Okinawa Living Magazine June 2020

JUNE 2020 | Issue 268

contents June 2020

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63 28 MCCS PHOTO, OLEKSAJ, SELLINGPIX,RYZHKOV86, RYZHKO/DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

features 10

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Experience a Whole New World…

Snorkel Okinawa!

Gather the family and delve into a beautiful underwater world unencumbered by tanks and scuba gear.

The Art of Sushi For sushi purists, enjoying a slice of delicate raw tuna on a lightly-vinegared hand-pressed morsel of rice is considered an experience that leaves the realm of cuisine and enters the dominion of art on the palate. This hasn’t always been the case, though.

19

On the cover The freshest of ingredients— whether it’s tuna, squid or steamed shrimp—are vital components to a delicious morsel of sushi.

Need a Vacation?

Did you know that Tours+ is a full-service travel agency offering airline tickets, hotel booking, group and individual vacation packages, cruises, travel insurance, rental car booking and much more? They’re your one-stop-shop for enjoying Okinawa as well as Japan, Asia and beyond (when that becomes possible).

63 Hiking Okinawa There’s nothing like communing with nature while getting a good workout on a hike.

Okinawa and nearby islands offer ample hiking trails and opportunities for outdoor adventure that’ll make a cool dip in the ocean a much sweeter proposition.

contents June 2020

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27 47 fitness + fun 23

Stand Up and Play…at Taiyo Golf Club Created by the Stand Up and Play Foundation (standupandplayfoundation.org), the Paramobile was originally designed for disabled golfers, but can also be customized for use in other sports and leisure activities.

23

Looking for a Few Good Tennis Coaches!

MCCS Semper Fit is looking for a few good tennis coaches to pass on their love of the game to youths, teens and families on Okinawa

MCCS PHOTO, FAMVELDMAN/DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

dining + entertainment 25

Taiyo Steakhouse Steak, it’s considered by many as the epitome of dining experiences and Taiyo Steakhouse, located at the Taiyo Golf Club, takes special pride in every one it serves.

27

LifeJuice…Bringing you Back to Life!

The place to go for juices and smoothies that are great as pre- or post-workout fuel-ups or just an anytime-treat.

27

What’s for Lunch?

How about a burger? A delicious burger for lunch will make for an afternoon of delight with good vibes lasting into the evening. So, where do you get a good burger?

Head to Bulldogs, of course!

marines + families 41

kids + parents 47

Grab the Kids and Kayak with Tours+ The Tours+ Yanbaru Kayaking expedition will provide stress relief (for kids and parents), healthy exercise as well as enjoying the real “great outdoors” in the form of a 2-1/2 hour kayaking adventure amongst the mangroves of Gesashi in northern Okinawa.

Career Focus Education Planning Everyone knows the competition for jobs is fierce, and it’s only going to get harder.

Don’t make the mistake of being ill-prepared, attend the Career Focus Education Planning workshop!

services

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extras

Welcome (virtually) Aboard!

Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a place that newcomers could go before coming to Okinawa with information, resources and tools all located in one place?

Well, fortunately such a place does exist— the Electronic Welcome Aboard package located on mccsokinawa.com.

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FREE Stuff MCCS makes Okinawa a better home-awayfrom-home, and, in many cases, MCCS does this free-of-charge!

9

Feedback + Show Us!

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Living on Okinawa

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Marketplace Guide

JUNE 2020 | ISSUE 268 COMMANDING GENERAL, MCIPAC Brigadier General William J. Bowers ASSISTANT CHIEF OF STAFF, MCCS, MCIPAC Edward S. Hutsell

mensôre “Welcome” to Okinawa Living

DEPUTY ASSISTANT CHIEF OF STAFF, MCCS DIRECTOR, MCCS, MCB CAMP BUTLER Michael S. Gieseck DEPUTY MCCS DIRECTOR MARINE & FAMILY PROGRAMS Carlos J. Saldaña CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER Jim Kassebaum EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mike Daley MCCS ART DIRECTOR Henry C. Ortega OKINAWA LIVING ART DIRECTOR Margie Shimabukuro GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Emeline Toole, Ai Jirka, Giulia Pulvirenti DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Thomas Alan Smilie PHOTOGRAPHER Kailey LaValliere EDITORIAL Alex Jusell DIGITAL & SOCIAL MEDIA Kathlene Millette, Lillion Hunt Hamilton, Hillary Taylor Christine Zimmerman CULTURAL RESEARCH SPECIALIST Ayako Kawamitsu ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP MANAGER Roy Forster ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP Yoshihiro Shinzato, Hiromitsu Horikawa Terumi Nagai, Serge Sombie, Crystal Rivas MARKETING ACCOUNTS MANAGER Andrew Menges MARKETING ACCOUNTS Alicia Sallese, Courtney Davis DISTRIBUTION Jason Jones MARKETING INTERN Clyde Soma Pope

Ah...summertime Heat soaring into the 90s, the delightful sensation of warm, sugar-fine sand between your toes, snorkeling and diving in crystal-clear emerald and azure waters and the reverberating thunder of taiko drums and festival fireworks filling the evening skies (well, hopefully)…summer is officially here!

The evenings are balmy with gentle breezes perfumed with the scent of abundant verdant greenery.

Conditions are perfect for twilight walks, and unfortunately, ideal for a local scaled inhabitant called the habu.

Okinawa is home to a vast variety of reptiles, from the tiny gecko to venomous vipers such as the Okinawan habu. Everyone should know the best way to deal with snakebite is simple—don’t get bitten in the first place! Rule #1 in lessening your chances of this is to pay attention to your surroundings when outdoors. Watch not only where you step— especially in areas where there is heavy vegetation, rocks, stones and piles of debris—but also be cautious when reaching into that rock crevice to pick up the can of bug repellent you just dropped. You may also want to clear away overgrown bushes in your yard, mow the lawn regularly, get rid of that small mountain of rocks (use a long, sturdy stick), and adequately light the area around your home in the evenings.

Habu are among many creatures that receive undue bad publicity, and although considering them “cute and cuddly” may be a stretch, they are definitely deserving of respect….and tons of caution.

As always, we thank you for picking up this issue of Okinawa Living Magazine, now time to turn the page and let your journey begin!

We welcome your comments.

Please send letters to editor@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org For advertising | 広告掲載のお問い合わせ (日本語可) 098-970-2245 (phone) | 098-970-0975 (fax) sales@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org (email) See our advertising rates at mccsokinawa.com MCCS MARKETING BRANCH MCB Camp S.D. Butler. Unit 35023, FPO AP 96378-5023

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Mike Daley Editor-In-Chief

Okinawa Living is published by MCCS Marketing. Its purpose is to inform the military and civilian community about events and programs offered by MCCS or available in the local market. Dates and times may change. Copyright ©2020

by MCCS. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transferred in any form, by any means, electronic, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without written permission of the copyright owner. No federal or Marine Corps endorsement of advertisers and sponsors. MCCS is not responsible for editing content of non-MCCS ads.

Okinawa Living Magazine is printed with

Take us on the road Enjoy Okinawa Living Magazine on your favorite mobile device!

Visit mccsokinawa.com/ol for the latest issue. Also, visit issuu.com/mccsokinawa to see back issues of the magazine.

feedback from the ICE Program and Facebook

@okilivingmag Show us your island adventures and favorite food finds!

