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The brightness of the Okinawan sun, the pleasant breeze, the crystal clear ocean… Wouldn’t it be great if you could experience that tropical atmosphere at home?
Here are some unique items that allow you to feel Okinawa at home without having to travel to Okinawa.
Make your home time more enjoyable and relaxing by incorporating items filled with Okinawan culture and history!
- 1 The red and yellow "Umeshi" will give your dining table an Okinawan feel!
- 2 Let's decorate your dining table with Yachimun!
- 3 Making snacks with sata andagi ingredients
- 4 Try Okinawan cuisine using spam!
- 5 Okinawa soba at home!
- 6 Decorate Okinawa with shisa and doucai!
- 7 Bingata design items bring Okinawa closer to you
- 8 Enjoy flowers and ornamental plants in Okinawa
- 9 Make a tropical toast with Ryukyu glass!
- 10 Let's play the sound of sanshin!
- 11 Summary: Your home will be transformed into a tropical Okinawa!
- 12 Climate and Clothing by Month
- 13 If you want to enjoy Okinawa, get discount tickets online!
- 14 special feature article
The red and yellow “Umeshi” will give your dining table an Okinawan feel!
Red and yellow chopsticks called “umeshi” are used in Okinawan restaurants and homes. This unique color scheme has a deep meaning.
With these chopsticks, even an ordinary meal will be full of Okinawan mood. Although it is a simple item, it is a wonderful reminder of tradition and culture.
Okinawan “umeshi” are more than just everyday chopsticks; they are a symbolic item that reflects history and culture. The red and yellow color scheme and materials used in these chopsticks reflect the long history and unique lifestyle and culture of Okinawa.
What is “umeshi”?
In Okinawa, chopsticks are called “umeshi” in the dialect. The origin of this word is an old Okinawan word meaning “something that grabs food.
Red and yellow chopsticks were common in traditional Okinawan households. Widely used in Okinawan diners and homes, these chopsticks are not only practical but also symbolic of Okinawan cultural values.
Meaning and origin of red and yellow
The unique color scheme of red and yellow has a deep meaning derived from the nature and beliefs of Okinawa.
- Red: symbol of the sun
symbolizes the bright sun and vitality of Okinawa. The red color was colored with lacquer and also served as a non-slip surface for grasping food. - Yellow: symbol of the moon and earth
Yellow is a dye taken from natural turmeric, which has antibacterial properties and is hygienic. It has also been considered sacred as the color of the moon and earth.
These colors are not mere design, but are closely related to the nature and life of Okinawa.
Historical background and traditional manufacturing methods
Okinawa once nurtured a unique culture as the Ryukyu Kingdom. While influenced by China, Southeast Asia, and Japan, its unique traditions remain strong. Umeshi” is one example.
- Relationship with Lacquer Crafts
Since the days of the Ryukyu Kingdom, crafts using lacquer have been an important export item. The red lacquer used for “umeshi” is also considered part of this traditional technique. - Turmeric Use
The people of Okinawa incorporated turmeric, which was also used as a medicinal herb, into their daily lives. This wisdom is also utilized in the dyeing of chopsticks.
Okinawa’s Beliefs and Lifestyles Symbolized by “Umeshi
In Okinawa, the culture of respect for nature and harmony is deeply rooted. The colors and materials used for “umeshi” reflect these values.
- Red as a charm against evil
In Okinawa, the color red is believed to have the meaning of repelling evil. Therefore, “umeshi” was also valued as a talisman to ward off evil spirits. - An item that strengthens family and community ties.
“Umeshi” is used in homes, diners, and other places where people gather, making it a symbolic item of community and family ties.
Let’s decorate your dining table with Yachimun!
Yachimun, traditional Okinawan pottery, is characterized by its warm design.
- The beauty of the patterns and glazes, which evoke the colors and nature of the Okinawan earth, is fascinating.
