Southernmost island group of Japan, stretching towards Taiwan and including Okinawa, Miyako, and Ishigaki; area 2,254 sq km/870 sq mi; population (2000 est) 1,318,000. Most of the larger islands are composed of volcanic rock, while the smaller islands are formed from coral. The capital is Naha (on Okinawa). Produce includes sugar, pineapples, and fish.
Blue represents the black population and links with Africa. Red stands for those of mixed race. The original blue and red flag was based on the French tricolour. Effective date: 25 February 1986.