The area surrounding Shuri Castle has come to be known as “Shuri Castle Park” where more and more of its sites have become open to the public such as the temple which was reconstructed and opened in 1992. Guests can now look forward to peeking into the world of the castle even deeper with the opening of the Ouchibara Area on February 1, 2019.
This new area will require a fee to enter, but free access is now running from January 28 to 31.
Shuri Castle was the palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom between 1429 and 1879 where it boasted dignified politics, diplomacy and culture. The castle is home to three areas that encapsulated these three elements. The first is the Gyousei Kuukan which centers around the main temple and imperial garden. The second is the Saishi Kuukan which centers around the Kyo-no-Uchi area which is revered as a place of worship. The last is the newly opened Ouchibara, the place where the king, his family and the court ladies lived.
“Ouchibara” is the name given to the area on the east side of the temple. A residential area of the citadel, the place was forbidden to all males except those in the royal family. Only the king, his family and the many court ladies who supported them could be there. Despite the west side being a world of politics and diplomacy, this eastern side was operated entirely by women. The area is home to the tallest structure in the citadel and looks onto the East China Sea and town of Shuri. When the weather is clear, you can also see Kudaka Island in the east and the Kerama Islands in t he west.
The Ouchibara offers a real look into the lives of the king and court ladies. Learn about the deeper history of Shuri Castle and Okinawa by visting.
Information
Shuri Castle Park Ouchibara Area Free-of-Charge Opening
Entrance: Free entry from the Shukujunmon Gate
Running: January 28, 2019 – January 31, 2019
*A fee will still be charged for entry to the temple.
Shuri Castle Website: http://oki-park.jp/shurijo/en/
RECOMMENDED ENTRIES
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IMGYA CORAL VILLAGE is located at Shigira Resort on the Miyako Islands of Okinawa Prefecture. The site received a name change on October 1, 2018 and now goes by the name ALLAMANDA IMGYA CORAL VILLAGE.
The site has undergone a "brush up" to better exhibit the charms that Imgya has to offer including the staff uniforms, amenities and more. Their concept is to offer individuals a great journey in a blue and green paradise. The Miyako Islands sit approximately 300km southwest of mainland Okinawa. Direct flights depart from Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka throughout the year and from Fukuoka for limited periods. Its easy access makes it a very popular resort destination. Shigira Resort boasts 3.3 million square meters on the island. This is where the Imgya area is located, home to newly-named ALLAMANDA IMGYA CORAL VILLAGE which is surrounded by lush nature. The beachfront park Imgya Marine Garden makes use of the inlets on the premises, offering the best location to enjoy the beautiful sea and sights. The calm ocean is home to schools of tropical fish of all colours such as the yellowtail clownfish which you can see yourself by snorkelling. The parkside path is also ideal for a stroll during marine leisure time. During the day guests are surrounded by the sound of sea waves, and at night, they can enjoy gazing at the starry sky while wrapped in remote nature. There are 72 rooms spread across 18 villa buildings. All rooms come with a living room, bedrooms, loft and a terrace with a Jacuzzi. The buildings have colourful and modern interiors. Rooms are decked out with wood which give them a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The terrace and Jacuzzi are sure to make for some Instagrammable photos. The site's restaurant Coral Blue offers breakfast and dinner in the form of a buffet that rotates from Japanese food to western and Asian. The colourful menu uses ingredients from the island and Okinawa. You can even pick from an optional BBQ in the evening. Whether it's a refreshing vacation with friends and family or an anniversary trip, why not visit ALLAMANDA IMGYA CORAL VILLAGE? Information
ALLAMANDA IMGYA CORAL VILLAGE
Address: Tomori-542 Gusukube, Miyakojima, Okinawa Prefecture
TEL: 0120-153-070 (Bookings Taken)
Bookings: https://www.nanseirakuen.com/icv/
Website: https://www.nanseirakuen.com
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The luxurious HOTEL LOCUS situated on the island of Miyako in Okinawa, where every room has an ocean view, held its grand opening on January 22, 2018.
