Okinawa (Naha), Japan Cruise Port

Okinawa is a chain of islands that lies between Taiwan and Japan. Though part of Japan, Okinawa and its people are very independent with their own special customs and traditions. You may be familiar with Okinawa because of the World War II battle where the U.S. suffered severe casualties while taking control of the islands. What you may not know, however, are a lot of the other things for which Okinawa is known. For example, this island chain is home to the longest-living population – out of 100,000 people, 34 have lived to be 100 or more. Okinawa is also the birthplace of karate, the most famous of the martial arts. Outlined below are suggestions for how to make the most of your time in the cruise port of Okinawa, Japan:

• Go diving off the coast. The waters surrounding Okinawa are rich with coral, sea turtles and tropical fish.
   
• Visit the Okinawa version of Colonial Williamsburg at Ryukyu Mara. This is a village where you’ll see the cuisine, crafts and lifestyles of Okinawans from centuries ago.
   
• Get some insight into the Battle of Okinawa at Peace Memorial Park. This park is meant to teach visitors about what occurred on the islands and to always remember those who lost their lives.
   
• Take a walk among the beautiful Shikinaen Gardens. This land was once home to the kings of Okinawa and here you’ll see wooden palace buildings.