The Okinawa Convention and Visitors Bureau is participating in the IMM 2022 two-day event taking place on 14-15 March at the QEII Centre, where Okinawa's UK representatives will be on hand to discuss the latest developments in the region.

Okinawa's presence at the event provides an opportunity for attendees to learn more about Japan's sub-tropical southernmost prefecture and the latest news, including new and recent accommodation and the Northern part of Okinawa Island and Iriomote Island's addition to the UNESCO World Heritage List for 'outstanding universal value'.

Just 3 hours by air from Tokyo and blessed with incredible natural beauty, Okinawa is comprised of 160 islands boasting a year-round warm climate comparable to Hawaii, Miami, and Cancun. Okinawa is perfect for beach lovers and sports enthusiasts alike. Travellers can enjoy an array of water and land-based sports including scuba diving (Okinawa is renowned as one of the foremost diving and snorkelling destinations in the world), river kayaking, surfing, whale watching, canoeing, jungle trekking, hiking, cycling, walking and Karate – which originated in the prefecture.

Thanks to its unique history and heritage, Okinawa also appeals to culture seekers wanting to explore the region's fascinating past as the once independent Ryukyu Kingdom. The destination has a reputation for offering visitors a truly authentic experience, which this year will be further boosted with the opening of two new craft-related attractions - Kogeino Mori and suikara, both to promote the beautiful traditions handed down since the days of the Ryukyus.

Using the bountiful fresh produce its natural environment produces, Okinawa's culinary culture is also unique and believed to be a key factor in Okinawa's status as one of five longevity hotspots - or 'Blue Zones' - in the world where locals in the prefecture consider food 'kusuimun', meaning 'medicine'.

Join Okinawa's UK representative Laura Boo at IMM 2022 to learn more about the stunning archipelago and discuss media opportunities for the coming year and beyond.

For more information, visit: www.visitokinawa.jp or contact laura@humewhitehead.co.uk / T: +44 (0) 203 375 4056.