Okinawa, a paradise in the south, is a treasure trove of wellness nurtured by its rich nature and unique culture. With a food culture cultivated in a warm climate and a variety of activities that lighten your mind and body, you can release yourself from daily stress and feel a deep sense of healing and exhilaration that fills you with vitality from within. At
SHIZUKU, we delve into the charms of Okinawa’s wellness and provide information to make your travel experience even more fulfilling.
The Blessings Nurtured by Okinawa’s Terrain and Subtropical Climate, a Land of Healing
Okinawa belongs to a subtropical oceanic climate, surrounded by warm seas influenced by the Kuroshio Current, and is characterized by its warmth throughout the year and relatively small temperature differences. The comfortable air in this blessed climate will lighten your mind and body and restore your vitality.
The unique terrain formed by uplifted coral reefs has created a diverse coastline, lush hilly areas, and tourist-accessible limestone caves exemplified by Gyokusendo Cave in the southern part of Okinawa Island, forming the foundation for diverse wellness experiences.
In particular, the untouched forests spreading in “Yanbaru” in the northern part of Okinawa Island were registered as a World Natural Heritage site in 2021(*1). In this area, where subtropical evergreen broadleaf forests spread, you can enjoy forest bathing that sharpens your five senses, providing a blissful time that will make you forget the hustle and
bustle of the city.
Benefits of a Warm Climate
The warm climate throughout the year is ideal for outdoor activities. It is relatively easy to spend time outdoors even in winter, making marine activities and nature walks possible all year round. The abundant sunshine is believed to promote the secretion of serotonin, which contributes to mental stability.
Diverse Terrain and Ecosystems
In the beautiful coral reef seas where colorful fish swim, you can enjoy snorkeling and diving, experiencing a breathtakingly mysterious underwater world up close.
Furthermore, through kayaking and experiential tours in the mangrove forests, you can feel Okinawa’s unique ecosystem, the diversity and mystery of untouched nature, on your skin. Such natural environments stimulate your five senses, welling up vitality from the depths of your heart, bringing deep peace and liberation.
Okinawa’s “Nuchigusui” Food Culture that Fosters Longevity
Okinawa’s food culture, symbolized by the word “Nuchigusui” (literally “medicine for life”), is deeply rooted in the philosophy of ishoku dogen, where food supports health. The abundant ingredients nurtured by the warm climate and traditional cooking methods combine to create a healing experience where your body becomes healthy from within and your heart is satisfied through food.
Traditional Cuisine Utilizing Local Ingredients
Island vegetables such as goya, loofah, and island carrots are rich in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and minerals, and are very important ingredients for the people of Okinawa to live long and healthy lives. In addition, since it is surrounded by the sea, a lot of fresh seafood is also landed, creating a colorful dining table.
Fermented Foods and Traditional Cuisine
Okinawa has many traditional fermented foods, such as tofuyo (fermented tofu) and Awamori (Okinawan distilled liquor). Moromi-su (moromi vinegar), produced in the process of making Awamori, is rich in citric acid and is said to be effective in recovering from fatigue. These foods regulate the intestinal environment and strongly support daily health. Furthermore, Ryukyuan dishes such as rafute(braised pork belly) and soki-jiru (pork rib soup), which use pork without waste, are also popular as well-balanced nutritional menus. Many simple cooking methods that bring out the natural taste of the ingredients make them easy to digest and allow you to take in nutrients without straining your body.
Wellness-Oriented Dining
In recent years, healthy restaurants using local organic ingredients and meals at wellness resorts that utilize Ayurvedic knowledge have also attracted attention.
Vegan and allergy-friendly menus are also abundant, allowing you to enjoy food tailored to your own physical condition and preferences.
Okinawa’s Wellness Activities to Liberate Your Mind and Body
In Okinawa, you can experience a variety of wellness activities that utilize its rich nature and open atmosphere. By taking time away from daily life and facing yourself, you can balance your mind and body.
Yoga and Meditation in Nature
Beach yoga held in lush gardens or against the backdrop of a beautiful sunset releases daily tension and brings deep peace and a sense of unity with nature. SUP yoga (yoga on a stand-up paddleboard) is also popular as it stimulates your sense of balance while also having a high relaxation effect. Meditation surrounded by the sound of waves will also be a precious time to deeply face yourself and listen to your inner voice.
Marine Activities and Nature Experiences
Okinawa’s waters boast some of the clearest in the world, and snorkeling and diving offer encounters with colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. Among them, the Blue Cave at Cape Maeda in Onna Village shines with a breathtakingly mysterious blue throughout the entire cave, spreading a unique underwater world.
We also recommend tours through the Yanbaru forest and seaside running along the beautiful coastline. Activities that become one with Okinawa’s nature will boost your mind and body’s vitality.
Cultural Experiences and Fitness Programs
As for Okinawan cultural experiences, workshops such as Sanshin (Okinawan string instrument) lessons and Ryukyu dance are held in various places. Hotels and resort facilities also offer a wide range of fitness programs led by personal trainers.
Exercising in an open, airy space can be a time to forget daily fatigue and lead your mind and body to a new state.
