Ryukyus

The Ryukyu Islands, also known as the Ryukyu Archipelago or Nansei Islands, are a chain of islands extending southwest from Kyushu, Japan, to Taiwan. The largest and most populous island is Okinawa. Historically, these islands were home to the independent Ryukyu Kingdom, which flourished as a maritime trading center for several centuries. The kingdom engaged in trade with China, Korea, Japan, and Southeast Asia, developing a distinct culture influenced by these interactions.

In 1609, the Satsuma domain of Japan invaded the Ryukyu Kingdom, and in 1879, Japan formally annexed the islands, incorporating them into Okinawa Prefecture. During World War II, the Battle of Okinawa was a major and brutal conflict that resulted in significant casualties. Following the war, the islands remained under U.S. administration until 1972, when they were returned to Japanese sovereignty, though a significant U.S. military presence continues to this day.

The Ryukyu Islands possess a unique cultural heritage, including distinct languages, music, dance, cuisine, and traditional crafts. The natural environment is also notable, with many islands featuring coral reefs, subtropical forests, and diverse marine life, contributing to their appeal as tourist destinations. The people of the Ryukyu Islands are often referred to as Uchinanchu.