Pizza Palooza is very generous of MCCS! So nice to see at least one branch truly giving back to its members in a thoughtful way.

—via Facebook.

Thank you for the free pizzas. It really helped my children to have a tangible representation that other people know how hard all of these COVID-19 changes have been. They say, “Thank you for the pizza!” and “Thank you for the yummy drinks.”

—via Facebook

@shelby.jolynne Sebastian #okilivingmag

[Personal Financial Management Specialist] Mr. Anthony Greene is very helpful to my family and I when it comes to helping with our finances and credit. Thank you so much for supporting us Mr. Greene!

—via ICE Thanks again MCCS Okinawa! My kids were very happy with their toy bag (distributed May 11 on Camp Courtney as part of the “Oh Boy, More Toys!” event). Loving all the little

@frankiezfam

giveaways!

—via Facebook

Okinawa buzzes with residual energy.

No matter how far off the beaten path or how deep into the jungle we go, we always always always come across some sort of tomb. #okilivingmag

Thank you so much for looking out for the Marines up there at JWTC/Camp Gonsalves!

You are doing a great job keeping morale up especially during these (COVID) times.

—via Facebook The Butler Officers’ Club hosted a great Mother’s Day event. It was very well organized, the food was excellent and the staff was awesome. This was a great experience for our whole family. During these times of COVID, the way the meal was organized with reservations and (socially distanced) seating made a safe and outstanding experience for my family.

Thank you!

—via ICE You guys got my teen and preteen to wake up before 7 on purpose and by choice with a smile on their faces, though they said they liked the times for lunch better—ha ha. Thank you so much for the food giveaways!

@mo_z1lla

Whatever you decide to do in life I’m here to catch you! #okilivingmag

—via Facebook My shop of Marines was really happy with the free (Chorizo & Potato) breakfast burritos this morning. Thank you so much.—via Facebook Awesome to see this (480 free pizzas at Camp Schwab) for the Marines!!! Way to go MCCS! —via Facebook

Domo arigatou gozaimashita and thank you for your posts! We can’t wait to see what else you love about Okinawa!

—The Okinawa Living Staff

Give MCCS Feedback—ICE Program & Facebook Let us know how we can better serve you or thank us for a job well-done. Go to mccsokinawa.com and click on the ICE link at the bottom of the homepage or find us on Facebook to share feedback. Comments on this page may be edited for clarity or length.

JUNE 2020 | OKINAWA LIVING 9

EXPERIENCE

A WHOLE N

SNORKEL OKINAWA!

OUT + ABOUT

EW WORLD...

Text by MIKE DALEY

ADOBEPHOTOSHOPEXPRESS

Layout by MARGIE SHIMABUKURO

JUNE 2020 | OKINAWA LIVING 11

OUT + ABOUT

S MIKE DALEY, YAYIMAGES/DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

cuba diving is great—it enables us to enter the underwater world somewhat on our own terms, as we’re bringing the air down with us to breathe. Snorkeling, on the other hand, is a bit different. Armed with a mask, BCD, fins and snorkel (and a wetsuit when conditions warrant) we enter the water more on the ocean’s terms—unencumbered by gear that would make Usain Bolt as slow as a snail if he wore it on dry land.

Snorkeling in the waters surrounding this beautiful island is one of the Okinawa’s most popular pastimes—especially during the summer months. Not only is snorkeling fun and rewarding no matter what age, the entire family can discover a whole new world together with minimum worries about hauling a metric ton of gear per participant (yes, that’s an exaggeration but you get my point).

JUNE 2020 | OKINAWA LIVING 13

OUT + ABOUT

MIKE DALEY, RRUNTSCH/DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

The main island of Okinawa features many points catering to many different skill levels. You can hover above gardens of soft corals off Sunabe Seawall, gaze into the depths of the deepest azure off Maeda Point and try to see the bottom 30+ meters below, or marvel at expanses of branch and table corals at points off Onna Village. At most venues you can spy sea life in multitudes—eagle rays, clownfish and anemones, turtles, reef sharks and fish in every shape and color you can imagine and then some.

Although you can snorkel anywhere along the coast, many well-known “favorite” spots can quickly become crowded as the weather warms up. Even Sunabe Seawall can get a bit old after you’ve visited enough times, and you’d rather not have to climb back up those steps at Maeda Point again. Well, thanks to MCCS Tours+, you have more options—new “fantastic points of view” so to speak.

JUNE 2020 | OKINAWA LIVING 15

OUT + ABOUT

MIKE DALEY, JAVARMAN/DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

Tours+ offers snorkeling tours to the beautiful azure waters surrounding the Kerama Islands all summer. The Keramas are less than 40 kilometers southwest of Okinawa. The small archipelago is made up of four larger populated islands— Tokashiki, Zamami, Aka and Geruma—and 16 other tiny islets. The island group is designated a Japanese National Park.

And here, in the clear waters, sea life flourishes undisturbed in waters so blue that a phrase—Kerama Blue—was coined.

You too can explore the depths and beauty of these blues with Tours+. These tours include a boat ride to two snorkeling spots in the Kerama Islands. Don’t worry about an awkward entry walking on fins, just relax and enjoy the ride. When the boat arrives at its destination, you can just dive right in.

Grab your gear and get ready for some fun! Bring lunch, hydration, snorkeling set (mask, snorkel, fins and approved personal flotation vest/device), and wetsuits (if desired).

Pregnant women and children under the age of 4 aren’t allowed on this tour (call 646-3502 for more information or visit Tours+ online at mccsokinawa.com/tours). Go ahead, discover a whole new word with Tours+!

JUNE 2020 | OKINAWA LIVING 17

FITNESS + FUN

NEED

a

VACATION? TEXT BY MIKE DALEY

LAYOUT BY MARGIE SHIMABUKURO

Most will agree that 2020 has been a very long and tiring year so far. As normalcy—as in perpetual traffic jams and the daily grind of work—slowly returns to the world, many are probably dreaming of a vacation (constantly).

SELLINGPIX/DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

T

ours+ is a full-service travel agency offering airline tickets, hotel booking, group and individual vacation packages, cruises, travel insurance, rental car booking and much more—your one-stopshop for enjoying Okinawa as well as Japan, Asia and beyond (when that becomes possible, again)!

On Okinawa, stroll through lush gardens, castle ruins, museums, historical sites, recreational facilities, beaches and more on one of the many available MCCS Tours+ local excursions. Tours vary monthly and special tours to festivals and events such as the Nago Cherry Blossom Festival, Naha Tug-of-War and more are available throughout the year.

Seasonal tours such as Kerama Snorkeling, Spooky Sites and Christmas Illumination are also available.

JUNE 2020 | OKINAWA LIVING 19

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FITNESS + FUN

Tours+ can also schedule an excursion tailored to your schedule. Tours+ offers special trips for up to 55 people including transportation and a knowledgeable tour guide to locales such as the Churaumi Aquarium, Okinawa World, Hiji Falls, Shuri Castle, Battle Sites and more! Private tours are available as well as unit tours payable via unit funds.

MIKE DALEY , KAILEY LAVALLIERE, MOON BEACH, KAFUU RESORT FUCHAKU

For those wishing to drive on their own, Tours+ also offers discounted tickets to local attractions such as Bios on the Hill, Okinawa World Gyokusendo Kingdom Village, Valley of Gangala, the Japanese Naval Underground Headquarters, Kongou Sekirinzan, Murasaki Mura, Neo Wildlife Park, Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium & Expo Park, Southeast Botanical Gardens and more.

