Ryukyu Mura

Like stepping into a time machine, Ryukyu Mura is a recreation of what life would have been like in the ancient Ryukyu kingdom we now call Okinawa. This historical village was created over a quarter century ago in an effort to keep the distinctive traditions and culture of Okinawa alive.

Ryukyu Mura may be located near Onna-son but the houses and building are from all parts of Okinawa. The creators of this piece of living history painstakingly took apart dozens of old buildings all over Okinawa brought them to Ryukyu Mura and put them back together with the same high level of care. The result is a collection of structures, some dating back 200 years that represent traditional architecture with red tile or thatched roofs from various parts of Okinawa Island.

Visitors to Ryukyu Mura have a chance to tour inside the historical Okinawa building as well as see the artisans and craftsmen engaged in their customary trades inside. The chance to see a weaver create a local traditional textile (hanaui ) or a craftsmen produce traditional pottery, Sanshin ( Okinawa string instrument), fabric, and paper is a rare sight in Okinawa these days. Another popular trade exhibit is the sugar cane factory, where the famous Okinawa brown sugar is still made the traditional way using water buffalo to power the sugar cane press.

After seeing the mater craftsmen and artisans at work many people choose to take a tour to the Habu Center, dedicated to the three species of indigenous poisonous Okinawa snake. The Center educates visitors about these amazing reptiles.

Ryukyu Mura also features many performances such as Eisa dance, Karate demonstrations, sanshin, and other performing arts. Throughout the year Ryukyu Mura plays host to various festivals and musical events such as the lunar calendar celebration named Michi Junee.

No matter where you go in Ryukyu Mura you are likely to see many of the staff outfitted in customary Okinawa dress from different periods in the Ryukyu kingdoms history. Besides representing the culture they also make for a great photo opportunities so don’t be afraid to ask them for the perfect photo.

From Naha Airport: Approx. 80 min. by car (via highway)
From Okinawa Expressway: Ishikawa I.C: Approx: 15 min. by car (via highway)
From nearest bus stop: Ryukyu Mura: Approx. 2 min. on foot
(Stop for line : 20, 120)

Admission: Adult 840yen, Children 730yen, Small children 420yen
Open hours: 8:30-17:30 (Open all year round)
Address: 1130 Yamada, Onna Village, Okinawa 904-0416
Phone: 098-965-1234

Directions: Head north from Kadena Rotary on Highway 58 for about six kilometers. Pass the pig and cow statues at Okinawa Ham on the left, then you’ll see the big Ryukyu Mura signs. Turn left, follow the road for about three kilometers.