Guida
The Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum is located within the Peace Memorial Park in Itoman City, Okinawa. This facility was established to mourn the many victims of the Battle of Okinawa, to correctly pass down the historical lessons of the war to future generations, and to convey the message of peace to the entire world. The core philosophy of the exhibits is 'The Battle of Okinawa through the eyes of the residents.' This means the content focuses not just on military records, but on the actual lives and experiences of the people living through the conflict. The architecture itself is significant, featuring a low-rise design reminiscent of traditional Okinawan residential settlements, with a layout arranged 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 its predecessor, the Okinawa Prefectural Museum, opened in 1975, much debate followed regarding how to best present the exhibits. In the 1990s, a reconstruction and relocation project was undertaken to more effectively convey the desire for peace, leading to the opening of the current building in April 2000. The establishment is rooted in the strong will of the local community to ensure the history of the Battle of Okinawa is never forgotten. The museum plays a crucial role in recording the reality of the war by gathering diverse, multi-faceted testimonies from residents based on historical facts.
The centerpiece of the museum is the permanent exhibition room located on the 2nd floor. The exhibition follows five major themes: 'The Path to the Battle of Okinawa,' 'The Iron Storm,' 'The Hell of the Battlefield,' and 'Testimonies of the Battle of Okinawa.' The displays include actual artifacts and photographic panels, as well as written testimonies from 145 survivors and video footage from approximately 500 individuals. These are vital resources for understanding the raw, human experience of the war. On the 1st floor, the 'Children & Process Exhibition Room' provides a space for younger generations to reflect on peace, featuring a peace-related information library and AV booths.
The museum is open year-round. To enjoy the exhibits in a calm and contemplative atmosphere, it is recommended to visit during the early morning hours. A common sightseeing plan involves visiting the museum alongside other facilities within the Peace Memorial Park, such as the 'Cornerstone of Peace.' Since the museum is primarily an indoor facility, you can study history regardless of Okinawa's intense sunlight or weather conditions. Please note that the final admission for entry is 30 minutes before closing time, so it is best to arrive with plenty of time to spare.
Visitors can engage in learning through various audiovisual tools. The AV booths allow you to watch videos of war survivors' testimonies and films about peace, providing a multi-dimensional understanding that text and photos alone cannot convey. Additionally, the Peace Memorial Hall occasionally hosts lectures and screenings, serving as a place for specialized learning. The surrounding area, including the Peace Memorial Park, allows for a comprehensive journey through history as you move between the museum and other nearby monuments.
The museum is situated within the Peace Memorial Park, which hosts several other significant sites. Key landmarks include the 'Cornerstone of Peace' (Heiwa no Ishiji), where the names of the war dead are inscribed, and the National Okinawa National Cemetery. These sites complement the museum's exhibits, allowing visitors to connect the historical background learned in the museum with the physical monuments and memorial sites. The surrounding area is a well-maintained park, offering a peaceful environment for both historical study and quiet reflection.
As this is a site of profound historical significance, visitors are asked to act with respect and solemnity. While there are no strict dress codes, comfortable walking shoes are recommended for a smooth visit. Admission fees are 300 JPY for adults and 150 JPY for children. Regarding payment, it is highly recommended to bring cash (JPY), as the availability of credit cards or IC cards may vary. Please be mindful of photography restrictions and maintain a quiet demeanor to respect the exhibits and other visitors.