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Okinawa is not only about coral reefs and nature. In the 15th Century,
the Ryukyu Kingdom prospered through tribute trade with China, and it reached
its pinnacle through "intermediary trade," linking Korea, Southeastern
countries, and Japan.
@Through the trade with Asian countries, various techniques and cultures
such as pottery, textile weaving, and lacquerware were imported and disseminated
among Okinawa people, and by integrating them, a distinct and unique culture
unseen in mainland Japan was born.
@In December 2000, nine sites - Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of
the Kingdom of Ryukyu - were registered as world heritages, which included
Shuri Castle and its thickly lined ramparts, Shikina-En, which was a second
house of the royal family, and the Royal Mausoleum, which demonstrates
the brilliant stonework techniques of the |
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Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is famous for the world's largest acrylic glass
panel on its main water tank, and getting a panoramic view of a 7m-long
whale shark swim about is truly an overwhelming experience.
@Okinawa also boasts Japan's best limestone cave, with more than 950,000
stalactites, and a theme park where visitors can experience traditional
craftwork like pottery and glass art, as well as traditional performing
arts. There is also an outlet shopping mall that mainly features European
luxury brands, having 55 shops and 70 brands in total, and golf courses
with fine grass even in the winter. Restaurants come in all cuisine styles,
where visitors can indulge in various delicacies of the world, including
Japanese beef steak, which has become a world-famous luxury brand in itself.
@Accommodation facilities are abound as well and come in all sizes and
forms, from luxurious resort hotels where Asian millionaires are known
to stay in anonymity, to hostels for backpackers. |
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