Association of North East Asia Regional Goverments

• Introduction

Symbols

History

• Okinawa, which was once the independent Ryukyu Kingdom, flourished through trade with neighboring countries, including China. In 1609, it was invaded by the Satsuma Domain (present-day Kagoshima area) and integrated into Japan's feudal system at the time. In 1872, the Meiji government transformed the Ryukyu Kingdom into the Ryukyu Domain, and in 1879, with the abolition of domains and the establishment of prefectures, it became a part of Japan as Okinawa Prefecture. During the final stages of World War II in 1945, Okinawa became the only site of ground battles involving the full mobilization of its residents, resulting in the loss of many precious lives. After the war, it came under U.S. military administration and was returned to Japan in 1972.

Topographic Features

• Okinawa Prefecture is located to the east of the Asian continent, at the westernmost end of the Japanese archipelago, which stretches in an arc. It is a prefecture composed of numerous islands scattered across a vast sea area approximately 1,000 km east to west and 400 km north to south, including 48 inhabited islands. Situated in the subtropical marine climate of the Nansei Islands (Ryukyu Archipelago), Okinawa is surrounded by a stunning natural environment, featuring beautiful coral reefs and rare wildlife. Through trade and exchanges with China and various Southeast Asian countries, it has cultivated a unique culture over the centuries. The 1.45 million residents of Okinawa, known as Uchinanchu (Okinawan people), take pride in their identity, honor their ancestors, and cherish traditional ceremonies. They actively engage with people both within and outside Japan, dedicating themselves to the development of their islands.

Basic Information

Economic Status

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