Okinawa

Okinawa Island is one of the largest, most easily accessible of Japan's tropical islands and most beautiful islands in Japan. Okinawa is also the largest island in Okinawa Prefecture, which is made up of a group of islands. Naha, Okinawa's capital, was originally called Naba and was named after a large mushroom-shaped stone.

Naha has long been a relaxing getaway for mainland Japanese, but it was once a commercial hub for the Ryukyu Kingdom. At the Okinawa Prefectural Museum, you can learn about how Okinawa's proximity to Asian neighbors Taiwan and China has shaped the culture. The Ryukyu Kingdom's influence is ever-present and can be seen in the culinary world, daily life, architecture, and spirituality of the island. A trip to Okinawa is a fascinating look into Japan's varied culture and history.

The island of Okinawa also has a plethora of beaches. On the island, you can visit Manza Beach and walk 300 meters of soft sand, visit the scenic point of Cape Manzano, or take a parasail to see the East China Sea. Furthermore, Kouri Beach has two heart-shaped rocks, Emerald Beach has gem-colored waters, and Zappa Beach has a beautiful sunset near the Cape Zappa lighthouse. There is undoubtedly a beach for every occasion.

• Location: Okinawa, Japan
• Best time to visit: roughly March to early May and late September to December