A dream beach location and a great destination for snorkeling and diving to see the coral reefs, the number of tourists visiting Miyako Island in Okinawa has been increasing in recent years. In the northwestern region of Miyako Island, just 10 minutes by car from Miyako Airport and facing Hirara port is HOTEL LOCUS, where every room has a view of the ocean. The hotel is positioned in the ideal location to take in the regional characteristics and charm of Miyako Island and aims to be an "experienced-based resort" where guests can fully enjoy everything that the island has to offer through numerous different experiences.
HOTEL LOCUS has selected a range of activities for guests to enjoy characteristic of Miyako Island, including food, culture, spots, people, and of course marine sports.
Hand Craft Design & Original Textiles
To ensure guests can enjoy the rich natural environment of Miyako Island to the fullest, the hotel space is made warm and simple with handmade furniture, fabrics, artwork and more. Traditional Okinawan crafts and materials are also used for people to take in the regional characteristics while enjoying some quality, stress-free relaxation time.
Rooms are complete with rugs and cushions made with an original textile that transmits the charm of local Miyako craft. This textile was developed in collaboration with Eri Shimatsuka, a textile designer who formerly resided in Okinawa and currently works with international brands. There are four designs themed on spinning thread ("UMU"), braiding plants ("AMU") and high quality Miyako kasuri fabric ("KASURI").
Ocean-view rooms
There are 100 rooms in HOTEL LOCUS, and all of them have an ocean view. There are 6 types of rooms to choose from, from compact and simple to twin rooms with a terrace, rooms with a private pool and hot tub, and more.
See Miyako Island's gorgeous ocean and the sunset from the restaurant
On the second floor of the hotel is "LOCUS TABLE," a restaurant that serves up fresh Miyako ingredients using island vegetables, herbs and spices from the hotel's own vegetable garden. The menu is brimming with delicious food. Feel the refreshing ocean breeze against your cheeks on the terrace with breakfast, and gaze at the beautiful sunset with dinner.
Concept shop
On the first floor next to the reception is a shop called "Concept Shop by su+". su+ is a new project by UDS who aim to bring forth new value in a room through materials. They promote the handiwork of Miyako by stocking handicrafts that elicit the warmth of the island.
Appreciate the beauty of Miyako Island at HOTEL LOCUS with an ocean view, local food and charming crafts.
■Information
HOTEL LOCUS
Address: Hirara Shimozato, Miyakojima-shi, Okinawa Prefecture, 906-0013
Grand Opening: January 22, 2018
Rooms: 100 (Check-in from 3pm / Check-out by 11am)
Facilities: Restaurant "LOCUS TABLE" / Shop "Concept Shop by su+" / Outdoor Pool / Sunset Terrace / Activity Lounge
Website: https://www.hotellocus.com/
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DMM.com will open “DMM Kariyushi Aquarium (provisional name).” The aquarium will be opened sometime during the first half of 2020.
Upholding the main theme of, “the world’s first augmented reality entertainment aquarium which uses the latest projection technologies,” the aquarium will combine the latest projection technologies and various kinds of animals/fish in a sea based in the settings such as “Okinawa’s clear sea,” “evergreen forest of an island” and “wonderful nature in subtropical zone.”
The aquarium will offer an exciting and relaxing experience to the visitors.
The venue where the aquarium will be built will include a shopping center which will be built beside Chura SUN Beach. The venue is close to the entrance of Okinawa, “Naha Airport.” A 20-minute car ride will get you to this venue.In addition, the aquarium will offer some exhibits combining “real×virtual” using the latest projection technologies in addition to exhibiting fish tanks. They will create spaces which do not look like a commercial establishment using dynamic visuals representing seasons, time and the beauty of nature.
Updates of details will be uploaded on their website subsequently.
Don’t miss this new spot - “DMM Kariyushi Aquarium (provisional name)” which will be opened in Okinawa.
RELATED ENTRIES
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Scenic Girls’ Fashion Festival OKINAWA COLLECTION 2023 to be Held for the First Time in September, Popular Boy’s Group OCTPATH Announced as First Performers
The Okinawa Collection Executive Committee has announced the first girls’ fashion festival OKINAWA COLLECTION 2023. The event will be held at Umisora Park in Okinawa on September 24, 2023. The first round of performers has been announced and pre-sale tickets are now available.
The event will be held on the picturesque sandy beaches of Naha, the capital of Okinawa Prefecture. The area is famous for its contributions to entertainment, and the show aims to share current pop culture with both audiences in Japan and the world.
