# Okinawa

> smallest of the five main islands of Japan

**Wikidata**: [Q600614](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q600614)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Okinawa_Island)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/okinawa

## Summary
Okinawa is the smallest of Japan's five main islands, located in the southernmost prefecture of Okinawa. It is part of the Japanese archipelago and is known for its unique cultural heritage, tropical climate, and historical significance as a strategic location during World War II.

## Key Facts
- **Classification**: Smallest of Japan's five main islands, part of the Ryukyu Islands.
- **Location**: Southernmost prefecture of Japan, part of the Japanese archipelago.
- **Population**: 1,224,726 (as of available data).
- **Coordinates**: Approximately 26.483333°N, 127.95°E.
- **Administrative Division**: Part of Okinawa Prefecture, established on March 27, 1879.
- **Historical Significance**: Site of the Battle of Okinawa during World War II, led by the U.S. Seventh Air Force.
- **Districts**: Includes Kunigami, Nakagami, and Shimajiri districts, established in 1896.
- **Notable Features**: Home to Ikema Island and part of the Ryukyu archipelago.
- **Wikipedia Title**: Okinawa Island.
- **Wikidata Description**: Smallest of the five main islands of Japan.

## FAQs
- **What is the population of Okinawa?** The population is approximately 1,224,726.
- **When was Okinawa Prefecture established?** Okinawa Prefecture was established on March 27, 1879.
- **What are the main districts in Okinawa?** The main districts include Kunigami, Nakagami, and Shimajiri, established in 1896.
- **What is the significance of Okinawa during World War II?** Okinawa was the site of the Battle of Okinawa, led by the U.S. Seventh Air Force.
- **What is the climate like in Okinawa?** Okinawa has a tropical climate, distinct from the rest of Japan.
- **What is the official language of Okinawa?** The official language is Japanese, with Ryukyuan languages also recognized.

## Why It Matters
Okinawa holds historical and cultural significance as the site of the Battle of Okinawa during World War II, which was a pivotal battle in the Pacific theater. The island's strategic location made it a key battleground, with the U.S. Seventh Air Force playing a crucial role in the conflict. Okinawa's unique cultural heritage, including Ryukyuan traditions, also contributes to its distinct identity within Japan. The island's tropical climate and natural beauty make it a popular destination for tourism, further enhancing its cultural and economic importance.

## Notable For
- **Smallest Main Island**: Okinawa is the smallest of Japan's five main islands.
- **Historical Battleground**: Site of the Battle of Okinawa during World War II.
- **Cultural Heritage**: Home to Ryukyuan traditions and a distinct cultural identity.
- **Tropical Climate**: Unique climate compared to the rest of Japan.
- **Tourism Hub**: Popular destination for its natural beauty and cultural attractions.

## Body
### Geography
Okinawa is the smallest of Japan's five main islands, located in the southernmost prefecture of Okinawa. It is part of the Japanese archipelago and has a tropical climate, distinct from the rest of Japan. The island is approximately 26.483333°N, 127.95°E.

### Administration
Okinawa Prefecture was established on March 27, 1879, and includes several districts such as Kunigami, Nakagami, and Shimajiri, which were established in 1896. The prefecture is part of the larger Japanese archipelago.

### History
Okinawa holds significant historical importance as the site of the Battle of Okinawa during World War II. The U.S. Seventh Air Force, established in 1940, played a crucial role in the battle. The island's strategic location made it a key battleground in the Pacific theater.

### Culture
Okinawa's cultural heritage includes Ryukyuan traditions, which contribute to its distinct identity within Japan. The official language is Japanese, with Ryukyuan languages also recognized.

### Economy and Tourism
Okinawa's tropical climate and natural beauty make it a popular destination for tourism. The island's unique cultural attractions further enhance its economic importance.

### Related Entities
- **Okinawa Prefecture**: Established in 1879, part of Japan.
- **Kunigami District**: Established in 1896, part of Okinawa Prefecture.
- **Nakagami District**: Established in 1896, part of Okinawa Prefecture.
- **Shimajiri District**: Established in 1896, part of Okinawa Prefecture.
- **Ikema Island**: Located in Okinawa, part of Japan.
- **Japanese Archipelago**: East Asian archipelago in the North Pacific Ocean, part of Japan.
- **Seventh Air Force**: United States Air Force numbered air force, established in 1940.

## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
2. [Source](https://memory-alpha.fandom.com/wiki/Remembrance_(episode)?oldid=2450193#Act_Three)
3. [Source](https://memory-alpha.fandom.com/wiki/Nepenthe_(episode)?oldid=2474935#References)
4. BBC Things
5. [Geospatial Information Authority of Japan](https://www.gsi.go.jp/KOKUJYOHO/MENCHO/backnumber/GSI-menseki20210101.pdf)
6. [Source](https://memory-alpha.fandom.com/wiki/Okinawa?oldid=2449779)
7. [Source](https://memory-beta.fandom.com/wiki/Okinawa?oldid=672379)
8. National Library of Israel
9. KBpedia
10. [Bibliography of the History of the Czech Lands](https://biblio.hiu.cas.cz/records/bfecd85d-bab5-4dad-8558-e50838999549)
11. museum-digital