› Okinawa Tourism Support Center2011年11月18日
Our New Blog
Our English weblog will be moved here at Blogger .
Please stop in our new daily blog.
We are looking forward to your visit and comment.
Thank you!
English Bloggers@Okinawa Tourism Support Center
Posted by 観光支援センター at
11:58
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2011年11月17日
B-class gourmet in Okinawa
Hi, nariko again.
From Goya-champuru (stir-fried bitter melon, other veg and ingredients) and Okinawa-soba noodles to Sata-andagi(ball-like doughnut), there are a variety of local delicacies in Okinawa. Now, there comes a new wave of appetizing dishes to the island, too! So let me introduce you the good event to taste the Okinawan new cuisine, the C-1 Chatan B-class gourmet battle.
The C stands for Chatan town, which hosts the event, and 1 for the best. Then, what’s B-class gourmet anyway? It is said to be inexpensive, non-luxurious, easily cooked and served dish like hamburger, pizza, or fish & chips and the like. But when it comes to taste, it’s not B-class at all! To prove that, our bloggers of English team went to the battle field.
The event was held on 12/13 November at Mihama parking area in Chatan town.
Under the bit cloudy sky, the gate welcomed us with the Ferris wheel one of the landmarks of Chatan town in background.
Stepping into the area, around 30 food stalls were busy serving a long queue of hungry customers.
Gorgeous juicy smell…!
How many servings were going down into the visitors’ stomach?
Chiefs working hard to catch up with the wave of orders.
Grilled sliced pork, smoking hot!
Fresh and hot croquettes waiting for picks from the customers
(to be continued…)
From Goya-champuru (stir-fried bitter melon, other veg and ingredients) and Okinawa-soba noodles to Sata-andagi(ball-like doughnut), there are a variety of local delicacies in Okinawa. Now, there comes a new wave of appetizing dishes to the island, too! So let me introduce you the good event to taste the Okinawan new cuisine, the C-1 Chatan B-class gourmet battle.
The C stands for Chatan town, which hosts the event, and 1 for the best. Then, what’s B-class gourmet anyway? It is said to be inexpensive, non-luxurious, easily cooked and served dish like hamburger, pizza, or fish & chips and the like. But when it comes to taste, it’s not B-class at all! To prove that, our bloggers of English team went to the battle field.
The event was held on 12/13 November at Mihama parking area in Chatan town.
Under the bit cloudy sky, the gate welcomed us with the Ferris wheel one of the landmarks of Chatan town in background.
Stepping into the area, around 30 food stalls were busy serving a long queue of hungry customers.
Gorgeous juicy smell…!
How many servings were going down into the visitors’ stomach?
Chiefs working hard to catch up with the wave of orders.
Grilled sliced pork, smoking hot!
Fresh and hot croquettes waiting for picks from the customers
(to be continued…)
2011年11月16日
Are you an Okinawan？
It happened when I was at a Japanese restaurant in the United States some years ago. I was sitting at a sushi counter with my Japanese friends enjoying conversations with a chef. All the sudden, the chef looked at me and said “You are from Okinawa, aren’t you?”I was totally puzzled with his comment. “Here I am in a suburb of Chicago, and a total stranger can tell that I am from Okinawa?”
Some say that us Okinawans look different from people in mainland. It could be because Okinawa has a subtropical oceanic climate unlike the rest of Japan and also because we are close to South Asian countries? There is also a word that describes Okinawan people’s character, which is ‘tege’. It means ‘half done’ or ‘half serious’. That doesn’t sound good at all, does it? However, that also describes magnanimity and easy-going attitude of Okinawan people. You may be surprised, but people here do not really pay attention to the bus schedule because we don’t expect them to come on time This stress-free te-ge attitude could be the secret of longevity of Okinawan people.
So, I hope you have a relaxing time not worrying about small things while in Okinawa as they say ‘Do as the Romans do when in Rome.’
Reiko
Some say that us Okinawans look different from people in mainland. It could be because Okinawa has a subtropical oceanic climate unlike the rest of Japan and also because we are close to South Asian countries? There is also a word that describes Okinawan people’s character, which is ‘tege’. It means ‘half done’ or ‘half serious’. That doesn’t sound good at all, does it? However, that also describes magnanimity and easy-going attitude of Okinawan people. You may be surprised, but people here do not really pay attention to the bus schedule because we don’t expect them to come on time This stress-free te-ge attitude could be the secret of longevity of Okinawan people.
So, I hope you have a relaxing time not worrying about small things while in Okinawa as they say ‘Do as the Romans do when in Rome.’
ReikoPosted by 観光支援センター at
18:18
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2011年11月15日
Chilling Okinawa...?
