Header image courtesy of Angela Goh
The azure waters of Okinawa, which stretch into the horizon until the water appears to meet the sky, mesmerises as I greet the dawn on this stunning island in Japan. If you have ever wished for the orderliness of Japan combined with the laidback vibe of a tropical island, this is it. Select any of the 160 subtropical islands which make up the archipelago—each is an underwater playground for snorkelers and scuba divers.
Okinawa may be better known around the world for the longevity of its elderly population, as well as for the Battle of Okinawa in the Second World War, but the islands are also a wonderful beach escape steeped in a culture unlike the rest of Japan. It’s not surprising considering this southern-most prefecture in the East China Sea lies closer to Taiwan than Japan. Once an autonomous kingdom known as Ryukyu before its annexation in 1879, Okinawans have their own language, cuisine, traditions and most attractive of all, their easy-going personality. Read on for the best things to do on the island nation.