In addition, Tours+ offers perfect staycation opportunities with discounted tickets to local hotels, resorts and spas. The list include world-class resorts such as ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Hotel, Centurion Hotel Churaumi, Coco Garden Resort Okinawa, EM Costa Vista Okinawa Hotel & Spa, EXES Spa Resort, Laguna Garden Hotel, Hotel Moon Beach, Moon Ocean Ginowan Hotel & Residence, Okinawa Kariyushi Beach Resort Ocean Spa, Okinawa Kariyushi Urban Resort Naha, Okinawa Marriot Resort & Spa, Pricia Resort Yoron, Tokashiku Marine Village and YYY Club iE Resort.

For more information on MCCS Tours+ offerings, call them at 646-3502 or visit mccsokinawa.com/tours.

INDIVIDUAL DIVE TRAVEL PACKAGES Tours+, in conjunction with MCCS Tsunami Scuba, offers a custom tour that’s a diver’s and adventure-seekers dream-come-true—Individual Dive Travel Packages! Let the pros at Tours+ and Tsunami Scuba take the hassle out of booking your next dive dream vacation. With literally thousands of dive properties and resorts located worldwide at their fingertips they’re sure to have the destination that YOU want to go to—all you have to do is choose the date and they do all the rest! For more information on Individual Dive Packages, visit your nearest Tours+ or Tsunami Scuba Center.

JUNE 2020 | OKINAWA LIVING 21

FITNESS + FUN

Stand Up and Play… …at Taiyo Golf Club

MCCS PHOTO, GIOVANNICAITO2/DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

Did you know that Taiyo Golf Club is equipped with a Paramobile unit? Created by the Stand Up and Play Foundation (standupandplayfoundation.org), the Paramobile was originally designed for disabled golfers, but can also be customized for use in other sports and leisure activities.

Taiyo’s Paramobile has been in operation since 2014. The therapeutic benefits of the golf for physically limited players are immense—it promotes circulation and digestion, stretches tendons and ligaments, reduces spasticity and prevents joints seizing up. Also, the Paramobile’s unequalled stability when the golfer is hitting the ball enables performance that is comparable to those of non-handicapped players. Thanks to this piece of equipment, wheelchair users are discovering a new and unimagined level of freedom and independence. Being able to stand up boosts self-esteem—one can finally stand up while facing others at eye level—and has a therapeutic benefit.

The mission of the Stand Up and Play Foundation is to provide wheelchair users and others with impaired mobility the opportunity to stand up and engage in recreational and everyday activities through access to Paramobiles, clinics and recreational programs.

If you or someone you know could benefit from the Paramobile at Taiyo GC, please call 622-2013 for more details.

Looking for a Few Good… …Tennis Coaches!

Do you love tennis? We mean really love the game…enough to pass that passion on to the next generation? Well, Semper Fit needs you!

Semper Fit is looking for a few good tennis coaches to teach the game to youths, teens and families on Camps Kinser, Foster and Courtney.

The qualities Semper fit is seeking include knowledge of tennis mechanics—grip, strokes, spins, footwork, strategy and tactics as well as tons of patience, good communication skills and a

genuine enthusiasm and excitement for the sport. In other words, prospective candidates should be adaptable, experienced and motivated to motivate!

Interested? Send your resume to adultsports@okinawa.usmcmccs.org. For more information, call 645-4866 or visit Semper Fit online at mccsokinawa.com/semperfit or facebook.com/mccsokinawa. sportsandwellness.

JUNE 2020 | OKINAWA LIVING 23

DINING+ENTERTAINMENT

Sumo Burrito Customize your Craving

At Sumo Burrito, customize your craving with a freshly wrapped burrito, bowl, soft taco, plate of nachos or a salad—all tailored to your appetite.

First, choose between three “levels” of chicken, beef or pork (Level 1, $7.50, Level 2 $8.50 or the behemoth Level 3 for $9.50) and supplement it with cilantrolime or Mexican rice. Next, add black or pinto beans, fajita veggies and grilled corn/black beans.

Top off your delicious creation with lettuce, onions, tomatoes, shredded cheese and jalapenos and your choice of sour cream, red salsa or salsa verde. Guacamole and pico de gallo are also available for an extra $1.50 and you can make it a combo (which includes chips, nacho cheese or salsa and a fountain drink) for $2.

Side items at Sumo include Guac & Chips ($2.50), Cheese & Chips ($1.50), Salsa & Chips ($1.50) and fountain drinks for $1.75. A Kids Meal, which includes one taco with chips, nacho cheese and a kid’s drink costs $4. For locations and hours of operation, visit mccsokinawa.com/ sumoburrito.

Taiyo Steakhouse THOMAS ALAN SMILIE, HILLARY TAYLOR

The Best Steaks on Island…and more!

Steak, it’s considered by many as the epitome of dining experiences and Taiyo Steakhouse, located at the Taiyo Golf Club, takes special pride in every one it serves.

Prime beef is available in a variety of cuts—all broiled using 1,200 degree heat and seasoned with sea salt and fresh ground black pepper.

Dinner is served Wednesday–Sunday (closed on holidays) from 6 to 9 p.m.

Lunch is served Monday–Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Weekend à la carte breakfast items are available Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Reservations are recommended (required for dinner) and can be made by calling 622-2020. A full menu is available for viewing at mccsokinawa.com/taiyosteakhouse.

JUNE 2020 | OKINAWA LIVING 25

DINING+ENTERTAINMENT

What’s for Lunch?

How About a Burger?

Have you made your lunch plans yet? How about a burger? For many, there aren’t very many truly viscerally enjoyable eating experiences as biting into a good burger. Burgers transcend “comfort” food and tread in the dangerous land of guilty pleasures. A delicious burger for lunch will make for an afternoon of delight with good vibes lasting into the evening. So, where do you get a good burger? Head to Bulldogs, of course!

Take a bite out of our Original Bulldog, Double Stack, Mushroom and Swiss, Better Cheddar, Bacon Bulldog, Bacon Jalapeno

or the Bacon and Blue Cheese. Those wishing an alternative to beef can opt for the vegetarian option—made with 100% plantbased Beyond Burger patties.

All Bulldog Burgers are available as a combo that includes a choice of French fries, sweet potato fries or onion petals and a fountain drink. For a full menu, hours of operation, phone numbers and a listing of other Bulldogs locations, visit mccsokinawa. com/bulldogs.

LifeJuice…

HILLARY TAYLOR, MCCS PHOTO

…bringing you back to Life!

The name says it all. The juices and smoothies will bring you back to the world of the living. The offerings are great as pre or post-workout fuel-ups or just an anytimetreat. Race cars rely on high-quality fuel to run as efficiently as possible, and your body mechanisms are no different. You may have never given much thought to what keeps your body running smoothly during your workout, but LifeJuice has.

These smoothies can deliver the extra oomph you need to go faster and longer during your workouts. And, let’s not forget that smoothies and juices also taste great.

You don’t need to work up a sweat to enjoy freshly squeezed and blended drinks.

