tourists to the northern part of the island. The main beach, known as Nago beach, is located on highway 58 in 21st Century Park. The facilities have showers, washrooms, and vending machines, and sites can be rented for picnics or barbecues. There is a lifeguard on duty and a net in the water to prevent harmful sea creatures from entering the swimming area. A popular tourist destination is the Pineapple Park which is located on route 84. Right beside the Pineapple Park is Okinawa Fruits land. Pineapple Park is an interactive museum where visitors can see how pineapple is grown, and how pineapple wine is made. There is also a collection of thousands of seashells. Okinawa Fruits Land is a conservatory with many plants, birds and fruits. A map is provided and tourists can wander through the park as they wish. There are many types of tropical birds. The corals and seagrass beds of the east coast of Nago are home to the last remaining population of dugong in Japan. Nago also hosts the international bicycle race known as the Tour de Okinawa, which is usually held in November. Since 1959, Nago has hosted the Nago 1/2 marathon race in February. Because of Nago's sub tropical environment, cherry blossoms bloom early in the year. Nago is always one of the first cities to host the cherry blossom festival every year in January. Economy Orion Breweries has its factory in Nago. The city is also noted for the production of cement, rice, sugarcane, and pineapples. Education Founded as a private university, the now public Meio University is located in Nago. References External links Nago City official website Cities in Okinawa Prefecture