"Japan" is a destination that many travelers and tourists aspire to visit at least once in their lifetime. When mentioning this island nation, familiar cities immediately come to mind, such as the Kanto region (Tokyo and surrounding areas), the Kansai region (Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe), the southern region, the Kyushu region (Fukuoka, Kumamoto), or the northernmost region of Japan, the Hokkaido region (Sapporo, Hakodate). However, many people may mistakenly believe that the southernmost part of Japan is Kagoshima Prefecture in the Kyushu region.

This review will focus on informative content to help everyone get to know Okinawa a little better, along with my own mediocre photos that I will include in abundance (too bad I couldn't cut them down). There will be a mix of beautiful and mediocre photos, and importantly, I did not rent a car for this trip. I went with my own body and the money in my pocket.

Review Part 2: To the South of Naha OKINAWA WORLD http://pantip.com/topic/35953525

Review Part 3: To the North of OKINAWA http://pantip.com/topic/35962970

Image source: http://travel.rakuten.co.jp/en/map/japan/

Okinawa Prefecture is the southernmost part of Japan, located on a separate island chain. Due to its significant distance from mainland Japan and its proximity to Taiwan, and the elongated shape of the Japanese archipelago, maps of Japan often depict Okinawa Prefecture inset in a corner, as shown below.

Okinawa Prefecture is isolated in the lower right corner of the map, separated from the other prefectures on the mainland.

Question: Why visit Okinawa and why during the winter season?

The question of why Okinawa is a popular tourist destination is one that many people who visit the island ask themselves. The answer is simple: Okinawa offers a unique and different experience compared to other popular tourist destinations in Japan. Unlike the bustling cities of Tokyo or Osaka, Okinawa is a laid-back island paradise with stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a rich cultural heritage.

Another reason why Okinawa is a popular tourist destination is its climate. Okinawa has a subtropical climate, which means that it is warm and sunny year-round. This makes it an ideal destination for those who want to escape the cold winters of northern Japan.

Finally, Okinawa is also a popular tourist destination because it is relatively affordable. Compared to other popular tourist destinations in Japan, Okinawa is a relatively inexpensive place to visit. This makes it an ideal destination for budget-minded travelers.

During Okinawa's low season in winter, accommodation prices drop significantly. For instance, five-star hotels that typically cost over ten thousand yen per night can be found for half the price. Additionally, overall expenses tend to be lower during this period.

Traveling to Okinawa, Japan

I traveled to Okinawa between December 13th and 18th, 2016. I booked my ticket to Okinawa in April when Hong Kong Airlines had a promotion for around 6,700 baht, including taxes and fees, which came out to around 8,000 baht. This was acceptable as it included checked baggage fees. Let's take a look at the journey to Okinawa. As there are currently no direct flights from Thailand to Okinawa, there are two ways to connect (updated December 15th: Peach Air has opened a direct flight route from Thailand to Okinawa). These are:

1. Connecting flights from Thailand to Okinawa are currently offered by the following airlines:

1.1 Hong Kong Airlines (Bangkok - Okinawa) with a layover in Hong Kong

1.2 Cathay Pacific (Bangkok - Okinawa) with a layover in Hong Kong

1.3 China Airlines (Bangkok - Okinawa) with a layover in Taipei, Taiwan

1.4 EVA Airlines (Bangkok - Okinawa) with a layover in Taipei, Taiwan

Do not ask which airline to choose. I would choose Hong Kong Airlines because it is the cheapest option at the end of the year. The flight time is also reasonable. The ticket price is around 8,000 baht.

2. Domestic connecting flights within Japan, such as PEACH AIRLINES.

3. Direct flights from Thailand to Okinawa (in this case, we have to wait for Thai Airways to charter flights, which will be open for booking again). Recently, a low-cost airline from Japan (PEACH AIR) has opened a direct flight route from Bangkok to Okinawa. The route was opened on December 15, 2016.

Due to the change in flight schedule by Hong Kong Airlines, my original travel plan to Okinawa was disrupted. The departure time was changed from 1:40 AM to 3:30 AM, resulting in the loss of almost half a day of my planned itinerary. To adjust to this change, I contacted Hong Kong Airlines and rescheduled my flight from December 14th to December 13th, 2016.

