Hiroyuki Kinjo
Hiroyuki Kinjo was born in Okinawa. He is a graduate of the University of Philippines. Currently, he is Associate Professor of Language and Cultural Studies at the Center for Migration Studies, University of the Ryukyus. Kinjo specializes in the study of the culture and language of Spain. His current research interests are Uchinanchu identity and networks. Kinjo previously held positions as Executive Director at the International Center for Language and Culture, and Principal of International Resort College.
Updated February 2008
Stories from This Author
Uchinanchu Taikai and the Global Network of Okinawans
Feb. 29, 2008 • Hiroyuki Kinjo
Okinawans, also called “Uchinanchu”, have emigrated to mainland Japan and to many other places both before and after World War II, and established communities like the ones in Hawaii and Los Angeles. Emigration was a social phenomenon in the 20th century of Okinawan society and because of this large-scale emigration, presently, many Okinawan descendents live in different places around the world (figure 2). Okinawans have maintained their communities relatively well when compared to other ethnic groups. Their traditions and common …
