure to bring your own food or have lunch in the area. We recommend Sunayama Cafe in front of the beach. How to Get to Sunayama Beach Photo：An aerial view of Sunayama Beach, Miyakojima, Okinawa Compared to the main island of Okinawa, Miyakojima is relatively small. By car, it takes only 20 minutes to reach the beach from Miyako Airport and 10 minutes to reach from Hirara Port. Free parking is available as well. The video shows an aerial view of the entirety Miyakojima. [Video] 3:20 - Miyakojima From the Sky If you don't have a car, you can also rent a bicycle. If you rent a bicycle at Hotel Atoll Emerald Miyakojima, you can get to Sunayama Beach in about 15 minutes. Miyakojima Sightseeing Spots! In addition to Sunayama Beach, there are many other places on Miyakojima where you can enjoy the beautiful ocean, such as Yonaha Maehama Beach, Aragusuku Beach, and Shigira Beach. In addition to taking a dip in the ocean, simply admiring the scenery will leave you feeling content. Also, with the opening of the Miyako Shimojishima Airport Terminal in 2019, there are more fashionable cafes and restaurants. Miyakojima Tokyu Hotel & Resorts and Shigira Bayside Suite Alamanda are the most famous resort hotels, but there are also many nice hotels scattered throughout the area. Summary of Sunayama Beach, Miyakojima If you haven't already watched the video, be sure to check it out! You can enjoy Miyakojima's Sunayama Beach from the sky. Enjoy the sandy white beach, blue sky, and the crystal-clear waters of Miyakojima. If you're planning a trip to Okinawa, why not extend your trip a little further and visit Miyakojima? There are connecting flights to Miyakojima from Naha Airport and direct flights from Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. The beautiful Sunayama Beach is waiting for you just beyond a sandy mountain. This is a place you don't want to miss! 【TripAdvisor】Sunayama Beach, Miyakojima https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g680765-d1382554-Reviews-Sunayama_Beach-Miyakojima_Okinawa_Prefecture.html

Windsurfing in Okinawa - Aerial Footage This video, titled "Okinawa｜Windsurfing｜Aerial Footage｜Drone｜Inspire 2｜X5S" (沖縄　ウィンドサーフィン　空撮　ドローン　inspire2　X5S), is a PR video for windsurfing in Okinawa, taken by Churaumi Aqua Lab. Okinawa is famous for its blue oceans and white, sandy beaches that allows tourists to enjoy beautiful natural scenery and marine sports. Churaumi Aqua Lab releases many aerial videos taken by drone that show surfing, windsurfing, SUP, and sunsets This video, featuring windsurfing at a beach in Okinawa, was captured from high in the skies by a drone. You'll definitely feel like hitting the beaches after watching this video! Enjoy Wind Surfing off the Beaches on Okinawa Photo：Wind surfing Wind surfing is an ocean sport where a sail is connected to a surf board and the surfer glides across the surface of the water using the lift generated by the wind. Windsurfing is also an official Olympic event. In this video, you can see footage of a windsurfer gliding across crystal clear waters with sandy beaches in the backdrop. A windsurfing world cup was held in Japan as well. You can see the awesome performances of professional windsurfers live in these type of competitions. There are various places in Okinawa where beginners can learn to windsurf as well. All equipment necessary for windsurfing, such as wet suits and life jackets are available for rent. Tourists can enjoy windsurfing all season without having any equipment. There are also trial lessons hosted by windsurfing shops where beginners can take detailed instruction. Try your hand at windsurfing across the beautiful seas of Okinawa! Marine Activities in Okinawa! Photo：Scuba diving In addition to windsurfing, there are many other marine activities available in Okinawa. For example, you can try SUP, banana boats, rocket boats, flyboats, jet skiing, wakeboarding, and bodyboarding, and there's also yachts and canoes, as well as scuba diving! If you're traveling with kids you can try snorkeling as well. Or, if you're not interested in aquatic activities, consider participating in a whale watching tour. On the main island of Okinawa, some famous sightseeing spots include Onna village (恩納村, Onnason), Nago city (名護市, Nago-shi), and Senaga-island (瀬長島, Senaga-jima). We hope you can enjoy some marine activities in the seas of Okinawa! Off the Mainland of Okinawa Photo：Miyakojima coast Okinawa is warm all year round. There are other locations besides the main island that tourists can enjoy as well. If you go to a remote island, you can relax and have a good time. For example, Kumejima (久米島, Kume Island) is about a 3-hour ferry ride from the main island. It's very popular for its easy access to remote islands. Also there are direct flights from Tokyo to Miyakojima (宮古島, Miyako island) and Ishigakijima (石垣島, Ishigaki island), so many tourists come for sightseeing. Summary of Windsurfing in Okinawa Watch this video to discover the beauty of Okinawa's waters and the wonders of windsurfing. The aerial footage will feel like you're window surfing across the waves! Churaumi AquaLab also has other videos on the beautiful waters of Okinawa taken by drone as well. Be sure to check them out! If you're ever in Okinawa, consider trying windsurfing! 【Official Website】Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium - Handing the Churaumi in Okinawa down to the next generation. https://churaumi.okinawa/en/

An Ocean View of Tokashiki Island, AKA "Kerama Blue" in This 10-Minute Video This video, titled "Diving on Tokashiki Island｜Recommended Day Trip Spots in Okinawa｜4K Cinematic｜Tokashiki Beach｜Okinawa Tokashiki Diving Kerama Islands Snorkeling" (渡嘉敷島でダイビング 日帰り出来るオススメ沖縄旅行スポット ・4Kシネマティック ・トカシクビーチ okinawa tokashiki diving 慶良間諸島 シュノーケル), was produced by "TAKEMI Hair dresser." The sea in Tokashiki Island is called "Kerama Blue" and is a crystal clear blue. The crystal clear blue sea seen from the beach is shown at 0:56 in the video. This video of scuba diving on Tokashiki Island, shot before a typhoon, proves that the water is both clear and stunningly beautiful. A magnificent coral reef can be seen at 3:50 in the video. From 4:35 you can see sea snakes, and a variety of colorful fish, such as ocellaris clownfish can be seen at 7:18 in the video. Enjoy scuba diving in the beautiful sea of Tokashiki Island. Don't forget to take your camera so you can take some awesome pictures for Instagram! More About Tokashiki Island, Okinawa Photo：Tokashiki Island, Okinawa Tokashiki Island is an attractive island located roughly 40 kilometers west of Naha City (那覇市, Naha-Shi), Okinawa Prefecture. It takes only 35 minutes to get to via high-speed vessel and 75 minutes to get to via ferry from the city. The village of Tokashiki (渡嘉敷村, Tokashiki-Son), Shimajiri District (島尻郡, Shimajiri-Gun), consisting of ten islands within the Kerama Islands (慶良間諸島, Kerama-Shoto), is the largest of the islands, with a population of approximately 730 people. The waters of the Kerama Islands, known as the "Kerama Blue," are highly regarded both in Japan and abroad and are visited by 130,000 tourists and divers a year. In 2014, it was designated as Kerama Islands National Park. Tokashiki Island Has a Full Range of Marine Shops. Experience the "Kerama Blue" With a Personalized Plan! Photo：Diving, Okinawa One of the most popular leisure activities on Tokashiki Island is water sports. Tokashiki Island has a number of marine shops, and one of the best is called "SeaFriend." They offer a lot of options, like snorkeling for ages 6+, as well as advanced scuba diving to obtain a license. You can also enjoy banana boat rides during the summer. On top of that, SeaFriend also has accommodations for overnight stays. There are log-cabin type and guesthouse type buildings, and Wi-Fi services are available in both. The overnight stay and scuba diving plan is especially popular. Many guests come here alone to get their scuba diving certification. They're also happy to answer questions regarding diving points. Attractive Sights and Delicious Food on Tokashiki Island! Photo：Sea turtle We highly recommend exploring Tokashiki Island after scuba diving, as it's full of exciting tourist attractions. Tokashiki Port is known as the gateway to Tokashiki Island. Aharen Beach, a 10-minute bus ride from the port, is one of the most popular beaches on Tokashiki Island. The sunset viewed