Okinawa is the beautiful archipelagoes

[Isan]

Okinawa is part of Japan territory but less of Japanese feels
This lands of leisure is good for diving and adventure to which composed of several islands stretching out to eastern part of Taiwan

Now there are cruises operating regularly during in summer
More easily be get into apart from flying among Japan major cities

How you like to this islands paradise
Posts some experience in sharing with your smile :)

[maxxam80]

good to see your are doing your bit to make the forums more active

[Isan]

:) :) :) :)

Japan is the nice place to visiting

[jimm]

Aha, Okinava is nice. When the US base will be removed (if)?

[Isan]

Can not be imaginable :)

[Isan]

Wonder-Okinawa (http://www.wonder-okinawa.jp/index_jp.jsp)

Cruiser line (http://skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=118978)

http://www.wonder-okinawa.jp/image/bottom.gif

http://www.town.taketomi.okinawa.jp/images/map.gif

[Nick]

I intend on going there sometime next year.I will use the ferry from Osaka and tour around the islands by Skywave(my motorbike)

[Isan]

I intend on going there sometime next year.I will use the ferry from Osaka and tour around the islands by Skywave(my motorbike)

Don't miss to visit KUME jima 久米島
It is really of extraordinary and wonderful
Only 35 min take by airplane form Naha
Good for one day trip return :)

ALSO, sand painting is nice for collection

MIYAKO Jima alway is the paradise for biking :cheers:

[Isan]

NAHA-SHI light train system just newly opened last year

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid78/pa7553eec48b10cee1ba65362c280f13d/fb2aa8a6.jpg


Postal Carrier
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid78/p3960ba840cee2e97552af36ddca0a4fb/fb2aa7f8.jpg


Fire Station
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid81/p1dd50ad897284a750b525faf4327ab58/faf9fd43.jpg


Cute automobile
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid81/pdbd409f0f5e6fe4d3211153dc12e0a6b/faf9fc17.jpg

[Isan]

This Train served from Airport 霸空港 to SHURIJO 首里 via 新都心omoro町 :)

Yui rail (http://www.yui-rail.co.jp/)

http://blog.elixus.org/bao/archives/mono1.jpg

http://blog.elixus.org/bao/archives/mono2.jpg

http://blog.elixus.org/bao/archives/mono3.jpg

http://blog.elixus.org/bao/archives/monoreru.jpg

http://photo.taipeilink.net/makrut/1-4-3-11782940?m=1&pg=0

http://www.yui-rail.co.jp/img/img_top01.gif

[Isan]

http://blog.elixus.org/bao/archives/sisa6.jpg

http://blog.elixus.org/bao/archives/sisa4.jpg

http://blog.elixus.org/bao/archives/sisa.jpg

http://blog.elixus.org/bao/archives/sisa3.jpg

http://blog.elixus.org/bao/archives/sisa5.jpg

http://blog.elixus.org/bao/archives/sisa1.jpg

[Isan]

http://tinypic.com/162bd1

http://tinypic.com/162beq

http://tinypic.com/162bft

[Isan]

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid130/p924346bce712e7de55c90c65b1ee7ea0/f7b65dc4.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid130/pa4d8b26c4f78c0d31af3ad168c691cd1/f7b65d27.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid130/pd233e87234c2808618ed15261b1effa6/f7b65ad8.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid130/p8bffaad4a35fdaa5a4151307301df6b9/f7b65ab7.jpg

[Syd-Hk]

Wow japan is very high-tech even on little islands!

[Isan]

http://www.urbanrail.net/as/naha/naha-map.gif

[alex92]

Great Photos :)
It seems more modern than in the "Karate Kid" movie :D

[Isan]

http://tinypic.com/162978

http://tinypic.com/16297m

http://tinypic.com/162985

http://tinypic.com/162993

[Draff]

I'd really like to visit Okinawa. It's too bad that it's so pricey. I'm pretty sure it's cheaper to go to the beaches in Thailand in terms of airfare and hotels from Japan.

[Isan]

Truly indeed :D

Travelling as domestic by Japanese nation themselves, were also be classified as over priced :D

Thailand is one of the most fancy paradise for the beach lover [ Koh Samui, wonderful island in the south east ] particulatly :)

BUT OKA is still to have uniquely beauty especially in the aspect of Ryukyu Kingdom's Culture

http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/RTP/Okinawa/img/Okinawa_day1.jpg

http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/RTP/Okinawa/img/Okinawa_day3.jpg

:cheers: :cheers: :cheers: :cheers: :cheers:

[Isan]

http://www.urbanrail.net/as/naha/naha-map.gif

The Naha Monorail is the first rail system on the island of Okinawa since World War II. Following the precedents set by earlier monorails in Japan, the Naha dual-beamed line connects city points with the airport. Starting at the airport, the line runs northeast through the city center. The guideway terminates at Tera. Including the thirteen stops along the route, end to end journey time is around 30 minutes. Trains run every six minutes during peak periods. Following a precedent set almost a century earlier in Wuppertal, part of the line follows along a river channel. Good ideas bear repeating.

Opened 2003
12.8 km
15 stations




http://www.monorails.org/webpix/Naha.jpg

[Isan]

http://tinypic.com/162909

http://tinypic.com/16290y

http://tinypic.com/16291e

http://tinypic.com/16291w

http://tinypic.com/16292c

[Isan]

http://tinypic.com/1628oj

http://tinypic.com/1628te

http://tinypic.com/1628tx

http://tinypic.com/1628uf

http://tinypic.com/1628uw

http://tinypic.com/1628vd

http://tinypic.com/1628vs

http://tinypic.com/1628wi

[Nick]

what fantastic photos.Its the only prefecture I havent been to yet.Just fabulous

[okinawatyphoon]

wow Isan, those are great pictures! I have seen all of those places. I love it on Okinawa, but I wish there were more skyscrapers like Tokyo.