■Several influential models are scheduled to appear!
The first batch of performers include Yuina Kogawa, a model and television personality; Nana Kato, an exclusive model for Ray and LARME magazines; Ariana Sakura, an exclusive model for ViVi and a model for many popular brands; Nagomi, who also produces the cosmetics brand "GENTY," and PyunA., an exclusive model for the fashion magazine Koakuma ageha who is set to release her first photo book in August.
■Additional guests, including popular YouTubers, will take the stage!
Guests include the popular YouTuber duo Nakonako Couple, active both online and on TV; Mukuena, two childhood friends and artists with a popular YouTube channel; Toua, a current trendsetter; Osaki, a high-schooler appearing in the People category of the JC/JK Buzzword Awards 2022; Sakura, an exclusive model for Popteen; Mika Kato, an exclusive model for nuts; and Yuichami, the younger sister of Uchami and an exclusive model for egg.
■The trending boy band OCTOPATH will perform!
OCTPATH, a boy group consisting of former trainees appearing on the popular audition program PRODUCE 101 JAPAN SEASON 2, made their major debut in 2022. Guests can expect a mesmerizing performance!
More performers and content will be announced soon. Check out the event's official website for the latest information!
Information
OKINAWA COLLECTION 2023
Date: September 24 / Doors open at 14:30, Show starts at 16:00
Venue: Umisora Park (3-chome-3-1 Tsuji, Naha, Okinawa)<Seating Type/Pricing>
Standing Only
Pre-sale Tickets: ¥3,000 (Tax Included) / General Tickets: ¥3,500 (Tax Included)
*Tickets are required for all guests ages 4 and up.
*Up to five tickets per purchase.
<Pre-sale Tickets>
Available: July 27 – August 15, 2023 at 23:59
Where to Purchase: e+ https://eplus.jp/okinawa-collection/<General Ticket Sales>
Available: August 18 – September 23, 23:59
Official Site: https://okinawa-collection.jp/■Performers
[Guest Models]
Arianna Sakura / Nana Kato / Nagomi / PyunA. / Yuna Kogawa[Guests]
Osaki / Katomika / Sakura / Toua / Nakonako Couple / Mukuena / Yuina Kogawa[Artist]
OCTPATH -
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu inspired music lovers around the world in April when she performed at Coachella, one of the largest music festivals on Earth. The second half of the singer’s 10th anniversary nationwide tour 31-show has begun, and in conjunction with this special event, the LOCAL POWER JAPAN Project was launched to energize Japan through the appeal of regional towns and cities. As with past concert locations, a new collaboration has been announced ahead of Kyary’s June 23 performance in Okinawa, where the artist held an additional show.
In Okinawa, Kyary is teaming up with the popular souvenir shop Okashi Goten, known for its Beni-imo (purple sweet potato) tarts. The shop itself looks similar to Shuri Castle from the outside, and as guests enter, they’re surrounded by products made exclusively from Okinawan ingredients. This collaboration pays homage to where it all began, with the special logo inspired by Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s 2011 debut mini-labum Moshi Moshi Harajuku. Fans will be able to buy a special box of these tasty tarts, with the outside stamped with ‘Moshi Moshi Beni-imo Tart’ and a drawing of Kyary inspired by the cover of her 2011 album. This item is now available at all shops offering Okashi Goten products and at the Okashi Goten online store. A collaborative T-shirt is also on sale featuring the new logo and the singer’s 10th-anniversary logo. The shirt is available on the LOCAL POWER JAPAN Project website for two weeks only starting July 22.Information
Okashi Goten (Okinawa) x LOCAL POWER JAPAN PROJECT – Moshi Moshi Sweet Potato Tart
Price: ¥756 (Tax Included)
Available: July 23 – August 31, 2022 *Dates may vary at certain stores.
Where to Buy: Okashi Goten locations, online store
(Available while supplies last.)