from the Aharen Observatory is a beautiful sight that will take your breath away. Hanari Island, near the beach, contributes to the spectacular view. Tokashiku Beach is also famous for its sea turtles. Since there is no bus service, we recommend a rental car. Mt. Akama, the highest point on Tokashiki Island, has the remains of a fire beacon used by the Ryukyu government as a means of communication during the Edo Period (1603-1868 A.D.). The summit has a great view of the surrounding islands, so we definitely recommend checking it out. And one more thing before I forget! The food on Tokashiki Island! "Kuinomiya Barakku" is a restaurant popular for its curry and Okinawan noodles. "Ryoshi-Shokudo Kanaloa" offers a specialty bowl of rice served with fresh fish and vegetables from Tokashiki Island. Both restaurants are perfect spots to relax after a long day of scuba diving. "Tuna Jerky" is a great souvenir to take back home. They say that sometimes the supply can't keep up with the demand because it's so popular! Summary of Tokashiki Island, Okinawa Photo：Tokashiki Island, Okinawa On Tokashiki Island, time flows slowly and it's a perfect spot for scuba diving. From 5:00 in the video, you can see the sunlight shining down mystically on the sea turtles, and just watching them is relaxing. So, are you ready to go scuba diving yet? Get your bags packed for an awesome adventure of scuba diving and exploration! 【Official Website】Tokashiki Island Official Website http://www.vill.tokashiki.okinawa.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Tokashiki Island https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121614-d1373631-Reviews-Tokashiki_jima_Island-Tokashiki_son_Shimajiri_gun_Okinawa_Prefecture.html

About the Popular Location “Itoman City,” in Okinawa Prefecture “Itoman City Tourism Promotion Video_Meals (Japanese Version)” (糸満市観光ＰＲムービー＿食事編（日本語版)) produced by “itomancityhall” is a video introducing popular cuisine that can be enjoyed in Itoman City (糸満市, Itoman-Shi), Okinawa Prefecture (沖縄県, Okinawa-Ken). There's tons of delicious food introduced in this video, such as classic Okinawan cuisine, and deserts that are ranked highly on Japanese review sights. We recommend taking notes! Enjoy delicious food near the ocean of Okinawa! In this video, two women visit sightseeing spots in Itoman City, Okinawa, and introduce exquisite gourmet dishes. Which one has your mouth watering? Classic Cuisine of the Popular Japanese Tourist Destination “Itoman City, Okinawa” Photo：Okinawa Soba Noodles Itoman City in Okinawa Prefecture, has a lot to offer when it comes to gourmet food. Since the cultures and recipes of China, Southeast Asia, and the Unites States have had influence on Okinawan cuisine, it is quite different from what you can find in other parts of Japan. There are many restaurants and eateries in Itoman City that serve delicious Okinawan food. Let's take a look and see what they've got! If we're talking Okinawan dishes, there's “Goya Chanpuru,” a type of bitter melon and fried meat, “Okinawan Soba,” and “Soki Soba Noodles” characterized by its refreshing soup, are some of the famous dishes of the area. In the video, you can see the delicious “Okinawa Soba Teishoku (Set Meal)” and “Honejiru (Bone Soup),” at 0:06 in the video. Here are some recommended locations with traditional Okinawan cuisine: “Rafuthy”- a typical Okinawan meat dish, “Ishigaki Beef”- excellent to eat as a steak, “Taco Rice” with tomato-based salsa over rice, “Pork Egg,” “Ninjin Shirishiri” (Grated carrot stir-fried), “Irabu-jiru (Soup), and “Tofuyo” (Okinawa-style fermented Tofu)- a classic menu item of Okinawan dinner. As introduced from 2:22 in the video, if you enjoy these typical Okinawan dishes with Okinawa's Awamori at night, you're sure to be satisfied with your trip. Enjoy sightseeing and Japanese food in Itoman City! Popular Ingredients and Deserts in “Itoman City, Okinawa” Source :YouTube screenshot There are some slightly different ingredients and cooking methods, as well as some delicious desserts. The Farmer's Market “Itoman Umanchu market,” in Nishizaki town (西崎町, Nishizaki-Cho) in Itoman City, is a place where you can purchase fresh Okinawan ingredients like “Shima Rakkyo” (a type of leek), and “Umi Budo” (sea grapes) at affordable prices. This is introduced in the video from 0:28. In addition to Okinawan ingredients, fresh vegetables are also sold. The fish market “Osakana Center” near Umanchu Market, which is introduced at 0:48 in the video, sells fresh seafood. It is a luxurious place where you can enjoy fish dishes while eating and walking around in style. This is a must-see spot for those who love to eat. Additionally, in Itoman city, desert menus such as “Red Beni Tarts,” “Sata Andagi (Okinawan Donuts),” shaved Ice, “Shirokuma,” and Mango are also popular. After lunch, why not try these deserts to top off a delicious meal. Eat plenty of delicious food in Itoman city, with its amazing Okinawan cuisine! Summary of the Popular Japanese Tourist Destination “Itoman City, Okinawa Prefecture” Photo：Bibi Beach Itoman “Itoman City Tourism Promotional Video_Meals (Japanese Version)” produced by “itomancityhall” is a video introducing gourmet food that can be enjoyed at the popular Japanese tourist destination “Itoman City, Okinawa Prefecture” Good meals are an important thing to consider when traveling. You can dine at hotel restaurants or local ramen shops, but don’t you think that you'll be able to enjoy your trip even more by trying some of the local cuisine? Come visit Itoman City, Okinawa, and visit its many tourist attractions, including “Okinawa Peace Memorial Park,” “Himeyuri Peace Memorial Museum,” “Himeyuri Tower,” and “Bibi Beach Itoman.” 【Trip Advisor】Itoman City https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1023466-Itoman_Okinawa_Prefecture-Vacations.html

Popular Scuba Diving Spots in the Sea of Miyako Island (Miyakojima): Video Introduction This video, titled "The Unbelievably Beautiful Diving in Miyako Island" (宮古島のダイビングがありえないほど綺麗な件), was uploaded by Ldive, a scuba diving specialty store located in the Nagoya area of Aichi prefecture. In the video, you can explore maze-like caves that will make you feel like an explorer and the fantastical blue light illuminates them. The video captures what it feels like to go scuba diving, with encounters with sea creatures, the sound of divers breathing, and the changing colors of the sea as light filters down. Be sure to enjoy the video as you read on. Miyako Island, a Great Place for Scuba Diving in Okinawa, Japan Photo：A diver Miyako Island, located approximately 300km southwest of the main island of Okinawa, between the Pacific Ocean and the East China Sea, is a popular destination for scuba diving. The island is surrounded by several smaller islands, including Irabu Island, Tarama Island, and Shimoji Island. It has a subtropical maritime climate that is warm, hot, and humid throughout the four seasons. Most of the strata are Ryukyu limestone from uplifted coral reefs, formed by overlapping blocks of sandstone and mud slabs. The entire island has an almost flat, low plateau-like landscape. The area around Hirara Port, a 15-minute drive from the airport, has accommodations, restaurants, and dive stores, making it a convenient spot for sightseeing on the island. A rental car is recommended for sightseeing. However, sightseeing cabs and local buses are also available to take you to popular sightseeing spots. Miyako Island and Ishigaki Island are the most popular remote islands in Okinawa. However, if you want to take your time to enjoy the water, we recommend Miyako Island, with its many attractive scuba diving sites. The West Coast of Shimoji Island: A Popular Spot for Scuba Diving Photo：Cave diving on Miyako Island One of the characteristics of Miyako Island's diving spots is the abundance of caves. Some caves are so narrow that only one person can pass through and there are also places where it is pitch black without an underwater light. The darkness of the caves is what makes the blue light that filters through the openings even more incredible. The blue light and the bubbles exhaled by the divers create a fantastic scene. Be sure to check it out in the video. [Video] 3:00 - A Narrow Cave [Video] 3:50 - A Diver and the Mystical Blue Light In the video, you can also see various encounters with sea creatures and other moments that