Experience terror and laughter all at once! A report on my experience at the "Okinawa Omoro Haunted House"

For many people, the image of a "haunted house" is primarily associated with fear, and therefore, many may not have the opportunity to visit one.
Amidst all this, rumors have surfaced that there's a haunted house at Hapinaha, located on Kokusai Street in Naha, where you can have an "interesting" experience.
This time, we'll report on our actual experience! We'll thoroughly dissect the mysteries of this "fun haunted house"!

*Notice of HAPI NAHA Closure*
It is with great regret that we announce that HAPI NAHA closed its doors at the end of June 2017.

Below is some information about "HAPI NAHA" from when it was in operation, for those who have fond memories of it.

Photo courtesy of Yoshimoto Creative Agency Co., Ltd.

<Table of Contents>
1. What is the Okinawa Omoro Haunted House?
1-1. I actually tried it!
1-1-1. Scenes from the haunted house experience
1-1-2. Impressions after the experience
1-2. Highlights by Majimun (Chinen Majimun)
1-3. New Project! "Smart Light Haunted House"
1-4. Facility information for Okinawa Omoro Haunted House
2. About Yoshimoto Okinawa Kagetsu
2-1. What kind of place is Yoshimoto Okinawa Kagetsu?
2-2. Summer Event Information
2-3. Facility Information for Yoshimoto Okinawa Kagetsu
3. "Learning about Okinawa through Laughter!" Okinawa New Comedy Tour 2016
4. It's not just "Yoshimoto"! The appeal of "Hapinaha"
4-1. Recommended facilities on the 2st floor
4-2. Recommended facilities on the 1st floor
4-3. Access and Details to Hapinaha
4-3-1. Access from Naha Airport
4-3-2. Facility Information
5. Afterword

1. What is the Okinawa Omoro Haunted House?

Photo courtesy of Yoshimoto Creative Agency Co., Ltd.
This haunted house opened on March 12, 2015, at "HAPiNAHA," a new landmark located on Kokusai Street, in the former site of Okinawa Mitsukoshi department store.
The setting is a fictional department store called "Omoro Department Store".
This is a new kind of entertainment that combines both horror and laughter, created using one of the largest areas (600 tsubo) in western Japan!

1-1. I actually tried it!

1-1-1. Scenes from the haunted house experience

I actually went and experienced the "Okinawa Omoro Haunted House"!

The first thing that caught my eye was the story behind this haunted house.
The unique Okinawan vocabulary, such as "Majimun" and "Ishiganto," is also intriguing.
However, after reading the story structure, my initial impression was that it didn't seem scary at all!
(Little did I know I would later regret saying that...)

The article also includes an explanation of the "Ishiganto," which is key to this haunted house.

Photo courtesy of Yoshimoto Creative Agency Co., Ltd.
It is said to be a protective stone originating in China, and in Japan, it is commonly found in Okinawa and Kagoshima prefectures.
After I finished reading the story, a mischievous yokai, "Majimun," greeted me with a smile.
Apparently, you have to collect eight "Ishiganto" (stone markers) scattered throughout the building within 30 minutes, otherwise it's game over.
What kind of events await us inside the building? I can't contain my excitement!

Before entering the haunted house, the elevator attendant (?) gave us the password.
They practiced the "Majimunmun" chant along with bold arm movements before setting off.
"Seriously! Mmm mmm!"...
The key, apparently, is to do it loudly and without letting your pride get the better of you.

Let's take this elevator and depart!
(Since departure is on the 3rd floor, we'll take the elevator straight up to the 6th floor.)

▼ Kontakgawaigawai

Well, once we got to the 6th floor in the elevator, it was pitch black right in front of us. (crying)
I, who had convinced myself I wouldn't be scared, am already on the verge of tears.

I'm using the handrail to make my way down the pitch-black corridor, but I'm not making much progress...

As we emerged from the dark corridor, a guide Majimun appeared, looking very much in his purple kariyushi shirt!
As soon as the guide Majimun appeared, I let out a loud scream of surprise, "Ahhh!!!"
This guide, a Majimun, will now give us a tour of the haunted house.

▼ Kontakgawaigawai

Photo courtesy of Yoshimoto Creative Agency Co., Ltd.

Next, Okinawan clothing called "Kariyushi" blocks our path.
With hundreds of kariyushi shirts blocking the view ahead, the author cautiously makes their way forward...