Official Online Store: https://www.okashigoten.com/Collaboration T-shirt
Price: ¥3,300 (Tax Included)
Where to Buy:
LOCAL POWER JAPAN Project Online Shop
https://store-localpowerjapan.com/
Available: July 22 – August 4, 2022
Official Site: https://localpowerjapan.com -
The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa will feature the works of contemporary artist Kohei Arikawa from March 15 until March 31, 2022. ‘Matthew’s Favorite Pancakes’ will be held at The Lobby Lounge at the hotel. The original pancakes, created in collaboration with the artist, will be served in limited quantities each day as part of the hotel's anniversary plan, which marks its 10th anniversary in May of this year. The collaboration is inspired by one of Arikawa’s best-known series ‘BEST FRIENDS - Matthew.’ Each pancake feature apples sauteed in caramel and custard cream sandwiched between layers of fluffy dough. The toppings also include Italian meringue, whipped cream, and chocolate. Why not add maple syrup too? The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa plans to continue to collaborate with the artist in the future. As part of the company’s Community Footprint initiative, more than a dozen of his works will be on display. Proceeds will fund an orphanage in Nago, Okinawa.
Information
Matthew’s Favorite Pancake
Running: March 15 – March 31, 2022
Location: The Ritz-Carlton Okinawa / The Lobby Lounge
*Limited to 20 dishes per day.
Official Site：https://www.marriott.co.jp/
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Located in wonderfully warm Okinawa, Hoshino Resort is the perfect getaway for those wanting a warmer winter. The Banta Cafe overlooks the ocean, and from December 1, 2021, until January 31, 2022, the cafe is putting on the ‘Illumi-Banta: Night Lights by the Sea’ event. Of course, Illumi-Banta is a portmanteau of the words ‘Illumination’ and ‘Banta,’ but the Okinawan word iyumibanta means ‘a cliff overlooking the fish.’ The entire location, from the top of the cliff all the way to the sea, will be bathed in otherworldly light. A special menu is available during the event period, serving up food perfect for eating as guests wander by the seaside. A number of Okinawan workshops have also brought local craftsmen to the site to show off their creations.
Okinawa is warm in the winter, and this event has been perfect for those wanting to avoid being chilled to the bone during the holidays. For those unable to attend, the video above was filmed using a drone and shows the incredible heart of this event. Who knew that water could be so blue? A Fantastic World of Light and Ocean Life Banta Cafe sits on a cliff above the water, and the waters beneath it hide gorgeous coral reefs. Watch the sea come to life, as the ocean, white sand beach, and rock formations are illuminated. The lights will change colors during the daily light show along with the tides, giving a different impression depending on the time of day. The pavilion on the seaside terrace is also illuminated with motifs inspired by traditional Okinawan textiles. Playful Plant Shadows On the large roof deck located at the entrance, large fern and palm leaves have been arranged to welcome guests along with other plants local to Okinawa. Using lights, the shadows from these plants reach massive heights on the 4-meter high Ryukyu limestone walls. This takes shadow puppets to a whole new level! Enjoy a Lantern-Lit Night Picnic The night cafe will be selling a special Strolling Soup Set menu, inviting guests to venture out onto the sandy shore with a lantern in hand to enjoy a meal beside the sea. Guests can choose two of the available four soups along with a crispy baguette and herb butter. Hours: 18:00-20:30 (Last Order) Price: Strolling Soup Set for Two, ¥2,600 The Night Light Market, a Gathering of Proud Okinawan Artists On Saturday nights from January 8 to January 29, the Night Light Market will bring various artists and craftsmen from Okinawa to the Hoshino Resort. These artists will be excited to share the culture of Okinawa and will offer a range of products made of locally sourced materials. Guests can even try their hand at local crafts at the indoor Gorogoro Lounge! Running: Every Saturday Night from January 8 – January 29, 2022 Hours: 18:00-21:00 Information
Illumi-Banta
Running until January 31, 2022
*Running every Thursday during the event period except December 23 and 30. Closed December 17-21.
Hours: 18:00-22:00 (Last Drink Order at 21:00)*Event may be canceled in case of inclement weather.
Admission: Free admission with purchase at cafe or grill.Official Site: https://banta-cafe.com
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Born in the year 2000 to an American father and American-Okinawan mother, Gen-Z pop singer Grace Ami released her 12-track debut album on November 26. The album is comprised of both new tracks and some previously available on streaming services and was produced by Chaki Zulu. Along with the release, a teaser for the Karaoke Queen music video was uploaded to YouTube, with the full video scheduled to be released on December 6.