- Just by incorporating Yachimun into rice bowls and mugs, the dining table becomes much more stylish.
Dining at your favorite Yachimun makes every dish a special dish!
What is Yachimun? Meaning behind the name
Yachimun” means “pottery” in the Okinawan dialect. The word is made up of the words “yachi” (pottery) and “mun” (object). For the Okinawan people, Yachimun is not just a vessel, but a part of their culture that is integrated into their daily lives.
History of Yachimun
The origin of Yachimun dates back to the 17th century. At that time, the Ryukyu Kingdom traded with China, Japan, and Southeast Asia, and pottery techniques were introduced and developed during this trade. In particular, Okinawa’s unique yachimun culture was formed under the influence of Chinese porcelain and Korean ceramics.
In the 18th century, pottery production centers were concentrated in the Tsuboya district of Naha City under the guidance of the royal government. This area is still known today as “Tsuboya Yachimun Street” and is a tourist attraction with many potteries and pottery stores.
Features and Attractiveness of Yachimun
Yachimun have unique characteristics that reflect the nature and lifestyle of Okinawa.
- Bold and free patterns
Many of the patterns are based on nature motifs such as plants, waves, and fish, and each piece is unique because they are all painted by hand. A typical example is the blue pattern painted with the traditional Okinawan “gosue” technique. - Warm glaze (Yuyaku)
Yachimun glazes are made from Okinawan soil and ashes. This gives them a natural hue and luster. In particular, the reddish brown color of the clay and the deep blue-green color remind us of the land and sea of Okinawa. - Thick texture
Yachimun is often made thicker than most ceramics, making it durable and practical. The more you use it, the more comfortable it becomes in your hand and the longer you can use it.
How to choose Yachimun and recommended items
Yachimun offers a wide variety of vessels. Choose the one that best suits your lifestyle and taste.
- Rice bowls and small plates
are standard items for everyday meals. Just by incorporating Yachimun, even an ordinary meal can be made more special. - Mugs and teacups
are the perfect items for coffee time. The warm design creates a relaxing moment. - Platters and bowls
Serve salads, sashimi, and Okinawan dishes to make your dining table all the more festive.
The Appeal of Adding Yachimun to Your Table
Using Yachimun makes mealtime more enjoyable.
- Enhances food
Yachimun’s unique colors and patterns beautifully complement any dish. It is especially well suited for Okinawan cuisine. - Conversation St arter
The warmth and character unique to handmade vessels makes them a great conversation starter with family and friends. - Enjoy the seasons
The design evokes the sea, sky, and earth of Okinawa, adding color to your table in all four seasons.
Find your favorites on Tsuboya Yachimun Street!
The Tsuboya Yachimun Street in Naha City is lined with numerous pottery studios, and visitors can enjoy the pleasure of actually talking with the artists while making their selections. You can also make your own yachimun by visiting a workshop or taking a hands-on class. If you are visiting the area for sightseeing, be sure to stop by.
Making snacks with sata andagi ingredients
Sata andagi, a traditional Okinawan deep-fried pastry, is crispy on the outside and soft and moist on the inside. The simple sweetness typical of Okinawa fills the mouth.
You can easily enjoy this snack at home by using “Sata Andagi No Moto”, which can be easily made by simply mixing and frying. Here are the details of the basic recipe, points for arrangement, origin, and how to enjoy it!
What is Saata Andagi? Its Name and Origin
Sata andagi means “sata = sugar,” “anda = oil,” and “agi = fried” in Okinawan dialect. As the name suggests, it is a simple pastry deep-fried with sugar and oil, a snack handed down since the days of the Ryukyu Dynasty.
These sweets are often made for celebrations and events, and are considered lucky charms that bring happiness to people. In particular, its round shape is said to symbolize “amity.
Handmade sataa andagi
Using commercially available “sata andagi ingredients” eliminates the need for complicated measurements and makes it easy to make mistakes even the first time. You can have a fun time making it with family and friends.