2011 is coming to an end, and a hint of cold weather is appearing in Okinawa, too. Even so, there’s a long way to put on heavy knitted sweaters or sheep-skin long boots in this subtropical island. But, here I’ll share a paradox with you visitors to Okinawa.
Long ago an acquaintance from Hokkaido told me that Okinawan winter is colder than that of Hokkaido.
Why?
He replied: In Hokkaido(Japan’s northernmost prefecture almost synonym for ‘freezing cold’), the houses and buildings are perfectly heated to suffer through the long severe winter, which can spare you big thick jumpers or fluffy knitted socks indoors. While in Okinawa, it’s not so usual to have the whole-house heating system, so you would be chilled, carrying a portable electric heater everywhere in the house you go. He might have put some joke in the story, but I’ve heard similar anecdotes from the mainlanders after him so his tale would get to the point in a way.
Winter of Okinawa seems less popular than its sun-heating bright summer, but there are still surprises to amuse your curiosity during the so-called off-season for travelling. We will keep you updated with many aspects and attractions of Okinawa, so don’t miss them!
nariko
Long ago an acquaintance from Hokkaido told me that Okinawan winter is colder than that of Hokkaido.
Why?
He replied: In Hokkaido(Japan’s northernmost prefecture almost synonym for ‘freezing cold’), the houses and buildings are perfectly heated to suffer through the long severe winter, which can spare you big thick jumpers or fluffy knitted socks indoors. While in Okinawa, it’s not so usual to have the whole-house heating system, so you would be chilled, carrying a portable electric heater everywhere in the house you go. He might have put some joke in the story, but I’ve heard similar anecdotes from the mainlanders after him so his tale would get to the point in a way.
Winter of Okinawa seems less popular than its sun-heating bright summer, but there are still surprises to amuse your curiosity during the so-called off-season for travelling. We will keep you updated with many aspects and attractions of Okinawa, so don’t miss them!
nariko
2011年11月14日
Shisa
When you tour around in Okinawa, I'm sure you will encounter with many different types of guardian lion-dogs called ‘shisasa’ at various locations you visit. Big ones are seen standing at parks, shopping areas and other public areas, and small ones are found on the roof-tops or at the entrances to homes and even at street corners. Whatever sizes, colors and shapes they may come in, they are placed to ward off evil spirits. The origin of the shisa may go back to the 14 century in China or even to the stone lions in ancient Egypt or India, it has now become somewhat like a mascot of Okinawa.
In old days in Okinawa, the shi-sa was created from decorative stones, but now they are made in various types of pottery. You will find some in pairs. Some are standing with a stern look and some with rather humorous look and postures. The small shisa figures can be easily found at local shops and that can be great souvenirs from Okinawa for your friends and families.
If you have some extra time, you can make your own shisa at local pottery studios. That will for sure bring you memories of Okinawa for many years to come. Reiko
In old days in Okinawa, the shi-sa was created from decorative stones, but now they are made in various types of pottery. You will find some in pairs. Some are standing with a stern look and some with rather humorous look and postures. The small shisa figures can be easily found at local shops and that can be great souvenirs from Okinawa for your friends and families.
If you have some extra time, you can make your own shisa at local pottery studios. That will for sure bring you memories of Okinawa for many years to come. Reiko
Posted by 観光支援センター at
17:05
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2011年11月12日
Goya
FAQs to foreigners : “Do you speak Japanese?” “Do you eat Natto?” “Do you use chopsticks?” You must have received one of these questions at least once during your stay in Japan. When in Okinawa, one of the FAQs is sure to be this: “Do you eat/like Goya?”
Goya (bitter melon/gourd) is the king of Okinawan vegetables.
(tiny one is lifelike-goya mobile charm: you see how popular the veg here is)
To prepare for cooking, cut it open, scoop out the seeds and pith inside, then slice it to your liking. It’s popular eaten stir-fried with other vegetables, tofu (bean curd), pork, egg, etc(virtually any ingredient you think will mix well), the dish called Goya-Champuru (means `stir-fried mixture’). As the name tells you, some find it too bitter (particularly for children) so you might want to well prepare it when cooking(leave it salted or in the water for a while, for example. Each household has their own way of precooking for Goya).
I didn’t like Goya-related dishes for its bitterness when I was small. As time went by, though, my taste for food has reached the adulthood, where you can enjoy bitterness and sourness in the ingredients(same in life, I suppose). Now Goya-champuru is a regular at my dinner table especially in summer, when it’s at the height of taste and availability of year.
Goya is still available at supermarkets, but if you want to skip the cooking procedure just have a taste of this soul food, why don’t you try one of the local canteens or pubs, restaurants or cafes when you visit Okinawa?