MV Teaser (Directed by Takuto Shinpo)chttps://www.youtube.com/c/GraceAimiOfficial Aimi began her career by starting a YouTube channel with her younger brother. As they began posting covers to popular songs, their popularity on social media grew, and in 2020 Grace Aimi released Eternal Sunshine. She is now signed to Capitol Records US and constantly experiments with new sounds and genres, jumping between gospel R&B to rock and rap and goth-pop. Her creativity and individuality are making her a unique addition to the Japanese music scene, and she’s definitely someone to keep an eye on! Originally from Okinawa, Grace believes that her hometown has been essential to her sensibilities as an artist. “My home island was devastated during WWII, but the people there are beautiful and genuinely happy. I hope to share that Okinawan spirit with everyone,” she says. Information
If
Release Date: November 26, 2021
Streaming Link: https://umj.lnk.to/GraceAimi_If_Album
CD Price: ¥3,300 (Tax Included)
https://store.universal-music.co.jp/product/uice1210/
Grace Aimi Official Site: http://graceaimi.com/
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Located in wonderfully warm Okinawa, Hoshino Resort is the perfect getaway for those wanting a warmer winter. The Banta Cafe overlooks the ocean, offering unmatched views. From December 1, 2021, until January 31, 2022, the cafe will hold the ‘Illumi-Banta: Night Lights by the Sea’ event. Of course, Illumi-Banta is a portmanteau of the words ‘Illumination’ and ‘Banta,’ but the Okinawan word iyumibanta means ‘a cliff overlooking the fish.’ The entire location, from the top of the cliff all the way to the sea, will be bathed in otherworldly light. A special menu will also be available during the event period, serving up food perfect for eating as guests wander by the seaside. A number of Okinawan workshops will also bring local craftsmen to the site to show off their creations. Why bundle up when you can enjoy a warm winter by the ocean?
A Fantastic World of Light and Ocean Life
Banta Cafe sits on a cliff above the water, and the waters beneath it hide gorgeous coral reefs. Watch the sea come to life, as the ocean, white sand beach, and rock formations are illuminated. The lights will change colors during the daily light show along with the tides, so don’t miss it!Light Show Times: 18:30, 20:00, 21:00 *Each show lasts about five minutes. Playful Plant Shadows
On the large roof deck located at the entrance, large fern and palm leaves have been arranged to welcome guests along with other plants local to Okinawa. Using lights, the shadows from these plants reach massive heights on the 4-meter high Ryukyu limestone walls, and guests are encouraged to try making some fun shadow puppets for the perfect snapshot! Enjoy a Lantern-Lit Night Picnic with the Strolling Soup Set
The night cafe will be selling a special Strolling Soup Set menu, inviting guests to venture out onto the sandy shore with a lantern in hand to enjoy a meal beside the sea. Guests can choose two of the available four soups along with a crispy baguette and herb butter. Hours: 18:00 - 20:30 (Last Order)Price: Strolling Soup Set for Two, ¥2,600Includes: Two types of soup and bucket for two people, lantern and basket rental Four Types of Soup ・ Minestrone Filled with colorful vegetables, such as tomato, bitter melon, and yellow carrot ・Clam Chowder Packed with seafood flavor and a unique mix of Okinawan spices ・Consomme with Yushi Tofu A lightly-salted soup made with Okinawa’s fluffy Yushi Tofu and thick-cut bacon ・Yam and Cauliflower Potage Creamy potage with white cauliflower and brightly colored yam The Night Light Market, a Gathering of Proud Okinawan Artists
On Saturday nights from January 8 to January 29, the Night Light Market will bring various artists and craftsmen from Okinawa to the Hoshino Resort. These artists will be excited to share the culture of Okinawa and will offer a range of products made of locally sourced materials. Guests can even try their hand at local crafts at the indoor Gorogoro Lounge!Running: Every Saturday Night from January 8 - January 29, 2022Hours: 18:00-21:00 Wouldn’t you prefer a warm Okinawan winter? Information
Illumi-Banta
Running: December 1, 2021 – January 31, 2022 (Closed from January 17-21)
Hours: Sunset – 21:30
Official Site: https://banta-cafe.com/