Quick Okinawa Info
Natural Sceneries |
Updated on : March 31, 2005 |
Nature born of a unique climate
Reflecting its subtropical climate, there are many natural features in Okinawa not found in temperate mainland Japan. As a prefecture of 160 islands of different sizes, it has coastlines ringed with coral reefs. Its landscapes and seascapes, shaped by the strong winds of the sea, present spectacles of sublime beauty, scenes that only the islands can offer.
The whole area of Iriomote Island in the Yaeyama Islands group is designated as a national park. 90% of the island is covered with virgin forests of subtropical trees. Here on the islands, you’ll see large mangrove forests, rivers, waterfalls and ravines that simply do not exist on Okinawa Island.
A large part of Okinawa Island, including the East China Sea coast and mountain areas in the northern area, and the Kerama Islands are designated as a quasi-national park. Along this designated central and northern coast is a long line of resort hotels and beaches of high clarity. During peak seasons, this area is full of people enjoying the scenery. Also located in the central and northern areas are Yomitan Village's Zanpa Cape, Onna Village’s Manzamo, Hedo Point at Okinawa Island's northern tip, and the steep 100-meter high bluffs of Kayauchi Banta in Kunigami Village. These scenic spots are magnificent works of nature and belong to a nationally designated zone. In contrast to these areas, the southern part of Okinawa Island consists of a gently sloping coast, giving viewers a splendid vista opening to the ocean.
The list of beautiful places in Okinawa is quite endless. On Miyako Island, Higashi-hennazaki Cape is designated as one of Japan's 100 Most Beautiful Places. The Shiraho district of Ishigaki Island is home to spectacular coral colonies. From Japan's southernmost island, Hateruma, you can even see the Southern Cross, and on a clear day from Yonaguni Island, the silhouette of Taiwan hovers over the horizon.
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