This is a another great first for Okinawa. We all know Okinawa has the most beautiful women in Japan. VG has soo many articles and stories I may need to create another directory or category. Maybe I'll call it "Okinawa Power" or perhaps "Goya Go". Anyway I digress.
The 2006 Miss Universe Japan, Kurara Chibana (23), is from of all places Okinawa! The 5'7" (173cm) Sophia University (JouchiDai) Philosophy student beat out about 4,000 other contestants to win a spot in the Miss Universe 2006 pageant which took place on Sunday, July 23rd, in Los Angeles. She did an outstanding job!
She won the First Runner Up. So Miss Japan, Kurara Chibana will assume the duties of MISS UNIVERSE 2006 if the titleholder for some reason cannot fulfill her responsibilities. She also took National Costume Award, she was chosen by a local panel of judges during a two-hour telecast in Los Angeles, California for the delegate who displayed her country's pride and spirit best in costume.
Here is the press release.
Kurara speaks English and French. The first runner up was Miss Hamada Yuko and Fujita Sachiko came in second. There were 12 finalists altogeather.
The Official MUJ site which has lots of pictures, videos and links, is well worth clicking over to check out.
Kurara Chibana's blog site is a great place to read about her.
I know both the above sites are in Japanese only but a picture is worth... er umm... a thousand words.
If you know of any other legends or stories about Okinawa or the surrounding islands please send us what you know and pictures if possible. Thanks.
