Snorkeling

Ecotourism Puts You Close to Okinawa's Nature, History and Culture

Of all Japan's prefectures, Okinawa is the only one with a subtropical oceanic climate. Thus, its nature and atmosphere are different from other prefectures. Okinawa is also Japan's foremost island prefecture, with a total of 160 islands including those that are uninhabited. Every island has its own distinctive nature, history and culture. Each area has programs that allow you to experience hands-on how the people of that area live together with nature, and in the process you'll discover the myriad ofattractions on offer at each place you visit.

Ecotours in Okinawa will give you a chance to do what you usually cannot do on regular sightseeing tours. On these tours you'll get close to Okinawa's splendid nature, meet the local people and learn something about their life and culture. You'll also get to know their intimate local history. Ecotours are definitely the ultimate way to experience Okinawa to the fullest.

One thing tour participants do have to remember when going on these tours is the spirit of respecting the people, culture and nature of these areas. Ecotourists should, to the maximum extent possible, avoid imposing on or harming the natural and social environment. Please remember not to touch or pick rare plants or capture insects and animals. Another important rule to remember is to not leave behind rubbish or other foreign objects that would disturb the ecology and the lives of local residents.

Respecting local customs and practices is also another point that will be much appreciated. There are arrangements and guidelines that lay down rules for protecting nature and culture in the different areas. Listening to the directions of your specially trained guides will surely make your ecotour both enjoyable and unforgettable.

Experiencing Okinawa's Nature

Okinawa is lushly forested with native subtropical trees. Joining an ecotour to absorb such nature would be a unique experience. Broadleaf trees spread a canopy of green over the mountains of northern Okinawa Island's Yanbaru district. This area is a treasure house of nature with mangrove forests along the coast and in the river deltas. The famous flightless bird, Yanbaru kuina and many other rare plants and animals inhabit its forests and rivers. You can enjoy hiking on Mt. Yonaha and Tamatsuji while listening to fascinating information provided by your local guides. The outings last from three to more than six hours, so you can pick a plan suiting your stamina level and available time. Taking a walk up to Hiji Waterfalls is also another fun option. The trail up the steep canyon that leads to this beautiful cascade has wooden bridges and stairs that make it an easy and pleasurable walk. Kayaking to visit the mangrove forests at the mouths of the Gesashi Bay, Fukuchi and Okukubi rivers is also available.

90% of Iriomote Island in the Yaeyama Island group is covered with verdant jungle. The island is home to the Iriomote cat (felis iriomotensis), the Crested serpent eagle, and many other rare plants and animals. Iriomote also boasts Okinawa's longest river, the Urauchi River, as well as Okinawa's highest waterfall, Pinaisara, which are fed by the Hinai River. Iriomote is a trekker's and canoeist's paradise, with many tour plans to get you up close to the island's nature and its people's lifestyle.

Okinawa's geology is composed of about one-third Ryukyu limestone. This stone is easily eroded by water. As a result, Okinawa has many limestone caves. Over tens of thousands of years, water dripping from the roofs of these caves has formed thickets of stalactites hanging like icicles. With flashlight in hand, you can explore these forests of stone.

There are many other unique ecotour opportunities including bird watching, firefly watching, stargazing, and camping trips on uninhabited islands. Try fitting one of these tours into your itinerary and you'll find that your trip to see the vast nature will soothe and ease your mind.