Experience Japan's Wellness Culture in the "Village of Longevity" – Unravel the Secrets of the 500-Year-Old "Ungami Festival" in Shioya Bay, Okinawa

【OUTLINE】

Set in Ogimi Village, Okinawa, recognized as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site and one of the world's five Blue Zones, this special plan delves into the secrets of Japan's wellness and longevity culture.
Explore exclusive spots not accessible to regular tourists and enjoy insightful commentary from a wellness researcher guide.

【HIGHLIGHTS】 

• A special plan exploring the secrets of Japan's wellness and longevity culture.
  
• Visit spots related to the 500-year-old Ungami (Sea God Festival) in Shioya Bay, not covered in standard tours.
  
• Gain deep insights into Ogimi Village's traditional events, nature, culture, and the lifestyle habits of its residents from a wellness researcher.

【DETAILS】

Ogimi Village, located in northern Okinawa and part of the "Yanbaru Three Villages," is known for its rich biodiversity within the famous "Miracle Forest Yanbaru." This area, home to unique species, was designated a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in July 2021.

This tour offers a unique wellness experience and a chance to learn about the communal culture in "Ogimi Village," which has drawn global attention as a "Village of Longevity." With around 40% of its population aged 65 or older and 20 residents aged 100 or more as of 2023, Ogimi Village embodies the secrets of longevity through its harmonious coexistence with nature, traditional diet, and cultural events, earning a spot among the world's Blue Zones.

This tour, led by Takahiro Ooshiro, a researcher who relocated to Ogimi Village, explores how the villagers' way of life, diet, and preservation of traditional events contribute to their remarkable longevity. Participants will interact with locals and gain a profound understanding of the village's longevity secrets.

Embrace the unique wellness experience in Ogimi Village, a representative of Japan’s longevity culture, and learn about its communal and health practices.

【SCHEDULE】

[10:00] Meet at Michi-no-Eki Ogimi Yanbaru no Mori Visitor Center, transfer

[10:30] Shioya-wan: Explanation of the 500-year-old Kaijinsai (Sea God Festival)

[11:00] Stroll through Shioya Settlement, interact with local residents

[12:00] Shindo: View Okinawa's Eight Scenic Spots at Haminzou (Shrine Gate)

[12:30] Transfer

[13:00] Taminato: Visit an ancient settlement and spots where kamintyu (priests) pray during Unjami

[13:30] Transfer

[14:00] End of tour at Michi-no-Eki Ogimi Yanbaru no Mori Visitor Center

【THINGS TO NOTE】

• Duration：4 hours
• Meeting point：Michi-no-Eki Ogimi Yanbaru no Mori Visitor Center　[MAP]
  Tsuha 95, Ogimi-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa 905-1318
• Access：
  By Car:
  87 km north of Naha City via Route 58, about 2 hours; about 1 hour 30 minutes using the expressway.
  22 km from Nago City (City Hall), about 30 minutes.
  By Bus:
  From Naha City to Nago Bus Terminal, about 2 hours on Route 20 Nago West Line.
  From Nago Bus Terminal to Yakuba-mae (Oogami-Ku Bus Stop), about 45 minutes on Route 67 Hentona Line (Okinawa Bus, Ryukyu Bus).
• Language support：Japanese, English
• Included：
  ・Experience fee
  ・Guide fee

• Excluded：
  ・Transportation to the meeting point
  ・Souvenirs purchased on site
• Items to bring：Drinks (especially in summer, bring a beverage or water bottle).
• Clothes：Comfortable walking shoes recommended.
• Participation requirements：Suitable for ages 6 and up
• Free Wi-Fi：No
  
• Toilet：Yes (Western-style)

【CANCELLATION POLICY】

Until 72 hours before the experience start time: 0%
From 72 hours before the experience start time to start time: 100%
Cancellation after the experience has started or cancellation without contact: 100%