[Renkinjutsushi]

I have seen Okinawa from the plane (going from Manila to Nagoya) and it is beautiful. I love how it is not quite part of Japan, as evidenced by its Ryukyu culture and the landscape has that feel similar to Taiwan, Hainan Island, and other western Pacific islands.

[Nick]

Very interesting pictures of Okinawa.For me its the last fronteir in Japan,with exception to a few areas up in the north of Hokaido,Beppu in Kyushu and some selected areas around the Kanto area.

The monorail shots are awesome.Ive already been on the Tokyo(haneda)monrail,The chida city monrail and the Osaka monorail.At frist I didnt like them.But recently I have just started to favour them over Subways.They look cool,especially over the road.And the view is second to none.Just magic.

Nara looks bigger than what I imagined it to be.According to some websites,the city of Nara has a metro population of over 1,000,000.Pretty amazing for a city on a small island.

[okinawatyphoon]

Nick, are you talking about Naha? Naha is the main city of okinawa. Its population is 310,000 and the island has about 1.3 million people on it. I also agree that the monorail is better than the subway. Right now the okinawa monorail is very clean and smooth riding. I ride it just for fun sometimes!

[Isan]

Longest bridge in Okinawa opens after 26 years of construction
Posted: February 10, 2005

Kouri Bridge is finally open.

Today marks the start of an easier transit system between Nago City’s Yagaji Island and Kouri Island. Construction began 26 years ago, in 1979, slowed by unexpected weaknesses in the ground along the bridge path.

The bridge between Nakajin and Nago City’s small island is critical to the area’s economic viability, reducing costs to local farmers and flower growers. Until today’s opening, residents have had a circuitous travel route which included ferries, to get themselves, families and products to the main areas.

The bridge is Okinawa’s longest, spanning 1,960 meters (6,370 feet). It cost ¥27,000,000,000 to build. It’s 11.25 meters wide, and includes a three-meter (10’) sidewalk. Designers built the bridge to withstand heavy winds, allowing it to remain open until winds ready 25m/Second.

The bridge stretches 14.8 meters above the water, allowing a 50 Class Ship to sail underneath.
Although the bridge is officially operational, there are still some glitches being worked out. Visits to the village office require a detour to Yagaji Island, then around the Nakajin Village. Final construction touchups are expected this Spring.

[Isan]

Chocolates ‘the way’ to every guy’s sweet heart

A visit to any supermarket in Okinawa will quickly focus on special Valentine Day sales.

....................... Under Japanese tradition, men do not give roses and chocolates to ladies on Valentine Day.

Cover Story (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=179059)

[Shawn]

Nope, instead we have to give a gift of 4 times the value a month later on March 14th, White Day! Lucky lucky us.

[coldstar]

Longest bridge in Okinawa opens after 26 years of construction
Posted: February 10, 2005

Kouri Bridge is finally open.

Today marks the start of an easier transit system between Nago City’s Yagaji Island and Kouri Island. Construction began 26 years ago, in 1979, slowed by unexpected weaknesses in the ground along the bridge path.

The bridge between Nakajin and Nago City’s small island is critical to the area’s economic viability, reducing costs to local farmers and flower growers. Until today’s opening, residents have had a circuitous travel route which included ferries, to get themselves, families and products to the main areas.

The bridge is Okinawa’s longest, spanning 1,960 meters (6,370 feet). It cost ¥27,000,000,000 to build. It’s 11.25 meters wide, and includes a three-meter (10’) sidewalk. Designers built the bridge to withstand heavy winds, allowing it to remain open until winds ready 25m/Second.

The bridge stretches 14.8 meters above the water, allowing a 50 Class Ship to sail underneath.
Although the bridge is officially operational, there are still some glitches being worked out. Visits to the village office require a detour to Yagaji Island, then around the Nakajin Village. Final construction touchups are expected this Spring.

Thanx, indeed!
I didn't know about this Okinawan local news at all.

Kouri Bridge
http://www.asahi.com/national/update/0209/images/nat0209006.jpg

[coldstar]

I have seen Okinawa from the plane (going from Manila to Nagoya) and it is beautiful. I love how it is not quite part of Japan, as evidenced by its Ryukyu culture and the landscape has that feel similar to Taiwan, Hainan Island, and other western Pacific islands.

The Old Okinawan Language (Modern Okinawan, as well) has no relation to Taiwanese. It's part of the Japanese language family, and still sustains the traits of the Old Japanese.

One more thing, 'Ryukyu' is not a proper word, it is coined by ignorant foreigners. 'Okinawa' is the archaic word referred to this beautiful island by the local people.

[Isan]

The islands that now make up Okinawa prefecture were formerly not part of Japan, but part of an independent nation called the Ryūkyū Kingdom. Okinawa's location in the East China Sea, and relatively close proximity to China, Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines allowed the Ryūkyū Kingdom to become a prosperous trading nation. The many castle ruins that dot the island date from this period. However, in 1609 the Japanese Satsuma clan, who controlled the region that is now Kagoshima prefecture, invaded. Following this invasion, although the Ryūkyū Kingdom remained nominally independent, it was effectively under the control of the Satsuma. In 1879 following the Meiji restoration, the Ryūkyū Kingdom was abolished and became Okinawa prefecture.



