Summertime Tips: Tattoos

Who doesn't love summer? Bronzed bodies at the beach, temperatures are going up and up which means people are wearing less and less. For many this is the perfect time to show off the hours upon hours that were spent in the tattoo parlor getting a piece of art permanently etched onto your skin. However, for those of us with tattoos there are some things that should be taken into consideration before you head outside.

Damage From Tattoos: 

Tattoos are made possible by sharp implements breaking skin and jabbing ink. Not very poetic but I think you get the picture. Long story short damage is caused to the  skin which starts to bounce back after a few weeks but take a bit longer to fully heal. Sometimes the only permanent change to the skin is the color where as other times the skin in the area of the tattoo may never really be quite the same again.

This is important to consider for both those who already have tattoos and those who are thinking about getting tattoos during their time here on Okinawa. If you already have tattoos it is important to understand that those areas which have been "damaged" from tattoos that you have received in the past may react differently than you are used to. For example you may have never found it necessary to wear sunscreen when spending a measly 5 minutes out in the sun while in the US but now that you are here in Okinawa your tattoos get burned even after limited exposure.

For those of you who are thinking about getting your first tattoo while here in Okinawa it's important to consider that the area will also be extremely sensitive during the healing process. This means that you're not going to be "beach ready" a short three weeks after stepping out of the shop.

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Keeping Tattoos Covered: 

Tattoos are like fine art. If you're going to go through all the trouble and money of getting one in the first place you might as well keep it in good condition. The best way to do that is to keep your tattoos covered. As a rule of thumb I always have either sunscreen or a UV protective layer of clothing to cover my tattoo (particularly the one on my arm because of its likelihood of being exposed) at all times.

There are a number of products which you can use to protect your tattoos. One of my favorites was the TattooGoo brand of tattoo sunscreen which came in stick form. I really liked it because it allowed me to almost paint on the protection where the tattoo needed it most rather than just lather up the whole arm right away. I also very much liked the stick form because being about the size of lipstick it was easy to carry and therefor not easy to forget. The only problem that I had with this product is that when the summer came around it started to get really mushy and clumpy when applied. I tried some other stick form sunscreens but finally settled for a nice Japanese brand of lotion which absorbed quickly and worked very well without leaving you sticky.

The other option that I often have with me during the summer months is a UV protective shirt which I can use as a pullover. The reason that I like this is because although it gets hot here in the summertime the facts are when you go into some of these stores the AC is enough to keep your freezing and wanting another layer. So having a UV protective shirt or pullover is like a win win. I can wear it outside if the sun gets hot and I want some extra tattoo protection but I can also wear it inside and prevent myself from freezing to death. These types of shirts are also helpful if you are out and about but might find yourself in a place where it may be more appropriate to have your tattoo covered.

Tattoos + Japan = Bad: 

One of the things on the list of grossly misunderstood topics about Japan is tattoos. There are a lot of things that can be said on this topic and I will be happy to talk more about that later but for the sake of this post I want to keep things short.

Tattoos aside, when you come here to Japan (regardless if it is Okinawa or Tokyo) there needs to be an understanding that it is not the United States (or your country of origin). There are going to be things that are done here which are different from your home country and since you are now here you need to accept those things. One of those things is taking off your shoes another is covering your tattoos when in certain social situations. There are a lot of people out there who will go on and on about how if you have tattoos you will be discriminated against while in Japan. I personally have never found this to be true during my years in Okinawa or travels to Tokyo. That being said let's go through some basics and clear up a few things specifically about Okinawa.

Believe it or not when it comes to tattoos 90% of what you encounter here in Okinawa isn't going to be much different than what you encounter in the US. Unfortunately there are a lot of people out there who prefer to skip over facts and history in order to build a case of "social norms are totally weird in Japan". The one we hear most often is that in Japan tattoos were reserved for criminals and yakuza. True? Yeah sure it is. However, tattoos being the mark of a "hard" person is not unique to Japan. In fact in our good ole' US of A there are a lot of the same stereotypes which associate tattoos with gangs, crime and all around tough guys.

Even with all of this being said most of the things you will find you should be covering your tattoos for when in Okinawa are the same things you would cover your tattoos for if you were in the US. (i.e. Formal restaurants, formal events, religious establishments). The only time that you may have to be even more careful if you happen to have explicit tattoos.

The other 10% are things which you may not fully understand but my short response is that you are now in Japan and just like taking off your shoes when going into a home, there are going to be some things you do without fully understanding why. This most commonly includes being in the water whether it is at select beaches, bath houses or water parks. In these cases you will still be allowed to enter (although not always in the case of bath houses because they are primarily nude bathing) but you will be required to wear something that covers your tattoos like a swim shirt or sleeve/sock. I cannot stress enough that this is not discrimination against foreigners, it is simply the way business is conducted for everyone.

Last Work & My Experience: 

At the end of the day having tattoos here in Okinawa is not going to be a bad thing. In fact during my years here the most inconvenient thing about having tattoos has not been covering them when it social situations but rather keeping them protected from the summer sun which is why I wrote this post in the first place. Actually generally speaking I have never had a problem with my tattoos exposed or not.

 

 

TYPHOON SEASON PREP: Preparing Dogs For A Storm

With typhoon season on the way I'm releasing a number of blog posts which will have information to help you prepare. This information is based on my past experiences going through typhoon seasons and I hope that you can find elements of these posts helpful. 

Typhoon season brings a lot of concerns but one that many people have contacted me in the past about, and that I have already received a question about for this upcoming season, is how to prepare dogs for typhoon season. Of course unlike cats and pocket pets dogs are taken outside to relieve themselves so how does on go about doing that when it's raining and heavy wind is blowing outside? In this post I am going to discuss some of the things I have done throughout the years to prepare my dogs for typhoon season.

Training: 

If you chose to have dogs during your time here in Okinawa one of the things that is most important is to ensure that they have proper training not only to be an obedient dog but also so that they can handle any situation which is thrown at them. In fact these elements of training your dog to handle these situations is why I chose to make this the first post in the series because it is likely to take some time. Regarding typhoon preparation the type of training that we will be focusing on today is the dog's ability to "hold it" until you can bring it outside. This will prevent accidents from happening in the house. This training usually starts very young but can be done by slowly increasing the intervals between the time that you take your dog outside. Maybe today you take him outside at 7am but tomorrow you take him out at 7:30am. This is not only helpful during the typhoon season but if for whatever reason you leave the house and don't get back home in time you can be confident that your dog is not going to relieve himself or herself in the house.

