Okinawa in a Flash: A Taste of Island Time

Sailing into Okinawa cruise port, I quickly realized this wasn’t like the rest of Japan. Okinawa (沖縄 – Pronounced [oh-kee-nah-wah]) has a tropical energy and a cultural identity all its own.

The island was once the independent Ryukyu Kingdom, and you can still feel that legacy in the architecture, traditions, and even the music. Bright flowers lined the port, and a warm winter breeze set the tone for an easygoing day.

With only a few hours ashore, I headed straight for a local heritage site that promised a mix of history, performance, and natural beauty.

I spent the day at Ryukyu Mura, a recreated traditional village that brings Okinawa’s past to life. The grounds are filled with preserved houses, stone paths, and thatched rooftops. Stepping inside the homes, I found displays of woven baskets, vibrant kimonos, and farming tools that told quiet stories of island life.

The highlight was a cultural show with drumming, singing, and dance. Performers in traditional costume brought a burst of energy to the stage with synchronized moves and bold rhythms from the taiko drums. You could feel the pride in every beat, and the audience was clearly loving it.

After the performance, I followed a shady path to a butterfly garden tucked into the trees. Large rice paper butterflies floated through the air, landing on bright flowers and sunlit leaves. It was peaceful, colorful, and a perfect way to wind down the visit before heading back to the ship.