The Ryukyu Islands or Luchu Islands (南西諸島 Nansei-shotō or 琉球列島 Ryūkyū-rettō

Related Link (http://encyclopedia.thefreedictionary.com/Ryukyu%20Kingdom)

http://img.tfd.com/wiki/a/a0/ShuriCastle1.jpg

[Isan]

Actually some kind of local foods are most likely to Taiwaness delicacy :) Oushi :eat:

Ichiban :okay:

[coldstar]

The islands that now make up Okinawa prefecture were formerly not part of Japan, but part of an independent nation called the Ryūkyū Kingdom. Okinawa's location in the East China Sea, and relatively close proximity to China, Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines allowed the Ryūkyū Kingdom to become a prosperous trading nation. The many castle ruins that dot the island date from this period. However, in 1609 the Japanese Satsuma clan, who controlled the region that is now Kagoshima prefecture, invaded. Following this invasion, although the Ryūkyū Kingdom remained nominally independent, it was effectively under the control of the Satsuma. In 1879 following the Meiji restoration, the Ryūkyū Kingdom was abolished and became Okinawa prefecture.


As I said above, the name of 'Ryukyu (Kingdom)' has no roots in the Okinawan language, and it's rather new (political) crap word. The word 'Okinawa' is the only proper word with by far a longer and distinguished history. And we Japanese are well knowledgeable about its accurate history, of course. Yes, Okinawa was relatively independent under the Japanese feudal system. But most important thing is Japan Proper and Okinawa have been the same community with a sole destiny. (same language, common ancestry, common culture and religious background, identical historical view,legends and myths...). Throughout the history, Japanese living in main islands and Okinawans have been able to communicate with each other essily (witout any interpreters)! The Old Okinawan Language is totally different from Chinese Language, as everyone knows.

[Isan]

Located far from the centers of civilization, the unification of Okinawa began very lately like any other small islands on Pacific Ocean. Even if Japan proper had been unified between the 4th and the 5th century, the social unit of Okinawa archipelagos had hardly surpassed that of a small island or of a village and remained isolated from large political movement of Japan and China.

This long sleep of Okinawa ended around the 12th century when local seigniors, called "Aji", began to fight one against another by building "Gusuku", a kind of fortress in blocks of stone. Around the 14th century, it remains only 3 seigniors on Okinawa island (Sanzan jidai or period of 3 Kingdoms) and finally in 1429 Okinawa was unified by Sho dynasty which had controlled the central part of the island before.

This small kingdom of Okinawa had been a very prosperous country: not only the archipelagos was on the route of exchange between Japan or North China with the south eastern Asia but also exported a great quantity of sulfur that Chinese needed to make explosive.

But this Okinawa's prosperity didn't last long because from the 16th century, the westerners began to appear in the region on the great ships, full of products more interesting such as guns and canons.

Become harden with a long civil war and a Korean campaign, Okinawa was an easy prey for Japanese samurais. In fact, Okinawa was invaded in 1609 by the musketeers of seignior Shimazu coming from the south Kyushu and surrendered after only 3 days of combat.

But instead of breaking up Okinawa Kingdom, Shimaza preferred to keep it under its protectorate in order not to offend China, because officially Okinawa had been her vassal state. The period spanning from the 12th century to 1609 is called "Ko Ryukyu" i.e. "Ancient Okinawa".

Though this Shimazu's occupation had taken away a part of its freedom, it brought a better organization on social life and suppressed old-fashioned habits like sorcery and superstitions. The famous reformer of Okinawa, Haneji Choshu, recommended a sober life style while to cultivate the people via education in order to compete with the occupants of Shimazu.

During Tokugawa reign, Japan had been completely closed to foreign visitors, excepting for Dutch, Chinese and Koreans, i.e. "Sakoku" or "National seclusion policy". In order to modify this politics, Americans sent 4 warships to Japan under the commandment of Commodore Perry in 1853, because they were looking for a commercial outlet and a naval base for their whalers.

Before going to Japan, Perry called at Okinawa with a plan to annex, it if Japan should refuse his demand to open her harbors. But Japan gave up before a threat of canons pointed to Tokyo and accepted to open 4 harbors (Kanagawa's Treaty). She signed then a similar treaty with other world powers of that period, Great Britain, France and Russia.

This visible weakness of Tokugawa regime had destabilized whole of Japanese feudal system and after a civil war not only between pro and anti Tokugawa, but also pro and anti opening of Japan, the Tokugawa family gave up all the fiefdoms in 1868 ("Taisei hokan" or "Restoration of imperial regime").

But this movement didn't stop shortly. One after another all the Japanese seigniors gave up their fiefdoms and Okinawa Kingdom was suppressed in 1879, too ("Ryukyu shobun" or "Settlement of Okinawa"). The period which spans from Shimazu's invasion in 1609 until this date when Okinawa was half independent is called "Late Okinawa".

Since the local habits were quite different from those of Japan proper, the central government tried to preserve them (law called "Kyushuonzon" or "conservation of ancient custom), but this policy has put back the modernization of Okinawa, for it favored too much old leaders.

Since 1920, Okinawa had been governed exactly as in other Japanese prefectures but its inhabitants remained poor and many preferred immigrating elsewhere, especially to Mariana islands which Japan had inheritated from defeated Germany in 1917. But the real ordeal of Okinawa arrived only from the end of the World War II.

Being afraid that Okinawa should be soon a battle field, the Japanese general staff began to organize an evacuation of noncombatant civilian population from 1944. But this decision arrived too late, for the surrounded sea had been already infested with American submarines. In fact, on August 21, 1944, Tsushimamaru which was carrying 1700 passengers, among them 800 school children from Okinawa, was sunk by an American submarine, off Kyushu coast and made more than 1500 victims.

Contrary to all expectations (Japanese had imagined a landing to Taiwan), Americans landed on March 26, 1945, on the tiny islands of Kerama, situated near the main island of Okinawa, in order to create a logistic base. Scarcely guarded, the islanders surrendered quickly. A few days later, the first April, Americans landed on Kadena beach of Okinawa island, in order to isolate the southern part where the most of population and the army troop were concentrated.