can only be experienced while scuba diving. The Palace of the Demon King is a popular spot among divers, with its structure resembling a labyrinth with three rooms connected by corridors. The light that filters through the opening and into the corridor 25 meters deep makes it seem like an underwater palace. [Video] 4:40 - Encounters with Marine Life [Video] 6:42 - Encounters with Marine Life [Video] 7:26 - Encounters with Marine Life Toriike Pond, a Natural Monument Known as the 'Dragon's Eye' Photo：Toriike Pond, Miyako, Island Toriike Pond, often called 'The Dragon's Eye" is a National Place of Scenic Beauty and a Natural Monument. The two ponds are connected via an underground cave, with the pond on the west side being connected to the ocean. There is also a nearby mini-grotto, which is said to have incredibly beautiful water. In addition to these, there are other popular diving spots such as "Antonio Gaudi" with artistic overlapping arches that change depending on the angle from which they are viewed, is also located nearby. "Nakanoshima Hall" has a fantastic view of blue light pouring straight down through a series of vertical caverns to a depth of approximately 25 meters. Another popular dive site is "Marine Lake," where you can see a long cave and a view of strong sunlight that shines into the cave like a laser beam. Irabu Bridge and the Scuba Diving Sites of Irabu Island That Await You Photo：Irabu Island, Okinawa Irabu Bridge, which connects the main island of Miyakojima and Irabu Island, offers beautiful scenery surrounded by the blue seas and skies. Beyond that, Irabu Island is also dotted with popular diving sites. Blue Cave, is a mysterious cave glowing with blue light located on the north side of Irabu Island, where you can see colorful coral and schools of tropical fish. Near Blue Cave, there is also Cross Hole, which is said to be the most beautiful place on Irabu Island. "Shiratori Kindergarten," uniquely named because of the large number of juvenile fish there, and "Snake Hole," where fog is generated due to waves and manta rays often pass by in early spring, are also popular dive sites with many attractions. Scuba Diving Tours to Popular Points on Miyako Island Photo：A woman diving There are various types of diving tours available, including tours that include free rental of equipment such as underwater cameras, underwater lights, and dive computers, tours that include round-trip airfare, lodging, and diving, tours that include rental cars, tours that include box lunches made from local ingredients, and tours that include free photos as a gift. There are two types of scuba diving: experience diving, in which beginners can participate, and fun diving, in which only licensed divers (C-card holders) can participate. The experience diving course for beginners includes basic training, such as how to breathe, how to remove pressure in ears, how to handle equipment, and hand signs (hand signals), and you can also enjoy a walk underwater with a guide or instructor. The popular diving license acquisition course includes a plan that allows you to stay at a hotel with a diving store attached to it, and is recommended for those who want to acquire a license in a short period of time (2 to 3 days). Miyako Blue: The Beautiful Waters of Miyako Island Photo：Coral reefs at Yabiji, Miyako Island Miyako Island has many breathtaking spots where you can enjoy its beautiful waters which have been dubbed "Miyako Blue." ●Yabiji Yabiji is Japan's largest coral reef group, consisting of over 100 large and small coral reefs. Known as the Great Barrier Reef of Japan, it's a popular spot where you can see vibrant coral, tropical fish, and sea turtles in the emerald green sea. ●Yonaha Maehama Beach Yonaha Maehama Beach is a 7km long stretch of white sandy beach and is said to be the most beautiful sea in the East. The sea is a gradient of emerald green to deep blue, and is especially beautiful at sunset. ●Cape Higashi-Hennazaki Located at the easternmost point of Miyako Island, sits the approximately 2km beautiful cape of Higashi-Hennazaki. It offers a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean to the south and the East China Sea to the north, and it has been designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty. Other popular spots include the Sunayama Beach, known for its fine powdery snow-like sand and rock arches formed via erosion from waves, as well as Irabu Island's Triangulation Point, where you can enjoy a beautiful view of Miyako Blue from a 70-meter cliff. Traditional Crafts, Delicious Food, and One-Of-A-Kind Souvenirs on Miyako Island Photo：Miyako Soba (Soki Soba), Okinawa Miyako Island is known for its unique cuisine and traditional crafts that are popular as souvenirs. Miyako Island's gourmet foods include Miyako soba, which is Okinawa soba that originated on Miyako Island, Miyako beef, which must be raised on the island for at least 15 months, Miyako adzuki a traditional vegetable, and Doug's Burger," made with yellow fin tuna from Miyako Island and Japanese black beef from Tarama Island. Other popular products include ripe mangoes with a perfect balance of sugar, acidity, and flavor, chunky sweet and sour island bananas, and additive-free pure brown sugar made from nutrient-rich sugarcane. The Miyakojima City Traditional Crafts Center sells various items and hosts tours where visitors can experience traditional Miyako Island crafts, such as Miyako Jofu, a traditional textile which is woven with threads made from fibers of the ramie plant, Miyako-ori, a hand-woven fabric made using cotton for the warp and spun ramie fibers for the weft, and Miyako-asaori, in which hemp is used both for the warp and weft. Other Things to Do on Miyako Island (Miyakojima) Besides the beaches and scuba diving, there are a variety of other things you can do on Miyako Island. It's recommended that you stay for at least two days to see everything the island has to offer. Here are a few places we recommend checking out when visiting the island. Miyako Shrine Miyako Shrine, built in 1590, is the southernmost shrine in Japan (as a shrine under the comprehensive administration of the Jinja Honcho or Association of Shinto Shrines). The shrine has a unique architecture and color that can't be found in other shrines in Japan, and is great for taking photos and exploring the history and culture of Miyako Island. Hours: Open 24 hours Admission Fee: Free Seasah Story Shisa are mythical lion-dogs found in Okinawan mythology. Seasah Story is a shop that specializes in shisa statues. There are all sorts of unique shisa that can be seen and purchased inside the store. It's a great place to go for souvenirs! Hours: 10:00 am - 7:00 pm Taragawa Brewery Taragawa Brewery has been brewing awamori, a strong alcoholic beverage unique to Okinawa, for more than 70 years. The brewery also has a unique method for storing awamori in a 60-meter-longcave located 5 meters underground. You can take a tour of the brewery and even purchase your own awamori at the end. Hours (Tours): 11:00 am, 1:30 pm, 3:00 pm. Each tour is 45 minutes to an hour long. Admission Fee: Free How to Get To Miyako Island (Miyakojima) Despite being technically a part of Okinawa, Miyako Island is located quite a ways south of Okinawa. Because of this, the only way to get to the island is via plane. From Tokyo, you can take a 3-hour flight from either Haneda Airport or Narita Airport. From Naha, Okinawa, you can take a 50-minute flight to directly to Miyako Airport. From Osaka, it's a 2 hour and 15 minute flight from Kansai International Airport. Summary of Miyako Island, a Place Dotted With Popular Scuba Diving Spots The maze of caves and the underwater world with blue light pouring in from the surface, makes diving on Miyakojima a one-of-a-kind experience. The fantastic caves will make you feel like an explorer as you encounter all sorts of fascinating marine life. We hope that watching the video and reading this article has you interested in a trip to Miyakojima! 【Trip Advisor】Miyako Island (Miyakojima) https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g680765-Miyakojima_Okinawa_Prefecture-Vacations.html