Let's get straight to the point. Hong Kong Airlines is located at Suvarnabhumi Airport, near Gate K. If possible, it is highly recommended to check in online beforehand for a faster and more convenient experience.

After completing online check-in from home, proceed to the "K" counter in the "Internet Check-in" area for baggage drop-off. For flights to Okinawa, the counter staff will provide two boarding passes: one for the Bangkok-Hong Kong leg and another for the Hong Kong-Okinawa leg. Upon arrival at Hong Kong International Airport, passengers can directly transfer to their connecting flight without going through immigration. Simply check the flight code and gate information. Checked baggage will be automatically transferred to the final destination, Okinawa.

In this era of social media, staying connected with family and friends is crucial, especially when traveling. For my recent trip to Hong Kong and Japan, I opted for the AIS 2FLY SIM card, priced at 399 baht. This SIM card offers seamless connectivity in both countries, eliminating the hassle of purchasing separate SIM cards. To activate the SIM card, I recommend inserting it into your phone 1-2 hours before boarding and dialing *120. However, I suggest waiting to activate the data roaming until you reach your destination to avoid any potential issues.

After grabbing a bite at the King Power lounge, I continued walking to gate F5. It's worth noting that the King Power lounge is located at the far end of the A gates, while the aircraft gate is at F5, the opposite end of the airport. It's quite a long walk.

Hong Kong Airlines flights to Hong Kong are not only used by passengers from Hong Kong Airlines, but also by passengers from Kenya Airways and Etihad Airways, as these airlines codeshare.

During the flight, I had the opportunity to try one of the legendary bread rolls that many people have spoken highly of (although I didn't manage to capture a photo). Afterwards, I slept until we arrived at Hong Kong Airport at 7:30 AM.

Upon arrival, with approximately four hours to spare, I opted to visit Terminal 1 via the airport's train system in search of sustenance. Essentially, I embarked on a leisurely stroll through the airport's premises.

Arriving in Hong Kong in the morning during the winter season, a warm bowl of Hong Kong congee was the perfect way to start the day before heading to Okinawa. Delicious, delicious, amazing!

After indulging in a bowl of Hong Kong congee that cost nearly 200 baht (which made me sweat a little), it was time to check the gate for my flight. To my surprise, it was gate 216. Oh my goodness, that's almost at the end of the terminal we arrived at.

After clearing security, I took the train back to the original terminal and walked to Gate 216, which is almost at the end of the terminal. I saw the familiar plane, but this one was going to Sapporo, not Okinawa. I waited for the next flight.

While waiting, I took some photos of the quiet atmosphere of Hong Kong Airport Terminal 1. Here are some photos of the sausage stuffing for you to enjoy. 555

The sign has changed from Sapporo, the northernmost city in Japan, to Okinawa, the southernmost city in Japan.

The eerie atmosphere of the deserted palace, the echoing silence of the empty granary, and the anticipation of the long-awaited journey to Okinawa.

As we fly near Okinawa, we can see various islands below. This one looks just like a seahorse, doesn't it? It seems that we are getting closer to the long-awaited dream.

Our plane has finally arrived in the southernmost prefecture of Okinawa. Oh, the azure sea and the clear blue sky!

As the plane approached the airport, the turquoise waters of the sea transformed into an emerald green below. Oh my, is this the Hawaii of Japan? You look beautiful even in winter. But airline, could you please clean the windows a bit? They're so cloudy that the pictures aren't very pretty. 555

Upon landing at Naha International Airport, passengers must pass through immigration, which is known for its strictness. However, it pales in comparison to the stringent checks at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Thailand, where officers meticulously examine luggage, open bags, and even pat down passengers, sometimes uncomfortably close to private areas. This thorough inspection can leave travelers feeling flustered and anxious.

After clearing immigration and customs, proceed to the domestic terminal building. Follow the signs for the Monorail and continue walking.

Upon arrival at the domestic terminal, proceed inside the building to the second floor. Follow the signs marked "Monorail" to reach the monorail station, which is located in a separate building.

