Okinawa Prefecture (沖縄県)

Ikema Bridge, Miyako Island, Okinawa Prefecture


Okinawa Prefecture (沖縄県) is the southernmost prefecture of Japan. It comprises a string of islands extending over a thousand kilometers southwest of Kyushu. The name Okinawa means "rope in the open sea", a most appropriate description of the islands. The cover a total area of 2,271.3 sq km and has a population of 1.4 million people (2011 estimate).

Nakamura House, Kitanakagusuku, Okinawa Prefecture


Okinawa Prefecture includes the hundreds in the Ryukyu Islands group. Also included are the Senkaku Islands, also called the Diaoyu Islands or Pinnacle Islands, which are also claimed by China and Taiwan. The prefecture does not share any land borders with any other prefectures of Japan.

Due to its isolation from the rest of Japan, Okinawan develop their own language and customs that are distinct from mainland Japan. The most important cultural export of Okinawa is the martial artform called karate. A more local manifestation of Okinawan culture are the ubiquitous Shisa guardian lions, which can be seen at the gate or roof of almost every house in Okinawa.

Shisa guardian lion, Okinawa Prefecture


Okinawa Prefecture has a subtropical climate. Even during the coldest month, January, the average high temperature of the day is still around 20°C (68°F). The best time to visit Okinawa is during late March and April. The wet season starts in early May and continues through June.

In keeping with its own culture and climate, Okinawa also has its own distinct cuisine. Pork-based dishes predominate the menu, and the Okinawa is said to consume every part of the pig - except the squeal!

Shuri Castle in Nara, Okinawa


The economy of Okinawa Prefecture is heavily dependent on the US military bases located there, providing jobs to the local people. There are a total of fourteen US bases on the islands. Their presence has been a source of controversy and local resentment, heightened by criminal offences committed by the US servicemen there. The majority of the local population want all the bases to close while an almost equal percentage want to see a reduction. So far, no concrete solution has been taken.

Planning your trip to Okinawa Prefecture

Naha Airport (OKA), located just 4 km from the city center of Naha, is the main airport for Okinawa Prefecture. It receives flights from major cities in Japan as well as from Hong Kong, Seoul, Shanghai, and Taipei.

Wind turbines at Nishihennazaki, Miyako Island, Okinawa Prefecture

Cities of Okinawa Prefecture

(Local Okinawan names shown in parentheses.)

Tourist Attractions of Okinawa Prefecture

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