The rustic flavor and nostalgic feeling is also a key point. The freshly fried aroma and fluffy texture is a luxury only homemade can provide.
How to make basic sata andagi
Ingredients (for about 15 pieces)
- Sata andagi ingredients: 200g
- Egg: 1 egg
- Milk: 1 tablespoon
- Frying oil: as needed
procedure
- Make the dough
Crack the eggs into a bowl and beat well. Add milk to the mixture and mix.
Add the sata andagi ingredients and mix with a rubber spatula to cut and bring the dough together. - Shaping
Roll the dough into a sphere about 3 cm in diameter. It is easier to work with if you put a little oil on your hands. - Frying
Pour deep-frying oil into a pan to a depth of about 5 cm and heat to 160°C. Add dough a few at a time and fry slowly until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Roll the dough during frying to ensure even cooking. - Finish
When fried, drain oil with kitchen paper and place on a plate!
Enjoy even more with arrangement ideas
Let’s enjoy your original sata andagi by adding a twist to the basic recipe.
- Brown sugar flavor adds Okinawan flair
Mixing melted brown sugar into the dough adds a rich, authentic flavor. - New sensation with matcha or cocoa powder
We recommend adding matcha or cocoa powder to the dough, or sprinkling powdered sugar or soybean flour on it after frying. - Add chocolate chips or nuts
Mix chocolate chips or crushed nuts into the dough for a variation that kids will love.
Tips for frying
The key is temperature control: slow frying at a low temperature of 160°C (160°F) ensures that the inside is cooked thoroughly and the outside is crispy.
If too much batter is packed into the pan, the temperature of the oil will drop and the batter will not fry evenly. It is best to fry in small batches.
How to enjoy sata andagi
Add a touch of Okinawa to your tea time. Enjoy it with sampincha (Okinawan jasmine tea) or brown sugar coffee for a tropical feel.
We also recommend wrapping the handmade sataa andagi as a gift.
It is sure to please!
Try Okinawan cuisine using spam!
Spam” is an essential ingredient in Okinawan cuisine. Also known as pork luncheon meat, this versatile ingredient is widely enjoyed in Okinawan households.
It was introduced into Okinawan food culture during the postwar period of American occupation, and is now an integral part of many classic dishes such as goya chanpuru and pork roe.
Why Spam is popular in Okinawa
Spam is a convenient ingredient that preserves well and is easy to prepare, yet is full of flavor and can be arranged in any dish.
After the war, Spam brought in by the U.S. military supported the tables of the Okinawan people, who were short of supplies, and has since become an established daily foodstuff. Today, Spam is readily available at supermarkets and convenience stores, and is well known as Okinawa’s soul food.
Standard Okinawan dishes using spam
bitter melon stir-fried with pork, tofu and other vegetables
The use of spam softens the bitterness of the bitter melon and adds richness. Chanpuru with Okinawan miso “tofu paste” and bonito dashi is an easy and nutritious dish.
material
- Bitter gourd: 1
- Spam: 1/2 can
- Cotton tofu: 1
- Eggs: 1 egg
- Soy sauce, salt, pepper: to taste
- Bonito flakes: to taste
way of making
- Cut goya in half lengthwise, remove seeds, cut into thin slices, rub with salt, and rinse with water.
- Cut the spam and tofu into bite-size pieces.
- In a frying pan, crisp the Spam and remove. In the same pan, cook the tofu to remove the moisture.
- Add the bitter gourd and stir-fry, then return the Spam. Add beaten egg, mix roughly, and season with soy sauce and salt and pepper. Finish by sprinkling bonito flakes!
pork and eggs
Spam and eggs are a perfect match. It is a simple yet versatile side dish that goes well with both rice and bread.
material
- Spam: 1/2 can
- Eggs: 2
- slightly overcast, windless, hot and muggy miso
- Salt and pepper: a little
- Salad oil: to taste
way of making
- Cut the spam into 5 mm pieces and brown them on both sides in a frying pan.
