Updated at 2022-04-17
Lacquer culture originated in Ryukyu as early as the 14th or 15th century, when the island began trading with China. The island not only grew lacquer trees, but it also had green turbans required for the raden technique. The tropical environment of Ryukyu also made the island uniquely suited for producing lacquerware. Ryukyuan lacquerware became the designated lacquerware used by the imperial family and a tribute to China. After becoming Japanese territory, the Japanese government continued to value Ryukyuan lacquerware, even designating it a national traditional handicraft.
Language: Japanese
Area: 2,280.98 square kilometers
Population: Approx. 1,467,000 people
Main Industries/Features: Tourism, service, agriculture and fisheries