To fully embrace the culture of Okinawa, Japan's only subtropical region, getting to know the local gods is a great place to start. Hop in a taxi at the centre of Naha and take an hour's ride east ...

the god of fishermen and prosperity in Japan mythology. Here, visitors can watch or – with an advance booking via Mihonoseki Tourism – participate in the asamike ritual, a spiritual experience ...

Kagura, which draws its stories from Shinto mythology, is performed in dedication to the deities. Japanese swords that are crucial in traditional events are still being made in the area.