Practicalities

The conference will take place at the Seaside House of the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST), Onna-son, Japan.

OIST Seaside House Address:
7542 Onna, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa, 904-0411, Japan
(In Japanese: 904-0411 沖縄県国頭郡恩納村恩納 7542 )
(Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/zJTGz)

Things to do in Okinawa

We have a busy few days together for the conference, but some of you may have a day or two to yourselves on either side of our event or may wish to do some exploring in the evenings. Good starting points when looking to see what Okinawa has to offer beyond the stimulating scientific discussion are this article and this website. 

Food and drink in Onna

Onna-son is one of the most touristed places in Japan and has lots of reasonably priced food and drink options to cater to all those bellies. To find the really good spots, it is probably best to ask one of the OISTers to point you there or accompany you for a meal.

But a few great options within walking distance of the Seaside House are this place if you are feeling like a juicy burger (Mog Stapleton rates it as the best she has ever had - go for the Ishigaki beef!), or this izakaya right next door, which serves more traditional Okinawan fare in a unique and cosy setting. 

For veggies and vegans, you shouldn't struggle too much to find options in most places. But a couple of awesome spots a short drive away are here and, my personal favourite, here. 

Also, it would be remiss of you–assuming you take a drink–not to try Okinawa's most famous local brew at some point during your trip, awamori. One of the best spots I know of, with a great selection, good atmosphere, friendly staff, and incredible food too, is this izakya. 

If a simple beer, spirit or cocktail is to your liking or just some tasty snacks, the Grand Line bar is a trusty option and within walking distance of the Seaside House. They also have some board games, darts, and a guitar to help you take your mind off things. That said, if your hunger for stimulating conversation is not sufficiently satiated by the conference activities and you wish to keep your mind firmly on things, they typically have a few merry physicists, mathematicians or biologists knocking about that will indulge you further. 

Staying safe when in Okinawa

Okinawa is an extremely beautiful place and it is important when exploring that beauty to keep in mind that there are dangers with the seas and wildlife on the island that need to be seriously respected. Very recently there have been many close calls, and unfortunately, some tragic and fatal accidents in the local seas.

For a comprehensive outline of what the risks are see this safety guide. But in short, do not risk swimming or going off trail without first confirming it with someone who knows the area well and is confident that it is safe at that time.