Shimajiri District, Okinawa

Shimajiri District in Okinawa Prefecture

Shimajiri District (島尻郡 Shimajiri-gun, Okinawan: Shimajiri) is a district located in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. Modern translation of Shimajiri means "Butt of the island" which may refer to its southerly position on the island of Okinawa. Compare this to Kunigami District, Okinawa.

However, there are hundreds of geographic references throughout Japan and even into the northern Kuriles using "shiri", to approximate the Ainu word shir, meaning island. Despite Okinawa being so far south, historically Jomon culture was dominant as on the mainland, and words likely have survived, though their original meanings have long been lost or modified.

As of 2003, the district has an estimated population of 131,670 and the density of 464.36 persons per km². The total area is 283.55 km².

The district also includes the Kerama Islands.

Towns and villages

Mergers

Transportation

The following airports are located in Shimajiri District and serve various islands:

Naha Airport in Naha serves Shimajiri District areas in or near Okinawa Island.

Coordinates: 26°10′34″N 127°43′21″E / 26.17611°N 127.72250°E