Ryukyu Islands

Ryukyu Islands, archipelago, of approximately 1,850 sq mi (4,790 sq km), forming a 650-mi (1,050-km) arc between Japan and Taiwan. Dividing the East China and Philippine seas, the 100-plus islands comprise 3 groups: the Amami Islands in the north; the central Okinawa Islands, including Okinawa; and the Sakishima Islands in the south. Many have coral reefs and some have active volcanoes. Climate is subtropical; the economy is supported by agriculture and fishing. The Ryukyus became part of Japan in 1879; they passed to the United States after World War II. The northern islands were returned in 1953, and the remainder in 1972.