Having no supply lines, in spite of a fierce fight with the famous suicidal pilots, "Kaimkaze", Japanese defenders retreated gradually to the southern limit of the island and the organized resistance ended on June 23 with the suicide of the chief commander, General Ushijima Mitsuru.

This battle of Okinawa was a real disaster for its inhabitants, for there were not only 90,000 dead among Japanese soldiers but also 150,000 civilian dead (one quarter of the total population), besides innumerable historic buildings and cultural centers reduced to ashes like Shuri Castle.

[Isan]

HISTORY>>>>>>>>>>> (http://www.pref.okinawa.jp/summit/a_la/history/index2.htm) of Okinawa

In the 11th century, castles began sprouting all over Okinawa symptomizing a period of struggles among the emerging petty rulers. In the late 12th Century, one of the petty rulers founded Shunten Dynasty (1187-1259). It was followed by the Eiso Dynasty (1260-1349), the Satto Dynasty (1350-1405), the First Sho Dynasty (1406-1469), and the Second Sho Dynasty (1470-1879). The last dynasty was replaced by Okinawa prefecture with governors appointed from Tokyo until 1945. During the 27 year American interlude from 1945 to 1972, Okinawa was under the U.S. military government.

The first three dynasties exercised their control probably only in their adjacent areas. But King Satto is known for establishing tributary relationships with China in 1372. This relationship with China greatly accelerated Ryukyu's cultural and political development. The First Sho Dynasty achieved the political unification of Okinawa in 1422.



605 The Chinese Emperor Yo (Sui Dynasty) sends Shu-Kan to the Ryukyus
608 From about this time, the "Southern Island" people pay tribute to the Japanese Imperial Court.