Camps Schwab, Hansen, Courtney, Foster and Kinser as well as MCAS Futenma each have LifeJuice Cafés conveniently located inside their Semper Fit facilities. For hours of operation, a full menu and more go to mccsokinawa.com/lifejuice.

JUNE 2020 | OKINAWA LIVING 27

the

ART OF SUSHI Text by Mike Daley / Layout by Giulia Pulvirenti

Japan is known for its arts—as beautiful as they’re austere. This artistry isn’t limited to the world of ink and brushes…it also extends into the world of cuisine.

JUNE 2020 | OKINAWA LIVING 29

ADEHOIDAR/DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM MRSIRAPHOL/BDEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

From the simple yet eminently meaningful movements of chadō, or tea ceremony, to the ritualistic pounding of rice into mochi rice cakes for New Year’s, the art of Japanese cuisine is simultaneously simple and profound. The art of sushi shares this trait.

For many in Japan, whether young or old, the thought of a world without sushi is unthinkable. This culinary art can be considered as purely “Nipponese” as the ancient blades used by samurai in ages past and the hinomaru (sun) emblazoned on the national flag still flying today. For purists, enjoying a slice of delicate maguro on a lightly-vinegared hand-pressed morsel of rice is considered an experience that leaves the realm of cuisine and enters the dominion of art on the palate. This hasn’t always been the case, though.

Sushi has been a part of Japanese cuisine for a very long time but it wasn’t always high-end dining. Sushi’s origins were utilitarian and initially it was worlds apart from the artful and delicious morsels prepared in modern sushi bars. During the

7th century, the Japanese began packing lunches using fish preserved for journeys by salting it and packing it into jars and wooden boxes with rice. The combination of ingredients caused the fish and rice to ferment, releasing lactic acid, and, in essence, pickling the fish. When the fish was ready to be eaten, the rice was thrown away and the fish was cleaned and served.

This was known as nare-zushi.

Over time, vinegar was added to the rice used for preserving the fish, which also sped up the pickling process. Eventually, people decided that tossing out the vinegared rice was wasteful, so they started eating it along with the fish.

During the 19th century in Edo (now known as Tokyo), a street vendor named Yohei Hanaya decided to substitute slices of raw fresh fish (sashimi) on top of the sushi rice right from his stall. This innovative new food gained immediate popularity because it was delectable, satisfying, and more importantly, quick and portable.

RYZHKOV86/DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

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JAG_CZ/DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

These innovative bite-sized treats served

by Hanaya at his pioneering sushi bar came to be known as nigiri-sushi, which means “hand-pressed” sushi. Today, in addition to nigiri-sushi, there are several different types of sushi, which can be savored at sushi bars located throughout Japan.

Some of the more popular types of sushi include gunkan, maki, temaki and chirashi. Gunkan sushi consists of sushi rice and ingredients encircled by toasted nori seaweed. There are numerous variations of this kind of sushi but most, such as sea urchin or various kinds of fish eggs, would fall off without the support of the seaweed. Maki-sushi consists of sushi rice, seafood, or vegetables rolled tightly into a cylinder and sliced into manageable pieces.

Like other types of sushi, maki-sushi can be made with just about any type of ingredient. Some maki-sushi, such as the California roll, is made “inside out” and has sushi rice on the outside of the roll instead of inside. Temanki is also rolled in nori, but it is lightly rolled by hand into a cone (kind of like a sushi ice cream cone). Chirashi sushi is a common dish made at home. This easy-to-fix dish is made of sushi rice with seafood scattered on top and served in a bowl or a box.

JUNE 2020 | OKINAWA LIVING 33

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Much has changed since the 7th century, but preparing fish for sushi today is still an art in itself, taking years of study to master properly. The thickness of each slice is measured precisely, and depends on the type of fish. For example, Ika (squid) is often cut into ribbons, and can resemble udon noodles, while maguro (tuna) is always cut “against the grain.” Since slicing is such a large part of the preparation process, chefs maintain impressive arsenals of special precision cutting instruments.

Japan is well-known for its blades, and the aforementioned katana are prime

examples of the art of blade making. Many chefs who prepare sushi use knives forged using the same methods. Called hōchō, these traditional Japanese knives are made of a fusion of a piece of hardened carbon steel called hagane and a piece of softer steel or iron for durability. There are several different traditional types of hōchō but the three most commonly found in the hands of a sushi chef are the yanagi-bōchō, the deba-bōchō and the usuba-bōchō. The yanagi-bōchō is used to make thin slices of fish and it is often the most used. A larger version of the yanagi-bōchō, called

the maguro-bōchō, can reach lengths of 1.5m and cost tens of thousands of dollars.

The deba-bōchō is used primarily for initial preparation such as cleaning. It has a very thick and heavy blade appropriate for chopping off heads and tails. Less expensive versions made of stainless steel can be found in the majority of Japanese homes. The usuba-bōchō is often referred to as the vegetable knife. It is used to create paper-thin gari (pickled ginger roots used to cleanse the palate) as well as the threadlike strips of daikon and other garnishes.

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Sushi is primarily made from seafood, and although the cuisine is now known worldwide, some ingredients can only be enjoyed in Japan. The more common types of toppings found in just about every sushi bar are maguro, kajiki (marlin) salmon, ika and boiled shrimp (ebi). The popular yellowtail (also known as the amberjack) is collectively called hamachi, kampachi or buri (depending on the stage of growth). The flounder is also enjoyed and is called hirame. Real king crab meat is called kani, and the inexpensive imitation used in makisushi is called kani-kan.

Some ingredients are better left to the intermediate and advanced sushi eaters, and fish roe (eggs) are at the top of the list for many.

There are many different types of roe used for sushi but some of the more popular are ikura (salmon roe); kazunoko (herring roe); masago (capelin roe); tobiko (flying fish roe); and uni (which can be very expensive). Other ingredients that may not be very inviting to the beginner include tako (boiled octopus), kanimiso (crab innards), and odori ebi. Odori-ebi is only for the truly adventurous as the shrimp are still alive and kicking when served.

One can learn much about a country's culture through its art and its cuisine. Sushi offers an opportunity to enjoy both simultaneously. And although insights might vary, most will agree that the world of this Japanese culinary art is a delicious one‌pure and simple.

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MARINES + FAMILIES

Career Focus Education Planning Find the Best Path for You

Since the world is ever-changing, the job market is ever-changing. In other words, new professions are constantly being created while the traditional ones are either being altered or disappearing. This means skills and education requirements are constantly changing as well. So then, just how prepared are you?

Everyone knows the competition for jobs is fierce, and it’s only going to get harder. So if you make the mistake of being ill-prepared, you probably won’t stand a chance. Therefore, if you want to be successful, you need to set goals and take the necessary actions. But, of course, you need a plan first.

Obviously, you want a job that involves doing something you love.

However, finding the right path is harder than it seems. You have to explore educational and career goals that are compatible with your talents, experience, interest, values, personality and aspirations. Also, if you choose to seek higher education, you have to consider how your educational pursuits will impact future career opportunities. Now, this process

may seem a little overwhelming at first, but don’t worry. You don’t have to figure it out all by yourself.

MCCS Education Centers can give you all the help you need. To get started, simply attend a Career Focus Education Planning class. These virtual workshops will introduce assessment tools that identify possible choices for majors and careers based on the evaluation of an individual.

Participants will also learn how to develop a strategic plan that utilizes their military experience, certifications and education to help them enter their desired career field.