Another thing I like to do which helps me with this is training your dog not to "go" unless you're ready for it. This is a very simple concept and also will make your life a lot easier. Contrary to popular belief dogs do not need to go for a walk to relieve themselves. In fact there are a lot of people who think that this is necessary but mistake their dog's habit for marking as their need to urinate. Take your dog to the same spot every time you take them outside and allow them to establish that when we are here it's time to do your business. Also do not allow your dog to mark when on walks by preventing them from excessively sniffing. This will not only prevent your dog from pulling you and frequent stops but it will also teach your dog that marking . . . doesn't need to be saved up for (let's say). They will then relieve themselves all at once rather than feel the necessity to be out for long periods of time. We'll talk more about why this is necessary in the "During The Storm" section below.

Food and Water: 

Naturally the amount of food and water that you give your dog is going to determine the frequency of trips outside which is why if there is a storm in progress I limit my dogs' access to food and water. According to various dog experts dogs can go for about 2 or 3 days comfortably without food and with limited water. This is reflected in various sources regarding preparing your dog for a long flight. Of course being that I am with my dogs unlike if they are in transport via jet or what have you I can still give my dogs food, I just limit the amount. The way I decide how much to give is based on the severity of the storm and when it is hitting. (I suppose it might also be determined by your location as well). If the storm is going to hit during the time that I usually feed my dogs but will be over by the next morning I may only give them a few bites each whereas if the storm is not very severe I might not have a problem giving them about half a serving each. Another technique I use especially if a storm is going to last for quite a long time is to treat dog food like treats and give a few kibbles throughout the course of the day. This keeps the dogs active, playing and still with something in their stomach.

When it comes to water I have a slightly more structured but similar approach. There are two methods that I have tried and seem to work well. The first is that I leave the water bowl down but only put enough water to cover the bottom of the bowl. This gives the dogs just enough water to wet their whistle but doesn't promote nonstop drinking throughout the day. The second method is to pick the bowl up completely and only put it down about 3 or 4 times a day for about a minute at a time. This gives the dogs the chance to gulp up some water but not get too much where they need to immediately after head outside. Although this would not be an acceptable practice for long term use it is just fine for a few days while a storm passes.

During The Storm: 

Much like children dogs need to be entertained so I usually make dog treats/bones an item to pick up when I am doing my typhoon shopping. I try to pick up something that I do not give them regularly which keeps their mind off the noises from the storm and distracts them from the regular schedule that they might have. They chomp away at the bones or whatever and have something to concentrate on which is very helpful.

I also find myself paying close attention to the radar to see when bands are sweeping through. This will give me a good indication as to when there will be a break in the storm and we can run the dogs out briefly before the wind and rain picks back up. This is why it is important to ensure that your dogs are trained to use a particular area as a spot to relieve themselves. Bands and breaks in the storm come as quickly as they go so it's best to know that you can run out very fast and be back before conditions pick back up again.

It may take a little prep and hard work on your behalf but preparing your dog(s) for the typhoon season is worth every second of hard work. What are some methods that you've used in the past? Did you find anything effective or ineffective? Let us know in the comments below!

Never Doubt Obaasan!

I live in Oyama, one of the very congested parts of Ginowan which is sandwiched between the coast of the East China Sea and MCAS Futenma. At one point it used to be a large area full of fields (some of which are still in use today even though the city has grown up around them) but now this is no longer the case. Fortunately there are still a great deal of people who work in their small yards making the best of every available inch to grow fruits, veggies and flowers as I am sure their families did before them (although on a much smaller scale.)

At least four of these backyard gardens are immediately next to my house all being tended by older women (obaasan). Day in and day out they are out there working in their gardens waving to me and yelling out an occasional "konnichia" up at me while I am out on my deck. Like clock work they are out there tending, weeding and sometimes just watching their gardens grow.

Now that it's spring time, however, there has been a change in the attire worn by the obaasan. Rather than just a light covering over their heads they have started to wear their straw hats. These straw hats come in all different shapes and sizes. Some of them seem like easter bonnets where as others look like a traditional Japanese style hat with a point on the top. Seeing as how I have a garden now and will be spending a great deal of time out in the sun tending to it I figured I would take the leap and pick one up for myself. After all if wisdom comes with age then these women (easily on their way to 90 years old) have got to have something here right?

Then the other day while I was at my local DIY and Garden Center I spotted it there out of the corner of my eye. I almost missed it because it was on the bottom rack hidden behind the veils of a few other visors and hats that hung above it. I immediately grabbed it saw that it was about ¥500 and tried it on (thank goodness my husband had his camera phone handy lol). Yep this was for me because if nothing else I would at least look super kawaii (and probably a little silly but I'm fine with that)!

Unfortunately as luck would have it soon after getting the hat home I had a day of clouds and then almost 12 hours of non-stop rain. Needless to saythere was no chance to see my hat in action. . . until today. I was so happy to see that the sun had come out I couldn't help myself. I grabbed my folding chain, book, sunglasses and hat then headed out onto the deck. After spending much time on the deck under the sun I realized how nice it was to have a straw hat. Not only did the hat breath really well but it kept the sun off my neck and face. I knew those obaasan knew what they were doing!

6 Things NOT to do in Okinawa

We often focus on what to do while when traveling to a new place but what should be avoid? Figuring that this would be an interesting post I put together a list of 6 Things NOT to do in Okinawa.

Now I have to admit this is a bit targeted towards those people who are moving here for a job or maybe with the military but there are a few important details in here for tourists as well. I hope you find these tips helpful and if you have any of your own please feel free to add them in the comments below!

1. Don't assume you're not understood because you speak English. 

The language most commonly used in Okinawa is Japanese, however, English is also known by a number of people. Sometimes those people are comfortable enough to strike up a conversation in English but others may be more timid and keep to themselves. Regardless it should be common practice to conduct yourself as though others understand what it is you're saying . . . . . because they just might.

2. Don't be afraid to shop around. 

Okinawa has a lot of conveniently placed "deals" for military members and tourists alike. Merchants, dealers and other sales professionals know that you're going to eat up the first thing you see so prices tend to be inflated. Believe it or not this can be avoided by walking to a shop further down the street or even visiting a car dealership which is more out of the way rather than right outside a Base's main gate.

3. Don't limit your travel to your neighborhood. 

Easily one of the biggest mistakes made by those who move to Okinawa (particularly military members who are here for a few short years) is the unwillingness to travel beyond their immediate area. Sure they might travel to Churaumi Aquarium or Okinawa World but all the spaces in between seem to be "too far" or "too out of the way". The unfortunate result is a lot of gems that are missed out on possibly until it is too late.

This isn't limited to tourist attractions or historical locations either. Some great salons, restaurants and other businesses are usually just beyond where some people are willing to go.

4. Don't stick to the guide book. 

A good guide books is always a great place to start but if you find yourself only doing what is in the guide books you'll end up only seeing about 1% of what's here on Okinawa. . . . . . and some of it isn't even the best stuff! I say use the guide book as a stepping stone and don't be afraid to explore the surrounding area and see what you stumble upon. Even as I approach my 7 year mark I still have multiple laundry lists of things to see. . . . and I haven't been much of a couch potato either. In fact most of the wicked cool places on the island are marked with signs and easy to find if you're willing to go off the designated path to or from some of Okinawa's major tourist attractions like Okinawa World or Churaumi Aquarium.