As I approached the monorail station (NAHA KUKO) to purchase a ticket for my journey into Naha City, I was pleasantly surprised to encounter a kind Japanese couple who generously offered me their 2 DAY PASS, which was set to expire on December 14, 2016, at 12:03 PM. Initially, I was taken aback and skeptical, fearing a potential scam. However, they reassured me that it was free and valid until the following day, even guiding me through the process of scanning the card and QR code. Their kindness saved me 1200 yen.

Image source: http://www.naha-airport.co.jp/en/access/monorail.html

OKINAWA MONORAIL

- Okinawa is a prefecture that lacks railway lines, subways, or elevated trains. Its sole rail transportation system is the monorail.

- Okinawa's monorail is called the Yui Rail.

- The Yui Rail has 15 stations, starting from Naha Airport Station and ending at Shuri Station.

- The journey from the first station to the last takes only 27 minutes.

Image source: http://www.yui-rail.co.jp/en/faretable.html

- The Yui Rail fare starts at 110 yen and goes up to 330 yen.

Note: Kencho-mae Station is currently known as Prefectural Office Station. Therefore, these two stations are the same. Please avoid confusion.

Yui Rail Ticket

There are two types of tickets available:

- QR 1-day ticket (2-day ticket) is a ticket valid for 1 day or 2 days, priced at 700 yen and 200 yen respectively (the picture above shows the 2-day ticket). The ticket is valid for 24 and 48 hours respectively. For example, if you purchase a 1-day ticket on December 13th at 10:07 AM, the ticket will expire on December 14th at 10:07 AM.

- Another type of card is called the OKICA card, which is better because it can be used not only on the monorail but also on buses both in the city and outside the city.

The choice of transportation card depends on individual preferences. On my first day, I received a free card from a kind Japanese person, so I decided to make the most of it before the owner regretted giving it away. From the Naha Kokusai Monorail Station, I took the monorail to Omoromachi Station, where I had booked my accommodation.

Upon arrival at Omoromachi Station, you will encounter the T Galleria, a duty-free department store with its sole Japanese branch located in Okinawa. This brand is exclusive to Okinawa and cannot be found in other Japanese prefectures. T Galleria also operates branches in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Macau.

The monorail track curves can be seen from Omoromachi Station and the T Galleria mall.

Next door is the T Galleria department store, which I mentioned earlier for those who love shopping. Don't miss out on the brands here.

After taking some photos of the scenery, the highlight of Naha appeared. It was the Okinawa Monorail that I rode. As you can see, the monorail only has two cars. I wonder how crowded it gets in the morning and evening. Isn't it cute? Then, let's take a look around Omoromachi Station.

T-Galleria

The Main Place in Naha

After a tiring walk, I finally found a place to stay. (I will review the accommodation separately in another review.)

After collecting our belongings at the hotel near Omori-machi, it was time to stroll down the famous Kokusai-dori Street in Okinawa.

To reach KOKUSAI DORI, take the monorail and get off at either Prefectural Office Station (Kencho-mae) or Miebashi Station.

Upon reaching Kokusai Street, you will notice a lion-like statue, which the Okinawan people call "Caesar." It stands prominently at the entrance of the street. Let me take you to see the atmosphere. If you want to know which shops are there, go and experience them for yourself!

As I walked on, I noticed a peculiar shop that looked like it sold herbal remedies and medicinal liquor.

Is that a pickled snake? I wonder what its medicinal properties are. 555

Strolling along, I came across a pineapple-stuffed colon, a unique Okinawan delicacy. You won't find this flavor anywhere else, folks! (Or maybe you will?)

BLUE SEAL in Okinawa

Amidst the cool night breeze, a craving for warmth arose, prompting a decision to indulge in a scoop of Blue Seal ice cream. (However, one might question the logic of seeking warmth through a cold treat, as the chill of the night would arguably be better countered by something hot.)

Blue Seal ice cream shops are ubiquitous in Okinawa, especially on Kokusai Street, where you'll find one on almost every block. So, don't worry about which shop to choose, they're all the same! 555

The Blue Seal ice cream brand, with its logo resembling that of Foremost milk, originated in America but was elevated and developed in Okinawa. As a result, Blue Seal is considered the ice cream of Okinawa.

