Elite Traveler Summer 2022

In the northern part of Okinawa, a Japanese island whose name translates to ‘rope in the open sea,’ is where you’ll fi nd Yanbaru. The region, o ffi cially known as Yanbaru National Park, is a Unesco World Heritage Site that’s home to a rich variety of plants and indigenous animals. Halekulani Okinawa, an elegant resort located on a quiet stretch of pristine beach within the park, is o ff ering guests the chance to experience the best of this awe-inspiring landscape with its fi re fl y experience. Thanks to the island’s lush and diverse greenery, half of the 50 types of fi re fl ies found in Japan can be seen in Okinawa, making this the only location where you can fi nd this magical experience. Guided by a local naturalist who can point out the indigenous fl ora and fauna, the once-in-a-lifetime excursion begins at sunset in the Yanbaru nature preserve. Paddling through mangroves on a kayak, you will be rewarded with the spectacular ethereal glow created by thousands of fi re fl ies twinkling in the sky above. Close the night with a delicious dinner at Shiroux. One of the hotel’s signature restaurants, Shiroux (meaning ‘white’ in the Okinawan language) is an innovative dining concept from chef Hiroyasu Kawate, the chef of two-Michelin-starred Florilège in Tokyo. Expect fi ne gourmet dining married with traditional Okinawan food and paired with views of the sandy beaches. Only available from July through September, and with the fi re fl y population sadly on the decline, this chance to witness the luminescent glow won’t be around forever. Fire fl y Nature Discovery from $400 per person. Contact concierge@halekulaniokinawa.com, +81 989 538 600, okinawa.halekulani.com Flight of fancy Kayaking by fi re fl y light

Words Serina Tatham. Illustration Alex Green - Folio Art