- Aburamiso: In Okinawa, it is also common to serve with aburamiso, which is made with ground meat and miso. Add this to Spam or eggs for extra flavor!
- In the same pan, pour beaten eggs and scramble or thinly cook the eggs.
- Serve with grilled Spam and eggs to complete the dish!
Basic recipe for Spam rice balls
Spam rice balls are a popular snack in Okinawa and Hawaii. It is a simple dish of grilled Spam and rice wrapped in nori seaweed, but you can enjoy arranging the ingredients.
Ingredients (for 1 person)
- Rice (warm): 80g
- Spam: 1 sheet (5 mm wide)
- Eggs: 1 egg
- 1/2 sheet of grilled nori seaweed
- Mayonnaise: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: a little
- Salad oil: to taste
way of making
- Make the egg rolls
Crack the eggs into a bowl, add salt and mix well. Heat a thin layer of salad oil in an egg pan over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture and cook the spam. - Grill the Spam
Wipe out the egg pan lightly and grill the Spam until browned on both sides. - Prepare the ingredients
Lay the plastic wrap on a cutting board and place the grilled nori with the rough side up. Leave a 2 cm space on the back side of the nori and spread the rice evenly. Spread mayonnaise on top of the rice, place egg rolls on the front side, and lay a layer of spam on top of the mayonnaise. - Wrap
Roll the nori into a shape with each piece of plastic wrap. Roll up tightly so that the nori blends in. - Finish
Using a knife, cut each piece of plastic wrap in half, then remove the plastic wrap. This completes the process!
Ideas for arranging Spam rice balls
1. Takana Spam Onigiri
Mix rice with pickled takana and combine with Spam. The tangy flavor will whet your appetite.
2. avocado spam rice balls
The combination of spam and avocado adds a mild flavor. Add wasabi mayonnaise to taste if desired.
3. kimchi spam onigiri
The combination of spam and kimchi is exquisite in spiciness and flavor. The flavor soaks into the rice as well.
Okinawa soba at home!
Okinawa soba, the soul food of Okinawa, is a unique dish with thick, firm noodles and a flavorful broth.
By using products that come with special noodle and soup sets, you can easily recreate the taste of Okinawa at home.
We will introduce in detail not only the authentic way to make it, but also how to arrange it and some hidden tips.
In Okinawa, you can always find fresh Okinawa soba noodles in the noodle section of supermarkets.
What is Okinawa soba? Characteristics and Attractions
Okinawa soba is a noodle dish made mainly of wheat flour, not buckwheat flour, and is classified as similar to “Chinese noodles. It is characterized by slightly frizzled flat noodles and is served with a flavorful soup based on bonito stock or pork bones.
Common toppings include pork belly, red ginger, green onion, and fish paste. It is also popular as a home-style dish, and each region has its own unique flavor.
How to make authentic Okinawan soba
Ingredients (for 2 persons)
(Western) soup
- Water: 1000cc
- 1 tablespoon chicken broth
- Soy sauce: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: a pinch
ingredient
- Okinawa soba (fresh or dried): 2 balls
- Pork belly (for rafting): 200g
- Kamaboko (fish paste): as desired (thinly sliced)
- Green onion: as desired (cut into small pieces)
- Red ginger: as desired
- Kohlrabi Goose (optional): to taste
way of making
- Prepare pork
Place pork belly in a saucepan, add water and heat over high heat. Carefully remove scum. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 1 hour to tenderize. - Prepare the soup
Remove the braised pork and reserve the boiled water. Transfer the boiled water to another pot, add chicken broth, soy sauce, and salt, and heat over medium heat. - Cooking the Noodles
Cook the Okinawan soba noodles in a large pot of boiling water with plenty of water and cook according to the directions on the bag. After boiling, drain the noodles in a colander and drain thoroughly. - To serve
Place boiled Okinawa soba in a serving bowl and pour in a generous amount of warm broth.
