Okinawa and the Ryukyu Islands

Okinawa occupies the southern region of Japanese waters, providing a delicate, tropical atmosphere visited by thousands of tourists each year. I, too, was provided the opportunity to witness such elegance after accidentally drafting a supposed "wish list;" as termed by the United States Marine Corps. Of course, at an early decade plus 8, I failed to acknowledge the divine beauty and tranquility associated with this modern paradise. I did, however, grasp the irregular opportunities of traveling to other Ryukyu Islands as they presented themselves.

Iejima, or Ie Island, was the first on my island hopping expedition; primarily because of its relation with the United States government. After departing from Motobu port, our ferry sailed roughly 30 mins before reaching the island. One of the most prominent tourist attractions is Mt. Gusuku. The natural landmark, which has also recovered from significant historical events of World War II, closely resembles that of a volcano. However, the protruding feature is actually an erosion artifact jolting 170+ meters above sea level. Of course, my humble words can only depict such beauty on an undeserving level.

http://www.virtualginza.com/okinawa.htm?ie.htm

Iriomote is considered the second largest island in the Okinawa prefecture, following Okinawa itself. With a population of only 2K residents, the latter consists of tourists seeking adventure and excitement. Iriomote has that and more! I, personally, was not permitted nor allotted the time to hike or camp on the beautiful beaches inhabiting the island. However, with 90% of the landmass covered in dense jungle, forest, and rivers, adventure is rarely difficult to find. Like other Ryukyu Islands, Iriomote is also a popular location for scuba divers. I know, I know....why describe it via simple vocabulary when it can be viewed in awe and glory.

http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e7225.html

Ishigaki, similar to the landscape of Iriomote, was my final destination before departing 3 years of reckless adventures among foreign territory. Ishigaki allows travel to smaller subsets such as Iriomote. It, too, provides various relaxing beaches and other more enduring travels. Though not as wild as Iriomote, Ishigaki also offers kayaking and hiking expeditions. Hotels, shops, and restaurants also provide relief to the exhausted traveler and journeyman. My experience abroad this luxurious island was limited to camping overnight and drinking heavily on the beaches. Of course, few intoxicated Marines attempting travel into the dark forest until prohibited otherwise.

http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e7201.html

To sum it up, I never quite experienced all that I wanted to. Of course, our status prevented us with elusive time restrictions and other requirements; however, I wish someday to have enough WorldPoints to purchase a plane ticket back for a well deserved vacation.

Virtual Ginza (2009). Okinawa. Retrieved Dec 17, 2009

Japan Guide (2009). Iriomote & Ishigaki Islands. Retrieved Dec 17, 2009