The phrases have a particular rhythm, based upon traditional poetry and the distinctive intonation of the Ryukyu scale, and are performed in the ancient language of Okinawa.

UNESCO: Culture

On its front would be a picture of the famous Shureimon gate of the Shurijo castle in Naha, the home of the former rulers of the Ryukyu kingdom before it was annexed by Japan in the 17th century and renamed Okinawa.

ECONOMIST: Japan��s other currency woes

In the first phase, the exercise will consist of ten different scenarios to allow each participating country to respond to a regional or local tsunami following a powerful earthquake off the shores of Russia, Ryukyu Islands, west and east of the Philippines, Vanuatu, Tonga, Chile, Ecuador, Central America, and Aleutian Islands.

UNESCO: THEMES