Top with braised pork, fish paste, green onions, and red ginger. Finally, top with kohlrabi goose to taste.
Backstage arrangements to make it even tastier
1. making soup with white broth
If you find it difficult to make broth for Okinawan soba, we recommend using commercially available white broth.
- White broth: diluted with water (follow package directions)
- When combined with special Okinawa soba noodles, you can enjoy a refreshing Japanese taste of Okinawa soba.
2. arranged in the style of oil soba
“Arranged in the style of oil soba” is recommended as a way to enjoy Okinawa soba without soup stock.
- Ingredients: tripe, fish paste, red ginger, green onion
- Seasoning: Special sauce mixed with soy sauce, oyster sauce and sesame oil.
After boiling and draining the noodles, toss with the special sauce and top with ingredients. Add a little spicy raayu to enhance the flavor.
3. mazesoba arrangement
Arrange Okinawan soba noodles in a mazesoba style for a hearty meal.
- Toss noodles with beaten egg, cheese, and garlic butter.
- Add spam, chashu pork, and green onions as toppings for a luxurious look.
The kohlrabi goose adds an Okinawan touch!
Kohleh Goose, an essential seasoning for Okinawa soba, is a spice made from island chili peppers soaked in awamori (Okinawa rice wine). Just a few drops of this spice will enhance the flavor of the soup with its tangy spiciness.
There are commercial products available.
Various ways to enjoy Okinawa soba
1. arranging toppings
In addition to tripe, you can enjoy variations by using the following ingredients.
- Pig’s feet
- half-boiled egg
- stir-fried vegetables
2. okinawan side dishes to eat together
Make your dining table even more okinawan with side dishes that are perfect accompaniments to okinawan soba.
- Jimami Tofu (Peanut Tofu)
A smooth textured dessert, perfect for after dinner. - Mimigar (pig’s ear with dressing)
It has a crunchy texture. Goes well with beer.
The dried noodle type is also delicious!
Delightful fresh noodle type
This is the meat!
Decorate Okinawa with shisa and doucai!
Shisa and Ishigantou (stone daring) are the symbolic ornaments of Okinawa.
These are not mere ornaments, but symbols of protection against evil deeply rooted in the Okinawan climate and culture.
Not only can you create a uniquely Okinawan space just by decorating it, but it becomes even more appealing when you learn about its origin and meaning.
What is Shisa? The Role and History of Okinawa’s Guardian Deity
Shisa is a legendary beast that has long been popular in Okinawa as a charmer and bringer of good luck. Shisa is said to have its roots in lion statues imported from China, which were introduced to the Ryukyu Kingdom around the 14th century.
Originally installed as guardians for powerful people and temples and shrines, they eventually spread to the homes of ordinary people and are now widely seen in residences and public facilities in Okinawa.
Roles and Characteristics
- Amulet
Shisa is believed to prevent evil from entering the house or land and protect the people who live there. - Pairs of shisa
are often placed in pairs, and are characterized by the open-mouthed “A” and closed-mouthed “Un” shapes.- The open-mouthed Shisa serves to invite in good fortune.
- Shisa with its mouth closed serves to trap misfortune.
How to decorate Shisa and interior design ideas
Shisa is a convenient item that can be displayed both indoors and outdoors. Its meaning and atmosphere change depending on where it is displayed.
- Place it at the entrance
The entranceway is a place where bad vibes from the outside can easily enter. It is believed that placing Shisa in pairs protects the entire house.- It is common to place “open-mouthed Shisa” on the right side and “closed-mouthed Shisa” on the left side.
- Decorate your living room
A small shisa can be placed on a shelf or table in the living room to accentuate the interior. Choose colorful designs, such as souvenirs from a trip to Okinawa, to create a bright atmosphere. - Placement in the garden or on a balcony
Placing a large shisa outdoors is thought to protect the entire property. Rustic ceramic ones are resistant to wind and rain and blend in with nature.