PURPLE SWEET POTATO SOFT SERVE

To avoid missing out, I had to try the famous local ice cream. The flavor I chose was Beni-imo soft serve, which is purple sweet potato. It was delicious, sweet, and soft.

After finishing a cold drink, I continued walking and noticed (again, I noticed) a familiar brand symbol from Osaka: Pablo. I couldn't resist crossing the street to take a closer look.

MINI CHOCOLATE PABLO

This is too simple, please pass.

PABLO MINI ORIGINAL

This is widely available in both Japan and Thailand. I'll pass.

Okinawan Purple Sweet Potato

My gaze fell upon a unique and unparalleled flavor: Okinawan Sweetness. This flavor is not available in any other prefecture in Japan, only in Okinawa. And with that, we...

PURPLE OKINAWAN SWEET POTATO CHEESE TART

This large Okinawa sweet potato cheesecake is only available in Okinawa. If you want to try this flavor, you'll have to come here.

Indulge in a delightful array of desserts.

The Okinawa Sweet Potato Mini Tarte is quite delicious, with a subtle sweetness and a hint of fragrance. I would rate it 8/10.

MAKISHI Fresh Market

Nestled in the labyrinthine alleys just off Kokusai Street, this vibrant market offers a glimpse into the authentic Okinawan way of life. Escape the hustle and bustle of the main thoroughfare and immerse yourself in the local culture.

BENI-IMO KITKAT (Purple Sweet Potato)

Kit Kats are a popular souvenir from Japan, but each prefecture in Japan has its own local flavor. For example, green tea Kit Kats are associated with Kyoto, and Shinshu apple Kit Kats are from Nagano. Okinawa also has its own Kit Kat, made with local ingredients found in Okinawa, namely purple sweet potato.

The Okinawan purple sweet potato KitKat has a sweet taste with a hint of purple sweet potato flavor.

This purple sweet potato tart is commonly found and sold throughout Okinawa and is a popular souvenir.

The bustling atmosphere of the market at night.

The bustling atmosphere of Kokusai Street at night, filled with students, resembles Siam Square in Thailand, Ximending in Taiwan, and Shibuya in Tokyo.

DAY 2 : 14 DECEMBER 2016

NAHA - MANZA BEACH

Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum

The building in front is a museum showcasing the history of the Ryukyu people, including their artwork, such as paintings and sculptures. However, I did not enter as I had to go elsewhere first.

Directions: Take the monorail to OMOROMACHI Station and walk 5 minutes from the station.

On the second day of my stay in Naha, Okinawa, I had to go to Manza Beach in the north of Naha at 11:40 am. This gave me a little time in the morning, so I decided to take some pictures of Shuri Castle first. I left my luggage at the hotel.

DAY 2 : 14 DECEMBER 2016

NAHA - MANZA BEACH

The morning atmosphere at Omori-machi Station is relatively calm, reflecting the overall relaxed pace of life in Naha City.

At the monorail station, there are only two routes: one to Naha Airport, indicated by the sign "NAHA KUKO," and the other to Shuri Castle, indicated by the sign "SHURI."

The image above shows the view from the monorail window, capturing the scenic beauty of Naha City in the morning light.

The interior of the monorail

We finally arrived at Shuri Station. Then, we followed the signs that said "Shurijo Castle".

After a late night, I gathered my composure before heading to Shuri Station to soak in the surrounding atmosphere.

**Getting to Shuri Castle: Take the Monorail to Shuri Station and walk to the castle.**

On the second day of my stay in Okinawa, before heading to Manza Beach, I decided to visit the outer grounds of Shuri Castle. I planned to explore the interior on another day after returning from Manza Beach, as I knew I wouldn't have enough time if I went inside then. I couldn't find the entrance to the castle and ended up walking the wrong way, which led me up a steep hill. I ended up emerging on the side of the palace near the Kyukeimon Gate.

Kyukeimon Gate

The Kyukaimon Gate is the outer gate of Shurijo Castle, also known as Shuri (both names refer to the same structure). It is located on the north side of the castle, and its walls are made of stone, while the upper part of the walls is made of wood.

