Okinawa Prefectural Museum and Art Museum

Overview

The Okinawa Prefectural Museum and Art Museum (おきみゅー) is a dual-purpose cultural complex covering Okinawa's natural history, archaeology, Ryukyuan culture, and contemporary art. The striking castle-inspired concrete building opened in 2007.

Highlights

• Ryukyu Kingdom Gallery: Artifacts, royal garments, and lacquerware from the golden age of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
• Natural History Wing: Exhibits on Okinawa's unique subtropical ecosystems and marine life.
• Art Museum: Rotating exhibitions featuring Okinawan and international contemporary artists.

History

The museum consolidates the former prefectural museum (established 1936) and the art museum into a single campus. Designed by Ishimoto Architectural & Engineering Firm, the building's textured concrete walls evoke the stone walls of Okinawan gusuku fortresses.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: The combined museum + art museum ticket is ¥530 — worth getting for both.
• Tip 2: Closed on Mondays; plan accordingly.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.