Place-based science from Okinawa: 18th-century climate and geology recorded in Ryukyuan classical music

Ryukyuan classical music from the 18th century contains detailed observations of climate and geological phenomena, including surface winds, ocean currents, typhoons, and volcanism, that align with modern scientific records. This study demonstrates how indigenous knowledge embedded in art can serve as a historical record of environmental conditions, offering a novel perspective for understanding past climate and natural hazards. By comparing lyrics from Ryukyuan music with 20th–21st-century scientific data, researchers highlight the potential of this approach to engage contemporary audiences—particularly Okinawans and their diaspora—in discussions about climate change and natural disasters. The findings suggest that integrating indigenous knowledge into science education could foster greater public engagement with pressing environmental issues.

Higa, J. T., Uyeunten, J. Y., & Odo, K. A. (2025). Place-based science from Okinawa: 18th-century climate and geology recorded in Ryukyuan classical music. Geoscience Communication, 8(4), 251–266. https://doi.org/10.5194/gc-8-251-2025