Iheya Island, a Remote Island of Okinawa This video, titled "Beautiful Beach of Iheya Island! OKINAWA, JAPAN" (伊平屋島（沖縄離島）の絶景ビーチ前篇！OKINAWA,JAPAN), was uploaded by "K Japan Traveler." It shows spectacular views of Iheya Island (伊平屋島, Iheyajima), Noho Island (野甫島, Nohojima), and Izena Island (伊是名島, Izenajima), which are in northern Okinawa. As you can see in the video, Iheya Island has a beautiful cobalt blue ocean that you would never expect to find in Japan. A Look at Iheya Island Photo：Brown sugar, Okinawa Iheya Island is a long, narrow island located approximately 41 km north of the main island of Motobu, with a population of about 1,400 people including those on Noho Island. The island has specialties, such as dried fish, hitokuchi brown sugar, Terushi Rice, and Kachiwari brown sugar. There's also Kitase Rock, Yahe Rock, and a skerry called Erabu Rock around Iheya Island. "Torazu Rock" is a landmark of the island. You should visit Koshino Hiramatsu, Nento Hiramatsu and Mt. Kuba too. Things To Do on Iheya Island Photo：The ocean at Sugahama, Okinawa We recommend going sightseeing via rental car. The clear beaches, such as Kumaya Coast, Yonezaki Beach, Shioshitahama, and Kubayama Beach are the best place for sea bathing and fishing. From 0:37 in the video, you can see Kouri Island and Kouri Bridge, and from 1:40 in the video, you can see Noho Bridge, Noho Port, and a beautiful view. For sightseeing, there's Kumaya Cave, Iheya Tower, the Iheyason Board of Education History Ethnic Museum, Kubayama Light House, and Kami Ashagi. You can enjoy activities like the salt cruise at the World Salt Exploration Museum. For snorkeling to see coral reefs, book with Diving service North Island or Diving Shop JIN. Access to Iheya Island Photo：The ocean at Iheya Island, Okinawa Unfortunately, it's somewhat difficult to reach Iheya Island. You have to go from Naha Airport, on the main island of Okinawa, to Nakijin, and then take a ferry for 80 minutes. Because of that, there are not so many tourists, which means you can enjoy the natural scenery all to yourself! As you can see from 1:17 in the video, you can enjoy "Iheya Blue," a clear, blue sea, different from the main island of Okinawa. There are several hotels and restaurants on the island, so you can stay overnight as well as take a day trip, and there are buses running around the island, so as long as you check the bus schedules it's not so bad. Summary of Iheya Island Photo：The ocean at Iheya Island, Okinawa Iheya Island has beautiful beaches where you can feel the refreshing sea breeze. Check out the time schedule for the ferry, as well as prices and information about tides when you visit the amazing resort, Iheya Island! 【Tripadvisor】Iheya Island https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121620-d1373491-Reviews-Iheyajima_Island-Iheya_son_Shimajiri_gun_Okinawa_Prefecture.html

Introducing Kouri Island This video, produced by “Noriyuki Ichikawa,” is titled “[Aerial Footage] A stunning view of Okinawa. The beautiful turquoise of Kouri Island"(【空撮】沖縄の絶景・古宇利島・美しいターコイズブルー Okinawa Aerial Shoot). The aerial footage allows us to fully appreciate the spectacular landscape and blue seas of Okinawa's Kouri Island. This video is less than 3 minutes long, so if you want to enjoy the beautiful natural scenery and learn about the attractions in the area, as well as tourist information about Okinawa, take a second to check it out! Enjoy the beauty of Kouri Island, one of Japan's most famous power spots. About Kouri Island Photo：Kouri Bridge Kouri Island is located in Nakijin, Kunigami district, Okinawa, and is praised as having the most beautiful waters in Okinawa. Although it is a remote island, it can be easily accessed via Yagaji Island (屋我地島, Yagajishima) from the the 2,020 meter long Kouri Bridge connecting Yagaji Island and mainland Okinawa. The Kouri Bridge can be seen from the beginning of the video. Enjoy visiting Kouri Island, a remote island only about 90 kilometres from Okinawa Naha Airport. Allow the beautiful, soothing, turquoise blue sea to caress your body. Enjoy Activities in the Beautiful Turquoise Sea! Photo：Marine Sports With its year-round warm weather, Kouri Island is a great place to enjoy Okinawa's unique activities. Enjoying marine sports, such as swimming and snorkeling in the emerald green waters, is hard to beat. You can see some impressive windsurfing on the beautiful turquoise waves at 2:01 in the video. We also recommend stopping by Heart Rock and Ocean Tower, to see some beautiful waves. Don't forget to take some photos for your Instagram! Kouri Island also offers a wide range of accommodations, so you can stay overnight and enjoy a full day of activities while forgetting about the passing of time. Tasty Okinawan Food; Essential to Any Trip to Okinawa! Photo：Sea urchin bowl After sightseeing on Kouri Island, enjoy Okinawan cuisine at one of the cafes or other eateries along the beach. At the Kouri Island Fureai Square near the Kouri Bridge, you can enjoy Okinawan cuisine with plenty of fresh seafood. The fresh sea urchin rice bowl served with a seaside view is superb. There is a large parking lot at the Kouri Island Fureai Hiroba (market), so even if you rent a car, you can visit the island with ease. Summary of Kouri Island in Okinawa Kouri Island is accessible from Naha Airport in 1 hour and 30 minutes via the Okinawa Expressway or 2 hours by public highway. The video of the crystal-clear, turquoise seas, that are hard to believe are in Japan, will leave you wanting more. Enjoy the soothing turquoise waves of Kouri Island! 【Official Website】Kouri Island / KOURIJIMA ~a bridge-connected remote island in Nakijinson in Okinawa http://kourijima.info/

Bingata - A Traditional Japanese Craft This video, titled "BINGATA – Az okinawai textilfestés," was created by "Teodora Vegh." It introduces Rei Ishida (石田麗), who currently makes Bingata in a workshop in Oita Prefecture (大分県). Bingata is a traditional dyeing technique representative of Okinawa, and is sometimes referred to as "Ryukyu Somemono" (琉球染物). This dyeing technique is used to create beautiful clothing items and accessories which are available for purchase. Check out the video to learn more about the history of this traditional craft and how Bingata products are made! The History of Bingata, A Traditional Japanese Craft Source :YouTube screenshot The Bingata dyeing technique has been used in Okinawa since the 13th century. It's said that this technique was developed to create kimono for the royal family at the time. The kanji characters for "Bingata," which until then was simply written in hiragana, were chosen during the Showa period (1926 AD - 1989 AD). Since the Second World War, Bingata workshops have opened up all over Japan and items are now produced as works of art. How Bingata is Made Source :YouTube screenshot The craftsmen must first design and create a stencil that will be used to apply a motif to the fabric. The stencil is cut out carefully by hand. This process can be seen at 0:40 in the video. Once the stencil is made, a paste is applied on top of the stencil (1:38 in the video) followed by paint to apply color to the material. The brushes used to dye the fabric are often made from human hair. Other dyeing methods such as Tsutsugaki (筒描き) and Aizome (藍染) are often used, as well as the traditional Bingata dyeing technique. After applying color, the fabric is then steamed and soaked in water to remove the paste. The Bingata dyeing process shown in the video is as follows: 1. Design 2. Stencil carving (0:39～) 3. Paste application (1:44～) 4. "Gobiki" (2:36～) 5. Color application (3:05～) 6. "Sumitori" (4:03～) 7. Steaming 8. Soaking 9. Nori paste application 10. Dyeing 11. Steaming 12. Soaking 13. Sewing 14. Finish Purchasing Bingata Dyed Goods Source :YouTube screenshot Bingata fabric is used to create many items such as furoshiki (風呂敷), tapestries, accessories, kimono, yukata, furisode (long-sleeved kimono) and hanhaba obi (half-width obi/kimono sash). The bright, bold coloring of Bingata dyed goods is typical of Okinawa. Bingata items can be purchased in workshops and gift shops around Okinawa and Kyushu. In recent years, the number of Bingata items being sold online has been increasing making it even easier to find and purchase the patterns that suit you best. Summary of Bingata, A Traditional Craft of Okinawa Source :YouTube screenshot Making beautiful Bingata dyed goods like those introduced in the video involves a series of complicated processes. Clothing and accessories made from Bingata dyed fabric make great Japanese souvenirs! Have fun searching for your favorite Bingata goods!