ANCIENT
1187 Shunten becomes overlord of Central Okinawa
1260 Eiso beomes new overlord
1296 A Mongol invasion army attacks Okinawa and is repulsed
1317 Miyako islanders drift ashore in China while enroute to trade in Souteast Asia
1326 At about this time, the Three Kingdoms in Okinawa (Hokuzan, Chuzan, and Nanzan) begin their rivalry
1349 Satto becomes ruler of Chuzan and increases its influence
1350 Nanzan (the southern kingdom) sends tribute to the Ming
1383 Hokuzan (the northern kingdom) sends tribute to the Ming
1392 A group of Chinese, now known as the "Thirty-six Families" are naturalized in Chuzan.
1404 A Siamese shop comes to Okinawa to trade
1416 The Chuzan King, Sho Hashi, captures Nakijin Castle and brings about the downfall of Hokuzan.
1425 Sho Hashi sends trading vessles to Siam
1428 Sho Hashi sends trading vessels to Palembang (Sumatra)
1429 Sho Hashi conquers Nanzan and is the first to succeed in uniting all Okinawa. (Beginning of the First Sho Dynasty.)
1430 Trading ships are sent to Java
1431 Sho Hashi establishes formal diplomatic relations with Korea and initiates trade
1451 Sho Kimpuku builds the Chokotei (a road around Naha inlet)
1458 The Gosamayu Awamari rebellion takes place. A large bell (the Bankoku Shinryo), on which there is an inscription concerning the prosperity of the Ryukyus, is cast.
1459 Kanemaru Uchima is appointed Foreign Trade Minister.
1463 Trading ships are sent to Malacca
1466 After an audience with the Shogun of the Muromachi Shogunate (Japan), a Ryukyuan friendship mission sets off gunpowder outside the gates in celebration and astonishes the people of Kyoto.
1470 Kanemaru Uchima overthrows the First Sho Dynasty, begins a new (the second) Sho Dynasty, and assumes the name of Sho En.
1492 The Enkakuji Temple is built
1498 Trade begins with Patani (on east coast of Malaysa)
1500 Sho Shin conquers Miyako Island, he also puts down the rebellion led by Oyake Akahachi of Yaeyama Island and assumes rule over the castles of Saki Shima (the "Southern Island" as Miyako and Yaeyama were then known.)
1511 Portugal causes the downfall of Malacca and strengthens it to be used as a base for the invasion of Asia.
1532 The first volume of the Omoro Soshi (a compendium of ancient songs and rituals) is compiled.
1534 The Chinese Ming Emperor sends an envoy, Chin Kan, and party to visit the Ryukyus
1553 Yara Castle is built at Naha Harbor and coastal defenses are prepared
1579 A tablet inscribed "Country and Propriety" is placed on public display at Shuri Castle. (Translator's Note: This tablet had been presented to the King at Shuri by the Chinese Emperor in recognition of the Ryukyuans' strict adherence to the Chinese rules of ritual and etiquette.)
1592 Hideyoshi Toyotomi (the Japanese Shogun) orders the King of the Ryukyus to assist in the invasion of Korea; the King ignores the order.
1600 The Eastern army wins the great Battle of Sekigahara (in Japan). Ieyasu Tokugawa establishes his leadership in Japan.
1609 Ichisa Shimazu of Satsuma sends 3,000 troops and subjugates the Ryukyu Kingdom. (The Shimazu Invasion)
1611 The Satsuma Clan looks into the productive capacity of the Ryukyus; divides the Amami Oshima area (the islands north of Yoron Island) from the Ryukyus: and hands down the Okite Jugo Jo (fifteen ordinances to be obeyed by all in the Ryukyus).
1614 The Satsumas order strict surveillance of all shipping into and out of the Ryukyus.
PRE-MODERN (Feudal)
1623 Compilation of the Omoro Soshi (22 volumes) is completed
1631 As a means of keeping the Ryukyus under control, the Satsuma send a permanent administrator to Naha.
1634 The system of sending missions of congratulation and gratitude to Edo (Tokyo) is begun.
1637 A poll tax is levied on Miyako and Yaeyama Islands
1644 The Ching Dynasty succeeds the Ming Dynasty in China
1650 Sho Jo-Ken (Choshu Haneji) prepares the "History of Chuzan."
1667 Sho Jo-Ken orders acquisition of an elementary knowledge of the Japanese performing arts.
1711 A dictionary of the old Ryukyuan language (Konkoken Shu) is compiled
1719 Chokun Tamagusuku composes the Kumi Udui (odori) and the first performance is presented
1728 Sai On becomes a member of the Regency Council of Three (Prime Minister).
1734 The scholar Chobin Hishicha is executed for political offenses
1771 A tidal wave strikes Miyako and Yaeyama Islands, causing great damage
1798 A state school is founded at Shuri for the upper class descendants of samurai
1816 The British warships Alceste and Lyra call on the Ryukyus on their way home from China. Captain Basil Hall of the Lyra later stops briefly at Helena and tells the exiled Napoleon of the Ryukyus.
1844 The French warship Alemene calls and puts a Christian missionary at Naha
1846 An English warship brings the active missionary Bettelheim to Naha.
1851 Perry, leading an American naval force, comes to Naha and visits Shuri Castle
1854 Russian warships call on Naha. Perry returns and a compact between the United States and the Kingdom of "Lew Chew" is signed.
1859 The Makishi-Onga incident occurs
1866 Sho Tai receives seals and documents of investiture as King from the Manchurs; he is the last to receive these and is also the last King of the Ryukyus.
1868 The Tokugawa Shogunate is overthorwn and a national government under the Emperor Meiji is realized.
1871 A ship manned by Miyako Islanders is shipwrecked on Formosa, and fifty-four men are murdered by aborigines. (The Formosan Shipwreck incident)
1872 The Meiji government abolishes the Kingdom of the Ryukyus and establishes the Ryukyu Han (feudal clan).
1879 In order to make the Ryukyus an integral part of Japan, although opposed by the hereditary lords of the Ryukyus, Meiji abolishes the Ryukyu Han and sets up Okinawa Prefecture.
1880 The Chinese Manchus strongly protest the Meiji rule over the Ryukyus; the question is resolved through the arbitration of ex-U.S. President Grant.
1881 The Meiji government decides to preserve and utilize the old system of rule within Okinawa Prefecture.
1893 Okinawa's first newspaper, the "Ryukyu Shimpo," begins publication.
MODERN
1894 Because of China's loss in the Sino-Japanese War, anti-Japanese factions in Okinawa rapidly lose influence.
1898 The rivalry between a faction centered around Noboru Jahana, which demands revision of unjust political practices in Okinawa, and the old school deepens. Military conscription laws are put into force.
1903 Land reform is completed; new land distribution and taxation systems are established.
1909 The first election of assemblymen and convocation of an Okinawan Prefectural Assembly take place.
1911 The Okinawan historian, Fuyu Iha, publishes his great work Ko Ryukyu (Ancient Ryukyu).
1914 World War I breaks out.
1919 Laws concerning election of representatives to the House of Representatives are applied fully to Okinawa for the first time.
1925 Due to a severe recession, the three banks on Okinawa suffer management difficulties.
1926 There is great controversy centered around the novel "A Wandering Ryukyuan."
1928 Numerous labor disputes arise in Okinawa.
1934 A social science research association is formed.
1938 An Okinawa executive committee to arouse national spirit is established, and militaristic wartime systems are strengthened.
1940 A dispute about the use of the Okinawan hogen (dialect) takes place.
1941 World War II breaks out.
1944 Okinawa undergoes a great raid by American forces and Naha suffers grave damage. (The October tenth air raid.)
1945 American forces invade Okinawa. Japan surrenders unconditionally.
1946 General MacArthur declares Japan and the Nansei Shoto (all islands from Amami Oshima south to Yaeyama) to be under separate administrations.
1949 The Republic of China (Formosa) is established. ~~ it is not correctly ( ROC had been moved to Taiwan but establishment since 1901)
1951 San Francisco Peace Treaty puts Okinawa under American administration.
1960 The Okinawan Reversion Council is formed.
1969 Japan and the U.S. issue a joint declaration that, by mutual consent, Okinawa will be reverted to Japan on May 15, 1972.
1972 Administration of Okinawa reverts from U.S. to Japan on May 15th.
1975 The first International Ocean Expo opens on Okinawa's Motobu Peninsula.http://www.okinawan-shorinryu.com/graphics/okinawaconcentricmap.jpg

[Isan]

As I said above, the name of 'Ryukyu (Kingdom)' has no roots in the Okinawan language, and it's rather new (political) crap word. The word 'Okinawa' is the only proper word with by far a longer and distinguished history.

No one in different point of view on such ~~~~~~~ as The language of Okinawa belongs to the Japanese-Ryukyuan language family which extends from Hokkaido in northern Japan to Yonaguni

And nobody would say Okinawa had any relationship to Taiwan previously BUT it had been closely trade and development among to CHINA and Asia Rim since start ancient


Q. Is Okinawan an actual language or a dialect of Japanese?

A. Some linguists say the Okinawan language is an independent language because it was separated from the Japanese language long ago and has distinct phonological differences. However there is a fact that it is derived from the Japanese language. The Okinawan language has roots in ancient Japanese, which has been recorded in Kojiki (the oldest historical work existing in Japan) and Manyoushu (the oldest anthology of poems). Therefore some say it is one of the dialects, Ryukyu dialect, though it sounds very different from the other dialects.

The Ryukyu (the former name of Okinawa) kingdom, which had its own culture, existed from the beginning of the 15th century. It was the trade center between Japan, China and South East Asia and was influenced by many foreign countries. It was an independent kingdom until 1879, then the Japanese government annexed Ryukyu into Japan as the Okinawa prefecture. In 1945, Okinawa was occupied along with the rest of Japan, and kept under American administration until 1972.

