A journey to meet the people of Ryukyu who know the preciousness of life

Ancestral Wisdom and Longevity in Okinawa
in Okinawa

Area： Northern Okinawa Main Island

date：: 2024.09.20（Last Updated：2024.12.13）

Nestled in the northern forests of Okinawa, the Yambaru region captures the essence of the island's renowned Blue Zone —a designation for places where people enjoy extraordinary longevity and vitality.

This isn’t merely a destination; it’s an invitation to experience the Ryukyuan philosophy of inochi-du-takara, or “life is precious.”

In Yambaru, the rhythm of life revolves around harmony with nature, deep community ties, and a profound respect for each moment. Journey through its forests, villages, and traditions to uncover the time-honored secrets of a life well-lived.

The story of longevity in Yambaru begins with an ancient belief: everything edible is considered kusui, or “medicine,” a gift from nature to be cherished. This holistic approach intertwines food, environment, and lifestyle, shaping the way of life here.

A trip to Yamahara is a trip to meet the ancient Ryukyu people who know the preciousness of life.

Day 1: ： Ogimi Village and Kijoka—A Walk Through Tradition

Your journey begins in Ogimi Village, affectionately known as Okinawa’s “longevity village.” The pace of life here slows, and the landscape offers a glimpse into traditional Okinawa, where communities were built on strong connections and a reverence for nature.

Your base for your time in Yambaru will be Kijoka, a historic settlement where the ancient craft of bashofu (banana-fiber cloth) thrives.

This delicate textile has been woven since the 13th century and was once a prized offering to the Ryukyu Kingdom, the Qing Dynasty, and the Edo Shogunate. Today, it is called “phantom cloth” due to its rarity. In Kijoka, the “grandmothers” of the village keep this tradition alive, skillfully transforming fibers into fabric through a meticulous, time-intensive process. Watching these artisans at work is like witnessing history in motion, each thread imbued with patience, expertise, and a profound connection to the land.As you explore the village, reflect on how longevity here is more than an individual pursuit—it’s a communal celebration. In Ogimi, life is guided by ikigai, or “reason for being,” a philosophy that emphasizes purpose, interdependence, and joy in daily routines.

TDinner awaits at Kunigami Minato Shokudo, where you’ll enjoy a simple yet deeply satisfying meal featuring freshly caught fish and seasonal vegetables. Each dish reflects Okinawa’s belief that food nourishes not just the body but also the soul.

Later, retire to Nanmei Shinshitsu, a private villa nestled within Yambaru’s historic Jashiki village.

Its tranquil setting invites you to unwind and embrace the unhurried rhythm of life.

Day 2: Kunigami Village—Forest Immersion and Community Connections

IWake to the sounds of nature—chirping birds and the rustle of leaves—and prepare for a day immersed in Yambaru’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed forest. Accompanied by a local guide, venture into the dense greenery where ancient trees and diverse wildlife flourish. The forest here is more than a natural wonder; it’s a source of life, deeply integrated into Okinawan culture.

Your guide will share insights into traditional plant-based remedies and the healing properties of local flora, passed down through generations. In Yambaru, even the smallest plants are valued for their role in the ecosystem and their contributions to human health, reflecting a philosophy where all life is valued.

In the afternoon, you’ll have time to explore the village and experience the local way of life firsthand. Take part in sanji-cha, the Okinawan practice of sharing tea and conversation with friends and neighbors on the porch. Here, life is unhurried, with a focus on community bonds and respect for the wisdom of elders.…

Conversations with residents, many of whom are centenarians, reveal the essence of ikigai: staying active, nurturing relationships, and finding joy in the present moment.

Day 3: Traditional Cuisine and Craftsmanship in Ogimi Village

Begin your final day with a visit to the Yanbaru Distillery, Okinawa’s northernmost producer of awamori, a traditional distilled liquor.

Awamori has been made in Okinawa for over 500 years and was once reserved for royalty. Here, you’ll learn how local resources, including the pure water from Yambaru’s mountains, contribute to the unique character of this spirit. Here, you’ll learn how local resources, including the pure water from Yambaru’s mountains, contribute to the unique character of this spirit. This tradition, like many in Okinawa, highlights the deep connection between people and place—every bottle of awamori carries the essence of Yambaru’s land and the people who have called it home for generations.

Lunch brings another highlight: a meal rooted in the kusuimun philosophy, which sees food as medicine. Local ingredients like goya (bitter melon), seaweed, tofu, and sweet potatoes are transformed into dishes that nourish both body and spirit. This meal isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s a celebration of life, designed to support long-term health and well-being.

In the afternoon, visit Yambaru Craftworks to participate in a hands-on activity unique to Okinawa: creating a maas bag. These small, handmade charms, filled with salt, are believed to ward off misfortune and bring protection. Crafting a maas bag offers a moment of reflection, connecting you to Okinawan values of safeguarding loved ones and appreciating life’s fragility. As you finish your creation, take a moment to absorb the lessons of the past three days. …You’ve walked in the footsteps of the Ryukyuan ancestors, shared in the wisdom of the Okinawan people, and tasted the essence of ikigai—a life rooted in purpose, health, and connection.

Preserving Yambaru’s Legacy

Your journey through Yambaru isn’t merely a tour; it’s an opportunity to connect with a philosophy that values life in its simplest, most profound forms. The people of Yambaru embody a respect for nature, a love of community, and a sense of purpose that has allowed them to thrive. By visiting, you become a part of their story, carrying forward the lessons of Okinawa’s Blue Zone to inspire your own life.
Whether it’s the gentle wisdom of the elders, the healing power of the forest, or the flavors of local cuisine, each aspect of Yambaru offers insight into a life well-lived. Here in Okinawa’s northern region, you’ll find a place where the preciousness of life is more than just a belief— it’s a way of life. In the Yambaru region, you’ll leave with more than memories; you’ll carry with you a renewed sense of purpose, an understanding of ikigai, and a reminder of how beautiful life can be when lived with gratitude and intention.