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Andrea E. Murray

Footprints in Paradise: Ecotourism, Local Knowledge, and Nature Therapies in Okinawa

Footprints in Paradise: Ecotourism, Local Knowledge, and Nature Therapies in Okinawa

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  • More about Footprints in Paradise: Ecotourism, Local Knowledge, and Nature Therapies in Okinawa


Ecotourism in Okinawa provides employment for rural youth, preserves the environment, and bolsters regional pride. Footprints in Paradise explores the transformation in community and sense of place as Okinawans view themselves as tourists, and revaluing local ecological knowledge strengthens cultural heritage.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 186 pages
Publication date: 13 January 2023
Publisher: Berghahn Books


The economic imperative of sustainable tourism development holds significant sway over the lives of small subtropical islands, particularly in the case of Okinawa. Ecotourism emerges as a promising solution, offering the potential to provide employment opportunities for a dwindling rural youth population while simultaneously preserving the pristine natural environment and fostering a sense of regional pride.

In the captivating documentary Footprints in Paradise, we delve into the profound transformation that occurs within the Okinawan community as they come to perceive themselves through the eyes of the visiting tourist consumer. This shift not only reshapes their interactions with outsiders but also alters their perception of their language, landscapes, and wildlife, transforming them into cherished and vulnerable resources.

At the same time, the rediscovery and revaluation of local ecological knowledge serve as a testament to the enduring cultural heritage of Okinawa, known as Uchinaa. Despite the controversial presence of US military bases within a hegemonic Japanese state, the Okinawan people have managed to preserve and strengthen their unique traditions and knowledge systems.

Through the lens of Footprints in Paradise, we witness the intricate interplay between economic development, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of the Okinawan people in the face of change. This documentary serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of sustainable tourism as a tool for community empowerment, cultural heritage preservation, and environmental conservation, offering a glimpse into the transformative power of tourism in shaping the lives of communities around the world.

Weight: 284g
Dimension: 153 x 227 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800737372

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