Okinawa-Travels 2010

2010 will mark my 11th trip to Okinawa. My first trip was complements of the US Army when I was stationed there for two years in the late 60's and early 70's. Needless to say, much has changed in these 40 years, but going back is always like a homecoming.

I began my karate journey in the dojo of Seiyu Oyata in 1969. I was introduced to the culture, language and food of this tiny island and have been in love with it since. Over the years with return trips and continued study with Oyata Sensei, I have come to have a deeper appreciation for this tiny island and it has made a large impact on my life.

After bringing Oyata Sensei to the US in 1977, his organization began to grow and we've enjoyed many years of learning not only his karate knowledge, but an appreciation for the culture and philosophy of the people of Okinawa. Starting in 1990, Oyata Sensei started taking small groups to Okinawa for a first hand look at the culture, food and beauty of this tiny tropical island.

The trips last for about 2 weeks and always include a 3 day tour of the whole island. The trip encompasses the island by touring the Northern region, the central region and the southern region. The trip includes visits to castle ruins and a lesson in the history behind them. It's also sort of a culinary tour as the basic and most famous Okinawa soba, is a little different depending on the area you are in.

The tour often includes the botanical gardens and aquarium which hosts many species of plants and animals unique to the region. Stops at local tourists attractions gives a glimpse of items uniquely Okinawan and a chance to pick up a few souvenirs.

This years trip will begin as the majority of the 34 visitors meet at Chicago's Ohare Airport on April 2 as we embark of the 13 hour flight to Tokyo. From Tokyo it's another 3 hour flight to Naha and our official arrival in Okinawa around 9 pm Saturday night.

Oyata Sensei will meet us at the airport with the tour bus, to take us to the Hotel. After checking in, the plan is to immediately taste the Okinawan cuisine by getting my first bowl of Okinawa soba.

The first day in Okinawa will be a day of acclamation or orientation for the "newbies." The "old hats" will pair off with those that have never been to familiarize them with the area. Where to eat, where the shopping district is located, the bank and how to get back to the hotel.

Starting on Monday morning will be the first leg of the 2010 Okinawa tour. The bus will come to the hotel and we'll embark around 8:00am. The bus tour is likened to a field trip in high school. The rowdy bunch, usually sits in the back of the bus and starts the first jokes of the day. As we tour, Oyata Sensei begins to explain the significance of the historical sites that we visit. We usually spend an hour or two at each site depending on where we are.

So, as we embark on the Okinawa 2010 tour, I will attempt to post the daily happenings and perhaps a photo or two. Stay tuned for upcoming posts.