5. Don't forget to keep an open mind. 

There is no denying that Okinawa is an entirely different world then you are used to. The cultural and all around lifestyle differences can be hard for those visiting Okinawa (or living here) for the first time to adjust to. Although you may not find yourself completely understanding the culture or differences in lifestyle it is important to remember to keep an open mind. Those who keep an open mind, even if they do not see eye to eye with some of the cultural or lifestyle differences here on Okinawa, tend to have a better more positive experience then those who brush off or completely disregard Okinawa's culture.

6. Don't "play the gaijin card".  

The term "playing the gaijin card" is usually in reference to someone who is choosing to dismiss culture and/or rules that they are aware of with the intent of getting away with it because they are a foreigner.

Although some people don't see the harm taking advantage of the understanding and tolerant nature of the businesses around Okinawa can often have negative results. Some businesses may change policies or in some cases may even go so far as not assisting foreign customers.

 

'Tis the season. . . . . for awkward tan lines!

It's that time of year again! The time of year when you leave the house in the winter state of mind and return home to find that you've got the first awkward sunburn of the season.



This time of year, when spring time is in full swing, can be a tough one. We're starting to move into warmer weather which means we're wearing less and spending more time outdoors. This means that it's time to break out the sunscreen! Of course the thought of adding sunscreen to your day bag in March is strange for a number of people. I admit even though I have been here for almost 7 years I still have a hard time remembering to put some in my bag.

When to wear sunscreen: 

Many reputable doctor type people in white coats will tell you that you should be wearing sunscreen all year long. I am not going to argue that point because I am not a doctor type person nor do I have a white coat. However, knowing that people generally have more things on their mind then wearing sunscreen every time they go outside, there are some tips which I think you might find helpful.

Cherry Blossom or Sakura Season marks the beginning of spring and so it's the perfect time to start thinking about purchasing some sunscreen and getting into the habit of taking it with you on your outdoor adventures. Don't get me wrong it is still quite cold here in Okinawa during this time of year but it's not uncommon to experience some unseasonably warm days so it's the great time to have some sunscreen on hand.

Once it's warm enough for you to wear short sleeves rather than a jacket it's usually a good indication that you should put on some sunscreen. Of course this can be different for everyone but it can be a good way to gauge whether or not sunscreen is necessary for you and your family.

Sunscreen Options: 

If you're here in Okinawa you have two major options for sunscreen. . . The American Stuff or The Japanese Stuff. Of course this is a matter of opinion but I personally prefer The Japanese Stuff. Japanese sun tan lotions and sprays tend to come in a variety of options for protection, sizes to carry with you and scents. One of the many things I prefer about Japanese sun tan lotions is that the scents do not smell like the chemical "tropical" scents that you get from most of the American sun tan lotions. Another thing I absolutely love about Japanese sun tan lotions is that they do not sit on top of the skin like an oily mess. Every lotion I have tried has always absorbed into the skin while also offering the same level of protection of an American brand.

UV Protection Clothes: 

If you're like me and don't always want to lotion up for every trip you make outside why not consider UV Protection Clothes? These clothes are available pretty much everywhere here in Okinawa. They offer special protection against the sun's UV rays while keeping you cool and fashionable. I have a few different shirts and pullovers which offer this type of UV protection and they are perfect for outdoor activities during the spring and summer time. Price wise they are very affordable as well!

Although the spring is in full swing it's not too late to head out to your local department store, or even konbini, and grab yourself a bottle of sunscreen. Heck grab one for the car, one for the purse and one for the house. Chances are you're going to need it before the winter rolls around again!

 

Butting heads in Okinawa: Goat Fights

 

 

This weekend nestled in the mountains of northern Okinawa was an event that I simply couldn't miss. The star of the event, at least according to the signs, was the shikwasa. Chances are you're familiar with this green citrus because of the sweet and tangy lemonade-type drink available in the vending machines around the island.



Although I absolutely love shikwasa I was not there for the fruit, I was there for the goats.



 



Why drive all the way to Motobu for goats you ask? Besides the fact that they are freakin' adorable today was going to be goad fights. Goat fights are one of the many little pieces of Okinawa's culture which is kept alive today.



Much like the more popular bull fights, goat fights are goat vs goat. Both goats go noggin' to noggin' until a winner comes out on top. To be completely honest I am not entirely sure what the rules are. From what I could tell once a goat backs down or decides he doesn't want to participate the other goat is declared the winner. This is at least what I gathered from watching.



 

The goats don't have to participate either. If they don't feel like they are in the mood they are removed from the ring and the next participants are brought in.



 

When both goats decide to face off it's an amazing site. They not only go head to head but they leap up onto their hind legs and slam their horns together. The beauty and power of these goats is something you have to see to believe.

 



 

Overall the entire event was very enjoyable. There was great food, music and a community atmosphere that I have not been around in quite a while. Everyone had a smile on their faces and couldn't get enough of the goats which were all around the site. I can't wait until next year to go back!

 

 

Climax Coffee: Step aside Starbucks!

This morning I was on a quest. . . . a quest for pancakes. Usually this quest points me in the direction of the nearest konbini or grocery store to pick up a package of pancakes mix but today it led me to a part of Okinawa often refereed to as Hamby Town. What drew me to Hamby Town was a not so little chain known as Climax Coffee.



The best way to describe Climax Coffee is a spin off gone right. This coffee shop/restaurant/cafe has the feel of a Starbucks or Tully's with slash of originality and a light dusting of Japanese flare.

 

The Coffee: 

As one might expect from a coffee shop Climax Coffee has an assortment of coffee drinks as well as non coffee drinks which we have come to expect ¥500 a cup places to carry. Options include classic espresso, espresso based coffees, chocolate drinks, espresso tea, espresso tea lattes, tea lattes, milk, tropical fruit juices, tropical fruit soda and shakes.

Most of the coffee drinks are served either cold or hot and come in regular or medium. Other options such as tropical fruit juice only come in regular size and the Italian Fruit Soda is only available in medium.



Today I went for one of my favorite types of lattes in Japan, the Green Tea Latte. The latte was very good although I wouldn't recommend running out and ordering it unless you know that a strong green tea flavor is right for you.



The Food: 

Surprisingly there is quite the extensive menu of food options offered at Climax Coffee. Options include spaghetti, curry rice, hamburgers, panini sandwiches soups, fries and salad. The menu also includes various plates which feature chicken with various sides. Of course not all food items are available at all times of day. Lunch menu, for example, starts at around 11:30 if I remember correctly.

