 |
Japan: Okinawa |
|
|
Japan: Okinawa |
The former kingdom of Ryukyu, Okinawa
is Japan's subtropical south, a long chain of islands stretching all
the way up to Taiwan.
 |
Iriomote Covered in dense jungle and mangroves, Iriomote is Okinawa's second-largest island but one of its least populated. Shown: Mariyudu Falls and the Urauchi River valley |
 |
Ishigaki The hub of the southern Yaeyama Islands, known for its beaches and manta rays. Shown: Kabira
Bay before an approaching storm |
 |
Taketomi
A tiny island (pop. 300) off Ishigaki that draws visitors with its traditional village and beautiful beaches. Shown:
Traditional houses in the central village |
 |
Yonaguni This small windswept island is the westernmost point of Japan. Shown: Cape
Irizaki |