Okinawa

The Okinawa archipelago lies at the far south-west of Japan, roughly halfway between Kyushu and Taiwan. This group of islands, which makes up the prefecture of the same name, was annexed by Japan at the end of the 18th century and forms part of the Ryukyu Islands. It is made up of three main areas, including the main island, Okinawa-Honto, which covers 1,200 km² and is home to more than a million people.

Often referred to as “Japan's Hawaii”, Okinawa stretches out as the Ryukyu archipelago's idyllic setting. Many tourists, Japanese visitors in particular, come here for a few days' holiday to enjoy its beautiful beaches and turquoise waters, especially for relaxing on the sand or diving. The islands enjoy an average temperature of 23°C, along with tropical flora and fauna.

These islands hold the secret to health, longevity and an exceptional quality of life. Okinawa has the highest concentration of centenarians in the world, largely attributed to local lifestyle and diet. Seaweed, sashimi, soba, sake and sunshine are said to be the elixir of longevity in Japan's southern islands.