Seeing as we were at Climax Coffee bright and early it was all about the pancakes. After all I was on a quest! The number of pancake options at this place is absolutely unbelievable. Those who are undeceive beware because you've got to choose between milky macadamia, mixed berry, banana chocolate, mango, green tea with kuromitsu syrup or plane. . . . . and that's just the regular menu. Once you've picked the type of pancake you want it's time to choose the size. Most styles of pancakes come with three options (regular, medium and small) and are served with just the right amount of toppings and whipped cream.



Keeping with the Japanese theme I chose the Green Tea Pancake with Kuromitsu Syrup. Russ went for the more American style Cinnamon Apple Pancakes also in size medium.



 

The pancakes themselves were absolutely delicious made fresh and drizzled with just enough syrup. The whipped cream was also actually heavy cream not the whipped topping that you might expect.

 

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly: 

Overall the experience was a great one but for those of you who still may be unsure let's go through the good, the bad and the ugly.

The Good is that this place not only has good coffee and a wide selection (including seasonal flavors) but also a pretty great menu. It's also earning some more "Good" points for it's wide selection of breakfast options. There aren't many pancake houses here on the island which offer such a wide selection and at such a great price. That brings us to our next "Good" . . . pricing. Although the coffee is just as pricy at any other coffee shop around you can't beat pancakes for under ¥500 yen.

Now for The Bad I really don't have anything to say about the food, at least the breakfast options. The biggest "bad" that I can can honestly say (and I realize that this is a stretch) is the location. This is not one of those places you'll drive by unless you happen to be going down this particular road. Another unfortunate "bad" is that there is seemingly not any parking. In actuality the parking is on the next road over which you might not see if you're visiting in the middle of the day when other parking lots are full.

The Ugly is the parking lot itself. The lot, located on the street behind the entrance to Climax Coffee, is a dirt lot. Sure it might not be a big deal for some but you might want to consider this once rainy season rolls around or if you (like me) are particular about your vehicle.

 

Everything Else You Need To Know: 

Climax Coffee in Hamby Town opens at 0800 although different locations have different operating hours so check out their website for detailed information. They take dollars, yen and credit card as well. The staff is incredibly friendly and are happy to work with English speaking customers. There is also an English menu available! There are some options for kids and with the various sizes your kiddles shouldn't have a problem enjoying themselves. I did not, however, see any booster seats so this might be something to consider.

Over all I say go over to Climax Coffee and give them a shot!

We want to hear from you! 

Have you been to Climax Coffee? Let us know what you think below.

Face Masks: Keeping cooties away since 1897

 

Have you ever wondered what was up with all those people wearing face masks here in Japan?



Chances are if you're from the United States you're probably familiar with this type of mask mainly being worn by health care professionals or those who are suffering from something very contagious. This type of association can sometimes make those who come to Japan a bit uneasy during their first encounter with a masked stranger.

Before you reach for the hand sanitizer and Lysol the children you should know that face masks like this are common here in Okinawa as well as other parts of Japan. So why do people wear face masks here in Japan? There are two main reasons:

Reason #1: Keeping cooties away



 

 

The first reason that people might wear a face mask is to keep themselves from catching a cold. This might mean wearing a mask in crowded places like a train station, on a bus or even on a plane. You may also find people wearing face masks in areas where there are bound to be a lot of people including tourists such as Tokyo Disney Land or Kokusai Street. You may also find others, such as those working in department stores, wearing these types of masks due to the number of people they come in contact with on a regular day basis.

Reason #2: Preventing you from catching cooties



 

Another reason that some people like wearing a face mask is to prevent others from catching their cold. Unlike in the United States just because someone is wearing a face mask due to a cold doesn't mean that they are severely ill nor does it mean that they are necessarily contagious. In face some people will even wear a face mask when suffering from seasonal allergies.

To wear a mask or not to wear a mask . . . . that is the question. 

Although wearing a mask is common and obviously acceptable practice here in Japan there really isn't any set rule as to whether you should wear one or not. It all comes down to what you want to do (unless your doctor says you should). This being said there are times when one might be considered rude for not wearing a mask. For example, if you are visibly sick and coughing it is courteous to wear a mask or simply stay home. It is also considered courteous to wear a mask in the doctor's waiting room if you are going in for something that might be contagious.

Where can you get 'em? 

Masks are available pretty much everywhere and fit every budget. Basic masks like the one I am wearing in the pictures above come in boxes and you can get 100 for only about 200 or 300 yen. You can also get specialized masks which are designed to help clear up congested noses or others which have fun characters on them making the mask more desirable for children to wear. Overall the cost is so affordable that you can't got wrong having some around.

Go ahead. . . give it a try! 

Although it might seem strange at first wearing a face mask can be a great way to prevent yourself from catching what's going around, especially if you're new to Japan and don't quite have your immune system acclimated. So next cold and flu season do like a dental hygienist and grab for that face mask!

 

 

 

Ozato Castle Ruins

Ozato Castle Ruins or Shimashi Ozato Gusuku is located in Nanjo in Southern Okinawa.   Although the castle is clearly marked with signs it is not one that is often visited as it does not end up on many "castle in Okinawa" lists.



The site itself is in the middle of a beautiful little neighborhood which looks as though it was somehow shielded from the battle which happened on this part of the island (whether or not that is actually true I am not sure but that's the feel you get as you drive through). One you arrive at the castle site you will see an open field and can tell that parts of what seems to be the castle's lowest enclosure has been made into a park. Unfortunately many of the "park" elements, such as restrooms, are in disrepair but to my delight the castle site itself is in wonderful shape.



Although this castle doesn't seem to be on anyone's "things to see" it doesn't lack any of the characteristics that you might come to expect from any other castle on the island. There are clearly enclosures, utaki and other worship sites throughout the site. There is also what looks to be a tomb and even a very interesting statue which was at the bottom of a very long path down the cliff side.





If you're in the southern part of Okinawa this is a great place to visit for the entire family. Whether you want to enjoy walking along some of the paths on the site, have a great view of the surrounding city or just enjoy some time outside on a nice day while inside the walls of a 14th century castle you will find this place enjoyable.

 

Shimashi Ozato Gusuku in the Ozato District. This castle was built by Chief, Shimashi Ozato Aji, who controlled the SHimajiri region around the 14th century. Shimashi Ozato Gusuku's construction, with it's back to a cliff and it's strong walls, skillfully makes use of the natural landscape.

In 2003, Shimashi Ozato Gusuku was designated as an historical site by Najjo City

- Nanjo City

Yara Castle Ruins

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BGiobwVLGGA

Myth vs Reality: "The US Military Presence Will Ruin My Trip To Okinawa"

Believe it or not there are people out there who think twice about visiting Okinawa because of the US Military presence on the island. Of course one might assume in theory that this could be the case as there are a lot of people on the planet with a number of different views but what brought this to my attention were some people who had made contact with me regarding the subject. All of the people seemed to come from a different point of view. Some had a bad taste in their mouth regarding the  US Military. There were others that were supporters of the US Military but felt that the unrest of the people of Okinawa (mainly around the time of the Osprey and MCAS Futenma situation) would be a concern. Finally there were those that seemed neutral about the US Military itself but did not want a visit to Okinawa that was too Americanized. The concern being that you could not avoid being surrounded my US Military and therefore immersion into the culture would be very difficult.