So log in, learn more about yourself and explore training programs, areas of study and occupations that are compatible with your personal attributes. Virtual Career Focus Education Planning Workshops will be held June 3 & 17 and both classes will run from 10 to 11 a.m.

To register, please email education@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org with your name and rank. For more information, visit mccsokinawa.com/educationandcareerservices.

Japanese Language PRESSMASTER/DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

Learning Classes A big part of any culture that should never be discounted are the subtle nuances of its native tongue. In Japan, there are sentiments which exist that simply cannot be expressed in English. So to improve your life here on island and be the best ambassador you can possibly be, why not try learning some basic Japanese?

At the Basic Japanese Language Class hosted by MCCS Personal & Professional Development-Resources (P&PD-R), you’ll learn helpful terms that’ll make your interactions on Okinawa go a whole lot smoother. It’ll also provide you with the proper footing neces-

sary to take your Japanese language skills to the next level if you so wish. Learn Japanese words for numbers and how to count, selfintroduction, conversational Japanese often spoken in restaurants and stores, names for body parts and even basic sentence structure!

This class is geared towards adult learners, and broken down into four parts with each session lasting about 90 minutes. Visit Cultural Awareness at mccsokinawa.com/culturalawareness or call your local P&PD-R office for upcoming dates, times and locations (or to register) for this class.

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MARINES + FAMILIES

Welcome (virtually) Aboard!

The MCCS Electronic Welcome Aboard Package The relocation process for service members and their families can be enormously stressful, and these hassles can be magnified exponentially when relocating overseas. Moving to an overseas installation adds a ton of additional processes and factors that service members and their families have to deal with on top of all the “normal” Permanent Change of Station (PCS) procedures.

Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a place that they could go before coming to Okinawa with information, resources and tools all located in one place?

Well, fortunately such a place does exist—the Electronic Welcome Aboard package located on mccsokinawa.com.

This package provides stress-alleviating assistance for all service members, civilians and their family members regarding their relocation to Okinawa.

The Electronic Welcome Aboard package includes PCS flowcharts for both Navy and Marine Corps personnel, a multitude of PCS checklists that can be used during the relocation process, onand off-base housing information, pet importation information and even a driving handbook for Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) licensed drivers! What’s more, this is only some of the fabulous information and resources available.

The Welcome Aboard Package can be accessed at mccsokinawa. com/welcomeaboard. This package is also a great resource for sponsors on island helping those who are coming here. In addition, Information and Referral Specialists are available to assist you at a Personal and Professional Development-Resources Center near you.

Get Lost in the Library…

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…you’ll be glad you did!

Get lost in a good read or plug into an audiobook. MCCS Libraries are home to hundreds of books, graphic novels, magazines and newspapers, DVDs, video games, music CDs and USMC/USN professional reading collections.

In addition, MCCS Libraries offer interlibrary loans, adult, teen, children & family programs, Japanese language learning, the Summer Reading Program, conference rooms & meeting spaces, gaming nights, crafts, charging stations as well as eResources such as EBSCO/GALE research databases, Mango Languages, Universal Class, Launchpad Brain Games and much more.

For the creatives, there’s also the Innovation Lab! There you’ll find 3D printers, die-cut machines, a research-grade robot, coding programs, Raspberry Pi’s, Oculus Rift virtual reality stations, Microsoft HoloLens headsets, LittleBits Pro Library, vinyl cutters, musical instruments, music and photo editing software and many more makerspace opportunities.

For more information about MCCS Libraries, visit mccsokinawa.com/libraries.

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TROY’s Military and Family Scholarship caps the cost of tuition at $250 per credit hour for active military. Also, your spouse and dependents receive up to 50% in tuition savings.

CONTACT THE PROGRAM

COORDINATOR NEAREST YOU FOR MORE INFORMATION

KADENA AB kadena@troy.edu DSN 634-7464

OSAN AB osan@troy.edu DSN 784-8151

MISAWA AB misawa@troy.edu DSN 226-3748

CAMP HUMPHREYS humphreys@troy.edu DSN 755-3534

troy.edu/pacific

for

Troops Center

TERM I, 2020 Aug. 10 - Oct. 11, 2020 Application Deadline: 07/31/20 Registration Begins: 05/04/20 TERM II, 2020 Oct. 12 - Dec. 13, 2020 Application Deadline: 10/02/20 Registration Begins: 09/21/20 TERM III, 2021 Jan. 4 - Mar. 7, 2021 Application Deadline: 12/18/20 Registration Begins: 11/23/20 TERM IV, 2021 Mar. 15 - May 16, 2021 Application Deadline: 03/05/21 Registration Begins: 02/22/21 TERM V, 2021 May 24 - Jul. 25, 2021 Application Deadline: 05/14/21 Registration Begins: 05/03/21

MARINES + FAMILIES

Men’s Health Month

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Preventative Care and Early Detection June is Men’s Health Month. During this month dedicated to the health of dads, sons and brothers everywhere, everyone is encouraged to heighten awareness of preventable health problems and urge early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys.

Men’s Health Month gives healthcare providers, public policy makers, the media as well as individuals an opportunity to encourage the men and boys in their lives to seek regular medical advice and early treatment for disease and injury. Every year, thousands of awareness activities are held in the US as well as throughout the world.

Overall, men tend to lead less healthy lifestyles, and engage in higher risk activities than women. To make matters worse, they are also less likely to seek help early. Women are 100 % more likely to seek preventative (non-illness) healthcare according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

What can you do? Everyone can help by encouraging men to take

steps to improve their health before an overnight (or longer) stay in a hospital is necessary.

Cajole and persuade the men in your life to stop smoking and maintain a healthy weight, blood pressure and blood cholesterol level for starters. Let them know that performing 30–60 minutes of brisk exercise on most days of the week, eating fruits and vegetables, keeping fat intake at a healthy level and incorporating plenty of whole grain foods into a diet is worthwhile not only for them, but for those that care about them as well.

Also, knowing family medical history and educating themselves about health, safety and disease prevention is paramount as well.

Early detection is a must…annual physical examinations and preventive services should be a priority. For resources on genderspecific health concerns, contact MCCS Health Promotion at 6453910 or visit mccsokinawa.com/healthpromotion.

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KIDS+PARENTS

Grab the Kids and Kayak… …with Tours+ Kayaking is a popular leisure activity on Okinawa. A great way to revitalize the psyche, kayaking can also be a great workout for the whole family. By now, kids are probably overflowing with energy…and are finally tired of selling turnips and catching scorpions on “Animal Crossing: New Horizons.” Well, maybe not.

The Tours+ Yanbaru Kayaking expedition will provide stress relief (for kids and parents), healthy exercise as well as enjoying the

real “great outdoors” (sans scorpions) in the form of a 2-1/2 hour kayaking adventure amongst the mangroves of Gesashi in northern Okinawa for parents and kids over 5. All you need to bring is a fresh change of clothes, a towel, sunscreen, sandals, a hat and a packed lunch with plenty of drinking water.

For more information on this tour as well as other offerings, call 646-3502 or visit mccsokinawa.com/tours.