Goya (bitter melon/gourd) is the king of Okinawan vegetables.
(tiny one is lifelike-goya mobile charm: you see how popular the veg here is)
To prepare for cooking, cut it open, scoop out the seeds and pith inside, then slice it to your liking. It’s popular eaten stir-fried with other vegetables, tofu (bean curd), pork, egg, etc(virtually any ingredient you think will mix well), the dish called Goya-Champuru (means `stir-fried mixture’). As the name tells you, some find it too bitter (particularly for children) so you might want to well prepare it when cooking(leave it salted or in the water for a while, for example. Each household has their own way of precooking for Goya).
I didn’t like Goya-related dishes for its bitterness when I was small. As time went by, though, my taste for food has reached the adulthood, where you can enjoy bitterness and sourness in the ingredients(same in life, I suppose). Now Goya-champuru is a regular at my dinner table especially in summer, when it’s at the height of taste and availability of year.
Goya is still available at supermarkets, but if you want to skip the cooking procedure just have a taste of this soul food, why don’t you try one of the local canteens or pubs, restaurants or cafes when you visit Okinawa?
2011年11月11日
Where In The World Is Okinawa?
You might have heard about Okinawa from your friends or relatives. Or, you may have known about Okinawa as a place Karate was originated in. Or, you might have heard about Okinawa as the island of longevity. But, do you know exactly where Okinawa is?
Okinawa is Japan’s southernmost prefecture. It is comprised of over 150 small islands and is facing East China Sea to the west and Pacific Ocean to the east. You may be surprised to know that Okinawa is closer to Taipei, Hong Kong and Soul than to our nation’s capital, Tokyo.
View Larger Map
Because of its proximity to Mainland Japan, Taiwan, China, Korea and Philippines, you will find Japanese, Chinese and other countries’ cultures merged in these small islands of Okinawa, and that makes Okinawa a very special place to visit. I will write more about these unique islands. To be continued…
Reiko
Okinawa is Japan’s southernmost prefecture. It is comprised of over 150 small islands and is facing East China Sea to the west and Pacific Ocean to the east. You may be surprised to know that Okinawa is closer to Taipei, Hong Kong and Soul than to our nation’s capital, Tokyo.
View Larger Map
Because of its proximity to Mainland Japan, Taiwan, China, Korea and Philippines, you will find Japanese, Chinese and other countries’ cultures merged in these small islands of Okinawa, and that makes Okinawa a very special place to visit. I will write more about these unique islands. To be continued…
Reiko
2011年11月09日
Sweet Okinawa
Hi, Nariko again.
“Stay hungry, stay foolish” ,the late Steve Jobs's famous speech, may be one of the catchiest phrases in the world. I assume it will give us many interpretations, though, my interpretation at the moment, well, I’m taking it very literally, is “No, I can’t stay hungry, I need something sweet to treat my taste buds, at least twice a day…!” I know I would have put on weight by the next spring if I would keep this sweet-toothed routine everyday, but there is a way to take in sugar with a healthier alternative than just by munching on chocolate bars and sucking on candies.
These are KURO-ZATOU(KOKUTOU), Okinawan black sugar (also called brown sugar). Made from sugar canes, it has long served as a seasoning alternative to sugar in cooking and sweet refreshments at tea breaks in Okinawan households. It comes mainly in powder and cube-like candy sizes (ones in the photo above) , and also offers various flavours such as ginger, Yomogi mugwort herb, sesame, blueberry, and the list goes on(my favourite is the blueberry flavoured but I’ve been failing to find them at supermarkets…pity, isn’t it?).
In addition to the strong sweetness, its rich minerals and vitamines would make up for the lack of these nutrients intake in your diet. Roll some drops of Kuro-Zatou in your mouth to recharge your batteries for long week days, or put them in a hot drink on a chilly night, and the good sleep could wrap you warm till the next morning.
Reasonably priced, they are available at supermarkets, convenience stores, souvenir shops, and local grocery stores throughout okinawa. Feel free to comment on Kuro-zatou, or share your local sweets with us!
“Stay hungry, stay foolish” ,the late Steve Jobs's famous speech, may be one of the catchiest phrases in the world. I assume it will give us many interpretations, though, my interpretation at the moment, well, I’m taking it very literally, is “No, I can’t stay hungry, I need something sweet to treat my taste buds, at least twice a day…!” I know I would have put on weight by the next spring if I would keep this sweet-toothed routine everyday, but there is a way to take in sugar with a healthier alternative than just by munching on chocolate bars and sucking on candies.