"Uchina" means Okinawa. "Uchinaguchi" is the Okinawan dialect (Ryukyu language) and the people who speak "uchinaguchi" are "uchinanchu".

Most of the younger generation in Okinawa can't speak uchinaguchi and they are not willing to learn it. Okinawa has such a unique culture and beautiful language. It will be very sad if the language and culture die.

link (http://japanese.about.com/blqow22.htm)

[coldstar]

The Ryukyu (the former name of Okinawa) kingdom, which had its own culture, existed from the beginning of the 15th century. It was the trade center between Japan, China and South East Asia and was influenced by many foreign countries. It was an independent kingdom until 1879, then the Japanese government annexed Ryukyu into Japan as the Okinawa prefecture. In 1945, Okinawa was occupied along with the rest of Japan, and kept under American administration until 1972.

"Uchina" means Okinawa. "Uchinaguchi" is the Okinawan dialect (Ryukyu language) and the people who speak "uchinaguchi" are "uchinanchu".


link (http://japanese.about.com/blqow22.htm)

I've never read such a dishonest and fabricated article on Okinawa before! Laughable! Yup, laughable indeed!! :hahaha: Obviously the writer of this ignorant passages must be non-Okinawan. He's a mere idiotic layperson. :ohno:

To be sure before Okinawa prefecture was established, the land had been called Ryukyu by some kind of people, but earlier than 'Ryukyu Kingdom' it had been called Okinawa by both local people and Japanese in main islands. 'Ryukyu Kingdom' is not the first realm in Okinawa!

>>It was an independent kingdom until 1879, then the Japanese government annexed Ryukyu into Japan as the Okinawa prefecture.

:stupid: :stupid: one word. Study the history! Then, until 1879, Okinawa was not a part of Japan?? If so, any region of Japan was not a part of Japan. awfully empty-headed about the Japanese feudalism (as contrasted to Chinese centralism). The writer wanna rewrite the whole history of Okinawa? I really hope the man who wrote this crapy essay is not Japanese.

[shu-mei]

Hi there,

i am thinking of going to okinawa this month (April). and have some questions....
- is it a good month - as in weather aspect?
- which is the best island for relaxation and lying in the sun..?
- is there a diesrect flight from Singapore?

many many thanks,
Shu-mei

[okinawatyphoon]

Hi there,

i am thinking of going to okinawa this month (April). and have some questions....
- is it a good month - as in weather aspect?
- which is the best island for relaxation and lying in the sun..?
- is there a diesrect flight from Singapore?

many many thanks,
Shu-mei

1. The rainy season starts next month, so April is a good choice, although the water is not quite up to being completely comfortable yet.

2. Hmm...best island....Okinawa main island has some pretty nice beaches, but I haven't been to any other islands. From what I know, Kume, Miyako, and Ishigaki are all very nice islands to relax on.

3. No direct flight from Singapore. Besides the many cities in mainland Japan, the only direct international cities are Seoul Korea, Shanghai China, Taipei Taiwan, and Manila Philippines.

I wish you luck if you do come! :)

[shu-mei]

Hi all,

is it a good time to come visit in Okinawa?
is the weather is hot and nice to spend time in the sun...?

thanks,
Shu-mei

[Isan]

Today Weather

http://www.jma.go.jp/JMA_HP/jp/yoho/image/okinawa_telop_today.gif

Linking (http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/weather/city/naha.htm)

[Isan]

Tokyo losing its luster for Okinawan residents
Posted: April 6, 2005

Okinawans appear to be rejecting Tokyo as a place to live and work.

A new study shows a significant decline in the number of Okinawans choosing to work in the Japanese capitol, well down from 20~30 years ago. One victim of the decline is the Okinawan Youth Club in Tokyo.

The club, set to celebrate its 25th anniversary this year, found itself losing members at a rapid pace. April 3rd it began the process of disbanding. The group still had 100 members, but 80 were not Okinawans. More disheartening, said one official, is that no Okinawans have been joining.

A May meeting will determine the official steps to dissolving the club, since the organization’s rules mandate that Okinawans should be the predominant membership. The non-Okinawans join to learn about local culture, including Eisa.

Okinawa Prefecture officials say young people are returning home to the island, instead of living and working elsewhere.

[Isan]

Okinawa security balanced with promoting local tourism
Posted: April 6, 2005

Okinawa wants to be known as ‘convention island’.

That dream falls in Governor Keiichi Inamine’s hands, and he is pushing to make it real. This week the International Development Bank is hosting its worldwide conference at the Okinawa Convention Center, drawing several thousand participants.

Much goes into making a successful convention, and now there’s focus on security. Many police and security specialists are necessary to protect not only the dignitaries, but the rank and file visitors as well. “We set up a provisional section last year,” says one Okinawa Prefecture Police official, “and began planning to handle everything from car accidents to terrorism security.”

The unit has 800 personnel which can be called into play depending on situations. Those individuals would be drawn from local metropolitan police departments as well as the Prefecture Police. More than 23,000 police were involved in the 2000 G-8 Summit, and last year’s grand opening of the National Theater Okinawa required 4,000 security people.

Officials note that Kyushu has 1,900 police in its special security unit, but that any large convention can require upwards of 20,000 guards. They say it is a difficult task to provide adequate security without disrupting the event itself, or frightening the delegates and tourists. Okinawa officials say they have good plans, and will keep everyone safe while keeping everyone happy.

They say it takes more than 5,000 security personnel to adequately protect VIPs coming to Okinawa though, and they don’t have those numbers. “We try to doour best for security with a minimum number of police,” one official notes, but “a general accident would be difficult if anything happened. We would take care as best we can. That’s what we’ve been planning for.”
Police underscore Okinawa’s unique situation, where unlike mainland Japan and other countries, things are more calm. They say their assets and resources should be capable of doing the job, and they know they can draw upon local agencies for further assistance if needed.

