Okinawa! Mix it up!

I arrived in Japan yesterday and today my host researcher is off to Okinawa to collect termites for my experiment.

Okinawa is composed a set of islands located in the south most part of Japan.

(http://kittiehoward.blogspot.com/2011/04/welcome-to-okinawa-blogfest.html)

Okinawa is a tropical area and grows pineapple and papaya.  The culture of Okinawa is completely different from that of the rest of the country.  It is a very laid back environment and a very popular vacation destination.  You can kind of think of it like the Mexico of Japan.  In fact, the best mexican food in all of Japan is said to be in Okinawa.

Okinawa is known for its chanpuru culture.  Chanpuru means mixed up and is the name of stir fry in Okinawa.

Random facts:
If you've watched or heard of the anime Samurai Champloo, it takes place in Okinawa.
   
The highest proportion of centenarians is found in Okinawa.  Their diet low salt, low cholestrol, high soy and fish diet are thought to be result for the longevity in Okinawa.