After a few months of receiving some messages and reading comments of this nature I figured that it would be a great topic to discuss here in one of my Myth vs Reality posts. My thought is that if I can take some of the concerns that people have regarding traveling to Okinawa and shine some light in the right places, mainly the ones that remain dark to someone who has not spent a lot of time here on the island, those concerns can be eased at least a bit. With that said let's jump right in.

Myth: 

With the large US Military presence on Okinawa it is impossible to immerse yourself in the culture. Everywhere you will go is either a tourist attraction, English speaking or adapted to the lives of the US Military members and their families. This will make it hard to avoid being surrounded my US Military and their families therefore defeating the purpose of traveling here with the intent to experience the unique culture of the island.

Reality: 

There is no denying that there is a large US Military presence on the island and therefore there are a lot of military members and their families out and about enjoying themselves during the short time that they are here. Who could blame them, Okinawa is a tropical paradise! Naturally this results in some areas being more congested with US Military and their family members then others. Generally speaking these areas are around Camp Foster, Camp Lester and Kadena Air Base. However, it's not just the US Military presence which that has made these spots congested. The location being in the central part of the island is also very ideal for tourists from all over the world. Staying in one of the hotels in the central part of the island cuts down on the distance between all major tourist attractions and historic sites. As you might imagine with the bulk of tourists and the bulk of US Military other things fall into place such as English (which is spoken many times by not only the Americans but the tourists who travel to Okinawa and other parts of the world as a common language). Popular restaurants and other types of "tourist" type attractions pop up as well in these areas. For those who want to immerse themselves into the culture or those who simply are living here  these areas are, simply put, places to avoid. It's not about any group of people in particular as much as it is about the fact that at least half of the people you encounter are not from around here which can make completing daily tasks that much more difficult.

Once you move yourself away from the areas which are designed as playgrounds for tourists there is quite a bit to see on the island. Many of the traditions and much of the culture which was here on Okinawa before the war has stood the test of time. Of course like anywhere else in the world times have changed and Okinawa has become more modernized but I think you would have to be kidding yourself if you didn't think that this would happen. Even with some areas becoming modern there are others which still look as they did years ago in the northern and southern parts of the island. In some cases people do not speak Japanese and continue to use the Ryukyuan Language. Rituals and traditional dancing also continue today although like other cultures they happen during certain times of the year.

Overall if immersion and experiencing the culture is your goal this is absolutely possible if you know where to look and where not to look. The unique culture of Okinawa is still alive and well even though there have been changes to the island over the years.

Myth: 

There has been a lot of news coming out of Okinawa regarding the US Military in recent months. Between the misconduct of some military members recently and the deployment of the Osprey to MCAS Futenma the number of protests and unrest among the people of Okinawa seems great. Traveling to the island will result in an uncomfortable situation because as I am American (or of European descent) Okinawan's won't distinguish between me and the Military. This may result in a negative experience.

Reality: 

There is a lot of history between the US Military and the people of Okinawa. Simply put: Some people are not a fan of the US Military and others are. No, not everyone is happy with the US Military bases on the island especially when governments (both US and Japanese) don't do what they promise they will do. When things get heated the people of Okinawa, much like people in the US, voice their opinions with things such as protest, stickers, posters and pretty much any way that they can.

Although there are people who have these feelings in my almost seven years (and yes there have been a lot of protest and unrest during these years) I have never been treated negatively because I was an American. This is not to say that you aren't going to experience the same types of strange looks that you might experience regardless who you are traveling through Japan. There are people out there who are going to see that you're an American and have thoughts regarding the stereotypes and experiences they have had with Americans in the past. However, what you will absolutely not find yourself being the target of aggression because MCAS Futenma didn't move to Guam like it was schedule to nor because of the recent misconduct of a Marine.

Understandably the idea of going over seas and being caught up in some sort of protest is still a bit nerve wracking so there are some things that you can do which will assist you in avoiding those protests. Most of the time the protests are centered around the main concerns such as MCAS Futenma, Kadena Air Base and the proposed location of the base at Henoko. All of these locations, believe it or not, can be avoided without hindering your trip to Okinawa. Another helpful thing to remember is that in many cases the protests are announced in advance which will allow the bases to prepare and others to gather in protest as well. This information can usually be found at various places on the internet and I find myself posting them on my ONK Facebook page as often as possible as well.

When All Is Said And Done:

Your experience in Okinawa is going to reflect your approach. If your approach to a trip to Okinawa is that it is going to be ruined because of the US Military presence on the island then it without a doubt will be. Yes if you curse every plane that flies by you will find yourself missing out. . . on a lot. Yes if you find yourself annoyed by every American family who is just trying to experience the island for the first time and isn't 100% accustomed to the culture you will not enjoy yourself.

The key is to approach Okinawa with the understanding that like yourself many others are trying to enjoy a place that is new and unique to them. If you keep that understanding and gear your trip to what it is you want to do, such as avoiding heavy traffic tourist areas, you will find your experience in Okinawa pleasurable.

Vegetarian in Japan? Yes You Can!

While making dinner the other night I was contemplating the possibility of living here in Japan, specifically Okinawa, as a vegetarian. I myself am not a vegetarian nor do I have the desire to become one however I do have an understanding of what it is to be a vegetarian and have had vegetarian friends here on Okinawa so I think it's a safe topic to at least give you my thoughts on that way if you happen to have made the lifestyle choice of being a vegetarian you know what to expect once you get here.

 

Fresh Produce Please

One of the great things about living on Okinawa is that there is always fresh produce. Whether it comes from the main island of Okinawa or one of its outer islands grocery stores and farmers markets are always stocked with what's fresh at reasonable prices. This makes the local grocery stores and farmers markets the place to be if you're a vegetarian. Although there are large supplies of fresh produce available it's important to consider that being in Japan the selection may be different from what you are familiar with. There will undoubtably have to be a slight change in your diet if your main source of nourishment is vegetables making it more in line with what you can find here.

Another thing to consider is that sometimes the fruits you may be familiar with from back home such as watermelon, berries and applies can come with a hefty price tag. This makes things such as a good old fashioned fruit salad a pretty rare dish for those of us living here on Okinawa.

TIP: Just because you can't make yourself a bowl of fresh fruit salad doesn't mean you can't enjoy it once in a while. Some grocery stores sell fruit cups at an affordable price. They are perfect for an "on the go" snack or to put in the fridge and much more affordable than making one yourself. 