Main Gate

Zuisen signifies "beautiful and auspicious spring," and the gate's name originates from the Ryukyu spring, known as Hikawa-ujo.

Gate of the Six Paths

Gate of the Six Paths

Upon passing through the Roukokumon Gate, you will encounter the red exterior of the castle. This review will not delve into the castle gate in detail; instead, it will be covered in Part 2.

Gate of Happiness

After passing through the Koufukuji Temple's main gate, I had only a few minutes to reach the Houshinmon Gate before 8:25 AM. However, I arrived at 8:28 AM.

Gate of the Star Messenger

The gates of Shurijo Castle's Hoshinmon open at 8:25 a.m. sharp, marked by the resonant sound of a gong and the traditional announcement of "Ukejo" (meaning "open the gate"). This daily ritual signifies the start of a new day at the World Heritage Site, accompanied by the enchanting melodies of ancient Ryukyu music. The ceremony begins before 8:25 a.m. as officials don traditional attire and prepare for the symbolic opening.

Link to video

This is a clip from YouTube. Thank you, Shurijo Castle Park. I only took still photos and didn't make it in time to hear the gong sound.

As the two officers finished, they stood at the gate, and the Shurijo Castle gate opened to tourists at 8:30 AM.

This is the back of the Koufukumon Gate, where tickets for the castle are sold. However, I will not be taking you inside today. I will wait until after I return from Mount Zaō.

This gate is the Houshinmon Gate, which requires an entrance fee to access the inner area. (Tickets can be purchased at the counter at the Koufukumon Gate.)

The sheer number of Okinawan students visiting Shuri Castle on the day of my visit was astounding. It seemed as if every school on the island had descended upon the historic landmark, transforming my trip into an impromptu photoshoot of Japanese youth.

MAIN GATE

Passing through the Zuisenmon Gate, you will encounter another gate.

KANKAIMON GATE

Peering through the KANKAIMON gate, you'll be greeted with this view, albeit slightly backlit (more than slightly, actually).

SHUREIMON GATE

The final gate, but in reality, this gate should be the first gate before reaching Shuri Castle. However, I entered the wrong way and it turned out to be the last gate. This is what happens when you don't plan well, but it's fun in a different way.

Shurijo Castle is bustling with Okinawan students on a field trip today, making for a delightful sight. As we explore the castle's outer grounds, we find ourselves losing track of time, wandering aimlessly until we realize we need to retrieve our belongings at our accommodation by 10:00 AM. We have a little time to spare, so we allow ourselves to get lost in the enchanting surroundings of the castle.

The streets surrounding Shuri Castle offer a serene and picturesque atmosphere. The area is remarkably clean, with a gentle breeze carrying a sense of tranquility.

Instead of climbing the steep hill, we discovered a hidden entrance to the castle, allowing us to explore the surrounding area.

This is a smooth path leading to Shuri Castle, offering a distant view of the castle.

Before reaching Shuri Castle, you will pass the University of the Arts.

And then I finally reached the castle. I followed the designated path, laughing to myself. After a while, I checked my watch and realized it was almost ten o'clock. I rushed to Shuri Station, fearing I would miss my train.

Bezaiten Shrine and Engan Pond

Despite his lack of remorse, he continued his stroll. He then came to a path that led him to the Bezaitendo Shrine and the Enganchi Pond. This shrine was built to house the Buddhist scriptures received from the Korean king at that time.

After passing the Bezaitendo Shrine, I came across the Kyukeimon Gate, the same one I had stumbled upon earlier. It became clear that the castle was surrounded by high, thick walls.

The castle was visible from afar. Glancing at the time again, I realized it was time to head to our accommodation. We had been so engrossed in taking photos. Stay tuned for more!

After visiting Shuri Castle on the outskirts, I rushed to the hotel at Omori-machi Station. Then, I took the monorail from the station to Naha Airport to board the limousine bus.

What is a Limousine Bus?

**Limousine Bus** is a bus service that transports passengers from Naha Airport or Naha Bus Terminal to hotels in northern Okinawa, specifically 4-star and 5-star hotels. Tickets for the Limousine Bus can be purchased on the 1st floor of the Domestic Passenger Terminal.