They also praise volunteer groups and resident watch groups as being a great help.

[coldstar]

Okinawa Prefecture officials say young people are returning home to the island, instead of living and working elsewhere.

good.
Whoever will abandon this beautiful islands?
OKINAWA
http://www.churashima.net/download/a/2004/img/200412_2_800.jpg
http://www.churashima.net/download/a/2004/img/200409_2_800.jpg
http://www.churashima.net/download/a/2004/img/200409_1_800.jpg
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http://www.churashima.net/download/c/img/sunset_800.jpg
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http://www.churashima.net/download/c/img/mangrobe2_800.jpg
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http://www.churashima.net/download/d/img/200503_2_800.jpg

[Isan]

川は流れて　どこどこ行くの
人も流れて　どこどこ行くの
そんな流れが　つくころには
花として　花として　咲かせてあげたい
泣きなさい　笑いなさい
いつの日か　いつの日か　花を咲かそうよ

涙ながれて　どこどこ行くの
愛も流れて　どこどこ行くの
そんな流れを　このうちに
花として　花として　迎えてあげたい
泣きなさい　笑いなさい
いつの日か　いつの日か　花を咲かそうよ

花は花として　笑いもできる
人は人として　涙もながす
それが自然の　うたなのさ
心の中に　心の中に　花を咲かそうよ
泣きなさい　笑いなさい
いついつまでも　いついつまでも
花をつかもうよ

泣きなさい　笑いなさい
いつの日か　いつの日か　花を咲かそうよ

WMA (http://myweb.hinet.net/home14/bnw520/flowerheart.wma)

[Isan]

Typhoon Haitang heads toward Okinawa


Sunday, July 17, 2005 at 16:18 JST
TOKYO — Powerful typhoon Haitang, heading across the Pacific toward Okinawa Prefecture on Sunday morning, may bring heavy rain in the Sakishima islands in the prefecture from the night through Monday morning, the Japan Meteorological Agency said.

At 4 p.m., the season's fifth typhoon was about 340 kilometers south-southeast of Ishigaki Island, moving northwest at 15 km per hour. It had an atmospheric pressure of 915 hectopascals, packing winds of up to 198 kph near its center, the agency said. (Kyodo News)

[coldstar]

川は流れて　どこどこ行くの
人も流れて　どこどこ行くの
そんな流れが　つくころには
花として　花として　咲かせてあげたい
泣きなさい　笑いなさい
いつの日か　いつの日か　花を咲かそうよ

涙ながれて　どこどこ行くの
愛も流れて　どこどこ行くの
そんな流れを　このうちに
花として　花として　迎えてあげたい
泣きなさい　笑いなさい
いつの日か　いつの日か　花を咲かそうよ

花は花として　笑いもできる
人は人として　涙もながす
それが自然の　うたなのさ
心の中に　心の中に　花を咲かそうよ
泣きなさい　笑いなさい
いついつまでも　いついつまでも
花をつかもうよ

泣きなさい　笑いなさい
いつの日か　いつの日か　花を咲かそうよ

WMA (http://myweb.hinet.net/home14/bnw520/flowerheart.wma)


Thanx! Yup, Hana is a really good song!!
and as for Okinawan songs, I love shimauta, too.
Curiously, the song shimauta made it top in the hit charts of Argentine a couple of years ago!!
You can see The Boom's live concert in Buenos Aires here!
http://www.five-d.co.jp/boom/es/shimauta.html

[Isan]

Yuirail leads to great shopping destinations
By: Bill Charles
Posted: May 18, 2005



Yuirail, Okinawa’s monorail, operates across 15 stops along an 18-kilometer route.

Naha International Airport is the starting point on the southern end, while Shuri Castle is the northern end station. In between, there are 13 stations which offer shopping, sightseeing, or both. Today, we step onto the station platform at each destination, offering some insights about what to see and do.

Some day-travelers drive to the airport and park, then criss-cross the city with the monorail before returning to retrieve the family wheels. The airport parking fees, which will total about ¥800 for the day, are worth not having to search for parking spots. Others will park near one of the other 14 stations, beginning their shopping and sightseeing treks from there. There are still parking problems to be dealt with, and parking costs are no cheaper than at the airport.

Naha International Airport’s domestic terminal is only 11 years old, and features a fair number of good shopping arcades, as well as branches of well known Okinawa department stores. It’s an ideal spot for the last minute purchases, particularly since there’s no requirement to tote them all over the city.

First station out is Akamine, southernmost of the stations. This is Oroku’s developing commercial district, and has many business hotels. Look for the Traditional Arts and Crafts Center, a fresh look at traditional Okinawa materials including Tsuboya pottery, bingata fabric, Ryukyu laquerware and Ryukyu glass. Altec liquors and gift shop is nearby, along with Aoyama Clothing. Oroku Station is just up the road, and sits just outside Jusco, one of the island’s principal shopping malls. Gajanbira Park, overlooking Naha Harbor, is a short stroll from the station. The name originally referred to a place of many mosquitoes, but Gajanbira is now a great place to look out over the water.

Onoyama-koen Station is alongside the sprawling Onoyama Park, one of the city’s largest. On the grounds are sports centers, tennis courts, a baseball stadium, Hokoku Shrine and Okinogu, one of the eight most important shrines of the Ryukyus, a swimming pool and athletic stadium, martial arts facilities and archery. Onoyama is the setting for dozens of festivals and sports events, including the Naha Marathon, and is simply a great place for a relaxing walk, ending up at the next station, Tsubogawa, across the Kokuba River.

