Previously known as the Ryukyu Kingdom, Okinawa ruled largely as an independent nation until 1879. The kingdom flourished for many centuries establishing itself as a central hub for trade and commerce in the East Asian region. It developed with an infusion of multi cultural traits none more so than Chinese influence. In fact, Okinawa, reputedly means ‘pearls on a rope’ in Chinese.

During this period, moratoriums on the use of weapons encouraged Okinawans to develop hand-to-hand combat. So much so that the unarmed Okinawans became adept warriors developing Okinawa's most famous export, Karate.

The islands eventually lost their independence to the Shimazu clan of mainland Japan. An iron fist forced Okinawans to become 'real Japanese' under Meiji rule. Despite their disinterest in Japan, Okinawa was forced into the last part of WW II when U.S. troops landed in Okinawa April 1, 1945. It took almost 3 months for Okinawa to be conquered. The Battle of Okinawa resulted in U.S. occupation and was not handed back to Japan until 1972.

Despite a turbulent history and a subsequent loss of independence Okinawa has successfully retained it's own unique language, architecture and cuisine different to that of mainland Japan. Today Okinawa is viewed largely as a holiday destination.

Okinawans have recently received recognition for having the greatest longevity in the world. According to a study published in 2003 by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare there are 457 Okinawans who are at least 100 years old, which is equivalent to about 35 centenarians per 100,000, the highest ratio in the world. (The U.S. has about 10 centenarians per 100,000.) A healthy diet, exercise and location have all been offered as explanations for Okinawa's aging population.

The indigenous religions of Okinawa are animism and shamanism influenced by Japan's religious beliefs of Shinto, Buddhism and China's Taoism.

Rituals performed throughout the year placate the spirits and ward off evil spirits. Obon, for example, is a summer festival where nightly processions welcome the ancestors spirits back to their village. Clad in beautiful Ryukyuuan costume, locals gracefully sing and dance to the accompaniment of drums and shamisen (a three-stringed instrument made from snake-skin).

Island life is much slower than that of the mainland. During your visit to the more remote islands you'll have ample opportunity to immerse yourself in the customs and traditions, enhancing this cultural adventure.