These are KURO-ZATOU(KOKUTOU), Okinawan black sugar (also called brown sugar). Made from sugar canes, it has long served as a seasoning alternative to sugar in cooking and sweet refreshments at tea breaks in Okinawan households. It comes mainly in powder and cube-like candy sizes (ones in the photo above) , and also offers various flavours such as ginger, Yomogi mugwort herb, sesame, blueberry, and the list goes on(my favourite is the blueberry flavoured but I’ve been failing to find them at supermarkets…pity, isn’t it?).
In addition to the strong sweetness, its rich minerals and vitamines would make up for the lack of these nutrients intake in your diet. Roll some drops of Kuro-Zatou in your mouth to recharge your batteries for long week days, or put them in a hot drink on a chilly night, and the good sleep could wrap you warm till the next morning.
Reasonably priced, they are available at supermarkets, convenience stores, souvenir shops, and local grocery stores throughout okinawa. Feel free to comment on Kuro-zatou, or share your local sweets with us!
2011年11月08日
Healthy Dinner !
Hello, there. This is Niki.
One Saturday afernoon, I wanted something healthy for dinner.
I've been snacking a lot lately, it's time to resume my proper diet.
What should I make? I was thinking.
Something healther...umm...maybe tofu. With some vegetables with it.
So I decided to make Mapo-tofu. My family and I love it.
It is tofu(bean curd) with Szechuan style chili sauce. Mapo tofu is Chinese dish originally, but it is very popular in Japan as well. It is easy to make, all the ingredients are easily available. I alway get Shima-dofu (Okinawan tofu) instead of tofu from mainland Japan. Shima-dofu is saltier and firmer that makes it suitable for stir-frying. And also, it is very reasonable! One large block of shima-tofu only costs about 400 yen( 6 dollars). I always put extra ginger, long onions and less meat to make it healthier.
This is Shima tofu. I bought it at local supermarket.
One of the Chinese seasoning to make Mapo tofu. Chinese sweet bean sauce called Tianmianjang. But you can use regular Miso bean paste and sugar to substitute for it.
One Saturday afernoon, I wanted something healthy for dinner.
I've been snacking a lot lately, it's time to resume my proper diet.
What should I make? I was thinking.
Something healther...umm...maybe tofu. With some vegetables with it.
So I decided to make Mapo-tofu. My family and I love it.
It is tofu(bean curd) with Szechuan style chili sauce. Mapo tofu is Chinese dish originally, but it is very popular in Japan as well. It is easy to make, all the ingredients are easily available. I alway get Shima-dofu (Okinawan tofu) instead of tofu from mainland Japan. Shima-dofu is saltier and firmer that makes it suitable for stir-frying. And also, it is very reasonable! One large block of shima-tofu only costs about 400 yen( 6 dollars). I always put extra ginger, long onions and less meat to make it healthier.
This is Shima tofu. I bought it at local supermarket.
One of the Chinese seasoning to make Mapo tofu. Chinese sweet bean sauce called Tianmianjang. But you can use regular Miso bean paste and sugar to substitute for it.
Posted by 観光支援センター at
14:52
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2011年11月07日
Hibiscus in Okinawa
Hi! This is Reiko.
Here is another picture of flower I took a few days ago. I don’t know if it’s because summer is almost over or I miss hot Okinawan summer days so much, colorful flowers like this catch my eyes everywhere I go recently. This flower is called Hibiscus. We call it ‘Akabanaa’ in Oknawan dialect. It simply means ‘red flower’. You can find red and yellow hibiscus almost anywhere in Okinawa throughout the year. I’m sure you have seen it in many pictures of Okinawa while you were surfing the net.
Hibiscus
Hibiscus Tea is becoming a popular souvenir of Okinawa. I had a glass of this ruby red herbal tea after a long walk of sightseeing. It was very refreshing and made me feel revitalized! Try this Hibiscus tea full of vitamins and citric acid while you are in Okinawa. I am sure you will enjoy it as I did.
Here is another picture of flower I took a few days ago. I don’t know if it’s because summer is almost over or I miss hot Okinawan summer days so much, colorful flowers like this catch my eyes everywhere I go recently. This flower is called Hibiscus. We call it ‘Akabanaa’ in Oknawan dialect. It simply means ‘red flower’. You can find red and yellow hibiscus almost anywhere in Okinawa throughout the year. I’m sure you have seen it in many pictures of Okinawa while you were surfing the net.
Hibiscus
Hibiscus Tea is becoming a popular souvenir of Okinawa. I had a glass of this ruby red herbal tea after a long walk of sightseeing. It was very refreshing and made me feel revitalized! Try this Hibiscus tea full of vitamins and citric acid while you are in Okinawa. I am sure you will enjoy it as I did.
2011年11月05日
Ryukyu History
Hello, this is Shizuka.
How do you spend your weekend ?
