Okinawa, Japan | Smiling Shisa

Okinawa, Japan | Smiling Shisa dogs: The epitome of the island's soul

The soul of Okinawa, which I described last time, is now encountered again on a street corner. It's not found in books or distant legends, but in the faces of these smiling Shisa dogs, right before the eyes of travelers.

Some of these Shisa dogs sit on rooftops, grinning broadly in the sea breeze; others stand guard at shop doors, their eyes warm, as if saying "Welcome back" to every passerby.

A smile is both a protection and a strength. It reveals that the soul of Okinawa isn't a cold, majestic presence, but an optimism imbued with the sea breeze, an attitude that smiles at hardship and embraces life.

As I stood on Kokusai-dori, gazing at the row of colorful Shisa dogs, I knew: This is Okinawa at its truest. The island's soul, like these smiling Shisa dogs, forever displays a smile, protecting us and touching the hearts of every traveler.

Post by 諸文武 | Sep 27, 2025