The limousine bus has five routes, labeled A through E. Passengers should check which route corresponds to their hotel. For example, passengers staying at the ANA INTERCONTINENTAL MANZA BEACH should board route C.

Limousine bus information: See this link for details: http://okinawabus.com/en/ls/

Or, if you want to see buses that run between cities, you can see this link: http://okinawabus.com/eng

After purchasing the limousine bus ticket, proceed to bus stop number 12 in front of Naha Airport. The staff will explain the route and how to get there. Then, wait for the bus and prepare for your journey north.

Stuck in traffic, enjoying the bridge view, seeing the beautiful sea.

The scene then transitions to a wooded area, followed by houses. I think I'll take a nap now and tell you later why I decided to stay at ANA MANZA BEACH. I even saved up to stay there (a far cry from my usual backpacking style)! But hey, it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience, right?

The journey on the Limousine Bus took approximately 98 minutes, almost two hours, before arriving at the ANA INTERCONTINENTAL MANZA BEACH Hotel. This was the most expensive accommodation and the first deviation from my usual budget-friendly approach, as I typically opt for hostels and guesthouses. However, I chose this hotel due to its stunning surroundings and the fact that prices during the winter season are half of what they are during peak season. Additionally, I considered it a reward for myself.

My reservation was made around May, and the price fluctuated each month. I requested a high floor, and the hotel assigned me the 6th floor, which is not high, but rather in the middle, considering there are 9 floors in total.

The view from my room offers a captivating panorama. The majestic church stands tall in the foreground, while the azure and emerald hues of the ocean stretch out on either side. The interior of the room exudes a serene ambiance.

The atmosphere in my room on the 6th floor is quite pleasant. However, the weather outside is cloudy and rainy, with occasional bursts of sunshine. It's hard to predict what the weather will be like. After I've unpacked, let's explore the hotel.

The swimming pool, filled with water but devoid of swimmers due to the chilly weather, offered a serene backdrop as we explored the hotel's beachfront promenade. Despite bringing a tripod, the strong winds rendered it unusable.

As you stroll along the beach, you'll encounter a series of playful tunnels to crawl through.

After walking for a while, you will come across a deserted beach.

After walking, there will be another path leading up to a different view of the sea.

After enjoying the view for a while and taking in the fresh air, I walked back to the hotel and took a walk along the beach on the other side. It was a different experience, but I had to pass by the pool first.

After a short walk, we explored the front of the hotel, specifically the hotel's chapel.

The hotel's chapel will be used for the wedding ceremony. The atmosphere will be quite romantic.

The sky began to darken again and the wind picked up as we explored, so it's best to head back to the room to rest for a while. Then I'll take you to enjoy some Okinawan-style food.

As dusk approaches, it's time to venture downstairs and soak in the atmosphere.

The hotel's pool area is also adorned with small blue lights.

During the festive season, the cool air, colorful lights, and decorated Christmas trees, accompanied by music, bring back a sense of joy and happiness.

The hotel's atmosphere at night is amazing. I'm currently waiting for 8:00 PM to enjoy a delicious Okinawan-style buffet dinner.

The restaurant offers an Okinawan-style buffet. In the evening, there are two rounds, 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Each round features a 30-minute Okinawan-style traditional performance.

This section will explore the Okinawan cuisine offered in this restaurant. Stay tuned for more information.

DINING AT ANA INTERCONTINENTAL MANZA BEACH

Upon entering the restaurant, a striking ensemble known as "bingata" takes center stage. This vibrant garment, traditionally associated with the Okinawan prefecture or the former Ryukyu Kingdom, stands out with its bold colors, a stark contrast to the kimonos or yukatas found on the mainland. Let's delve into the local Okinawan cuisine featured on the menu. By exploring these culinary delights, we can gain insights into the Okinawan way of life and uncover the secrets behind their remarkable longevity.

