There was something different about Okinawa that is not so Japanese. People seem more laid back and relaxed. I am not sure if this is the effect of the American occupation for 27 years. After returning Okinawa to Japan, U.S. military bases still continue to be present in the island until now. You can definitely observe some influences of American culture in Okinawa. A proof of this can be seen at the American Village in Chatan. Welcome to American Japan!

Located near the American military bases is an an entertainment complex called Mihama American Village. The entertainment complex resembles a big American outdoor shopping mall with lots of shops, restaurants, cafes and a movie theater. There are shops selling American brand clothing, second-hand American decorations and toys, as well as military-themed clothes and accessories. The most recognizable feature of the American Village is the large Ferris Wheel. I didn’t ride it though.

I was surprised to see that there are so many A&W fastfood restaurants in Okinawa. They disappeared in the Philippines at the early 1990’s. Their rootbeer float is my favorite. And because I miss it a lot, I took my lunch at the A&W there.

After eating, I walked to the Sunset Beach which is just few steps away. There were couple of foreigners swimming on the beach. It was a hot day, so I refreshed myself with cherry mojito from the Island Paddler’s bar. I ended the afternoon chilling at the beach.