Okinawa
Japan accelerates defense of Nansei Islands amid China's activities
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Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's government plans to speed up defense enhancements in Japan's Nansei Islands region, driven by China's increasing military presence. Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi visited key islands in Okinawa about a month after taking office, highlighting progress on missile deployments. The efforts aim to bolster readiness against potential Taiwan contingencies.
Following the closure of local pharmacies on remote islands off Okinawa's main island, Sukoyaka pharmacy in Naha has begun dispensing medicines via video calls. This service now reaches residents on Minamidaito Island and Yonaguni Island, hundreds of kilometers away.
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Tsunehide Shimabukuro, a 77-year-old potter in Yomitan, Okinawa, upholds the Tsuboya ware tradition using a climbing kiln. Designated in 2025 as a holder of Okinawa Prefecture's important intangible cultural property, he hand-paints chrysanthemum arabesque patterns from the Ryukyu Kingdom era with Japanese brushes and operates a kick-wheel inherited from his father. Facing dwindling resources, he remains committed to cherishing the craft.
Japan's government has dismissed Beijing's claims of harassment by its forces during a radar lock-on incident involving Chinese warplanes and Japanese jets near Okinawa. The event occurred on Saturday in international waters, with Tokyo vowing to respond calmly and resolutely. Australia has also urged restraint.
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A Chinese cruise operator has canceled tours to Japan scheduled from late December to late January amid rising tensions between the two countries. The affected itineraries included stops at Ishigaki Port in Okinawa Prefecture and Nagasaki Port in Nagasaki Prefecture. Adora Cruises notified a Japanese agent in November and plans to boost tours to South Korea and Southeast Asia instead.