1. Okinawan-Style Spicy Sauce Fritter and Hamburger Steak

(Top left: OKINAWA STYLE SPICY SAUCE FRITTER and right: HAMBURGER STEAK, respectively)

2. Uchina Tempura (Okinawan Specials Tempura)

Okinawan-style tempura is a unique dish that involves deep-frying battered purple sweet potatoes. This culinary creation offers a distinct flavor profile compared to traditional tempura. The term "Uchina" refers to the indigenous people of Okinawa. This particular tempura recipe incorporates locally sourced ingredients known for their nutritional value, including mineral-rich red potatoes, vitamin-packed Goya (bitter melon), and Mozuku seaweed.

3. GOYA CHAMPURU

GOYA CHAMPURU, or stir-fried bitter melon in Thai, is a staple Okinawan dish similar to Thai cuisine. This dish is rich in vitamin C, carotene, and protein, aiding in physical recovery. Champuru signifies "mixing" or "blending" in the Okinawan dialect.

4. NABERA

NABERA refers to a sponge cucumber, a type of cucumber with a sponge-like texture, in the Okinawan dialect. Sponge cucumbers are commonly used as an ingredient in both home and restaurant cooking.

5. Green Papaya Champuru

Okinawan papaya champuru is a stir-fried dish made with two types of papaya: vegetable and fruit. In East Asia, papaya is typically used in salads, but in Okinawa, these papayas are stir-fried with meat and vegetables, in the style of champuru.

6. RAFUTE (PORK BELLY)

RAFUTE (PORK RIBS) is a dish with cultural origins in Chinese cuisine, specifically Dong Po Rou, also known as braised pork belly. It bears resemblance to the braised pork dish "pallo" found in Thai cuisine.

7. TACO RICE

Taco rice is a dish that originated in the city of Kin. It was first made for American soldiers. Seasoned ground meat is placed on top of rice, followed by cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and a special Okinawan taco sauce. It is served in large portions, often too much for one person to finish.

8. TABICHI

TABICHI (braised pork leg) is a dish consumed in China and East Asia, known for its rich collagen content.

9. OKINAWAN DOUGHNUT

Sata Andagi - Okinawan Doughnut

SATA refers to sugar. ANDA refers to oil. AGEE refers to frying (in the Okinawan dialect).

This is a popular local donut with a crispy exterior and a soft interior.

10. KOKUTO

KOKUTO LOCAL BROWN is a traditional Okinawan confection believed to bring good health and ward off illness. This sweet treat, derived from Chinese culinary influences, features thin, crepe-like dough rolled into a cylindrical shape. The flavor profile resembles that of a mildly sweet pancake. Alternatively, KOKUTO LOCAL BROWN may be referred to as Chinbin (ちんびん).

11. UMIBUDO

Sea grapes, also known as umibudo, are a type of seaweed that resembles tiny, round grapes. They have a slightly salty flavor and burst in the mouth, similar to salmon roe. Sea grapes are often served with ponzu sauce, which complements their flavor well. This dish is a popular example of Okinawan cuisine, and it is often found in Okinawan-style buffet restaurants. These restaurants offer a great way to experience local cuisine and culture, and they often provide ample time for diners to enjoy their meals. As the evening approaches, around 8:45 PM, the lights in the restaurant dim, signaling the start of an Okinawan performance.

Eiza

Okinawan Eisa, a vibrant and captivating dance tradition, is believed to have originated from rituals honoring deities. Similar to Bon Odori in mainland Japan, Eisa is performed during the Obon festival to pay respects and seek blessings from ancestors. Throughout the island, communities gather to celebrate, wishing for good health, family safety, and protection from illness. Additionally, Okinawa boasts a rich musical heritage with Shima Uta, traditional songs passed down from the Ryukyu Kingdom era. Modern adaptations of these songs, known as Okinawa Minyo, have become an integral part of daily life, infusing pop music with the island's cultural essence. (Source: http://ocvbth.namjai.cc/e47737.html)

Following the Eisa dance performance, the next item on the program is a traditional folk dance.