Well, I started studying Okinawan history.I have been interested in it for a long time, but I 've never thought about studying. Now I really want to get more understanding of the "Ryukyu Spirit".
I read the book "TEMPEST" which writes about Ryukyu Kingdom. Many people are interested in Ryukyu Kingdom, so it became a bestseller. I am the one of them. I had my nose in the book! I was moved by the main character Mazuru's strong-mindedness and her life working for homeland "Ryukyu". There were lots of obstacles standing in the way of Ryukyu and hers as well. But she tried to clear way and she worked so hard. I admire her strength and also thought we 'd had inherited Ryukyu spirit until now. I am really proud of it and I want to know where the Ryukyu's spirit came from.
I love to learn Okinawa ( Ryukyu ) history in an enjoyable way.
Now I have to go . See you soon.
Please enjoy your weekend !(^^)!
How do you spend your weekend ?
Well, I started studying Okinawan history.I have been interested in it for a long time, but I 've never thought about studying. Now I really want to get more understanding of the "Ryukyu Spirit".
I read the book "TEMPEST" which writes about Ryukyu Kingdom. Many people are interested in Ryukyu Kingdom, so it became a bestseller. I am the one of them. I had my nose in the book! I was moved by the main character Mazuru's strong-mindedness and her life working for homeland "Ryukyu". There were lots of obstacles standing in the way of Ryukyu and hers as well. But she tried to clear way and she worked so hard. I admire her strength and also thought we 'd had inherited Ryukyu spirit until now. I am really proud of it and I want to know where the Ryukyu's spirit came from.
I love to learn Okinawa ( Ryukyu ) history in an enjoyable way.
Now I have to go . See you soon.
Please enjoy your weekend !(^^)!
Posted by 観光支援センター at
18:31
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2011年11月04日
Okinawan Bullfights
Hello! This is Takako. I am living in Uruma city, middle part of Okinawa.
My city is famous for Bullfighting. Have you watched Okinawan Bullfight?
We call it Togyu（闘牛）or Ushi o-rase- in Okinawan dialect.
"Ushi" (牛) means "bulls". "o-rase-" (おーらせー) means "fighting".
It is unlike Spanish bullfighting, which pits the bull against an armed man.
Togyu in Okinawa, they let two bulls fight it out with a man "coaching" each bull.
It involves two bulls starting by locking horns.
They push and butt each other in a contest of strength until one retreat or turn away, the other bull then being declared the winner.
The men in the ring with them are their coaches, the help them fight but also help keep them apart when the fight is over.
I went to watch the match last year. Their fights are so powerful and strong.
When I saw one bull gored the other bull’s stomach, I could not help covering my eyes.
It was little scared. But I bet you can enjoy Okinawan bullfights, so if you get a chance, please visit bullrings in Okinawa and feel the excitements of the fights.
The most popular Togyu (闘牛) bullfights of the year take place in May and November,
during the spring and the fall in Okinawa.
There is an upcoming Bullfight event.
連合会５０周年・県知事杯争奪第９６回秋の全島闘牛大会
（主催：沖縄県闘牛組合連合会）
Bullfights tournament of the year will take place in
November 13, 2011 (Sun.) 12:00 ～
at Ishikawa multipurpose dome in Uruma City
◆Entrance fee:
Adults: 3,000 yen (women 2,000 yen)
Junior high and high school students: 1,000 yen
Children under 12: free
大きな地図で見る
My city is famous for Bullfighting. Have you watched Okinawan Bullfight?
We call it Togyu（闘牛）or Ushi o-rase- in Okinawan dialect.
"Ushi" (牛) means "bulls". "o-rase-" (おーらせー) means "fighting".
It is unlike Spanish bullfighting, which pits the bull against an armed man.
Togyu in Okinawa, they let two bulls fight it out with a man "coaching" each bull.
It involves two bulls starting by locking horns.
They push and butt each other in a contest of strength until one retreat or turn away, the other bull then being declared the winner.
The men in the ring with them are their coaches, the help them fight but also help keep them apart when the fight is over.
I went to watch the match last year. Their fights are so powerful and strong.
When I saw one bull gored the other bull’s stomach, I could not help covering my eyes.
It was little scared. But I bet you can enjoy Okinawan bullfights, so if you get a chance, please visit bullrings in Okinawa and feel the excitements of the fights.
The most popular Togyu (闘牛) bullfights of the year take place in May and November,
during the spring and the fall in Okinawa.
There is an upcoming Bullfight event.
