Few places define sanctuary like Japan’s southern collection of islands. A Zen-like calm effuses from this mosaic of green and turquoise, bordered by the ocean’s cerulean majesty. Abounding in natural curiosities, from manta rays to dugongs, waterfalls to cliff trails, Okinawa also has a distinctive cuisine that includes Goya Chanpuru, fermented dishes, and American-influenced taco rice. Despite the inflow of cultures throughout its history, Okinawa’s reverence to nature still transcends.