Countries in Pictures - Travel Talk Series
Traveling to world's ancient countries through talks and rick collections of pictures

OKINAWA - the Lost Kingdom of Ryukyu by Mr. Vincent WONG

Okinawa, Japan's southernmost prefecture, is a chain of subtropical islands renowned for their stunning turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs. Once the independent Ryukyu Kingdom that flourished for 450 years, its unique culture was blended by Chinese, Japanese and Southeast Asia influences. The Kingdom was a tributary state of China, and during its golden age, a prosperous trading hub in the region until its tragic demise through annexation by Japan. Okinawa suffered greatly under the Japanese rule, especially during the Second World War. Today, one fourth of the main island is a US military base and its political status still remains blur. This journey of the "Lost Kingdom" will review its forgotten saga, current status and how its distinct identity though politically dissolved continues to resonate in Okinawa today. History aside, we will visit its many natural attractions, sophisticated culture and colourful festivities which are being painstakingly preserved by the Ryukyuans, offering lessons in resilience and cultural fusion.

Testimonials from participants of previous travel talks and study tours led by Vincent:
“I have learnt a lot on this subject!”
“Very comprehensive indeed. Thanks!”
“Very useful guide for my future trip!”
”Now what I have seen makes much more sense. Thank you!”

About the Speaker
Mr. Vincent WONG

• Graduated from HKU in physical Geography 1971
• MD Jardine Transport Services Group 1971-2000
• MD Kerry Logistics Group 2000-2009
• Fellow Chartered Institute of Transport and Logistics
• Fellow Chartered Institute of Shipbrokers
• Lecturing Logistics as Adjunct Associate Professor at CUHK and Professor of Practice at PolyU.
• Visited over 100 countries including Antarctica, Iraq, Iran, Jordan, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Madagascar, Namibia, Botswana, Ethiopia, Iceland, Mexico, Galapagos, Mauritius, Easter Island, Chile, Ecuador, Canary Island, Azores Island plus many places in China such as Inner Mongolia and Qinghai. Acted as organiser and tour leader in many trips.
• Give talks regularly to members of the HK Geological Society and HK Mineralogy Society.

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