連合会５０周年・県知事杯争奪第９６回秋の全島闘牛大会
（主催：沖縄県闘牛組合連合会）
Bullfights tournament of the year will take place in
November 13, 2011 (Sun.) 12:00 ～
at Ishikawa multipurpose dome in Uruma City
◆Entrance fee:
Adults: 3,000 yen (women 2,000 yen)
Junior high and high school students: 1,000 yen
Children under 12: free
大きな地図で見る
2011年11月03日
Kariyushi Wear
Hello again, this is Nariko. It’s November now, but the weather in Okinawa still feels warm enough to stay in summer clothing for some time. Here, even this time of year, you can spot lots and lots of people wearing very colorful shirt like one in the photo below.:
This is a Kariyushi (means ‘auspicious’ in Okinawan dialect) Wear shirt, one of the most popular wardrobe throughout the island. Similar to Aloha shirt of Hawaii, its wide range of colors and motifs gives you the image of the subtropical weather and nature in Okinawa. They are particularly popular at workplaces as a summer time office uniform, and now worn as a formal wear to ceremonies and parties and such. They come in various sizes, shapes and prices, available at most shopping malls and souvenir shops. Why don’t you find your own favorite Kariyushi shirt and get the feeling of Okinawan locals!
This is a Kariyushi (means ‘auspicious’ in Okinawan dialect) Wear shirt, one of the most popular wardrobe throughout the island. Similar to Aloha shirt of Hawaii, its wide range of colors and motifs gives you the image of the subtropical weather and nature in Okinawa. They are particularly popular at workplaces as a summer time office uniform, and now worn as a formal wear to ceremonies and parties and such. They come in various sizes, shapes and prices, available at most shopping malls and souvenir shops. Why don’t you find your own favorite Kariyushi shirt and get the feeling of Okinawan locals!
2011年11月02日
Okinawan artists now on the tour in Europe
Hi! Niki here.
I would like to share some good news about Okinwan music world.
The caravan of Okinawan classical musicians and performers is on the tour around Europe. They are now performing Kumiodori and Okinawan classical dancing and singing. They just finished the two-day performance in Paris, France and headed for Cologne, Germany. After that, the next show will be held in the Rome Italy.
According to the newspaper report, in Paris, tickets were all sold out, the show ended successfully in France.
Great!
The above is an article from local newspaper "Ryukyu Shimpo".
The group of eighteen performers is headed by well-known musician Terukina Choichi. He plays Sanshin (three-stringed instrument) and sings at Kumiodori play.
He is a very gifted performer. I’d once listened live to his singing. When I went to see the play, he was the back singer, so never appeared on stage, only singing. Although it was first time for me to hear him, I was totally captivated by his deep, astonishingly soulful voice. I coudn’t even describe how great it was. It was just such a privilege to experience his performance.
I think that the attraction of Okinawan performing arts is still understated and very little known to the outside of Okinawa.
Fortunately, Kumiodori, - Okinawan classical opera-, became suddenly famous since last year November because it was inscribed as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
I am hoping that more people from overseas will encounter Okinawan classical music world.
Kumiodori is regularly performed at The National Theatre Okinawa. (http://www.nt-okinawa.or.jp/) They occasionally present the play with English subtitle.
I would like to share some good news about Okinwan music world.
The caravan of Okinawan classical musicians and performers is on the tour around Europe. They are now performing Kumiodori and Okinawan classical dancing and singing. They just finished the two-day performance in Paris, France and headed for Cologne, Germany. After that, the next show will be held in the Rome Italy.
According to the newspaper report, in Paris, tickets were all sold out, the show ended successfully in France.
Great!
The above is an article from local newspaper "Ryukyu Shimpo".
The group of eighteen performers is headed by well-known musician Terukina Choichi. He plays Sanshin (three-stringed instrument) and sings at Kumiodori play.
He is a very gifted performer. I’d once listened live to his singing. When I went to see the play, he was the back singer, so never appeared on stage, only singing. Although it was first time for me to hear him, I was totally captivated by his deep, astonishingly soulful voice. I coudn’t even describe how great it was. It was just such a privilege to experience his performance.
I think that the attraction of Okinawan performing arts is still understated and very little known to the outside of Okinawa.
Fortunately, Kumiodori, - Okinawan classical opera-, became suddenly famous since last year November because it was inscribed as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
I am hoping that more people from overseas will encounter Okinawan classical music world.
Kumiodori is regularly performed at The National Theatre Okinawa. (http://www.nt-okinawa.or.jp/) They occasionally present the play with English subtitle.
Posted by 観光支援センター at
11:13
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2011年11月01日
Wandering around
(One of my favorite places in Okinawa - Cape Manza, Onna Village)
Hi, this is Naoko. I hope you had a wonderful weekend because I did. I went to a department store to buy some nice French and Italian cheese. The deli section was on the 1st floor, so I decided to just take a look at the new winter fashion on the 2nd and the 3rd floor and come down to the 1st floor, but...it was A BIG MISTAKE. Yes, I spend 3 hours in the fashion floor and bought a fantastic pair of sandals instead. Of course I did not have time to buy cheese. I am sure you have done something similar to it.
