12.The Kingdom of Ryukyu Gusuku(Okinawa)

Shurijo Castle

Sitting gracefully in lacquered vermillion on a hill overlooking Shuri, the ancient capital of Okinawa, Shurijo Castle was the center of the independent Ryukyu Kingdom—a meeting of Chinese and Japanese culture that dominated most of these islands during the 15th century. The red-and-white striped courtyard looks like a contemporary design but was originally intended to make it easier for servants to line up in order of precedence. Arrive early to the clanging of the bell, followed by the opening of the Hohshinmon Gate at 8:25 a.m., then tour the meticulously restored royal rooms and gardens before taking tea in the prince's rooms.

Kabira Bay

Ishigaki Kabira Bay on Ishigaki Island is a constant on Japan's "most scenic" lists, with vibrant turquoise waters that require no enhancement. Glass-bottomed boats ferry passengers up and down the bay, revealing the magnificent coral reefs and sea life below (you can't swim here because of strong currents and large numbers of jellyfish). The bay is also home to Okinawa's black pearl cultivation, the world's first, with another on Iriomote. Visit the nearby black pearl showroom to find out more about the process.

Iriomote Island

The hike to the top of Pinaisaara Waterfall provides the perfect perch to take in Iriomote Island, 90 percent covered by dense jungle and Japan's largest mangrove forest. Visitors kayak up the Nakama River to the three-tiered waterfall—named after its resemblance to old man's beard—before climbing to 180 feet above the basin. Photographer: Ippei NaoVGetty Images/Fir. RF

Taketomi Village

This traditional village of 160 Ryukyu houses is as charming as it is historically interesting. Narrow, sandy streets wind around low walls and perfectly kept gardens surrounding the single-story properties. Each building is topped with red tiles and protective shisa to ward away disasters and evil spirits. Most visitors explore the small, flat island of Taketomi and its beaches by bicycle, easily done in a day.

Water Buffalo Taxi

Sometimes it's the journey that helps you better understand the destination. You can island hop the chain of Ryukyu Islands by plane, high-speed ferry, or (for a more leisurely pace) water buffalo taxi. The trip between Iriomote and Yubu takes 15 minutes on a cart pulled by two of these big-horned buffalos, whose wide hooves prevent them from sinking in the mud at low tide. Once there, check out the tiny island's botanical garden and a restaurant.