Okinawa

Overview

Okinawa is a first-level administrative division of Japan in the Kyushu region. Its area is about 2,281 km2 and its population about 0.0 million (2024), with its capital at Naha.

History

The homeland of the Ryukyu Kingdom: Sho Hashi unified the three kingdoms in 1429, and Ryukyu paid tribute to both China and Japan, building a unique culture. The prefecture was established through the 1879 disposition of Ryukyu.

Geography and industry

Shuri Castle, the Churaumi Aquarium, Ishigaki, Miyako and Yonaguni islands are famous; Okinawa soba, goya chanpuru and the Eisa folk dance are distinctive.

Transport

No Shinkansen reaches the prefecture, but Naha Airport has direct flights nationwide and the Yui Rail monorail serves Naha.