Peter and Mick wading ashore after snorkelling in the crystal clear water at Nirai Beach, not far from Okinawa City

A Yomitan pottery using traditional Ryukuan techniques with its picturesque wood-fired kilns.

Mick & Peter enjoying a delicious Okinawan lunch in a nearby restaurant; Liz & Peter eying the Shissa lion-dogs which typically guard the entrance to all Okinawan households; Peter getting friendly with the male (or is it the female?) Shissa.

Exploring the ruins of Zakimi Castle, built in the 15th century as one of the properties of the Kingdom of the Ryukyus.
The walls of Ryukyuan limestone are massive but elegantly curved and the site is strategically positioned, looking out to sea
to give early warnings of invasions. Its arched gates use central wedge stones to lock their sides (see bottom row).