Okinawa and the Ryukyu Islands: The First Comprehensive Guide to the Entire Ryukyu Island Chain (Revised & Expanded Edition)

Description

Discover the beauty of Okinawa and the Ryukyu islands with this stunning, detailed guide. The beautiful islands of Okinawa and the Ryukyu chain contain some of the most scenic spots in the planet--including many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Dozens of these islands are inhabited and can be easily explored. Visitors are offered opportunities to trek up active volcanoes, soak in natural hot springs, enjoy pristine white sand beaches, tour ancient castles and temples, and sample world-renowned Okinawan dishes. This is the first and only comprehensive guide to the 150-island chain that stretches 600 miles (1,000 km) from Japan to Taiwan. Author Robert Walker has explored the area for decades and tells you exactly where to go, how to get there, where to stay, and what to do and see. In addition, this new edition has been expanded with a story about the recent Shuri Castle fire as well as coverage of many new sights. This detailed guide contains: Complete ferry and flight information. Where to find the best beaches and surf spots. Places suitable for families with children. Hikes and nature walks for all ages and abilities. Hotel and restaurant recommendations. A large pull-out map with insets of the major towns. And so much more! Lavishly illustrated with 300 colour photos and 40 maps, this book has all the information you'll need to maximise your stay in this gorgeous region.

Robert Walker has traveled extensively throughout the Ryukyu Islands for 25 years and lectures about them to groups all over the world. He has visited even the most remote of the inhabited islands. He splits his time between Okinawa and Virginia.

"Illustrated with over 200 color photographs and 40 maps, this book provides essential travel tips to help tourists avoid costly mistakes."--Cultural News "Walker has amassed a huge amount of information--condensed here into 290 pages that cover everything from useful Japanese terms to the activities each island is known for. With key destinations, transportation information and places to stay even on the smallest of islands, all the necessary information is provided without overwhelming the reader."--Japan Times