Ryukyu Village This theme park was built for the appreciation of historic Okinawan culture. Several old homes throughout the prefecture were dismantled and moved to the village. In addition to annual events, visitors can get hands-on experience or watch the processes for dyed fabrics, bingata dye, and ceramic ware. Okinawan herbal medicine known to work for longevity is available along with classes. Other attractions include mills tread by buffaloes to make brown sugar and fights of the snake versus the mongoose. ●One hour on Bus 20 from the Naha Bus Terminal

The Cornerstone of Peace The Cornerstone of Peace was built in 1995 in the Peace Memorial Park in Mabuni, Itoman City to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Okinawa. The cornerstone with names of 236, 095 casualties inscribed convey a strong message for peace. In 1996, 1,968 new names were added to the stone. A cliff in front of the stone serves as a reminder of the thousands of people who jumped into the ocean to kill themselves during the war. ●20 minutes from Itoman Bus Terminal

Gyokusendo Cave The largest cave in the orient, Gyokusendo is 5 kilometers long. Stalagmites that formed from coral droplets and 900,000 stalactites that formed from corals display natural transformation which took place over approximately 400,000 years. The golden limestone is Japan's best, and the 20,000 stalactites that hang from the 20-meter high ceiling are awe-inspiring. Enjoy the quiet world wrapped in mystique. ●30 minutes from Itoman Bus Terminal on the Ryukyu Gyokusendo Itoman Line Bus 82. Get off at Gyokusendo.

The Monument of Himeyuri The monument was built in memory of the Himeyuri School Troops composed of about 200 students and faculty members. The nurses were attending injured soldiers in a cave hospital when they were killed by a U.S. gas attack. The monument as well as the Himeyuri Peace Prayer and Memorial Museum are highly recommendable for visitors. ●10 minutes from Itoman Rotary bus stop on Bus 82, 107, or 108. Get off at Himeyuri-no-to Mae.

Shiisaa (talisman) Shiisaa drive evil spirits away from homes. The tradition of lion statues used as talismans came from the middle east through China and settled in Okinawa between the 14th and 15th centuries. The shiisaa set on roof tiles creates an exotic atmosphere that characterizes Okinawan culture. Shiisaa specialty stores can be found along the streets of Tsuboya ceramic town.