Since this is already my third week writing about something Japan-related, I think it’s safe to say that I’m going through some minor obsession with Japan and Japanese culture (only bits and pieces since I have no interest in their crazy fads like “yaeba teeth”). There are some things I find utterly fascinating about Japan, such as their traditional kimonos and cuisine, and for such a small country, in comparison to other superpowers, its geography is varied and beautiful. So, this week I will (regretfully) conclude my obsession with Japan by looking at possible tourist destinations, outside of Kobe, that presents a part of what I think characterizes Japan.

1. Okinawa Island (Okinawa Honto)

   

From observations I have made while watching a certain Japanese drama, Okinawa Honto is simply gorgeous. It looks the same as an exotic beach in Tahiti or some Caribbean island with crystal blue water surrounding it and pristine white sand. Okinawa Honto is the largest island in a cluster called the Okinawa Islands; though it is actually over 1000 miles away from mainland Japan, it is still under Japanese control, so it counts as a travel destination. Returning to the discussion about Okinawa’s beaches, I discovered that there are nine beaches/snorkeling sites that you can visit on the main island alone. If you’re a thrifty penny-pincher, I would suggest checking out Manza Beach since the admission is free, and it offers a number of activities and facilities for one to visit. From there you can take a bus (since there’s a public transportation on the island) all the way down to the southernmost area of the island to visit either the Peace Memorial Park, which honors fallen soldiers and serves to preserve parts of the battle at Okinawa, or Okinawa World, a theme park covering Okinawa’s culture and perfect for those who prefer light-hearted fun.

Looking past the island paradise layer of Okinawa, I found that it actually offers a rich history, perfect for all those history buffs out there who love anything ancient and historical. One popular attraction is the Shuri Castle, the reconstruction of Ryukyu royal palace that used to stand there. Centuries ago (specifically in the 1300s), Okinawa was the home of the capital of the Ryukyu kingdom, Shuri. Like all old buildings, Shuri Castle suffered through a lot of damage from fires and battles. And that concludes today’s history lesson. Personally, I find old buildings, especially castles, to be wonderful places to visit: Not only does it provide me with the chance to immerse myself in parts of a country’s culture and history, but it is also really cool just to see what conditions people lived in. It’s amazing to see how far society has progressed.

For more information about Okinawa and its attractions, check out this website.

2. Ryokan

A ryokan isn’t actually a specific location in Japan; rather, it is a Japanese inn that provides food, bed, a view and other accommodations. Based on what I have seen from websites and what I have heard from friends, staying at a ryokan would be the near equivalent to spending time in heaven. There is such a great variety of ryokans available from traditional ones to those with a modern, Western fusion. What interests me the most is a traditional ryokan offering rooms with tatami flooring and amenities like a yukata. In addition, most ryokans offer an onsen for guests.

In the paragraph above, there were a number of Japanese words that require some clarification. “Tatami” is a floor mat made with bamboo straw; a “yukata” is a light kimono or robe; and an “onsen” is a natural hot spring. Just imagine yourself sitting on a floor made of bamboo, chilling in a yukata, though yukata are used primarily for bathing purposes. Having the chance to experience part of Japanese culture and tradition is something that fascinates me. Also, the access to a natural hot spring sounds so inviting, even though it would be extremely awkward using a public bath type facility for the first time.

On another important note, the food served at a ryokan is very specific to the season one visits. The environment is also important, providing the ingredients that will be used in the dishes. The food is prepared in multiple small portions, so I assume that meals are fairly light, yet filling. Depending on the ryokan, you can either eat in your own room at a low table, or in a restaurant setting.

For more information about ryokan, check out this website.

Though I covered only a few parts of Japan in the conclusion of my “Japan” trilogy, I still hope it revealed attractions that caught your eye. Sayonara!