The southern islands, Okinawa

Okinawa, the southernmost part of Japan, is the group of 160 subtropical islands known as the Ryukyu Islands which lie between Kyushu and Taiwan.

 

Okinawa is a great place to visit for an underwater adventure. The crystal-clear waters and warm temperatures attract many divers, who come not only to see the marine life but also to explore underwater ruins and wrecks from World War II.

 

In addition to diving and a range of other water sports, Okinawa is well-known for its unique culture and cuisine which is quite different to that of mainland Japan. 

 

For about 450 years, from the 15th to the 19th century, Okinawa prospered as the Kingdom of Ryukyu, a state independent of Japan's central government. Cultural characteristics and traditions born through the kingdom's relations with foreign countries during that time still survive in the islands' heritage sites, artifacts and festivals, giving additional charm to Okinawa.

 

Air access is via Naha Airport located on the main island of Okinawa.

 

Okinawa Convention & Visitors Bureau (OCVB)

www.ocvb.or.jp/en/

Okinawa Prefecture
www.pref.okinawa.jp/english/index.html

Okinawa Tourist Information
www.okinawastory.jp/en/

= Diving
www.okinawastory.jp/en/explore/diving.html

= Coral reefs
 www.okinawastory.jp/en/why/ocean/coral.html

 

 

Diving tour
You can read about one of several Okinawan diving tours at the links below. This tour is operated by JTBGMT (JTB Global Marketing & Travel) and includes itineraries for travellers arriving (1) via Tokyo, and (2) via Hong Kong or Taiwan.

(1) Diving tour via Tokyo

(2) Diving tour via Hong Kong or Taiwan

For further information about the tour, please contact the travel agent listed on the last page of the tour information.