Is Okinawan different than Japanese?

Is Okinawan different than Japanese?

Okinawan Japanese is a Japanese dialect (方言), unlike the Northern Ryukyuan Okinawan and Kunigami languages (which are, nevertheless, also officially considered as “Japanese” dialects in Japan).

What are Okinawans known for?

The custom of respecting one’s ancestors and caring for your ancestors and family is more rooted in Okinawa than elsewhere in Japan. Okinawa is also known for the extreme longevity of its citizens which they say results from Okinawa’s food culture and the influence of “Yuimaru” (meaning to help each other) spirit.

Why is Okinawa the poorest prefecture?

Japan’s oil crisis in 1973 caused a spike in unemployment rates across the country, and as a result, Okinawa struggled to find its economic footing. Higuchi said poverty was no longer merely an economic issue, but one that affected the psychological and physical health of individuals in the prefecture.

Are the Okinawans Japanese?

Despite the international pressure, the Japanese government has yet to recognize the Okinawans’ indigenous rights, arguing that they are Japanese citizens, not indigenous peoples.

How do you say thank you in Okinawan?

Now, how do you thank someone in Okinawa? Sure, you can say “thank you” or “arigatou” (ありがとう). But in Okinawan language, it’s “niffee debiru” (御拝でーびーる). It’s how you show appreciation to someone.

Why do the Okinawans live so long?

Not only do Okinawans live longer, but they age incredibly well. Many of the centenarians studied were lean, energetic and had low rates of chronic illnesses like heart disease and cancer. It’s genetic. Studies show that the genetic makeup of Okinawans helps in preventing inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

What ethnicity is Okinawan?

The native Okinawans, densely populating the Ryukyus, are a mixture of Ainu, Malayan, Korean, Chinese, and Japanese stock. Okinawa itself has a population of approximately 450,000, mostly ethnic Okinawans and concentrated in the southern half of the island. For many centuries the islands were under Chinese domination.

How do you say love in Okinawan?

But in the tropical islands of Okinawa (沖縄), the most common is deeji suki saa (でーじ好きさぁ). As you can see, although there are some differences between these examples, they all use suki. So you should not worry when you want to say, “I love you.” If you use suki desu, any Japanese person will understand you.