Based on a lifestyle survey of centenarians, in which I also participated, the key factors for health and longevity learned from the centenarians in the Blue Zone Okinawa have been summarized. These factors include “having a sense of purpose,” “maintaining a plant-based diet,” “engaging in agricultural work,” “consuming a lot of soy,” “getting sunlight,” “being physically active,” “creating a medicinal garden,” and “having a strong will.” Among these, the presence of “connections” or social capital is particularly noteworthy. In the world of longevity research, the most prominent factor in recent years is social capital, or simply put, the “power of connections.” Centenarians in the world’s top 5 longevity regions, the Blue Zones, consistently have strong connections with family, friends, acquaintances, and the local community. Mutual support in these connections brings mental stability, reduces stress, and fosters the will to live. The centenarians in the Blue Zone Okinawa also value their connection to nature with reverence, intergenerational lifestyle continuity (connection with the wisdom of ancestors), mutual assistance, and community ties, resulting in achieving healthy longevity.

In the aftermath of the once-in-a-century disaster known as the post-corona era, it is of great significance to reexamine the wisdom of our predecessors who have lived through a century. Okinawa, a tourist island, is also the only Blue Zone island in Asia. Through “Blue Zone Okinawa Karate Tourism,” let’s connect with Okinawa’s spiritual culture, the wisdom of ancestors, the nature of Okinawa, and the lifestyle culture of Okinawa.

Our hope is that you not only discover the secrets of longevity but also return with wisdom for living and hints for a way of life.