This anime revolves around the culture and lifestyles of those living in the Ryukyu Islands south of Japan. These islands are a prefecture of Japan but were their own nation originally which makes their culture significantly different to the rest of the country.
*MINOR SPOILERS*
Someone not familiar with Okinawa is going to be confused by a lot of the symbolism of the scenes and set peices. The significance of the Banyan trees, the ocean, the never setting sun, the strange creatures that drink and eat themselves silly (Shisa), and the double arched Torri gates all play huge parts to make the culture and identity of Okinawa. If you have knowledge of the Japanese language the dialect might be very difficult to understand and there are several times where words from Okinawa's original language are used.
*HEAVY SPOILERS*
Deji came to Okinawa because it is about 900 miles south of mainland Japan and a cheap popular tourist destination. I think it is implied that he makes a wish to get away from the pain and pressure of the idol lifestyle. The island tries to grant his wish in several ways. 1st they give him the beauty of the Okinawan aquatic life. I'm guessing as a source of beauty as Okinawa is rated one of the best scuba diving locations in the world. 2nd there is the Banyan tree. My guess is that it was symbolism for the over of a long life of peace. Banyan trees are also capable of slowly moving over time to ideal locations. 3rd is the never ending sunset. In Okinawa one the the favorite past times of locals is to throw huge beach bbqs. Normally you invite loads of people to one of these events and as the booze starts flowing, you will find yourself with other strangers at the beach. The never ending sunset is to offer the never ending possibility of simple pleasure and a never ending supply of booze, food, and sanshin music. Then you finally have the last set of episodes that introduce those strange creatures to the hotel. I beleive those to be Shisa. They are known across Asia but I only know of their significance to Okinawa. Typically there are only too. One keeps it's mouth open to catch happiness as it passes by while the keeps it's mouth close to hold on to happiness. I beleive their appearance was a final chance to grant Deji's wish. The final scene is kind of confusing as Higa is sent to look for Deji by the Shisa. My only guess is that the Shisa were upset that Deji rejected their attempts to grant his wish and tossed him to the mercy of the fox. Foxes play no part in Okinawan lore to my knowledge and may be a shot at mainland Japan (Japan heavily neglects Okinawa and has commited extreme acts of cruelty on its people) and stating that only the mainland Japanese gods would answer his prayer as a call to be spirited away.
In the end this was made for a pretty small audience but I hoe it's animation, sound design, and mistique inspire people to learn more about this beautiful place
