Have you ever looked into visiting Okinawa in Japan?

It is known to have one of the beautiful beaches in Japan! A couple of years ago, I visited Miyako-jima. A small island off of the main Okinawa island. Even though it is small, it is still the largest and the most populous island among the Miyako Islands of Okinawa. Miyako-jima is administered as part of the City of Miyakojima, which includes not only Miyako-jima, but also 5 other populated islands. 

This is the Sunayama Beach. This is a popular beach at Miyako, with the natural arch made by corals. It is close to the main part of Miyako. It is nice and small, so it feels like a private beach! You just want to be careful because there is a 5 min. walk through steep sand slope from the parking lot to the beach.

This place is called the Yonaha Maehama Beach. This beach is known to have the whitest sands in the east Asia. The long bridge you see leads to the small island called Raima Island. The drive through this bridge was amazing. You feel like you are driving through the ocean! The water is so clear that you can see sea turtles swimming!

Unlike the city parts of Japan, Miyako does not have skyscrapers (They don't even have trains!) Time moves very slow here, and you get to spend all the time you want, anywhere you want. Just rent a car, and you're all free! (The island is so small that you don't have to rush through to see everything. )

I also experienced handmade traditional crafts! below is a "Shi-sa-" which is a Okinawan Lion, it is place on houses and buildings to protect them from evil things.

Mine looks so friendly...

But really, it's supposed to look like this. Fierce and strong.

Also, I made sea shell earrings! You get to choose from beautiful seashells, found on the beaches of Miyako.

The sea horse is also made from seashells! My friend made a photo frame using seashells and beads. There are many activities like this Miyako as well, but the best part is, it was not too crowded, we were never rushed to do anything, and we were able to take forever to do everything!

The time moved really slow, I spent long time just sitting on the beach, relaxing. After you explore the fun and exciting parts of Japan (such as Tokyo) it might be the best relaxation you can experience before you head back home.