Besides its lushness, Okinawa proudly exhibits the influences of Japan, Korea and China. Its red-tiled-roof houses let the tropical outdoors inside, and on the roofs often sit one of China’s influences: the shisa, the “lion dog” designed to protect the home from evil spirits. Structures from the kingdoms that have ruled the island provide an even broader look into Okinawa’s past as do modern monuments honouring those who died in World War II. See all of this in one tiny island that invites you to share in its fascinating culture and history.