Yuka Mizutani, Professor
Center for Global Education and Discovery

【Abstract】
Among tourists who enjoy marine leisure activities in Okinawa’s seas, there are some who do not have the opportunity to learn more about Okinawa’s culture. The purpose of this exhibition is to create an opportunity for these tourists to learn about Okinawa’s natural environment and culture as a whole by visiting local museums and historical sites, or by reading books. This activity was held at a space kindly offered by Marine Service Famille (Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture). This company provides scuba diving license courses, supports marine training at educational institutions, and conducts diving tours.
Last academic year, we held an exhibition on the nature and history of the waters from the southwestern part of Okinawa’s main island to the Kerama Islands. Based on the comments of those who viewed the exhibition, this year, I created posters showing terms related to the sea and marine life in the Ryukyuan/Okinawan language, aiming to increase interest in this local language among visitors. In addition, we set up a new corner where visitors could learn while touching traditional crafts made from coral fossils and samples of rocks made from coral. We also interacted and talked with local citizens through a public lecture held at the Ginowan City Museum.

【Future Prospects】
In the future, I would like to not only use my research in exhibitions but also incorporate the knowledge I have gained through actual exhibitions in academic research. With the cooperation of Marine Service Famille, we have launched an organization called Famille for Nature Conservation with the aim of connecting research and outreach activities on the natural environment and culture with businesses and citizens. Currently, about 10 members of this organization work as volunteers, and I provide advice based on my academic research. Through the efforts of Famille for Nature Conservation, I would like to continue thinking about giving back to society the results of my research and collaboration with companies and civic groups.