Guide
The Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum is located within the Peace Memorial Park in Itoman City, Okinawa. This facility was established to honor the many victims of the Battle of Okinawa, to pass down the historical lessons of the war to future generations, and to share the message of peace with the entire world. The core philosophy of the exhibits is to present the 'Battle of Okinawa from the perspective of the residents,' focusing not just on military records, but on the daily lives and personal experiences of the people. The architecture itself is meaningful, featuring a low-rise design reminiscent of traditional Okinawan village settlements, with a layout organized in concentric circles around the 'Flame of Peace.'
The history of the museum traces back to the formation of the Okinawa Battle Memorial Establishment Committee in 1963. While the predecessor, the Okinawa Prefectural Museum, opened in 1975, the institution underwent significant evolution regarding how to best present its exhibits. In the 1990s, a reconstruction and relocation project was undertaken to more effectively communicate the message of peace, leading to the opening of the current building in April 2000. The museum's existence is driven by a strong local commitment to ensuring that the history of the Battle of Okinawa is never forgotten and is accurately transmitted to the next generation through multi-faceted, human-centered accounts.
The heart of the museum is the permanent exhibition room located on the 2nd floor. The exhibits follow five major themes: 'The Path to the Battle of Okinawa,' 'The Iron Storm,' 'The Hellish Battlefield,' and 'Testimonies of the Battle of Okinawa.' Visitors can explore authentic historical artifacts, photo panels, and deeply moving accounts from 145 survivors, including video testimonies from approximately 500 individuals. These are vital resources for understanding the raw reality of life during the war. On the 1st floor, the 'Children & Process Exhibition Room' provides a space for younger generations to reflect on peace, featuring an information library and AV booths designed for educational engagement.
The museum is open year-round. To enjoy the exhibits in a calm and contemplative atmosphere, we recommend visiting in the early morning. A common itinerary involves visiting the museum alongside other facilities within the Peace Memorial Park, such as the 'Cornerstone of Peace.' Since the exhibits are primarily indoors, you can learn about history comfortably regardless of Okinawa's intense sun or weather conditions. Please note that the final entry for admission is 30 minutes before the closing time, so please plan your visit with sufficient time to spare.
Inside the museum, visitors can engage in deep learning through audiovisual materials. The AV booths allow you to watch videos of survivor testimonies and documentaries regarding peace, providing a multi-dimensional understanding that text and photos alone cannot convey. Additionally, the Peace Memorial Hall occasionally hosts lectures and film screenings, serving as a center for specialized learning. The surrounding area of the museum, including the nearby 'Cornerstone of Peace,' allows for a comprehensive journey through history as you walk through the park and visit the various monuments.
The museum is part of the larger Peace Memorial Park, which houses several significant sites. Most notably, the 'Cornerstone of Peace' (Heiwa no Ishi) features the names of all those who died in the Battle of Okinawa, and the National Okinawa Battlefield Cemetery is also nearby. These sites complement the museum's exhibits, allowing visitors to connect the historical background learned inside the museum with the physical monuments and memorial sites in the park. The area is a well-maintained, peaceful park perfect for quiet reflection.
As this is a site of great historical significance, visitors are asked to maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor. While there are no strict dress codes, comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the park and museum. Admission fees are 300 JPY for adults and 150 JPY for children. Please note that while you may check for local digital payment options, it is highly recommended to carry cash (Japanese Yen) for certain transactions. Please also be mindful of photography restrictions to protect the exhibits and maintain the solemn atmosphere of the museum.