Totally Tofu

If you're the type of vegetarian who really likes tofu you're going to be in tofu heaven. There are various styles of tofu in all price ranges and sizes at pretty much every grocery store out there. Oh and go ahead and throw what you know about tofu out the window. This is not that nasty flavorless stuff that you can't stomach unless it's mixed and seasoned 10 ways to Sunday.

TIP: The best tofu out there is the local stuff which is fresh and delivered multiple times each day to the local grocery stores. Usually you can find a sign showing what times the tofu is delivered each day. If you're lucky and get there as the shipment arrives you can get tofu that's so fresh, it's still warm. This is by far the best tofu I have ever had. 

Eating Out - Absolutely No Animal Product 

For those who have chosen a completely animal product free vegetarian (or vegans may also find this information useful) lifestyle eating out in Okinawa is going to be a challenge. The reason for this is because in many cases some sort of animal product is being used in order to cook your food. Most often this product is fish based such as miso soup or even the fish cakes which are put into your bowl of ramen. Eggs are also often used in many dishes.

Unlike in the US specialized orders aren't very common either. I suppose you might say that it is an unwritten rule that menu items are non-negotiable which can make it difficult if you're just wanting to avoid one simple item. The good news is that there are restaurants out there which offer vegetarian menus, however, they are far and few.

I do want to make it clear, however, that just because you choose not to consume animal products does not mean that you would have to retreat to a cave while the rest of your friends and coworkers are out on a Friday night at an izakaya. Even at the most non-vegetarian places in town there are options which would allow you to enjoy your time with your friends and hold you over until you could get home and have a completely animal free main course.

TIP: Some restaurants offer a special menu which was designed to offer muslim tourists the chance of eating Ryukyuan food without the use of traditional animal products such as pork and other meats. 

Eating Out - Some Animal Products Are Ok

If you are one of the many who are a bit more lenient with the vegetarian lifestyle and allow yourself to consume some animal products such as eggs, fish and milk you will find that you have a great deal more options then if you were to keep animal products out of your diet all together. For example allowing fish into your diet, even if you were not to eat a fillet but allowed yourself to consume broth made from fish, you would be opening a number of opportunities.

Is Being A Vegetarian In Okinawa Realistic

Yes. You can realistically be a vegetarian in Okinawa. However, there should be a clear understanding that the vegetarian lifestyle (especially the one that is completely void of all animal products) is not something which is common here in Japan. This being said you're going to find yourself in a position where you are doing more work to sustain the lifestyle then you might have to do in places like the US where options may be more readily available.

Are you a vegetarian living in Japan or Okinawa?

What are you experience?

What do you think?

Let us know in the comments below!

Double Decker

Double Decker is one of the many places on Okinawa that you might miss if you don't know where it is. The Caffe and Bar or what I suppose we might simply refer to as a pub, is located in Mihama's American Village nestled behind the Sega Amusement Building. Just follow the paw prints on the ground and it will lead you to the unique looking entrance.

Double Decker Buss:

The restaurant gets it's name for the double decker buss which is parked right around the corner and retrofitted as part of the restaurant offering tables and booths. The restaurant itself is warm and welcoming. The walls are covered with memorabilia from various time frames and the ceiling is covered with playing cards. The bar itself I can only describe as "what a bar should look like".



Another thing I absolutely love about Double Decker is the staff. They are incredibly friendly and laid back. This is not one of those places where you're going to feel rushed or pressured to finish up and move on with your night. It's a place for relaxing, laughing and enjoying yourself. On a side note I also like how pressed and well dressed the bar tender is. Every time I have gone back it has been the same bar tender, at least as I remember it, and he is always looking his best which in my opinion adds to the ambiance.

Good Eats: 

Ok, enough about the look and feel, let's talk about the food! Double Decker has what I would call an extensive menu, at last for Japan. You're not only going to find bar food here but also a variety of other options for every taste and occasion. You can find options such as Salad, Rice Omelets, Rice Casserole, Rice Bowls, Pasta, Pizza, Sweets and a great deal of Appetizers on the menu. You can also find chicken wings, which were an addition made in recent years, that are absolutely delicious.



 

Portion sizes are that which you might experience at other pubs or bars. They are not too big to enjoy with a beer but not to small to split family style with a friend or two. In fact I would go so far as to say that enjoying this meal family style is the way to go, especially with friends.

Pricing: 

Pricing for Double Decker isn't too far off from what you might get at other sit down restaurants. In fact you could say that it is relatively affordable with your average entree coming in between ¥700 and ¥900 yen. As with anywhere else appetizers range in price depending on what it is you are ordering with some topping off around ¥1000. Overall this is one of those places where a party of 2 can order drinks, dinner and appetizers and walk out for under ¥5000.



 

Healthy Options: 

You don't have to cringe if you're watching what you eat either. Double Decker has about 4 or 5 salads, among other healthy options, which are not only on the healthy side but are absolutely delicious! Read more about that here.

Don't be mistaken, This is a bar: 

Double Decker is a great place to enjoy dinner and drinks with a loved one but it is not a place for kids. Don't be mistaken by the extensive menu or double decker buss, this is a bar. And no I don't mean like Pub 99 or Chilli's where there is a bar in the restaurant. This is a bar that serves food. There will be smoking and there will be drinking. Does this mean that you will be turned away if you go with children? No. But this is because here in Japan there is a different mentality with izakayas and pubs then there is in the US.

Give it a try: 

Next time you're looking for something interesting to do on a Friday night why not give Double Decker a try?

 

Healthy Options: Double Decker

Date night can be tough when you're watching what you eat. Luckily there are a lot of healthy options out there for those who are looking for them. Last time we took you to the Churaumi Aquarium where we talked about some options you can enjoy on your day out and about but what about when you want some quality time with the special someone?



 

You might miss Double Decker if you don't know where to look. It's a small door at the end of a trail of paw prints in Mihama's American Village. It's nestled behind the Sega Arcade so look closely or you might miss it.

Double Decker offers a pretty good menu from both the kitchen and the bar and pricing is reasonable. However, seeing as how this is a healthy options blog post I really want to highlight the salads. There are a lot of places out there which offer salads but there aren't many places out there where I would go specifically for the salads. Double Decker is one of those places I go for the salads.



 

There are about 4 or 5 salad options available at Double Decker. Above is the Toast and Camembert Cheese Salad but other options included a Caesar Salad. The salad is comprised of a variety of greens which have always been fresh tossed in what can only be described as a home made dressing. The dressing is not too strong but not too light and perfectly compliments the other elements of the salad. This particular salad also included slices of camembert cheese and toast.

Pricing is not bad as far as eating out goes. One salad was about ¥700 yen which yes is on the pricy side compared to what you could get at a Subway or make at home but then again you're out to dinner enjoying yourself. Not to mention it's delicious.

