ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Nirai Kanai

Nirai Kanai is a place in the history and mythology of Okinawa, which is an island in Japan. Long ago, people in Okinawa believed that there was a magical place high in the sky called Nirai Kanai. This place was said to be where the gods lived and it was full of beautiful things like fruit trees that never stopped growing, flowers that never wilted, and musicians playing songs all day long.

The people of Okinawa would pray to the gods of Nirai Kanai and ask for their blessings. They believed that if they were good and kind, the gods would listen to their prayers and bring them good fortune.

Nowadays, the idea of Nirai Kanai is still important to the people of Okinawa. They still believe in the power of the gods and they still try to be good and kind in order to gain their favor. They also celebrate festivals and perform dances that tell the stories and myths of Nirai Kanai, so that the tradition can be passed down to future generations.

So, in a nutshell, Nirai Kanai is a magical place high in the sky where the gods live, and Okinawan people believe in this place and pray to the gods for blessings and guidance.