Shimuta translates to "Island Song," and the venue hosts a variety of folk performers every night of the week, though Nenezu is the house band. Come here to listen to Ryukyuan folk singing accompanied by sanshin (Japanese lute), drink some awamori (Okinawan sake), and eat some local traditional cuisine. Doors open one hour before the first set, and there are usually three sets a night. Visitors are welcome to take pictures, but cannot tape or record the performances. The venue can also be rented out. Check the website for details, schedules, and fares.
At a time when the island of Okinawa needed protection from the vicious Lord Amawari, legendary Ryukyuan commander Gosamaru built the Nakagusuku Castle. Gosamaru was one of the leaders of the army that served Ryukyu Kingdom in the mid-1400s. The castle was built in 1440, and was attacked in 1458, when it fell to the attacking warlord. Many centuries later, the famous British explorer Matthew C. Perry visited the castle and was impressed by the sturdy walls that seemed able to resist cannon fire. Sadly, the castle has since fallen into disrepair, though its impressive stonework is as imposing today as when it was constructed. The ruins have been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage site and draw crowds each year that come to explore the parts of the castle that remain.
During the Battle of Okinawa, female high school students were mobilized to form a nursing unit known as the Himeyuri Student Corps. Testimonies, photographs and keepsakes of the 200 girls who died are displayed at this museum, ensuring that future generations will learn from their sacrifice. People with disabilities and their caretakers are offered free admission, and wheelchairs can be rented if the museum is contacted beforehand. Last admission is half an hour before closing.
With the American Village's Ferris wheel in the background, Live House MOD's is an unassuming venue dedicated to musicians and their fans. Whether it's an amateur or professional on the stage, the acoustic sets will appeal to any music lover. The venue also hosts comedians and occasionally has free admission nights, so be sure to check the website for schedules and prices.
The largest island of the Okinawa Prefecture, Okinawa Island, or Okinawa-hontō, lies at the confluence of the East China Sea and the Philippine Sea off the coast of mainland Japan. The historic heart of the Kingdom of Ryukyu, the island is littered with archeological remains that offer a glimpse into the traditions, culture and lifestyle of the kingdom. Interestingly, Okinawa Island is noted as being home to the nation's largest population of centenarians, leading to a recent interest in the islanders' unique diet and its potential health benefits. Visitors will find that there is much to experience on the island, with popular attractions like the Churaumi Aquarium to explore. This is widely considered to be Japan's very best and one of the world's largest aquariums. Other attractions include Peace Park and its War Memorials, World Heritage Sites like the sacred Sefa Utaki and the ruins of Nakagusuku Castle, several museums, waterfalls, and shopping centers. As for local cuisine, there are a multitude of restaurants serving up traditional Okinawan fare like hot Soba noodles, varied pork dishes, stir-fried bitter melon, and the American-influenced Taco Rice. A setting for several Japanese and Hollywood films, Okinawa is a fine example of a fulfilling metropolitan experience.
One of the first areas to be rebuilt after World War II, Kokusai Street was hailed as the "Miracle Mile" for its great shops, restaurants and bars. Many hotels can be found along this 1.6-kilometer stretch as well, and you'll find tourists and locals alike looking for the latest trends and fashions in the boutiques. Some notable souvenirs include bottles of star-shaped sand, or snakes steeped in jars of awamori (Okinawan sake). The summer festival also takes place on this road.