Respectthe Commune - Tumblr Posts

Sad, but at least it isn’t as severe as what the Ainu here are facing currently, especially in Nucasir (Russia).

Okinawa is not your playground.

There’s a phenomenon in Okinawa where some mainland Japanese people move to the island because of its weather, charm, and culture, and then try to alter it to their comfort–alter things that were and have been for YEARS before they moved. It’s an entitlement they bring with them.

Example: Eisā is Ryukyu drum-dancing that is performed often in a parade style that takes place during the Fall Harvest Holiday of Obon. Okinawa’s Obon is a different tradition from Japan and more extravagant. (Ryukyu culture follows the lunar calendar.)

Months leading up to Obon, after dark, you can hear the young adults after work rehearsing Eisā at local community centers. Hearing the bass of the drums echo through the neighborhood is a typical and heartwarming Ryukyu summer night. Because these volunteers have day jobs, this is the only time they can rehearse.

Mainland Japanese people new to the area in my neighborhood have put pressure on the local community center and government to ban these night rehearsals because of noise complaints. But local people are passionate about their culture and are resisting this pressure to change.

Example: Expensive ugly condos being built along the coast to obstruct access and views of the ocean.

Example: People collecting and taking home shells from the beach to make their own crafts. This is illegal in Japan. Only those with specific approvals from the prefectural government can collect and sell shells and sand and any other thing from the beaches.

Tourism is indeed the largest industry in Okinawa. And I’m not arguing that people need to stop visiting. But there is a way to enjoy Okinawa without disrespecting it’s people, history, and culture.