What is “Ishikantou”? Okinawa’s unique culture to ward off evil
Ishigantou, or stone dares, are stone monuments often seen on street corners and in front of houses in Okinawa, and serve to ward off evil spirits. Its origin is based on Chinese feng shui philosophy, which developed into a unique Okinawan belief.
Origin and Meaning of Ishikatou
- Ishiatsu (stone daring) originated from “Hekija,” a type of feng shui introduced from southern China.
- In Okinawa, it is believed that magimun (evil spirits) can only go straight ahead, and placing a stone daredai at the end of a T-junction or three-way junction is believed to block evil spirits.
The Power of the Characters
The stone monument is inscribed “石敢當”, which means “the stone will hit and prevent disaster”. To enhance its power, it is carefully crafted by specific artisans.
How to install and enjoy the stone daring
- Place outdoors
at the end of a T-junction or three-way street, which is considered bad in terms of feng shui, or at the entrance. If you purchase authentic stone doucai (stone doucai), it will serve as an amulet with practicality. - Design stone daring for indoor use
Recently, small and fashionable design stone daring is also available. They are suitable for use as interior decorations in entryways and living rooms. They are also popular as souvenirs from Okinawa trips.
Points for creating an Okinawan space with Shisa and doucai (stone daring)
- Combine with natural materials from Okinawa
Shisa and Ishikatou can be combined with traditional Okinawan crafts such as Ryukyu glass and Yachimun to create an even more Okinawan space. - Pop with colorful designs
These days, shisa are not only traditional, but also colorful and pop. It will be fun to choose one that matches the theme color of your room. - Miniature size
Miniature sized Shisa and Ishikanto can be easily incorporated into a small space such as a desk or windowsill to bring Okinawan taste.
Bingata design items bring Okinawa closer to you
Bingata, a traditional Okinawan craft, is a dyeing technique characterized by vivid colors and delicate patterns.
Why don’t you learn about its history and charm and add Okinawan-ness to your daily life with items incorporating Bingata?
What is Bingata? Its History and Characteristics
Bingata is a dyeing technique that originated in the late 14th and 15th centuries during the Ryukyu Kingdom. The word “kurenai” refers to the vivid colors, and “kata” refers to the technique of using patterned paper.
historical background
- A specialty product of the Ryukyu Kingdom period
Bingata was originally used as a costume for royalty and nobility. It developed through trade with Japan, China, and Southeast Asia, and its gorgeous and unique designs attracted many people. - The evolution of katagami technology
Bingata patterns are dyed using katagami. Each katagami is engraved by hand and is the fruit of skilled craftsmen’s techniques.
feature
- Designs based on nature motifs
Many of the patterns depict Okinawan nature, such as flowers, birds, and waves, giving off a tropical atmosphere just by looking at them. - Vibrant colors
The intricate layers of red, blue, yellow, green and other colors create an attractive finish with great depth.
How to incorporate Bingata design items into your daily life
Bingata is used not only for traditional costumes, but also for various practical items today. By choosing items that can be easily incorporated into your daily life, you can make your daily life even more colorful.
1. decorate the room with interior items
Cushion covers and wall hangings with Bingata designs brighten the overall atmosphere of a room.
- Cushion covers
Bingata cushions can be placed on sofas and beds to create an Okinawan resort atmosphere. - Tapestry or wall hanging
Bingata patterned cloth can be framed and displayed on the wall to create a stylish and serene space. It can be used in any room, Japanese or Western.
2. enjoy Okinawan atmosphere with fashion items
Bingata is also popular as a wearable item. Many products combine practicality and design, making them perfect for daily use.
