Wednesday, January 22, 2025 - Naha, Okinawa, Japan

Unlike the other ports of Japan, Okinawa has its own separate history, having been the independent kingdom of Ryukyu during the 15th century.  It's located between mainland Japan and Taiwan.   Historically the small kingdom prospered and traded with Japan, China, Korea, and Southeast Asia.  Consequently, Okinawa developed its own unique history and culture that is still evident today.  Even on our tour today, as we explored the city our guide always referred to himself as Okinawan, not Japanese.  It was obvious that this identification was very important to him. He discussed the history of Okinawa during World War II as well as the American occupation since the war until it was finally returned to Japanese sovereignty in 1972.  As we rode through the towns and villages it was interesting to see the blend of Japanese and American culture in the landscape. 

Our tour today was mainly a scenic drive around the area, so we had a chance to see both the big city and more rural settings.  The cities were filled with modern, high-rise buildings which were very stark, colorless and square.  There was a lack of diversity in the architecture which made it a bit uninteresting.  It was apparent that nearly all of the buildings had been rebuilt after WWII so they were certainly clean and sleek but lacked a bit of character that we have found in other parts of Japan.   

Our one stop was at the Okinawa Prefectural Museum.  The museum was originally established in 1945 to introduce Okinawan history and culture for the U.S. Military and politicians, since it was conveniently located close to the Shurijo Castle.  After the return of Okinawa to Japan in 1972, the purpose of he museum became to collect Okinawan local arts and crafts and to teach people about the history and traditions of Okinawa.  There are five teaching areas of the museum including archaeology, arts, crafts, history and folk life.  At the end of our museum tour, there was a lovely gift shop and I did manage to spend some money purchasing some of the crafts being sold in the store.

Although today's tour was not very active, it did give us the opportunity to explore the large area and learn a lot about the local people's views about the war, the American occupation, and being absorbed into the country of Japan.  

Now, on to Xiamen, China, which will be a new port for us.  Not sure how it's going to go since Bob is beginning to feel unwell.  


 

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