Double Decker is one of my favorite restaurants and with good reason. It's tucked away, quiet, affordable and delicious. It's also a pub which means it's a great place for a date night. (Sorry kids.) The ambiance is great also but more about that in the Double Decker post.

Japanese Soaps and Soups: Saving Space and Money

There are a lot of things done here in Japan that are useful to say the least. One of those things is how products, particularly liquid products, are sold. As you already know Japan is an island which has a relatively large population making space limited especially on little islands like Okinawa. Recycling is very important as it sorting trash to ensure that everything is disposed of in as efficient of a manner as possible. In some ways Japan goes above and beyond to ensure that this can be done easily by it's residents and consumers.

One of the ways that Japan handles this situation is offering refill bags for the liquid products sold in stores. Liquid products include shampoo, conditioner, window cleaner, hand soap, dish soap, laundry detergent, and so much more. These bags contain the same product but rather than coming in a hard plastic container which cannot be condensed down they come in a plastic bag which can be flattened down after the contents have been removed therefore taking up much less space when thrown away.

These bags are not only available for select products either, they are out there for everything that is liquid soap and on the shelf. There are also other products which have similar refills, such as air fresheners, which come in bags like this. You also may find that Japan uses the same type of bags rather than cans for foods such as pasta sauce and soup.

How do I use it: 

When you go to the store you'll see that although these are refill bags you can still find plastic bottles. These plastic bottles are usually a bit more expensive then the refill and are meant for the initial purchase of the product. If you are purchasing the item for the first time you would purchase the plastic bottle of the product. If you find that you like it and would prefer continuing to use this product then simply buy the appropriate refill bag the next time you go to the store.

If you would rather save a little bit of money or (if you're like me) would rather have a cute container for your shampoo and conditioner instead of using the plastic bottle produced by the company you can go to any of a variety of store around Japan and purchase an empty pump bottle. I personally have a Gachapin and Mukku for my shampoo and conditioner. This will allow you to skip purchasing the plastic bottle all together and just buy the refills.

Using the refill bag: 

Actually refilling your bottle is easy. A small tear off area is at the top of the bag and can be easily removed. You can then pour the contents of the bag into your appropriate bottle. In some cases you may even have a bag with a special design allowing you to insert part of the bag into the opening of the bottle to prevent spilling.

Give it a try: 

I think that these bags for refilling your favorite products are just great and worth giving a try. One thing's for sure, you certainly use less space in the trash can and avoid having a huge pile of bottles around the house.

Have you even tried products like these? Let us know in the comments below.

HELLO KITTY: Oh my god it's everywhere!

Everyone knows Hello Kitty. She's that cute little white cat with a bow in her hair and no mouth. Although she is a world wide sensation people often immediately associate her with kawaii Japan culture and Japan enthusiasts can't get enough of her.



Unlike other things marketed as "Japanese" in the US, Hello Kitty is just as popular here in Japan as the Japan enthusiasts think she is. Hello Kitty merchandise is everywhere. From clothing for all ages including men to pasta at the grocery store there is really no escaping this little mouthless kitty. The merchandise is not any more expensive then other merchandise either. You can even purchase actual Sanrio licensed Hello Kitty products from your local 100 yen store as well.

Aside from being a super cute little cat Hello Kitty or Kitty Chan as she is known here in Japan is very much a fan of dressing as popular culture icons. Above she is depicted as a member of a vocal group known as AAA but she has also been seen dressed up as Elmo, Gachapin, AKB48, and that's just naming a few. She can also be found in various outfits such as traditional Japanese outfits  to cute Christmas dresses. In fact she almost reminds me of Barbie who can be anything and everything although I have yet to see Business Woman Kitty Chan. . . . I wouldn't put it past her though.

Whether you love her or hate her there's one thing that's for sure: you can't avoid her while in Japan.

Valentine's Day In Japan: The Good and Bad News

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Ahh Valentine's Day. The one day of the year when women anxiously await receiving something which is delicious now but let's face it, is going to make us insecure about out butt later. The chocolate, the flowers, the sweets. . . . oh how delicious.

Like many other holidays which can be made commercial and cute in any way Japan observes Valentine's Day. However it is not the same Valentine's day you have in mind. In fact rather than men anxiously scouring the shelves trying to find something for the ladies in their lives the rolls are actually reversed.That's right ladies, you're the ones who are responsible for getting something for the men.

Generally speaking the gift of choice is chocolate of which there are two main types. The first is basically obligatory chocolate (Giri Choco). This is something that you would give to all the men that are in your life, even not in the romantic sense. For example your coworkers would receive Giri Choco. For those who are important in your life such as a love interest you would give them Honmei Choco or "True Feelings Chocolate". This usually is the "king size" to Giri Choco's "fun size" if you know what I mean. Prepackaged Honmei Choco may be larger then what you give to those out of obligation and in many cases has some hand made element.

Now before all the men sit back in their chairs with that sly grin on their faces you're not off the hook. There's another day next month called "White Day" were you're going to return the favor. More on that later!

Overall the tradition seems very much to me like what grade school children do during Valentine's Day by bringing in small candy treats and cards for everyone in the class. Of course if there is someone special they might bring something a bit more but everyone feels the "love".

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Lunar New Year In Okinawa

 

 

When most people think of the new year the first thing that comes to mind is "December 31" which is the end of what is known as the Gregorian Calendar. In other parts of the worls, however, the year is determined by the cycle of the moon. The end of the year as per this type of calendar is generally referred to as the "Lunar New Year" or the "Chinese New Year".

So why talk about the Lunar New Year on a blog which focuses on Okinawa? Well, that's because at one time the Lunar New Year was also celebrated right here on our tiny little island and in some places still is.

Before "Okinawa": 

Okinawa has a long rich history but not all of it is as "Okinawa" and a lot of it isn't as "Japan" either. Before Okinawa got it's modern day name it was known as the Ryukyu Kingdom. This probably sounds familiar to you as the word "Ryukyu" is still used often. These islands which make up the Ryukyu Kingdom were what one might describe as a nation of their own which was heavy in trade. This is why many people today refer to Okinawa as the "Other Japan" and are often baffled by the cultural differences between Okinawa and Mainland Japan. One of the very many differences between the Ryukyu Kingdom and what we know as Okinawa today was the celebration of the Lunar New Year rather than the Gregorian New Year.

Misplaced or possibly misunderstood history:

As with many things throughout history a transition had to have taken place between the Ryukyu Kingdom celebrating the Lunar New Year and Okinawa celebrating the Gregorian New Year. Researching this aspect of history became a bit difficult as does researching any part of Okinawa's history, in English, which is not WWII related. I started to get mixed results. Some of which mentioned that the transition came following WWII others stating that it came before that time.

