DECEMBER 2025
We will document our experiences in Okinawa, Japan in December, but for now, here’s a short overview:
Okinawa, Japan, is a unique and fascinating region with a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty.
Okinawa is the largest of the Ryukyu Islands, situated in the East China Sea between Taiwan and Japan’s main islands. It has a subtropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with a rainy season from May to June and a typhoon season from August to October.
Okinawa was once the center of the Ryukyu Kingdom (1429–1879), which had its own language and culture, distinct from mainland Japan. The kingdom was annexed by Japan in 1879, becoming a prefecture, but it maintained some cultural independence. Okinawa was the site of one of the bloodiest battles in the Pacific during World War II, resulting in significant loss of life and destruction.
While Japanese is the official language, the Okinawan language (Uchinaaguchi) is still spoken by some residents. Okinawan food is known for its health benefits, often featuring sweet potatoes, tofu, and pork. Popular dishes include Okinawa soba (noodles) and goya champuru (stir-fried bitter melon).
Okinawa is famous for the longevity of its residents. Factors contributing to this include a balanced diet, active lifestyle, strong community bonds, and a positive outlook on life. Practices like Ikigai (finding purpose in life) and the importance of social connections play a crucial role in their well-being.
We can’t wait to dive into this beautiful land and report back to you!