- Pouches and eco bags
Bingata-patterned pouches and bags are a stylish way to carry everyday items in an Okinawan style. They are items that attract attention when traveling or shopping. - Stoles and scarves
Stoles with Bingata designs look gorgeous just by wrapping them around. Especially lightweight fabrics are perfect for spring and summer wear. - Accessories
Earrings and necklaces with Bingata patterns create an understated yet distinctive look.
3. tableware to brighten up the dining table
Bingata-designed luncheon mats and coasters will add a splash of color to your dining table. Combined with Okinawan cuisine, you can easily enjoy a tropical atmosphere.
Enjoy flowers and ornamental plants in Okinawa
Create a tropical feel by incorporating plants commonly found in Okinawa.
Blessed with a mild climate and abundant nature, Okinawa is a botanical paradise where a wide variety of plants grow.
Among them, houseplants and tropical flowers in particular are easy to grow at home and ideal for incorporating into interior design and gardening. These are the plants and their characteristics that give a sense of Okinawan-ness.
Flowers that symbolize Okinawa
1. hibiscus
The hibiscus, known as the representative flower of Okinawa, produces large, bright red, pink, and orange flowers. It is attractive because it can be easily grown in a garden or potted plant.
2. bougainvillea
Bougainvillea, with its brightly colored bracts, is a common sight in Okinawan gardens and fences. The bright pink and orange flowers can create a gorgeous space.
3. plumeria
Plumeria, with its tropical fragrance, blooms in white, yellow, and pink. This flower is also used in Hawaiian leis and is ideal for creating a resort atmosphere.
Okinawan-style ornamental plants
1. banyan tree
Known as the “tree where spirits dwell,” the banyan tree is very popular in Okinawa. Its characteristic aerial root gives it a lively impression.
2. bats orchids
With its uniquely shaped leaves, bat orchids can be hung on the wall or hung to enhance the interior. It grows well in an environment similar to the humid climate of Okinawa.
3. ficus artesima (rubber tree)
This is a durable houseplant that grows easily in Okinawa’s mild climate. Its light green and yellowish green leaves give it a fashionable look.
4. dracaena cambogiana
It is a sophisticated-looking foliage plant characterized by its upright leaves that grow smoothly. It is resistant to the humidity of Okinawa and is easy to grow indoors.
5. yucca rostrata
This hardy houseplant grows well in arid regions and has sharp, sword-like leaves. It is a great accent plant for the garden or indoors.
Fruit and herb-based Okinawan plants
1. shikwasa
This citrus fruit is native to Okinawa and can be grown in a garden or potted plant at home to enjoy its fresh aroma and fruit.
2. moringa
Known as the “miracle tree,” Moringa is a plant whose nutritious foliage can be enjoyed. It grows quickly and can be grown as an ornamental plant.
Make a tropical toast with Ryukyu glass!
Ryukyu glass is one of Okinawa’s representative crafts with its vivid colors and unique designs.
The transparency of the glass and the tropical gradation of the glass make it a special addition to any dining table.
What is Ryukyu Glass?
Ryukyu glass is a relatively new craft born in postwar Okinawa, but it has a deep story behind its origins.
1. the craft of revitalization that began after the war
In postwar Okinawa, handcrafts of melting and reusing discarded bottles that had been used as household items became widespread. Ryukyu glass, which began with the reuse of glass, developed into a unique craft with the postwar reconstruction.
Today, Ryukyu glass is not only made from discarded bottles, but also uses new glass materials, allowing for freer and more creative designs.
2. design that combines tradition and modernity
Ryukyu glass features colors and patterns inspired by the nature of Okinawa. Designs reminiscent of the blue sea, red sunsets, and lush green island scenery evoke a sense of beauty unique to Okinawa.
Charm of Ryukyu Glass
1. vivid colors and gradations
A major characteristic of Ryukyu glass is its vivid colors, reminiscent of tropical landscapes. The gradation of blues and greens is reminiscent of the sea and sky of Okinawa, while the orange and yellow are reminiscent of sunsets. The color combinations and shades are different for each piece, making each piece feel special every time you hold it in your hand.