Sightseeing is like a shopping. You get excited when you start planning. Then, you go to places, you find something special there, and decided to spend little bit more to enjoy the every essence of it, then... you miss your last bus!!
It is actually exciting to be spontaneous. There are many many places and things in Okinawa that you probably fall in love with. Let us know what you are looking for and we will be glad to help you!!
2011年10月31日
More to Enjoy on Culture Day!
As Naoko mentioned in her blog, November is a month for cultural activities. Especially around the November 3rd, a Japanese holiday called Culture Day (Bunka no hi), there are many cultural festivals, parades and art exhibits throughout Japan. It is no exception here in Okinawa.
It is great to experience festivities at the parades and festivals in a huge crowd, but if you are one of those who enjoy visiting museums, Culture Day is the perfect day. You can enjoy the general exhibitions at the following museums free of charge on the Culture Day.
Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum
http://www.museums.pref.okinawa.jp/english/index.html
(Map of Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum)
View Larger Map
Naha Municipal Tsuboya Pottery Museum
http://www.edu.city.naha.okinawa.jp/tsuboya/j-top.htm
(Map of Naha Municipal Tsuboya Pattery Museum)
View Larger Map
We would love to find out your experiences at festivals and museums. Please feel free to share your comments with us.
Reiko
It is great to experience festivities at the parades and festivals in a huge crowd, but if you are one of those who enjoy visiting museums, Culture Day is the perfect day. You can enjoy the general exhibitions at the following museums free of charge on the Culture Day.
Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum
http://www.museums.pref.okinawa.jp/english/index.html
(Map of Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum)
View Larger Map
Naha Municipal Tsuboya Pottery Museum
http://www.edu.city.naha.okinawa.jp/tsuboya/j-top.htm
(Map of Naha Municipal Tsuboya Pattery Museum)
View Larger Map
We would love to find out your experiences at festivals and museums. Please feel free to share your comments with us.
Reiko
2011年10月28日
Cultureal Events in November
Hi! This is Naoko. I can't believe today is Friday already. A week flies really fast, don't you think???
In Japan November (autumn/fall) is a month for cultural activities and sports. The 2 events below represent the history and the unique culture of Okinawa.
【November 3 (Thu) The 46th Ryukyu Dynasty Festival in Shuri】
12:50 Ceremony in the Shuri castle and its central courtyard
14:00 The Ryukyu king and the queen leave the castle (from Shurei-no-mon, Shurei Gate), parading to Torihori intersection.
(Map of Shuri Caslte - Torihori Area)
大きな地図で見る
【November 27】
Okinawa Samba Carnival
Place: Goya intersection, Okinawa city
13:00 - 14:00 mini-parade (Central Park Avenue)
16:00 - 17:00 Samba Queen Contest and Live Performance (special stage on Gate Street)
17:00 - 17:30 Main Parade (Gate Street)
17:30 Eisa dance
19:00 Samba night
More to come later!! Have a wonderful weekend!!
In Japan November (autumn/fall) is a month for cultural activities and sports. The 2 events below represent the history and the unique culture of Okinawa.
【November 3 (Thu) The 46th Ryukyu Dynasty Festival in Shuri】
12:50 Ceremony in the Shuri castle and its central courtyard
14:00 The Ryukyu king and the queen leave the castle (from Shurei-no-mon, Shurei Gate), parading to Torihori intersection.
(Map of Shuri Caslte - Torihori Area)
大きな地図で見る
【November 27】
Okinawa Samba Carnival
Place: Goya intersection, Okinawa city
13:00 - 14:00 mini-parade (Central Park Avenue)
16:00 - 17:00 Samba Queen Contest and Live Performance (special stage on Gate Street)
17:00 - 17:30 Main Parade (Gate Street)
17:30 Eisa dance
19:00 Samba night
More to come later!! Have a wonderful weekend!!
2011年10月27日
Autumn Sporting
Hello, I am Nariko, a member of the English team of Okinawa Tourism Support Center.
October is coming to an end, which means you could see black and orange decorations on windows of houses as well as inside of shops on the streets. Yes, Halloween is coming! The festival has become popular here in Okinawa now, and the magical words “Trick or Treat!” gives many kids to a good reason to munch through candies, chocolates, and biscuits. But, let’s be honest, not only children, but also we adults can’t help fancying confectionaries, against worry about our growing belly.
