Okinawa, Japan's most exotic and southernmost prefecture, is in a world of its own.
There is no hint from the Okinawans of the suffereing known in times of war, or for that matter in times of peace. They are gentle, friendly people proud of their heritage.

Many people like to relax at the end of their holiday. It may not be on a beach but at least in a place which offers relaxation. Okinawa island, located 1200 km from the mainland, offers just such a location.

The main town, Naha where the airport is located, is very busy but as one goes north more beaches appear with fine white sand and clear blue seas. However, don't expect to find idyllic coves and boutique hotels: there just aren't any. There are a couple of very large, but nice, 5* hotels with good beaches but if the beach is not an essential part of the holiday then there are a couple of smaller hotels set up in the hills with fine views to the sea. Both have golf courses attached to them for those wishing to partake.

It is best to hire a car on Okinawa. Most roads are either signed or numbered but is possible to hire "sat nav" albeit with Japanese instructions. They drive on the left as well. Car hire gives you access to the sites in the north. There are forest walks, great views from the north of the island and a number of other attractions to visit including a botanical garden, pottery kilns and glassware.