About Itoman, Okinawa This is a promotional video for Itoman city titled "Itoman City Tourism PR Video・Experience Compilation" (糸満市観光ＰＲムービー＿体験編（日本語版))." It's brought to you by Itoman city hall. We'd like to introduce experiences available in Itoman, a city located in southern Okinawa Island, a popular sightseeing destination in Japan. Itoman city hall has also created other videos highlighting popular restaurants, walking routes and cultural spots in and around Itoman city. Itoman is a city on Okinawa's main island, in the south west of Japan. Itoman city is easily accessible by car and takes around 30 minutes to get to from Naha airport (那覇空港, Nahakuukou), the main airport in Okinawa. Itoman city was the site of many battles during World War II, and therefore is well known for battle memorial sites such as Okinawa Peace Memorial Park (沖縄県平和祈念公園, Okinawaken heiwa kinen kouen) and Himeyuri Memorial Tower (ひめゆりの塔, Himeyurinotou). Itoman city is also famous as a fishing village, with many fishing traditions being passed down for generations. Itoman is an area dotted with sugar cane fields and beaches with beautiful views of the ocean. Charming villages covered with red tile roofed houses typical of Okinawa add to the beautiful scenery here. Popular Tourist Experiences in Itoman City Photo：Underwater In the opening scene of this video we're introduced to Ryukyu Glass Village's (琉球ガラス村, Ryuukyuu garasu mura) glass blowing experience. You can see this at 0:15 in the video. Ryukyu glassware is famous for it's characteristic air bubbles and thick, beautifully colored glass. Glass-blowing is a traditional Japanese craft by which you can create truly one of a kind glassware. At Ryukyu Glass Village you can also watch the craftsmen at work or purchase a variety of colorful glassware from the shop. Next, we'd like to introduce the glass boat tours. You can see these at 0:52 in the video. The glass boats have a glass floor which allows you to take a peek down at the sea floor below. You can enjoy looking at the beautiful Okinawan coral and tropical fish up close without the need to take part in a snorkeling or diving course. The next sightseeing experience we'd like to introduce is Hariko making. Hariko are traditional paper-mache dolls that you can decorate however you like. You can see them being made at 01:09 in the video. Have fun watching your cute, hand-painted Ucchiribukusa (traditional Okinawa doll) stand back up after knocking it over time and time again. The Shisa (lion dog) hariko is very typical of Okinawa. Okinawan traditional fishing boat/Sabani sail boat experiences are also very popular. Sabini are fishing boats used in the Tempuku Bare competition which is part of the biggest event held in Itoman city, the Itoman Hare. Tempuku Bare is a competition where as a team you attempt to flip over your overturned Sabani boat and row it to the finish line. It is used as a test of the village fishermens' boat skills, but don't worry, as a tourist you won't have to flip over any Sabani boats during your experience! Rowing your own Sabani with the cool wind brushing against your face is an exhilarating experience! You can see this at 2:15 in the video. Experience Making the Local Delicacies of Itoman Source :YouTube screenshot Taking part in the regional Japanese cuisine experience is sure to be one of the best memories of your trip to Okinawa. The area with highest consumption of tofu in Japan is thought to be Okinawa and there are many tofu shops in Itoman. You can see some of these shops being introduced at 1:43 in the video. If you take part in the Okinawa-style tofu (島豆腐, Shimadoufu) experience you will have the chance to make tofu the traditional way by grinding soy beans using a stone mortar. The taste of freshly made Okinawan tofu will bring a smile to your face! Summary of Itoman, Okinawa Itoman city is famous as a sightseeing destination in Japan. I'm sure after watching this video you'll be eager to try some of the experiences and food that Itoman city, Okinawa has to offer! If you're headed to Itoman, be sure to use this video as a guide! Taking part in the unique experiences here in Itoman is guaranteed to create memories you'll treasure for a lifetime. 【Official Website】Itoman city hall https://www.city.itoman.lg.jp/

■Table of Contents Overnight Tours in Ogimi, Okinawa: Video Introduction Ogimi Village – One of the Three Yanbaru Villages in Northern Okinawa Ogimi Village, Known as the "Village of Longevity" Ogimi Village, the "Village of Bashofu" Ogimi Village, the "Village of Shikuwasa" Ogimi Village, the "Village of Bunagaya" Enjoy an Overnight Tour and Experience the Lifestyle of Yanbaru in Ogimi Village! 1 Night/2 Day Overnight Plan Recommendations 2-Day/1-Night Overnight Plan – Schedule & Experience Details 2-Day/1-Night Overnight Plan – Tour Details The Best Experience Plans in Yanbaru, Starting From 2 Hours! Ta Waterfall Trekking E-Bike Tour E-Bike Tours & Sabani Boat Cruises Cycling Tour Plan Canoe Tour Yanbaru Forest Starry Sky Tour Popular Spots When Sightseeing in Ogimi Village, Okinawa Kijoka Seven Waterfalls Ishiyama Observatory Roadside Station Ogimi Yanbaru Forest Visitor Center Ogimi Village Tour Plan Summary Overnight Tours to Enjoy Ogimi, Okinawa: Video Introduction The video introduced in this article begins with lighthearted cycling footage that showcases the great nature of Ogimi Village in Okinawa, Japan. It shows how you can experience the food and activities of Ogimi Village with a local guide, and enjoy the sound of a sanshin while camping under a starry night sky, and more! The contents of this video are a condensed version showcasing only a handful of things to do in Ogimi Village. With a tour to Ogimi Village, you can experience the culture and lifestyle of the people of Ogimi Village in a relaxed and casual manner. We hope you'll experience the wonderful time that these exciting tours can provide! Photo：Ogimi Village In this article, we'll introduce things to do in Ogimi Village, as well as some stay plans. After reading this article, you'll be captivated by Ogimi Village and will want to experience what life is like in this village in Northern Okinawa! Ogimi Village – One of the Three Yanbaru Villages in Northern Okinawa Ogimi Village, located in the northern part of Okinawa's main island in Kunigami, consists of 17 villages with a total population of 3,034 and a total of 1,716 households (as of March 2023). The village is about 64 square kilometers (15,800 acres) in size. Ogimi is approximately 87 km (54 mi.) from Naha City and can be accessed in about 2 hours via National Route 58 or about 1 hour and 30 minutes via expressway. Ogimi Village and the neighboring villages of Kunigami and Higashi are called the three villages of Yanbaru (Yanbaru means "the forested northern area of Okinawa"), which was recognized as a World Natural Heritage site in 2021, and is home to many endemic species that can only be seen here, such as the Okinawa rail and Okinawa woodpecker. Photo：The Okinawa rail Ogimi Village is also called the "Village of Longevity," "Village of Bashofu," "Village of Shikuwasa," and "Village of Bunagaya." Ogimi Village, Known as the "Village of Longevity" Ogimi Village is known as the village with the highest longevity in Japan, with a very high percentage of the total population aged 65 years or older (32.5%) as well as people who are 90 years old or older (4.2%), according to the 2015 census. ※The percentage of people over 90 years old in Japan as a whole is 1.6%. Photo：An elderly man in Ogimi Village In 1987, the area was declared the "Village of Longevity" as the area with the highest percentage of elderly people in Japan, and in 1996, it was recognized as the "World's Longest Living Region" by the World Health Organization (WHO). The book "IKIGAI," published in Spain in 2016 and covering the secrets of longevity in Ogimi Village, became an international bestseller, selling more than 5 million copies. The text of the book introduces the ideal life as "the sight of a grandfather or grandmother living a vibrant and rewarding life in Ogimi Village." The book has led to an increase in the number of foreign tourists visiting Ogimi Village and in the number of foreigners who know about Ogimi Village even if they don't know much about Japan. Ogimi Village, the "Village of Bashofu" In Kijoka, an area in Ogimi Village, Kijoka Bashofu, a cloth woven from the fibers of the plantain plant, has