Quick Okinawa Info
Ecotourism |
Updated on : June 04, 2004 |
In touch with subtropical nature and culture, experience another Okinawa through ecotourism.
Ecotourism in Okinawa is basically an experience-type tourism where, accompanied by qualified guides, participants discover and deepen their knowledge on Okinawa’s nature, history and culture. Having close-up looks at nature, they discover the importance of environmental and cultural preservation and local activation. Surrounded by subtropical flora and fauna, Okinawa is blessed with abundant resources for ecotourism. Tours of northern Okinawa's Yanbaru forests, Iriomote Island and other destinations in the prefecture are available.
Iriomote is an especially attractive destination as 90% of the island is covered with native jungle and the whole region is a national park. Canoe tours up the Urauchi and Nakama rivers offer a close-up look at beautiful Pinaisara Falls, Japan's largest mangrove forest, and gives many visitors a chance to view rare birds and animals.
You can also go by kayak to see the mangroves along the Gesashi River in northern Okinawa's Higashi Village. There are mature stands of mangrove around Oura Bay in Nago, along the Okukubi River in Kin Town, and in the Manko wetlands just outside downtown Naha. The deep, green forests covering the mountain ridges of northern Okinawa's Yanbaru region are a precious storehouse of plant, animal and insect species that have been designated special natural treasures.
Hiji Waterfalls are deep in the forest in Kunigami Village. There is a wooden walkway leading up the deep ravine to this spectacular waterfall, with places to rest along the way. This trek is very popular with local people.
You can also hike up Tanaga-gumui, also in Kunigami Village, which contains many rare and unusual plants and animals, including Japan's largest Tenaga Ebi, or Japanese prawn. The hike from the trailhead up to the top of Mt. Tamatsuji takes about an hour and is fairly easy. The view from the peak is truly spectacular.
To deepen your knowledge on Okinawa’s nature, why not also visit the Yambaru Wildlife Center in Kunigami Village? It has a gallery, theater and library full of information about the ecosystems of rare wild creatures. Or you might choose to visit one of the many theme parks of Okinawa for more light-hearted discoveries of the local flora and fauna.
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