My assumption based on what I read is that this transition really started to take effect at some point during World War I. Although Japan had annexed Okinawa well before this time this is when some of the transition started to take place from being Okinawa to actually being a "cohesive" part of Japan. With the knowledge that I have regarding other transitions that happened during the Word War I time frame I feel as though it's an educated guess to say that this transition happened during thins period as well.

Where the tradition is preserved:

Even though some of the history remains unclear as to when the Lunar New Year fell out of fashion one fact that we do know is that some of the traditions which were celebrated all those years ago are still preserved today in a place called Itoman.

You may be familiar with Itoman because of some of its World War II related attractions to include Peace Prayer Memorial Park and the Himeyuri Museum and Memorial. Itoman is also known for it's fishing and being one of the main ports used in trade with China throughout Okinawa's history. One of the less known facts, however, is that Itoman has had a tight grasp on tradition of celebrating the Lunar New Year even when others were strongly against it. Some local news papers and journals at the time (1920's) even went to far as to call the people of Itoman "barbarians" and "criminals" simply based on their observance and open celebration of this Lunar New Year.

With what I imagine took a great deal of perseverance the people of Itoman continue the tradition of celebrating the Lunar New Year although it is without a doubt less popular of a celebration nowadays as it was during the times of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Even so you can still find small celebrations throughout the city to include enjoying foods, especially those which include pork and flying colorful flags off fishing boats.



The Experience: 

For someone like myself who gets a kick out of being somewhere historically significant making the trip to Itoman was well worth it. As we drove closer to the Itoman Road Station, the location of some scheduled performances and events, you could start to see the fishing boats decorated with colorful flags which seemed to pop against the grey overcast sky. Once arriving at the road station itself we could see where the performance of the PACAF Band (who was scheduled this year to perform earlier in the day) had been and various vendors were along the walkways. Vendors were selling everything from food to hand carved toys and plants.

This event is not for those who are looking for a huge to do with all the fixings of a festival that you might experience during the Gregorian New Year or Cherry Blossom viewing. Even after driving around the entire area we were unable to find anything of the sort. This may be due to bad weather although I gather that this is more of a time to spend with friends and family then out on the streets. Even with this being the case there were people walking along the docks taking photos of the fishing boats and the colorful display of flags.

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium [沖縄美ら海水族館]

 

 

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is undoubtably Okinawa's most popular tourist attraction. People not only from Okinawa, but from many different countries travel to the tiny island to witness what is widely known as one of the largest aquariums in the world.



The aquarium's main attraction is its largest tank known as the Kuroshio Sea. The tank holds 1,981,000 gallons of water and features a massive viewing window which measures 24 feet by 74 feet. (You can actually see how this was built on a past episode of Modern Marvels.) This part of the aquarium is absolutely breathtaking which is why in many cases the Kuroshio Sea overshadows everything else in the aquarium. In fact I can't remember the last time I saw a photo that wasn't of this large tank specifically featuring a whale shark. (Note the lack of whale sharks in the image I posted.) With that being said I'm going to show you everything else that the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium has to offer.

When To Visit: 

Before we start talking about fish and other creatures of the deep let's talk about the best time to visit. Being that this is a very popular tourist attraction there really isn't any off season meaning that there are going to be crowded days at the aquarium all throughout the year. This doesn't mean that you have to struggle through masses of people to enjoy the fish though. For the best experience you're going to want to head to the aquarium first thing in the morning. That's right! I know it's not always fun to get up early during vacation or on your day off but trust me it is well worth it. Even during my most recent trip which according to the website was during the more crowded time of year I found myself not having to wait in line to purchase tickets, see fish, use the restroom or take a photo in front of something interesting. By the time that we had gone through the entire aquarium at our own relaxed pace the crowds started rolling in and we were on our way back to the car.




The Aquarium: 

There is a lot to see at the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium and the fun starts right as you pass the ticket gate. Those who are hands on can touch some sea creatures in an open top tank. You can spend some up close and personal time with a few different kinds of star fish as well as some sea cucumbers. Once again this is an area which during previous visits was almost impossible to even approach but because we went to the aquarium early going right up and showing those critters some love was no problem.  Once you have washed your hands it's time to head towards the many tanks that the aquarium has featuring beautiful fish from the various habitats in the ocean. Through the various viewing windows you can see a great deal of different colorful and at times funny looking fish.

HINT: Even though the various viewing windows may look into the same tank don't pass by too quickly without looking carefully to see the fish which might be hiding just out of sight of other windows.



 

As you continue to move through the aquarium there are various exhibits which offer helpful information regarding the sea creatures which you might encounter here on Okinawa. One of the exhibits shows some of Okinawa's dangerous fish to include the lion fish, stone fish and crown of thorns star fish. Interactive displays show what they can do if you happen to get too close.



Tanks of all shapes and sizes showcase everything from the cute to the . . . . well let's just say some of the fish looked pretty scary. There are even tanks which showcase some of Okinawa's fresh water creatures which can be found throughout the island.



One of the interesting and educational parts of the aquarium is the Shark Research Lab also referred to as The Sea Of Dangerous Sharks. In this section you can lose yourself learning about some of the 500 known shark species in the world. The large tank located in this room features a number of sharks which you are probably familiar with but the one which caught my eye is the Bowmouth Guitarfish.



You can also find yourself taking a look at various shark jaws which are around the area, fetuses of various large creatures in the aquarium and even touch the skins from various large creatures that you see in the aquarium.

Finally once you will find yourself taking a look at the Kuroshio Sea. To be completely honest this is one of those things that you simply have to see in order to experience because nothing that I describe here in words will do it justice. Once you take a look at the tank from a distance on the available ramps go ahead and move towards the floor and take a closer look. You can really get a sense of how large these creatures are when you are looking up at them.

HINT: The large view of the tank is breathtaking and can be enjoyed for quite some time as the various creatures swim amongst each other. For the best view of the overall tank head to the back of the room. You can sit on provided chairs and take it all in.



 

HINT: Although the large view of the tank is something you're not going to want to miss you can also enjoy a more up close and personal view of the fish just around the corner in a room which resembles a tunnel. Here fish swim not only in front of you but right above you.

Conclusion: 

Overall this is a great place to visit and a must see if you are here in Okinawa. And guess what. . . . This post only covers the aquarium itself not even the many other things to do and see at the Ocean Expo Park. Check back in for more on that later. Until then check the video below to see some more of the fish at the aquarium.

 

[EVENT INFORMATION - February 8 through 10]

 

There's a few reasons to head to the Itoman Street Station this weekend. First there's the performance of the PACAF Band and there's also going to be a CERAMIC ART SHUSEI EXHIBITION!

There will be a great deal of pottery to look at and purchase if you're interested. Time will start from 10:00AM to 6:00PM each day.

I don't know about you but two cool things happening in one place seems like there might be something interesting and worth checking out over at the Itoman Street Station. I just might have to head down this way and take it all in!

 

CLICK HERE