long been popular as a fabric for kimono. It's considered a fantastic type of cloth because of how thin and light it is, almost like the wings of a dragonfly. In Okinawa, a place with high humidity, this breathable, light-as-air fabric has been very useful. It takes about three years to grow to a height taller than a person, and each stalk of plantain yields only about 20 grams of fiber, so 200 stalks are needed to weave one roll of Bashofu cloth. Photo：The plantain plant The history of Bashofu dates back to the 13th century, and during the Ryukyu Dynasty (approximately 450 years from the 1400s to the 1800s), there was a position called "Basho Toushoku" (芭蕉当職, lit. "Bashofu Manager") who managed a Basho garden exclusively for the nobility so that they could wear high-quality Bashofu. During the Meiji period (1868-1912), plain or striped Bashofu began to be decorated with kasuri patterns, and developed into a craft. Bashofu was designated an Intangible Cultural Property of the prefecture in 1972, the year Okinawa was returned to Japan, and two years later, in 1974, it was designated an Intangible Cultural Property by the Japanese government. Ogimi Village, the "Village of Shikuwasa" Most of the shikuwasa (flat lemons) distributed in Japan are produced in Okinawa, with Ogimi Village accounting for approximately 60% of the total. Photo：Shikuwasa Shikuwasa is a food rich in nutrients and is considered one of the foods for health and longevity in Okinawa. The nobiletin contained in shikuwasa is said to have the following effects: ・Helps prevent rheumatism, osteoporosis, and cancer ・Lowers blood sugar and blood pressure ・Burns fat, strengthens liver function, improves urination, and improves cognitive function ・Helps relieve complications from urinary disorders, such as frequent urination and enuresis. ・Helps prevent diabetes The secret to Ogimi Village's longevity may be its shikuwasa. Shikuwasa is one of the most popular Furusato Nozei tax return gifts as well. If you're a resident of Japan, be sure to visit the Ogimi Village Furusato Nozei website (※Japanese). Ogimi Village, the "Village of Bunagaya" It's said that Bunagaya, spirits of the forest, live in Yanbaru, a rich natural environment that has been registered as a World Natural Heritage site. Photo：A Bunagaya forest spirit These mysterious bunagaya are said to love peace and nature, and use nature's bounty to show us what they look like. Since World War II, due to the modernization of postwar reconstruction, it's said that they can only be seen in Ogimi Village. Bunagaya live amongst banyan trees and are said to have red hair and are covered with grass and trees. In 1998, Ogimi Village was declared the "Village of Bunagaya" to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Ogimi Village's establishment. Life in Ogimi Village is full of charms, from its longevity, traditional culture, and unique food, to its ancient legends. Overnight tours to Ogimi Village are growing in popularity as a way to experience the secrets of longevity while interacting with local people. Enjoy an Overnight Tour and Experience the Lifestyle of Yanbaru in Ogimi Village! Overnight tours to Ogimi Village are trips to enjoy the nature, food, culture, and history that Ogimi Village has been carefully cultivated throughout the years. This plan allows you to experience the history and culture of Ogimi Village and its people, who live a happy and joyful life in the great outdoors, and to enjoy activities such as cycling, canoeing, trekking, BBQ camping, and a home-stay accommodation, allowing you to choose how you experience Ogimi Village. A basic tour plan is provided, but customers can also consult with the tour guide in advance about a plan that suits them and what they would like to experience. You can choose between private accommodations or camping, and also choose from a variety of exciting activities. There are also experience plans that allow you to fully enjoy Ogimi Village in a short time (2 hours to half a day), so those who cannot stay overnight can also take advantage of these plans. Those who choose the overnight plan can choose to camp overnight at the Miyagi Community Center Plaza, or stay overnight in a home with elderly residents. Those who choose to stay at a private home can experience harvesting in the fields managed by the private home as a member of the family (depending on the season), and enjoy chatting over Okinawan dishes prepared together with the private home owner while learning from him or her. You can see what a meal is like at 0:56 in the video. ※Be sure to consult with the staff in advance if you are a vegan or allergic to any foods. Photo：Homestay Farm Life Experience Tour This Ogimi Village overnight plan is a popular tour among students from all over Japan who are on school trips. There are agricultural experiences to learn the challenges of farming, farm life experiences where you stay in a farmer's home and spend time as a member of the family, nature experiences that make the most of Ogimi Village's natural environment, and cultural experiences where you are taught how to make Okinawan cuisine and play the sanshin (an instrument similar to a banjo). The days spent experiencing the environment, customs, and culture of Ogimi Village and interacting with the elderly residents of the village are a great asset to the students. There are also school trips and educational trips that can accommodate up to 280 people at a time, which are also utilized by the general public. Families with children can enjoy learning during summer vacation, and friends can experience the traditions of Ogimi Village while camping under the starry skies! There are a million ways to enjoy Ogimi Village. One of the charms of the overnight tours is that they not only follow a fixed plan, but can also be tailored to fit your ideal plan through prior consultation. 1 Night/2 Day Overnight Plan Recommendations This plan lets you enjoy canoeing and trekking in the jungle-like subtropical forests and rivers of Yanbaru. You can also look for endemic species of creatures and plants that can only be found in Yanbaru. Outdoor activities will be accompanied by local guides, so you can also learn things that only the locals know about! ※Optional plans must be requested separately. Photo：Yanbaru In the evening, enjoy a barbecue using local ingredients with your host grandmother and grandfather. Enjoy singing and chatting around the campfire while listening to the sound of the sanshin with your host family. Before bedtime, enjoy the grandeur of nature while gazing up at the starry night sky over Yanbaru! 2-Day/1-Night Overnight Plan – Schedule & Experience Details Here is an example of the schedule and activities of the basic plan for the 2-Day/1-Night Overnight Plan in Ogimi Village. ※This is an introduction to the camping plan. ■Day 1: 1:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. (Tour base: Miyagi Community Center Plaza and Shioya Bay) [1:00 p.m.] ・Gather at Shioya Miyagi Community Center Plaza ・Self-introductions and explanation of the tour by the staff ・Camp preparations (tent setup, etc.) Photo：Setting up camp [2:00 p.m.] ・Tour around the villages by e-bike with staff guide (choose from Kijoka or Shioya villages) Photo：E-bike village tour [5:00 p.m.] ・Free time after returning to Miyagi Community Center Plaza [6:00 p.m.] ・Start preparing a BBQ dinner made with local ingredients - Enjoy the delicious flavors of Yanbaru with outdoor camping utensils and offal soup. ・Dinner with a view of the sunset ・Enjoy chatting with locals while listening to the sound of the sanshin and watching kachasi (traditional Okinawan dance) ・Stargazing with commentary by a starry sky sommelier who is well versed in the night sky above Yanbaru ※You can see what camping is like at 01:25 in the video. Photo：Camping at night [11:00 p.m.] ・Bedtime prep ■Day 2: 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. [8:30 a.m.] ・Wake up ・Prepare breakfast ・Camp equipment clean up [10:00 a.m.] ・Miyagi Community Center beach cleanup (SDGs) [11:00 a.m.] ・End of tour In the afternoon, you can apply for various experience plans. ※The above is the schedule for the basic model plan, so you can choose the plan that best suits your preferences by consulting with the tour guide in advance. ※If you wish to stay overnight, please specify this in the inquiry details when you apply. Multiple night stays are available as well. For inquiries