Ryukyu Buyō (Folk Dance)

The traditional Okinawan attire features vibrant red and yellow colors, reflecting the region's tropical climate. The performance is accompanied by the enchanting sounds of the sanshin, a local string instrument, adding vibrancy to the Ryukyu Buyo dance. This indigenous dance form originated during the Ryukyu Kingdom era and was performed for distinguished guests at the castle, known as "Koten Buyo." During the Meiji era, mainland Japanese dance styles influenced the art form, leading to the emergence of "So-udoi" style, which became accessible to the general public. Today, the dance has evolved into "So-saku Buyo," incorporating modern adaptations and variations. The performance concludes with a thrilling display that captivates the audience.

This is a performance featuring a Shisa, a mythical creature in Okinawan folklore. You'll notice Shisa statues and decorations adorning homes, hotels, and various locations throughout the island. The performance resembles lion or dragon dances in Thailand, highlighting a cultural similarity between Okinawa and Thailand. Unlike typical stage performances, the Shisa interacts directly with the audience, adding an element of surprise and excitement.

Following Caesar's performance, there were two more sets of performances that I don't know what to call, but they were another fun way to experience Ryukyu (Okinawan) culture, which blends Chinese and Japanese art forms. After the performances, the performers on stage invited the audience to join in the fun by dancing and playing drums in the Okinawan style.

The actors invited the audience to join them on stage. I was called up to perform as well, but I didn't understand the instructions because the actors were speaking Japanese. I told the actress in the red shirt that I didn't understand, and she told me to just follow her lead. I ended up dancing with the actors for about four or five rounds, which was fun. Unfortunately, I was alone, so there's no video of it. I went alone because everyone else declined my invitation to go to Okinawa with me. I was disappointed, but I'm not going to let it get me down. I'm moving on.

After experiencing Okinawan-style play, we took a group photo to commemorate our encounter with Okinawan culture. We then retired to rest after a tiring journey.

The second night ended with a picture of the hotel church at night. But the review is not over yet, so stay tuned for the next episode. I will take you to see the same places, but at different times, to see how the atmosphere will be.

DAY 3: December 15, 2016

ANA InterContinental Manza Beach

Time always flies when you're having fun. In the blink of an eye, it was already the third day of our trip to Okinawa. In the morning, I went down to the hotel's restaurant, AQUA BELLE, for breakfast. As usual, the buffet offered a variety of savory and sweet dishes.

This appears to be grilled salmon with pickled bitter melon, but I'm not entirely sure.

The hotel's bread looks incredibly delicious.

The atmosphere at AQUA BELLE restaurant on the third morning was cloudy, but still brighter than the previous day. After breakfast, it was time to walk around the outside area to digest the food. Let's take a look at the morning atmosphere of another day.

The strong waves caused the balcony to be flooded with seawater.

From afar, you can see a pair of rocks, but I don't know what they are called.

After admiring the view amidst the gloomy morning sky, it was time to pack up and check out to return to Naha. However, while packing, the heavens parted, and the sun shone upon the Okinawan sea, leaving me awestruck by its beauty.

The sea on the side of the church is a deep blue color, contrasting with the sunlight, which is not very beautiful. However, the other side, with its emerald green seawater and the morning sunlight, is beautiful in a different way. After seeing the beauty, the sun appeared for only 15 minutes, after which the weather returned to its normal state, which is overcast.

After packing our belongings, we checked out and purchased tickets for the limousine bus back to Naha. The first bus departed at 9:00 AM and arrived at Naha Bus Terminal around 10:38 AM. We enjoyed the scenery along the way.

The car drove for a while, and the sea gradually disappeared, replaced by houses, mountains, and grassy fields.

After that, I took a limousine bus to Naha Terminal Bus to drop off my luggage at the guesthouse near Kokusai Dori Street.

Okinawa Visit Summary Part 1

Okinawa Trip: December 13-17, 2016

Airline: Hong Kong Airlines

Accommodation in Okinawa: Naha (Day 1) Stork Hotel Omoromachi Station 997 THB/night

Manza Beach Resort, Onna (Day 2) ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort, 5796.80 Baht/night including breakfast.

Naha (3-5) Minshuku Getto Kenchomae Station 6000 yen/2 nights (3000 yen/night)

My preferred accommodation is budget-friendly hostels or guesthouses. However, I might splurge on a more expensive option for a special occasion, like a one-night vacation. I will share my detailed itinerary in the next review.