Kids on the Move:

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Summer Edition: Part II These days, left to their own (handheld) devices, kids aren’t getting nearly as much outdoor play and exercise as they used to. Instead, daily walks are replaced by lazy afternoons spent inside hunched over a gadget or in front of a screen; and while children do deserve time to just veg out and relax, even a mere few weeks of inactivity has the potential to completely undo any improvements made during the school year to your children’s physical health.

That is why MCCS Health Promotion is holding Kids on the Move: Summer Edition Part II, a two-day creative, interactive and game-centered fitness program FREE for all children on summer vacation. Exciting activities such as dodgeball, relay races and other energizing exercises disguised as games will remind children of all the fun there is to be had running around with friends in the fresh summer air.

Kids on the Move: Summer Edition Part

II takes place July 15–17 from 9 to 10 a.m. on Camp Foster (in case of inclement weather, Kids on the Move will be held inside Gunners Fitness Center). Children must be ages 7 to 12 to enroll. To register, download a packet and register online at mccsokinawa. com/healthpromotion.

For more information, call 645-3910.

You can also visit Health Promotion on Facebook at facebook.com/mccsokinawasportsandwellness.

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KIDS+PARENTS

Learning Life Lessons…

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…with a Ball and a Bat Bruises, an endless cycle of dirty uniforms, countless worthwhile lessons and memories to cherish forever. Most people who played a sport as a child will tell you that they absolutely loved it, whether they enjoyed the competitive or social aspect—or both. Most will also tell you that if they could, they’d go back to the countless hours spent at practices and games. The same goes for parents, although having a kid on a team took up quite a bit of their already busy schedule. They’ll also tell you that the joy of cheering on their little ones, watching them improve and seeing them learn life lessons that they can take with them off the field is a feeling you can’t find anywhere else.

Believe it or not, youth sports are more than just games. They’re opportunities for young children to be a part of something bigger than themselves. Also, being a part of a team helps kids develop problemsolving and time management skills, learn how to handle stress and become more confident when it comes to interacting with others. In other words, you could say that sports prepare our youth for living life as an adult. That’s not all though. Participating in sports at a young age also teaches two lessons that are not only vital for those who want to

grow up to be successful, but for those who simply want to be decent people. These lessons are how to fail and how to win.

Since no one’s perfect, failing is inevitable. However, sports teach children how to lose graciously, make adjustments, set new goals and most importantly—to never give up. As a result, they master how to quickly rebound from failure. They learn how to win graciously as well, which is critical when it comes to respecting others. It doesn’t take long to figure out that sacrifices have to be made in order to win, either. After all, to beat the other team, everyone has to fight, sacrifice and be the absolute best they can be by giving all they’ve got.

MCCS Youth Sports is conducting their annual summer baseball/ softball registration June 1-30, 2020. Register your child ages 5 to 18 for youth baseball and softball online at mccsokinawa.com/youthsports or at any staffed MCCS Fitness Center until June 30. For more information, call 645-3533 or email youthsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.

Youth Sports is also recruiting coaches! Registration is available at any staffed MCCS Fitness Center or online at mccsokinawa.com/coachescorner all-year-round.

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KIDS+PARENTS

CYP Benefits and Events

HILLARY TAYLOR

Something for everyone!

Summer is here and your local MCCS Youth and Teen Centers are the place to be for kids as the heat dials up to eleven. Each day, centers on Camps Courtney, Foster and Kinser have activities and events planned to stave off boredom. Anyone between the ages of 10 and 18 is invited to hang out with their friends and watch movies, play video games, challenge each other in board games and more (even study)!

Along with various activities, each center hosts a variety of clubs and classes for youth and teens to engage in. Passport to Manhood and SMART girls are classes designed to address age and gender specific issues youth and teens encounter as they grow up. There is also Torch Club, a character and leadership

development club to help adolescents build their personality traits through volunteer activities. Each center also offers unique classes, such as Book Club, Art Club, Cooking Club and more.

Throughout the month, the Youth and Teen Centers schedule crafts, sports, membership appreciation parties and themed events for members to enjoy. And don’t forget the Lock-In events, where members are invited to stay the night at the facility and play games, watch movies, and eat yummy snacks.

Sound interesting? Here’s what you need to do to join: go to mccsokinawa.com/ cyp and download the Youth and Teen Registration Packet. The simple questionnaire needs to be filled out by your parents,

as their permission is required. Then, submit the info to your local club.

Camp Courtney’s Youth and Teen Center is located near the Camp Courtney MCCS Community Center and the Courtney Housing Office, or call 622-9702 for more information. The Camp Foster Kishaba Youth Center is located next to Zukeran Elementary School. Call 645-8012 for more information.

Camp Foster’s Teen Center is located inside The Spot. Call 645-1004 for more information.

Camp Kinser’s Youth Center is located down the street from Kinser Elementary School.

Call 637-2248 for more information. Camp Kinser’s Youth and Teen Centers are located across from the Kinser Bowling Center. Call 637-1755 for more information.

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SERVICES

FREE Stuff Who Said Nothing’s Free?

Actually, a lot of people do as it’s a popular adage. Perhaps these people have never heard of MCCS? MCCS makes Okinawa a better home-away-from-home, and, in many cases, MCCS does this free-of-charge.

What does MCCS offer for FREE? We’re glad you asked.

Enjoy FREE golf clinics, swing instruction and more at Taiyo Golf Club. MCCS Clubs and Restaurants offer tons of FREE stuff—from

concerts to karaoke. Get fit for FREE at MCCS Fitness Centers’ gyms, classes, fitness assessments and more. Learn about Japanese culture and even some of the language with FREE classes with Personal and Professional Development-Resources (P&PD-R). And, that’s just the tip of the FREE iceberg!

Want more FREE stuff? For a full listing of everything that’s FREE at MCCS, check out mccsokinawa.com/FREE.

MCCS Gift Certificates

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The Versatile Gift

Show them how much you care with an MCCS Gift Certificate for that special occasion. What can they get with one? How about camping gear rental from MCCS Outdoor Recreation? Why not a relaxing massage or performance-enhancing dietary supplement from Semper Fit? Or a customized bowling ball from the Camp Foster Bowling Pro Shop, a tour from Tours+ or a framed photo or art class at Foster Framing and Fine Arts?

The MCCS Gift Certificate is the most versatile gift, made for everyone. Use it on tickets to one of MCCS’ premiere culinary events, an oil change from Typhoon Motors, golf apparel from Taiyo Golf Club…the list is endless. MCCS Gift Certificates are available at MCCS retail facilities island-wide in $5, $10 and $20 denominations.

For more information, visit mccsokinawa.com/giftcertificates.

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SERVICES

The Liberty App Making your Stay Better

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While this is a gorgeous island full of breathtaking views, unique culture and history, it’s still not easy uprooting and moving to a different country. After all, moving abroad can be extremely stressful, and the amount of work it takes to move is certainly no picnic. And, of course, it takes a while to adjust to the new well, everything. Not to mention the fact that your family is so far away.

To make things a little easier, download the Liberty App (available on both the App Store and Google Play), which conveniently provides cultural and community information including local offbase attractions (such as places to shop, eat, play and visit), on-base resources, transportation schedules and numbers (Green Line, the offbase bus system, taxis and daiko), emergency numbers, commander’s regulations and policies and more.

This app was built on the awardwinning foundation established by Marines and spouses from Marine Air Control Group 18, 1st Marine Air Wing. Their “Okinawa Liberty App” won the Mobile Application for Quality of Life category in the first Marine Corps Mobile Application Challenge, or MCMAC, in December 2016.