about tour plans, please contact the guide through the application and inquiry form on the official website. Yonna-Ogimi【Official Website】 2-Day/1-Night Overnight Plan – Tour Details Here, we'll provide you with the details of Ogimi Village's 2-Day/1-Night Overnight Plan tour price and duration. [Price] 2 persons・・・43,500 yen (tax included・per person) 3 persons・・・43,000 yen (tax included・per person) 4 persons・・・40,000 yen (tax included・per person) 5 persons・・・40,500 yen (tax included・per person) ※Transportation to the meeting place (airfare, rental car, bus, etc.), drinks, alcohol, etc. are charged separately. For those who choose to stay at a private residence, drinks and alcohol may be provided by the private residence. Optional experience plans require a separate application. Please refer to the bottom of this article for details regarding the experience plans. [Tour Period] February - November (※Tours are not available in December and January). [Group Sizes] 2-5 people Tents are limited to up to 5 tents, each of which accommodates 5 people (up to 25 people). ※The number of people who can stay in one house is limited, so large groups may be divided into several houses. [Meeting Place] Meeting place: Roadside Station Ogimi Yanbaru Forest Visitor Center Address: 95 Tsunami, Ogimi Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture [Clothing] We recommend that you bring clothes and shoes that can get wet and are easy to move around in for the different activities you might take part in. [What to Bring] Drinks, towel, toiletries, sandals, overnight amenities The Best Experience Plans in Yanbaru, Starting From 2 Hours! These experience plans allow those who cannot stay overnight but want to enjoy Ogimi Village to fully enjoy Ogimi Village in a short time (2 hours to half a day), or they can be incorporated into a 2-day/1-night plan. Choose the activities that are right for you and experience Ogimi Village to the fullest! Ta Waterfall Trekking & Playing Around the Basin [Tour Outline] Enjoy trekking at Ta Waterfall, located in the upper reaches of the Heinan River where tropical and subtropical plants grow. You can also play in the waterfall basin of the mysterious 15-meter-tall waterfall. Enjoy the nature of Ogimi Village, experience the sounds and smell of the forest and the earth, and listen to the singing birds while the trees dance in the wind. You may even come across flora and fauna that can only be found in Yanbaru. ※Life jackets must be worn when playing in the waterfall basin. You can see the what trekking is like at 0:43 in the video. Photo：Ta Waterfall trekking [Price] 7,000 yen/person [Time Required] 2 hours [Group Sizes] 2-20 people [Tour Period] January, February, March, July, August, September [Relaxed Stay With a Local Guide] Ogimi Village/Kijoka Village: The Key to Longevity on an E-Bike Tour [Tour Outline] This is a cycling tour around the world's longest-lived region. A local guide will accompany you on the tour, so you will be guided to places of interest that only locals know about, which you wouldn't be able to see on a regular tour. Cyclists who aren't confident in their physical abilities will be able to use e-bikes (sports-type bicycles with electric power assistance) for the tour. Learn the secrets to longevity in Kijoka village! This plan is included in the basic plan of the 2-day/1-night tour. You can see the cycling from 0:12 in the video. Photo：E-bike tour [Price] 6,000 yen/person [Time Required] 3 hours [Group Sizes] 2-6 people [Tour Period] Year-round (closed during the year-end and New Year holidays from December 29 to January 4) Tour From a Local Guide and Shipbuilder! Shioya Bay E-Bike Tour to Discover the Traditional Event "Ungami" & Sabani Boat Cruises [Tour Outline] On the first day of the Boar after the Kyu-Bon (Old Bon) Festival (September 2, 2023), Shioya Bay will host "Ungami," a traditional event to pray for a good harvest and good health. The men of the village row a haarii boat (a traditional Okinawan dragon boat) to the goal in Shioya Bay. The women, waist-deep in the sea, cheer enthusiastically while beating drums and welcoming the competitors with songs and dances. Ungami, held in Shioya Bay, is designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property by the government of Japan, and is a festival that has continued for more than 400 years without change. Visitors can explore the spirituality and mystique of the festival by e-biking around the area where Ungami is held. You can also cruise the clear blue waters of Shioya Bay on a Sabani (a boat used in Okinawa and surrounding islands since ancient times). Photo：Ungami [Price] 9,000 yen/person (※Minimum of 2 people) [Time Required] 3 hours [Group Sizes] 2-6 People [Tour Period] Year-round (closed during the year-end and New Year holidays from December 29 to January 4) [Yanbaru World Natural Heritage Site] A Cycling Tour Around the Area Where the Traditional Event Ungami Is Held [Tour Outline] Cycling through the traditional area where Ungami is held, you can explore the spirituality and mystique of the area. Guided by local guides, the tour will take you along paths known only by the members of the community. Photo：Cycling around the village [Price] 6,000 yen/person [Time Required] 2 hours [Group Sizes] 2-20 people [Tour Period] January, February, March, July, August, September Canoe Trip Around Miyagi Island [Tour Outline] Travel around the small island in Ogimi Village's Shioya Bay by canoe. This is a rare experience with which to explore Ogimi Village, the Village of Longevity, from the open sea! A local guide will take you around, so first-timers need not worry. You can see the canoe tours at 01:10 in the video. Photo：A canoe tour [Price] 7,000 yen/person (Tax included) [Time Required] 2 hours [Group Sizes] 2-20 people [Tour Period] January, February, March, July, August, September The Best Place to See the Southern Cross! Yanbaru Forest Starry Sky Tour With a Local Guide [Tour Outline] Local guides, who are certified starry sky sommeliers, will provide commentary that will allow you to enjoy the starry sky of Yanbaru, which stretches as far as the eye can see. Binoculars and telescopes are provided, so you can enjoy a real starry sky tour without any equipment. Okinawa is the only place in Japan where the Southern Cross can be seen, and this beautiful starry sky keeps watch over the residents of Ogimi Village. ※This plan is included in the basic 2-day/1-night tour plan. You can see the starry skies of Yanbaru at 01:51 in the video. Photo：The starry sky above Yanbaru [Price] 6,000 yen/person [Time Required] 2 hours [Group Sizes] 2-6 People [Tour Period] Year-round (closed during the year-end and New Year holidays from December 29 to January 4) Guided tours to activities and sights not listed above are also available by consultation. For inquiries about tour plans, please inquire using the application and inquiry form on the official website of Yonna-Ogimi. Yonna-Ogimi【Official Website】 Popular Spots When Sightseeing in Ogimi Village, Okinawa There are a ton of places to check out when visiting Ogimi Village! From famous sightseeing spots to spots hidden gems, Ogimi Village is full of scenery that will make for lifelong memories. Kijoka Seven Waterfalls The Kijoka Seven Waterfalls is a popular power spot in the Kijoka area. It's called "Seven Waterfalls" because the water changes its course seven times before cascading down into the basin. Since it's an object of worship for the local people, there is a sacred torii gate at the entrance to the waterfall and a place of worship to view the waterfall from. The clear water is sold as the mineral water "Okinawa no Meisui, Nanataki no Mizu" (沖縄の命水　七滝の水, Life Water of Okinawa, Water of the Seven Falls). Photo：Kijoka Seven Waterfalls General Information 【Address】2234, Kinyuka, Ogimi-mura, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa, Japan 【Access】Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes from the Kusuda IC on the Okinawa Expressway. 