Okinawa's Blue Zone Odyssey: Embark on a Life-Changing Exploration of Longevity, Rich Traditions, and the Essence of Personal Ikigai
【Day1】 Gateway to Okinawan Adventure
The journey begins with the afternoon arrival of guests at Naha Airport.
After baggage claim, participants meet their guide and transfer to the hotel by private vehicle. After check-in, guests have free time to relax at the hotel or enjoy shopping on Kokusai Street.
In the evening, everyone gathers at the hotel for a tour briefing about the exciting 5-day adventure ahead. The first meal in Okinawa is dinner at the public market, where guests can immerse themselves in Okinawan food culture.
Using the "lift-up" system, guide and guests select fresh seafood and meat on the first floor, which is then cooked in the second-floor restaurant.
【Day 2】 Embracing Blue Zone Principles in Okinawa
On this day, We will experience several Blue Zone principles, including maintaining faith, prioritizing family, connecting with others, consuming plant-based foods, and practicing calorie restriction.
After check-out, We travel by private vehicle to Kin Town. The day's theme, "water" and "prayer," offers insights into the deep connection between Okinawa's nature and culture. The first stop is Ukka-ga Spring, where participants learn about Kin Town's origins.
Next, they visit Kin Cave, home to over 13,000 bottles of aging Awamori (Okinawan spirit).
A visit to a local home introduces "Totome," the Okinawan ancestor worship tradition. We enjoy old style snacks while learning about family heritage and ancestral tablets, emphasizing the importance of family connections in Okinawan culture. We then explores Tumusuzu Utaki, a sacred site, further deepening their understanding of Okinawan spirituality.
Lunch at a local restaurant features traditional "Taimo-zen" cuisine, accompanied by cave-aged Awamori and Tofuyo (fermented tofu). This meal showcases the plant-based and calorie-conscious aspects of the Okinawan diet.
In the afternoon, We enjoy birdwatching in a taro field, connecting with nature and observing Okinawa's diverse avian life.
Dinner at a local dining in Higashi village highlights dishes made with locally farmed fish and ingredients, reinforcing the concept of eating locally and mindfully.
The day concludes with a night tour " AKISAMIYO" ,immersing participants in the pitch-dark sky and Yanbaru's biodiversity-rich forest. This experience offers a unique perspective on Okinawa's natural wonders and the lifestyle factors contributing to its Blue Zone status.
【Day 3】 Adventure and Reflection in Okinawa's Blue Zone
The third day begins with an exhilarating shower trekking experience at Fukuchi Dam. This high-intensity activity, limited to one group per day, combines kayaking with stream climbing and waterfall diving. It's a perfect blend of adventure and nature immersion, showcasing Okinawa's pristine wilderness.
In the afternoon, the group explores Kijoka Village, taking a leisurely walk and visiting the Bashofu Kaikan (Banana Fiber Cloth Hall). This excursion provides valuable insights into the traditional lifestyle of this Blue Zone area, highlighting the importance of purposeful activities and community engagement in longevity.
In the afternoon, the group explores the Kijoka village, enjoys a relaxing walk, and visits Bashofu Kaikan. This walk provides valuable insights into the traditional lifestyle of the Blue Zone region, highlighting the purposeful activities in longevity and the importance of participating in communities. There's a barbecue dinner in the evening.
Participants think and share the purpose of life (purpose of life) with shellpa living in the local area in a relaxed atmosphere.
On a clear night, you can optionally choose a starry sky observation tour at the starry sky sanctuary in Kunigami Village. This day combines physical activity, cultural exploration, and personal introspection in a well-balanced manner, embodying a multifaceted approach to longevity in the blue zone of Okinawa.
【Day 4】 Traditional Okinawan cuisine and superb view of nature
The fourth day begins with a cooking experience in the Nanmeimori room. Participants will learn old cooking methods using local ingredients such as papaya and takasago (a type of fedai). Prepare breakfast using a furnace and gain practical insights into Okinawan cuisine Cultural Heritage.
After checking out, experience a guided nature walk at Mt. Nekumachi. This walk gives you a panoramic view of Okinawa and allows participants to deeply connect with the natural beauty of the island. Lunch is a specially prepared lunch box, packed with local ingredients, and introduces the diversity of Okinawan cuisine.
In the afternoon, return to Naha and visit Shuri Castle, a symbol of the history and culture of Ryukyu. This UNESCO World Heritage is an attractive spot where you can get a glimpse of the past and architecture of the kingdom of Okinawa.
The day will end with a luxurious dinner at a traditional restaurant in Naha.
In a private room, you can enjoy authentic Ryukyu court cuisine dating back to the Ryukyu dynasty.
This meal not only delights your tongue, but also offers a cultural journey through the history of Okinawan cuisine.
On this day, they combine hands-on cooking experiences, nature exploration, and cultural immersion. It offers a comprehensive understanding of Okinawa's rich heritage, from traditional cooking methods and local ingredients to natural wonders and historic landmarks.The journey from rural cuisine to court cuisine condenses the diverse aspects of Okinawan culture and lifestyle.
【Day 5】 The heart of Okinawa felt through karate
The last day of the tour begins with visiting a local karate dojo after checking out.
This experience was born not only by learning molds, but also by the fusion of ancient Okinawa and Chinese martial arts.
It will be an opportunity to gain a deep understanding of the history and philosophy of karate.
Participants learn the core principle, "Before karate." In this concept, karate is essentially
It emphasizes that it is a technique of defense and represents a spirit of respect for peace.
The importance of etiquette is also emphasized, reflecting the broad cultural values of Okinawa.
Let's learn about it. As the participants engage in training, the spirit of Okinawa.
In other words, we will touch upon the core of the island's longevity and happiness.
This deep understanding is the culmination of the tour, connecting physical activity and cultural wisdom brilliantly.
The end of the trip is the introduction of the essence of Okinawa's spirituality, "Chimgukuru". In addition, you will learn the profound word "Icharibacho Day" (if you meet your brother). This word condenses the warmth and openness of Okinawan culture, and expresses the spirit of Okinawan people who meet for the first time as close as brothers.
Through the experience on the last day, participants will feel and understand Okinawan culture and spirituality with their bodies.
The spirit of peace and harmony learned from the practice of karate, the heart of compassion contained in Chimgukuru,
And the importance of the connections between people shown by Icharibacho Day. Participants will be deeply aware that all of these are important elements that shape the characteristics of the blue zone of Okinawa.
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The tour will end in a heartwarming atmosphere.
Participants are welcomed as members of the Okinawan family, and the host conveys words that wish visitors could revisit. The bonds formed through this immersive experience are further strengthened.
On the last day, we will integrate the physical, philosophical and spiritual aspects of Okinawan culture and provide an overall conclusion as a summary of blue zone exploration.
Participants leave as honorary members of the Okinawa community, not just as tourists, with the spirit of island longevity, harmony, and connection in their hearts.
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