To download this FREE app, simply search “Liberty MCCS Okinawa” in the App Store or Google Play. You can also visit the MCCS Liberty App website. Updates will be continuous, and if you would like to provide feedback, all you to do is hit the “Feedback” button in the app. For more information, visit mccsokinawa. com/liberty.

Get a Job …with MCCS! MCCS offers a variety of challenging, career-building opportunities with the priority of hiring qualified family members of active duty military and civilian employees stationed in foreign areas. Jobs are available in entertainment, sports, accounting, marketing, wellness, child development, maintenance, IT, counseling and much more.

Prospective employees can check current vacancies at careers.usmc-mccs.org and submit applications online. If you would like the “hot job” listings, along with the latest happenings and offerings from MCCS sent directly to your smartphone, subscribe to the MCCS Okinawa News & Events newsletter at mccsokinawa.com/newsletter. Applicants without an internet connection can visit the MCCS NAF Human Resources Office located on the second floor of Bldg. 5966 on Camp Foster.

Interpersonal skills, technology and leadership course offerings, designed to help employees develop skills that will improve workplace performance, are available to all MCCS employees.

For regular full-and part-time MCCS employees, a generous benefits package includes the Tuition Assistance Program (up to $10,000 per year for certifications, licenses and college degrees up to Masters level), a NAF Retirement Pension that may be transferrable between civil service and non-appropriated positions with other agencies, and a Fidelity 401(k) Retirement Plan with up to 5% matching on a robust investment plan.

Aetna International Medical Insurance, convenient and accessible medical and dental care through military and local treatment facilities for employees and their families, is also available in addition to a life insurance policy through UniCare that offers affordable coverage to employees and family members up to three times their annual salary.

MCCS employees are also eligible for short-term disability insurance—up to 60% of the employee’s salary for up to 3 months while qualified. Employees earn vacation and sick leave that’s available for immediate use, are authorized to utilize the Family Friendly Leave Act, Family Medical Leave Act, Leave Donation Program, Employee Assistance Program and much more (when qualified).

For more information on becoming a part of the MCCS team, call the MCCS NAF Human Resources Office at 645-3052.

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SERVICES

The 2020-2021 Okinawa Guide Let us be YOUR guide to the Island!

Omoide MCCS PHOTO, MICHIKODESIGN/DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

Memories of Okinawa Everyone who’s visited Okinawa has a favorite spot; the perfect place to watch the sunset, a beach the family visited every summer, the steps to Nago Castle lined with sakura (cherry blossom) trees blooming a brilliant pink or even a stretch of beautiful coastline so breathtaking you just to pull over to take a photo.

Wouldn’t it be great if you could share these memories with family and friends back home?

Well, you can by sending them a copy of Omoide: Memories of Okinawa! This fullcolor photobook captures these moments on Okinawa and preserves them so you can share them with your family and friends as well as

show them how wonderful and beautiful your home-away-from-home is. Broken down into north, central and south sections, Omoide contains images from Hedo Point on the northern tip of the island to Chinen Cape—the southern-most point of Okinawa.

Not only a perfect present for folks stateside, Omoide: Memories of Okinawa can also serve as a bucket list of places to visit while you’re still here on the island.

Omoide: Memories of Okinawa is available for $28 island-wide at Exchange retail facilities selling books. For more information, visit mccsokinawa.com.

The Okinawa Guide is an annual publication produced by the staff of Okinawa Living Magazine for newcomers and island dwellers alike. Filled with comprehensive information on everything from Japanese language and culture, holidays and places to visit to offerings on all Marine camps, the Okinawa Guide is the perfect guide for your stay on the island.

The best thing? It’s FREE! Pick up your copy today at an MCCS facility near you! For more about the Okinawa Guide, visit mccsokinawa. com/guide.

JUNE 2020 | OKINAWA LIVING 57

MIKE DALEY, UNDREY /DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

Text by Mike Daley Layout by Emeline Toole

kinawa is well known as a subtropical island paradise with beautiful beaches, watersports such as diving, snorkeling, jet skiing and tons of water-related fun. Yeah, been there, done that, right? How about something a little different… like communing with nature while getting a good workout on a hike?

Okinawa and nearby islands offer ample hiking trails and opportunities for outdoor adventure that’ll make a cool dip in the ocean a much sweeter proposition. Following are a few personal favorite trails on Okinawa and neighboring islands where you can enjoy the island’s scenic beauty while working up a sweat.

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Taa Falls, located on the Henan River in Ogimi Village (a hamlet north of Nago City) is an excellent place to “get your feet wet” so to speak. The forest surrounding the Henan River is home to numerous types of birds and countless other living beings which live in the nooks and crannies between rocks and the dense forest undergrowth of the river’s banks—some of which are endangered species that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The trek up the river to reach the falls involves copious amounts of climbing and wading through the river’s cool, crystal-clear waters.

Known simply as “Okuma” to those who have been there at least once, this 65+ year-old facility features pristine beaches, cabanas and an ample camping area for those wishing to stay a day or two (or three). Okuma is not only a beautiful place to spend time with family and friends; it can also serve as an excellent base of operations for exploring the northern reaches of Kunigami Village at your leisure—without having to worry about a 2-hour drive back to civilization after a 6-hour hike. Amenities at this joint-forces center include a small golf course, various water sports, hiking areas, a restaurant, an Exchange Express and more.

MIKE DALEY

Hiji Falls, the largest waterfall on the main island of Okinawa, is also one of the most well known waterfalls to visiting Americans due to its proximity to Okuma Beach. Hiji Falls is an approximately 3 kilometer hike (roundtrip) from the camping area (and parking lot) located downriver from the falls. Pathways and stairs have been built so there is very little danger involved, making it a good trek for neophytes and younger (like elementary aged) children.

Asumui is better known as Dai Sekirinzan— a park that provides several hiking courses offering breathtaking views of Hedo Point from above, trails that wind through fascinating limestone formations estimated to be hundreds of millions of years old and sprawling banyan trees believed to contain magical powers. Local legends state that Asumui is where the god Amamikiyo first set foot on the earth. Since ancient times, noro (priestesses) from Shuri Castle journeyed to Asumui to collect sacred water for purification ceremonies in the court. This practice stopped in 1938 due to instability followed by war. However, the practice began again in 1999.

Asumui is also home to thousands of banyan trees which are known locally as gajyumaru.

Since the area was sparsely populated during the war, it escaped the attention of bombs and bullets. Because of this, many sprawling banyans survived—a few are hundreds of years old.

On Okinawa, the gajyumaru is considered to embody mystical energy. Also called himpun, or “barrier against evil,” these trees are believed to be able to block evil spirits from entering homes or villages. Locals believe that this concentration of trees will protect the area in the centuries to come.

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IMAGEX,TOPPHOTO /DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

Ie Island Ie Island is a tiny islet with a permanent population numbering only in the thousands. The best hiking route on Ie Island consists of traversing the island and climbing to the top of 172-meterhigh Mt. Gusuku.

Although its conical shape may suggest volcanic origin, it is theorized that the mountain was formed when older bedrock pierced the newer above due to tectonic movement. The rock that makes up the mountain is therefore several million years older than the rock that makes up the rest of the island.