【Parking】Available Ishiyama Observatory The Ishiyama Observatory is located at the top of Mt. Ishiyama in Ogimi Village. The forests and villages of Yanbaru lie below, and the blue waters of the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean can be seen beyond. A large parking lot is available as well, so feel free to drop by with a rental car or other vehicles. Photo：Ishiyama Observatory General Information 【Address】2268-1 Nejime, Ogimi-mura, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Prefecture 【Access】Approximately 40 minutes from the Kusuda IC on the Okinawa Expressway 【Parking】30 cars Roadside Station Ogimi Yanbaru Forest Visitor Center Opened in 2020, Roadside Station Ogimi has a shop selling vegetables, meat, fish, and other specialties of Ogimi Village and northern Okinawa, as well as Restaurant Yanbaru Seaside, so you can enjoy lunch or a café and buy some souvenirs from Ogimi Village. At the 360° Dome Theater, visitors can learn about the flora and fauna of Yanbaru and life in Yanbaru through images. The top of the building is an observatory where you can view the beautiful sea. Photo：Roadside Station Ogimi Yanbaru Forest Visitor Center General Information 【Address】95 Aza-tsunami, Ogimi-mura, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Prefecture 【Access】Approximately 40 minutes from the Kusuda IC on the Okinawa Expressway 【Parking】Oversized vehicles: 9 cars, regular vehicles: 109 cars 【Business hours】 Direct sales counter: 9:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Restaurants: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. weekdays, 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. weekends and holidays Tourist Information Center: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Ogimi Village Tour Plan Summary Ogimi Village has been recognized as the "World's Longest Living Region." What is the secret behind its longevity? What is the "Ikigai" that captivates people from around the world? The Ogimi Village tours introduced in this article offer experiences that you won't find when traveling in Okinawa normally. Sightseeing at major tourist attractions in Okinawa and staying at a resort hotel is sure to make for a great trip, but, if you're looking to get to know the people of Okinawa and the culture and history of Okinawa, then a stay in Ogimi Village is the best way to do so. Learning about the culture, history, and daily life of Ogimi Village through a tour, you might start to understand why Ogimi Village is known as the "Village of Longevity." It'd be no exaggeration to say that this trip could change your outlook on life. The local staff is looking forward to welcoming you! Photo：Ogimi Village, Okinawa For more information about the Ogimi Village tour plans introduced in this article, or if you have any questions, concerns, or would like to apply, be sure to inquire via the application and inquiry form on the Yonna-Ogimi official website. 【Official Website】Yonna-Ogimi The COOL JAPAN VIDEOS social media account for the Ogimi Marugoto Tourism Association, where you can apply for Ogimi Village tour plans is as follows: For the latest information on Ogimi Village, check out these posts. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, a Social Networking Site Dedicated to the Beauty of Japan .caption-heading-2 { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; margin-bottom: 15px; max-width: 800px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 40px; } .caption-information-table { background-color: #efefef; margin-top: -20px; margin-bottom: 50px; padding: 20px; border-radius: 8px; width: 90%; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-information-table.blue { background-color: #fffaef; } .caption-information-table .title { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; } @media screen and (max-width: 1024px) { .caption-information-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 30px 15px; } } .caption-heading-table .caption-text li { line-height: 2.5rem; margin-top: 1.3rem; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading { position: relative; border-left: 5px solid #ff1300; padding-left: 10px; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 50px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 1px 15px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-heading-table ul{ counter-reset: listnum; /* カウンターをリセット */ list-style: none; /* 標準のスタイルは消す */ font-size: 1.5rem !important; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li{ margin-left: 1.1em; text-indent: -1.1em; font-weight: bold; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li::before{ counter-increment: listnum; /* counter-resetと同じ文字列 */ content: counter(listnum); /* カウントした数に応じて番号を表示 */ content: counter(listnum) ". 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The Martial Arts Tourism Gaining Popularity Among Tourists Visiting Japan This video, titled "[Japan Sports Agency] Foreign Visitors to Japan Taking Interest! A Report on the 'Budo Tourism' That Can Only Be Experienced in Japan" (【スポーツ庁】訪日外国人が注目！ 日本でしか体験できない「武道ツーリズム」の現場をレポート), was released by "Japan Sports Agency" (スポーツ庁). Budo Tourism refers to foreign visitors to Japan going on sightseeing trips to experience traditional Japanese martial arts. In addition to sumo, Japan's national sport, Japan has various traditional martial arts, such as kendo, judo, karate, and aikido, which attract a lot of interest from foreign tourists. With Budo Tourism, some foreigners visit Japan to try Kyudo, Shorinji Kempo, Naginata and Iaido. Karate, A Martial Art Gaining Popularity in Budo Tourism Photo：Martial arts Karate, seen from 0:34 in the video, is one of the most popular forms of martials arts in Budo Tourism, and has also officially been made into an event at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. It is said that there are around 130 million karate enthusiasts around the world, and the number of foreign tourists visiting to experience karate through Budo Tourism is increasing year after year. There are various theories about the origin of karate, but it is believed that the history of Japanese karate begins with the self-defense techniques of the Ryukyu Kingdom, which can be seen in the video. The Chinese martial art "Toude," which was introduced to the Ryukyu Kingdom, later become what we know as traditional Okinawan karate. Eventually, karate was divided into several schools, and performances and matches began to be held throughout the country. The Appeal of Budo Tourism Photo：Karate The fascinating experience of practicing in a dojo while wearing traditional uniforms typical of Japanese martial arts is not something you can easily experience outside of Japan. What kind of experience are foreign tourists looking for when training in classes held at traditional martial arts dojos? One reason is that Japanese martial arts place a large importance on etiquette and many people feel that they can experience spiritual growth through these experiences. Japanese martial arts have the idea of "Shin-Gi-Tai" (心技体: heart, technique, strength) This is a term that refers to the three qualities of a martial artist: mental strength (心, heart), skill (技, technique), and physical strength (体, body). It is said that training the mind and body in a well-balanced manner is the most important thing to consider when practicing martial arts. Summary of Japan's Budo Tourism Photo：Karate, kata As mentioned before, the number of foreign tourists interested in traditional Japanese martial arts, such as karate and kendo, is increasing year after year. Many Japanese people and foreign tourists are looking forward to seeing traditional martial arts at the Tokyo Olympics. Going forward, Budo Tourism will become a bridge between Japan and the rest of the world.

座間味島のきれいなビーチを観光しよう！ こちらの動画は「Drone et Sac à dos」が公開した「Amazing Japan 4K - Zamami island - Dji Mavic pro」です。 「日本の綺麗なビーチで遊びたいな」 「日本の美しい自然の中で思いっきり気分転換したい」 このように日本で美しいビーチや自然を楽しめる観光地を探しているなら、沖縄の慶良間諸島にある座間味島がおすすめ。 座間味島はケラマブルーと呼ばれる青い海が特徴の離島で、大自然を楽しむことができます。 こちらの記事では、座間味島の魅力や観光するときのおすすめのスポットなどを説明します。 最後に座間味島をドローンで撮った動画も紹介しているので、ぜひご覧ください！ おすすめの観光地である座間味島や周辺の島について 座間味島は沖縄本島から高速船やフェリーで50分ほどで訪れることのできる観光地です。 島のビーチから、ケラマブルーと言われる座間味島の海を眺められるので、綺麗な海を楽しみたい人にはおすすめ。 また、慶良間諸島は沖縄本島の西にある島々ですが、座間味島以外にも阿嘉島や渡嘉敷島など絶景を楽しめるスポットがあります。 これらの離島でも透明度の高い海が特徴で、ダイビングやシュノーケルを楽しむためにたくさんの観光客が訪れます。 沖縄を観光するときにおすすめの座間味島の魅力とは 沖縄の座間味島の魅力は、なんといっても美しい自然でしょう。 白い砂浜のビーチから眺めるケラマブルーはとても綺麗で、楽園にいるような錯覚を与えてくれます。 天気のいい日にビーチで思いっきり遊びましょう！ また、座間味村には展望台がたくさんあり、海や島を眺めることができます。 レンタカーやレンタルバイクを借りて展望台巡りをするのがおすすめ。 座間味島を観光するときに人気のスポット 沖縄の座間味島を観光するときにイチオシのスポットは、まず古座間味ビーチがあげられます。 古座間味ビーチは座間味島でもっとも人気のビーチで、とても透明な海が特徴です。 サンゴ礁や熱帯魚が見られる貴重な場所。 続いておすすめの観光スポットは、阿真ビーチです。 阿真ビーチはウミガメが見られる場所として有名です。とても静かなビーチなので、ゆっくり癒やされたい人におすすめ。 沖縄の座間味島の魅力紹介まとめ こちらの動画は沖縄の座間味島をドローンで撮影した4K動画で、座間味島の美しいビーチや海がきれいな映像で見ることができます。 ドローンで撮影した上空から見たケラマブルーは圧倒的な美しさで、きっと座間味島に訪れたいと思うはず。