2. warm handmade texture
Because craftsmen create each piece by hand, the surface of the piece is characterized by bubbles and subtle distortions. This gives the product a warmth that cannot be found in machine production.
3. high durability
Ryukyu glass is thick and sturdy, making it suitable for daily use. It is popular as an item that is both fashionable and practical.
Let’s play the sound of sanshin!
The sanshin is a typical Okinawan musical instrument. Its unique tone has a special charm that conveys the atmosphere of a tropical country.
What is Sanshin? Its History and Characteristics
The sanshin is a traditional musical instrument that was introduced from China during the Ryukyu Kingdom period and developed uniquely in Okinawa. As the name suggests, it is a stringed instrument with “three strings,” and is characterized by its snakeskin-covered body and unique tuning.
1. origin and development
The sanshin is said to have its roots in the Chinese sanshen, which was introduced to the Ryukyu Kingdom in the 16th century and formed its own unique form while fusing with Ryukyuan culture. It was played by royalty and the warrior class, but later spread to the common people and is now an indispensable instrument in Okinawan life and events.
2. what kind of tone?
The sanshin’s simple yet deep tone has the power to soothe the hearts of those who listen to it. Often used as an accompaniment to Okinawan folk songs and traditional dances, it is a perfect instrument for expressing melancholy and joy.
3. sanshin structure and features
- The body (Do)
is covered with snakeskin, which produces a unique tone. - Strings (Gen)
Nylon strings are the most common and easy to use for beginners. - Bachi (plectrum)
A tool for playing the sanshin, usually made of plastic or bamboo.
Steps to start sanshin
1. buy a beginner’s sanshin set
Sanshin come in a wide variety of types and price ranges, and many sets are available for beginners. Sets typically include the following
- Main body of Sanshin
- tuner (e.g. radio)
- Instructional books and DVDs
- soft case
The price range is approximately 10,000 to 30,000 yen, and those with nylon strings and synthetic leather bodies are affordable and easy to handle.
2. learn online or in a classroom
You can start learning the sanshin on your own, but you can learn more efficiently by taking online lessons or by taking a local class. There are a variety of video materials and apps available, allowing even beginners to enjoy playing Okinawan folk songs.
3. start with basic songs
Beginners are recommended to start with the following simple Okinawan folk songs:
- Tinsagunu Hana”
This is a typical Okinawan folk song and a standard practice song for beginners. - Asariya Yunta”
This piece has a relaxed tempo and is easy to play.
Summary: Your home will be transformed into a tropical Okinawa!
The best way to enjoy the Okinawan atmosphere at home is to incorporate Okinawan items! Decorate your dining table with “umeshi” and “yachimun” and toast with Ryukyu glass, and you will feel as if you are in a tropical country.
The sound of sanshin (Okinawan guitar), the aroma of Okinawan soba (buckwheat noodles), and the greenery of ornamental plants will transform your everyday life into something special. We hope you will try to incorporate items that remind you of Okinawan culture and nature into your own life!
Climate and Clothing by Month
Okinawa Travel Guide! A thorough guide to travel costs and staycation techniques by time of year
If you want to enjoy Okinawa, get discount tickets online!
special feature article
Roadside Stations and Direct Selling Stations Special Feature!
Michi no Eki (Roadside Stations) and direct sales shops in Okinawa are very popular tourist attractions. Each has its own unique characteristics, making them 200% worth visiting! Please visit them!
Special feature on beaches on the main island of Okinawa!
The main island of Okinawa has many wonderful beaches that can only be found in the tropics. We will introduce each of them in an easy-to-understand manner, from the very secluded to the well-serviced executive beaches.
Typhoon Okinawa
We have compiled a list of points to keep in mind when a typhoon approaches so that you can respond without panic before or during your trip. We hope you will find it useful.