You might have heard some Japanese say “Autumn for sporting”, so let us introduce you a good chance to keep fit and put this phrase into practice. Naha Marathon is the biggest sports event in Okinawa, held the first Sunday of every December. It’s a 42.195km full marathon and a very tough race due to rather warm weather for running for such a long distance, but its festive atmosphere (joggers dressed in whatever they like) and energetic cheers from the local people all along the course never stops attracting participants. from inside and outside of Okinawa.
Find out more about Naha Marathon on the website below.
http://www.okinawastory.jp/en/event/event_111204.html
Enjoy your own “Autumn for sporting”!
October is coming to an end, which means you could see black and orange decorations on windows of houses as well as inside of shops on the streets. Yes, Halloween is coming! The festival has become popular here in Okinawa now, and the magical words “Trick or Treat!” gives many kids to a good reason to munch through candies, chocolates, and biscuits. But, let’s be honest, not only children, but also we adults can’t help fancying confectionaries, against worry about our growing belly.
You might have heard some Japanese say “Autumn for sporting”, so let us introduce you a good chance to keep fit and put this phrase into practice. Naha Marathon is the biggest sports event in Okinawa, held the first Sunday of every December. It’s a 42.195km full marathon and a very tough race due to rather warm weather for running for such a long distance, but its festive atmosphere (joggers dressed in whatever they like) and energetic cheers from the local people all along the course never stops attracting participants. from inside and outside of Okinawa.
Find out more about Naha Marathon on the website below.
http://www.okinawastory.jp/en/event/event_111204.html
Enjoy your own “Autumn for sporting”!
2011年10月26日
Flowers in the Neighborhood
Hello, I’m Reiko, a new member of the Okinawa Tourism Support Center.
We are having gorgeous sunny days here in Okinawa. November is just around the corner, but all you need is a T-shirt if you want to explore the nature of Okinawa. We saw some tourists laying at the beach and enjoying the sun when we visited an ocean-front resort hotel yesterday. (FYI, Today’s temperature is forecasted to go as high as 26 °C. The average annual temperature here in Okinawa is 22.7°C, 72.86°F).
Today, I want to share with you the pictures I took last weekend while I was strolling in the neighborhood. Early in the morning, beautiful white flowers caught my eyes. The lady who was taking care of the flowers told me to come back in the afternoon and also at night to look at the same flowers, so I did. What a surprise! I found flowers in different colors every time I came back. I had seen these flowers many times before but never realized that they were the same flowers.
‘Cotton Rose Hibiscus (Fuyo-no-hana)’ is the name of the flowers. As you see it is white in the morning, pink in the afternoon and dark pink at night.
You will find many more beautiful and colorful flowers throughout the year in Okinawa. In fact, you can enjoy Japan’s earliest Cherry Blossom festivals here in Okinawa from January through February.
For more information, visit http://www.okinawastory.jp/en/special/sakura_2011/sakura_index.html
Why not plan your next trip to Okinawa during the winter time?
We are having gorgeous sunny days here in Okinawa. November is just around the corner, but all you need is a T-shirt if you want to explore the nature of Okinawa. We saw some tourists laying at the beach and enjoying the sun when we visited an ocean-front resort hotel yesterday. (FYI, Today’s temperature is forecasted to go as high as 26 °C. The average annual temperature here in Okinawa is 22.7°C, 72.86°F).
Today, I want to share with you the pictures I took last weekend while I was strolling in the neighborhood. Early in the morning, beautiful white flowers caught my eyes. The lady who was taking care of the flowers told me to come back in the afternoon and also at night to look at the same flowers, so I did. What a surprise! I found flowers in different colors every time I came back. I had seen these flowers many times before but never realized that they were the same flowers.
‘Cotton Rose Hibiscus (Fuyo-no-hana)’ is the name of the flowers. As you see it is white in the morning, pink in the afternoon and dark pink at night.
You will find many more beautiful and colorful flowers throughout the year in Okinawa. In fact, you can enjoy Japan’s earliest Cherry Blossom festivals here in Okinawa from January through February.
For more information, visit http://www.okinawastory.jp/en/special/sakura_2011/sakura_index.html
Why not plan your next trip to Okinawa during the winter time?
Posted by 観光支援センター at
18:05
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2011年10月25日
Fun time in Okinawa
This is Shizuka.Today we visit some Okinawn Hotels to know about them. I found that their each good points, I was really exited when I visit "Hotel Nikko Alivila". The hotel looks like european, especialy it makes us remind Spain. And Yomitan's ocean is pretty beautiful!!
We also visit "Fukusyuen" in Naha. It is the Chinese garden with some pounds and stone castle something and full with lots of green . It was the first time to visit there , and we just had relax time.
Threre are many special places to see, so let's enjoy OKINAWA !
Posted by 観光支援センター at
21:36
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