金曜日, 3月 30, 2007

Scuba w/ Whale Sharks

The seas surrounding Okinawa's islands are considered among the world's most beautiful with coral reefs and abundant marine wildlife. Consequently, snorkeling and scuba diving are among Okinawa's top attractions.


Whale sharks being feed!


hehehe Gotta love the hair!



Jumping Madness!!!

Well, I thought I'd throw in some of the educational stuff about Okinawa on my previous posts before I pulled out the silly stuff.
But low and behold, here are some (these are just a few of the pics I have, since Siobhan and Ash have more on thier cameras) of our Okinawa jumping shots.
Enjoy!

Nevermind the Belly !









水曜日, 3月 28, 2007

Okinawa Beaches & Rocky Shores








Shuri Castle

Shureimon
A city district of Naha today, Shuri is the name of the former capital of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Shuri Castle (Shurijo) served as the administrative center and residence of the Ryukyu kings for several centuries, until Okinawa became a Japanese prefecture in 1879. Wars and fires destroyed Shuri Castle multiple times over the centuries, most recently in the Battle of Okinawa in 1945. The current buildings are beautiful reconstructions dating from 1992.
The castle's main buildings stand on top of a hill and are approached through several gates. The Seiden (Main Hall), former venue of major affairs of state and ceremonies, is the most lavishly decorated building and stands in front of Una Plaza.
Zuisenmon



Seiden (Main Hall)





Nakijin Castle Ruins

Nakijin Castle is one of many castles, built across Okinawa during the era of the Ryukyu Kingdom. The independent kingdom had existed for several centuries prior to becoming a Japanese prefecture in 1879. Only ruins remain of the Nakijin Castle today.
Nakijin Castle is among the sites, which were added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites under the collective title "Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu" in the year 2000.
The castle served as the fortress of the chieftains who ruled the northern district. Built on a mountain with a wide view, the castle is enormous, second to Shurijo Castle in size, and erected strategically yet in harmony with the surrounding geographical features. The curved walls are exquisitely constructed and extend 1.5 kilometers. As you stroll through the grounds, you will see that this invincible castle commands an extraordinary view of pristine blue waters. Nakijin Castle is famous for its early-blooming cherry trees and attracts many visitors every spring.