Mt. Gusuku is known to residents as “Tacchu,” and has been considered a sacred place since ancient times—one of the three “holiest” and most powerful spots on island alongside Sêfa Utaki in Chinen Village and the aforementioned Asumui near Hedo.

Kudaka Island Kudaka is a tiny islet with a circumference of only approximately 8 kilometers. However, this long and narrow island located off the coast of Chinen is considered to be one of the most beautiful places in the prefecture.

According to local folklore, Kudaka was believed to be the first Ryukyu Island the goddess Amamikiyo created—one she crafted to mirror the beauty of heaven. To this day, certain parts of the island are forbidden to men and other special areas can only be entered by the highest-ranking noro priestesses. Not all parts of Kudaka are forbidden, however, and many are a different kind of “heaven on earth.”

A long, straight, dirt road that leads to the other end of the isle called Kabeeru offers an easy (because the island is pretty flat) hike with a breathtaking view greeting finishers. From there, travelers can leisurely make their way back towards the port traversing “Romance Road,” (a scenic route that winds along the coastline) and stopping at Uppama Beach (which still has star sand), Shimaashi Beach, Ishikihama, Tachihama, Ichajikihama and many more beaches on the opposite side of the island.

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IKAGENMI, VETAL1983/DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

Kerama Islands The Kerama Islands are located a scant 32 kilometers southwest of Okinawa off Naha.

Made up of 22 isles and islets, four of which are inhabited, the Keramas are immensely popular in the summertime for their pristine beaches and numerous world-class snorkeling and diving points. However, due to many of the islands’ mountainous (a relative term, of course) areas, the Keramas also feature several rigorous hikes that make a dip in the cool azure waters that much more pleasant.

Tokashiki Island is the largest and most populous isle in the Keramas. Rugged and hilly, the highest point of Tokashiki rises over 200 meters above sea level. Akamayama, the tallest peak on the island and most challenging hike, rises 227 meters above the ocean below and offers a stunning 360 degree view.

Zamami is the second largest inhabited island in the small chain. For a rigorous hike on Zamami, Takatsukiyama Observatory located on the highest point of the island, offers ample rewards for hikers—a clear view of southern Okinawa on the horizon (weather permitting, of course).

Aka and Geruma Islands also offer spectacular views with observatories such as Nishibama Nakadake, Fukaji and Amagusuku. If you are quiet on either Aka or Geruma islands, you may run into a creature you would least expect to encounter on Okinawa—deer. Kerama deer were imported over 400 years ago from southern mainland Japan and are now permanent and protected residents of the island chain.

Note:

Before departing on your journey, make sure you wear the proper clothing, footwear and headgear for the venue. Wear proper sunscreen; take plenty of breaks and PLENTY of hydration.

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DHDEPOSIT18, REPTILES4ALL/DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

Snakes Okinawa is home to a vast variety of reptiles, from the tiny gecko, to venomous snakes such as the Okinawan habu, the hime habu, the Sakishima habu, and the non-venomous, but sometimes aggressive, akamata. Most habu that inhabit the Ryukyu Archipeago have triangularly-shaped heads, narrow necks that broaden into a thick muscular body, and long hypodermic needle-like fangs. The Okinawan habu, or Protobothrops flavoviridis (which grow to lengths of 2.4m), can be distinguished by its yellowishgreen color, which alternates with dark brown splotches on its back. The hime habu’s back is dark brown with gray or darker brown splotches; and the Sakishima habu has a dark gray back with yellow and orange markings. Akamata aren’t venomous so they don’t have fangs. Their heads don’t have the distinct triangular viper shape, and they have yellow, orange, and reddish bands alternating with dark brown patches on their backs. While the differences between species are distinctive, you probably won’t want to hang around for a closer look. The best strategy is to leave the snake alone—even if you’re positively sure that they aren’t venomous.

The Okinawan “Banana Spider” The Okinawan “banana spider” is the largest spider in Japan. However, this arachnid—which is actually known as the giant wood spider or o-jyorô gumo in Japanese and Nephila pilipes to scientists—is not the largest in the world.

The female giant wood spider, which is an orb-weaver (a relative of the banana spider), has a max leg span of around 20cm. The goliath birdeater tarantula of South America owns the honor of being the largest in the world, growing up to 30cm from one tip of it’s hairy leg to the other on the opposite side and weighing up to 170g—around the same body mass of a hamster.

While the giant wood spider is as impressive as it is intimidating, these spiders (along with other members of the orb-weaver family) are not aggressive in the least—they’re far more famous for their silk than they are for their fangs. Their webs can reach sizes of up to 2m in diameter or more and are quite stout. And unlike the somewhat fragile webs of other spiders, can last for weeks and even months.

It is said that the silk used to build these webs is so strong, that it can trap small birds (which neither the giant wood spider nor the goliath tarantula actually eat).

JUNE MAY 2020 | OKINAWA LIVING 67

LIVING ON OKINAWA

Dashimaki Tamago (Japanese-style omelette)

Ingredients five large eggs 2 tsp. soy sauce 2 tsp. sugar 1/ 4 tsp. salt 1/2 cup dashi (broth made from dried bonito flakes) Vegetable oil for cooking Preparation 1. Beat eggs thoroughly. Dissolve sugar and salt in dashi, stir in soy sauce then mix with eggs.

2. Heat up a makiyakinabe (a special small rectangular frying pan used expressly for dashimaki tamago available at AEON or San A) on low heat and spread thinly with oil.

3. Once the pan is hot, pour in a quarter of the mixture and cook until half-set (don’t burn).

4. Gently fold the omlelette away from you and lightly oil the now open spot in the pan.

5. Pour another quarter of the mixture and cook/fold again (this time, towards you). When adding eggs, be sure to fold the newlycooked portion into the previous.

6. Repeat cycle until all the mixture is used. Let cool for 10-15 minutes wrapped in towel paper.

ZTRANGER/DEPOSITPHOTO.COM, MCCS PHOTO

Irei no Hi On June 23, 1945, the war on Okinawa came to an end. This day is commemorated as a public holiday on Okinawa known as Irei no Hi, or Memorial Day—honoring and remembering all who died during the Battle of Okinawa as well as in other areas of the Pacific.

The Battle of Okinawa claimed a great number of lives—28,228 Okinawan soldiers and affiliated personnel, 65,908 mainland Japanese soldiers and an estimated 94,000 civilians (according to the Okinawa Prefectural Government National Health Insurance and Relief Division) as well as 12,281 American soldiers (according to war history published by U.S. Government). Many citizens from neighboring nations such as Taiwan and Korea also lost their lives. Today, many monuments memorializing them stand throughout the island in silent tribute and testimony to the loss of life, the prices of war and hope for a future filled with peace.

Irei no Hi is a time for people to pray for the spirits and souls of those who died. Thousands of people flock each year to memorial services at various war sites such as the Himeyuri Monument, where hundreds of high school girls and teachers died while serving in the Japanese Army Himeyuri Nursing Corps. One of the most visited places during Irei no Hi is Peace Memorial Park in Chinen Village. Comprised of monuments such as the Cornerstone of Peace (an expansive wall inscribed with the names of all who lost their lives during the war regardless of nationality) and the Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum, Peace Memorial Park is a solemn tribute to the war victims and a somber reminder of the price of war.

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Tiida JUNE 2020 | OKINAWA LIVING 69

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