Tsubogawa is terminus for the tourism bus terminal, adjacent to the Naha Central Post Office, and has a quiet Tsubogawa Park. Manko Park is a seven-minute walk away, where bird watching along the tidelands is a pleasurable study in migratory bird habitats. Asahibashi Station is the hub to southern downtown Naha, stopping 50 meters from the Naha Bus Terminal. Also nearby is the Okinawa Prefecture Traditional Dance Theater and Naha Port Passenger Terminal.

Kencho-mae, Miebashi and Makishi Stations are the southern, western and northern approaches to Naha’s international shopping and sightseeing district. The Kencho is Okinawa Prefecture’s governmental and economic center, and sits adjacent to Kokusai-dori. The annual Great Tug-of-War with the world’s largest rope is nearby at Kumoji intersection with Highway 58, while Kokusai, often called the miracle mile, is a three-minute walk from the Kencho-mae Station. It’s 1.6 kilometers of shopping, shopping, sightseeing, and of course, shopping. There are also some good restaurants along the route. Before setting out, visit the Communications Museum on the 4th Floor of Palette Kumoji shopping center. The Naha Tourist Information Center is situated midway along the Kokusai route, just around the corner from Mitsukoshi Department Store.

A five-minute walk the opposite direction brings you to Fukushuen Garden, built in recognition of sister city status with Fukushu, China. Matsuyama Park is five minutes further, opposite the gardens, featuring 36 sites recognizing the relationship between China and Okinawa. Five minutes further and you’re at Naminoue Beach, a free tourist beach with sugar white sands.

Miebashi Station is the heartland of great downtown gourmet dining, only a few yards away from Kumoji. There’s also the Stone Gate of Sogenji Temple, a free excursion to a site built in the early 16th century to worship kings of the Ryukuan royal family. Close to Miebashi is Okiedori Street, a 500-meter-long shopping district which was the city’s original downtown. It dates to 1953, when it had a movie theater and a playhouse. Jikanji is a two-minute walk from the station, an area chock filled with secondhand bookstores, cafes and a variety of specialty shops.

Makishi guards the northeastern end of Kokusai. Closeby is Agari-nu-Utaki, formerly a bullfighting ring, and Agari-nu-Ka, a public well. Ukinawa Utaki is also nearby, a place of prayer in the old Asato village, where it figured prominently in Okinawa history in 1713. Tsuboya Pottery Museum is a mere five-minute walk from the station, and offers a true introduction to Okinawa ceramics. Close to the museum is a pottery hall where works of 22 pottery studios are sold. Kilns used by the potters are also in the area, including one designated 2 1/2 years ago as a National Cultural Asset.

Away from downtown, and on to Asato Station, home to Sakaemachi Town Market and shops. The area was home to a women’s high school and a teacher’s school for women until World War II.

Omoromachi is being called the new heart of Naha. More than a shopping zone, it represents the city’s growth. New government buildings, newspaper offices, hotels, and shopping malls share the landscape. Naha Main Place is popular, as is DutyFreeShopping Galleria, right outside the station. Furujima Station has little to entice riders to get off, unless you want to consider opening a business and want help from the City’s Business Incubation Office, or want to take the seven-minute stroll to the Prefecture Health Promotion Center to enjoy bubble baths, exercise and use of aerobic and other health equipment.

The northern end of the Yuirail route pulls into Shiritsu Byoin-mae Station. Here you’ll find easy access to Naha City Hospital, with emergency services available around the clock, year around. Sueyoshi Park is a three-minute walk, and is free. It’s a chance to enjoy the forest, and the colorful flowers and botanicals, without leaving the city.

Gibo Station is almost to the end, and entices riders to step away for a visit to the Okinawa Prefectural Museum, and then Torase Park. The museum has more than 43,000 artifacts on display, including all sorts of data on Shuri Castle. The museum is built on the original site of the Shuri royal family residence.

The best is last, at least if you’re looking for history, adventure and culture all in one spot. Shuri Castle is Okinawa’s landmark, a World Heritage Sites Area, Base of the Shuri Royal Court, and the pride of the island. Plan at least a couple hours to absorb the history on these grounds, which include Shureimon Gate and Ryutan Pond, Benzaitendo Shrine, Shurikinjo Stone Pavement and more.

And one final stop for adults. Shuri Distilleries are a ten-minute walk from the castle, and home to Okinawa awamori. Since 1667 the distilleries have been under management of the royal court, turning out the popular liquor under the names Zuizen, Sakimoto, Shikina and Miszuho. There are free tours and free tastings.

You’ve done it, transversed the Yuirail! This being different from a hit-and-run mission, we recommend a day pass, which costs ¥800 and allows riders to get on and off multiple times.

http://japanupdate.com/stories/img/20050518Yuirail%20leads%20to%20great%20shopping%20destinations0.jpg
http://japanupdate.com/stories/img/20050518Yuirail%20leads%20to%20great%20shopping%20destinations1.jpg
http://japanupdate.com/stories/img/20050518Yuirail%20leads%20to%20great%20shopping%20destinations2.jpg

[Isan]

Thanx! Yup, Hana is a really good song!!
and as for Okinawan songs, I love shimauta, too.
Curiously, the song shimauta made it top in the hit charts of Argentine a couple of years ago!!
You can see The Boom's live concert in Buenos Aires here!
http://www.five-d.co.jp/boom/es/shimauta.html

THX too :)

This song had been translated to Chinese version by Taiwanese singer when he came to Folk Concert at Naha 5 years ago

I am really like to the melody of this song

Also, I known South America ( ABC ) are also familiar with JP song and pop in young group :okay:

[Inabowl]

Okinawa is beautiful, as well as the Okinawan girls. I like Yukie Nakama (celeb) from Okinawa. She's got a great looking.

http://hippi.seesaa.net/image/YukieNakama2_m.jpg