▼ Kontakgawaigawai

After the Kariyushi area, we arrived at the "Women's Clothing Area." It's pitch black and we can't see what's ahead.
However, you can also hear the voices of Yoshimoto comedians "Ikuyo Kuruyo" talking, creating a cozy and homey atmosphere.
Here, Guide Majimun makes a lively appearance and takes on a quiz! (The content is a secret!)

▼ Kontakgawaigawai

Next, we'll enter the mirror maze area.
The effects of one-way mirrors and regular mirrors create optical illusions...
As we continued, Yoshimoto comedians, led by Okamura from Ninety-Nine, started appearing in the video!
When I went to interview him, Okamura was still playing pranks in the mirror until the very end... (laughs)

▼ Kontakgawaigawai

After passing through a bizarre mirror maze, you'll arrive at the Okinawa specialty products corner.
The area is filled with unique Okinawan products, making you feel like you're sightseeing just by being in this area!

▼ Kontakgawaigawai

As I continued along the path, I came across a rather suspicious-looking table.
As I gradually got closer... I screamed again. (crying)
(The rest is a surprise you'll have to experience for yourself!)

▼ Kontakgawaigawai

Next, we'll go down the stairs to the 5th floor.
If you look closely at the stairs, you'll find lots of scary stories from Yoshimoto comedians.
All of them were relatable (?), and I found myself agreeing with them in my mind.

▼ Kontakgawaigawai

When we arrived on the 5th floor, MC Majimun gave us a cheerful welcome♪
We were led to "Majimu's Secret Room."
It seems they play games here that require either "physical strength" or "knowledge."

After discussion, the authors chose a game that would require physical exertion.
As someone who's terrible at sports, I'm feeling a bit anxious.

Upon arriving at the venue, the first thing I saw was a frisbee shooting gallery!

The goal is to knock down four of the six targets, each themed after a different type of demon!
They have six chances between the two of them. The tension is palpable. Will they be able to hit the target?!

⇒The result was that I managed to knock down all four targets! Game cleared♪
I guess I was lucky, I hit the target 3 times out of 3! Yay! ^^

Another game is "tablecloth pulling," which is often seen on variety shows.
Apparently, if one of the two people succeeds, they'll clear the challenge! Wow, that sounds difficult...

Despite our anxieties, the show began with MC Majimun's call!

⇒This was my first time ever trying the tablecloth trick, and I succeeded!!! I'm so happy!!!
By the way, my partner's plate was flying through the air. (lol)

Another option is the "Knowledge" room, where you'll be given a quiz!

Whether you use your physical strength or your brain is up to you...!

▼ Kontakgawaigawai

After the fun game, we'll go down the stairs to the 4th floor.
This staircase also features a series of terrifying stories told by Yoshimoto comedians.

...The story about "Tonikaku Akarui Yasumura" sent chills down my spine.
Even in the seemingly glamorous world of entertainment, things don't always go smoothly.

▼ Kontakgawaigawai

Descending to the fourth floor, we were once again in a world of darkness.
Even though I followed a similar route on the way there, I just can't seem to move forward. (crying)
Strange sound effects accompany the game as you nervously make your way to the goal.

▼ Kontakgawaigawai

Photo courtesy of Yoshimoto Creative Agency Co., Ltd.
The final challenge on the fourth floor awaits: the spiral pipe.
A specially constructed bridge blocks your path.

...The rest is for you to discover when you experience it!

1-1-2. Impressions after the experience

First of all, the cast consists of comedians from Yoshimoto Kogyo.
I was able to enjoy myself in a friendly atmosphere.

They supported me when I was scared,
Their attitude of wanting to entertain the customers was evident throughout the entire experience.

The haunted house itself was of very high quality, and the 30 minutes were worth it.
I enjoyed it so much that the time flew by!

Thank you so much to the bearded Majimun and Katsuren Majimun who guided us this time!!!

1-2. Highlights by Majimun

For this interview, Majimun-san kindly shared some of the highlights with us!

We spoke with Chinen Majimun (Takashi Chinen), who is the most popular Majimun.
Now, let's share the interview in a Q&A format!

Q. What are the attractions of the Okinawa Omoro Haunted House?

A. Currently, many people have a negative perception of haunted houses because they associate them with being scary.
However, I feel that Okinawa Omoro Haunted House is more about the fun aspects, such as "amusement" and "excitement."
The fact that all the cast members are comedians is something only Yoshimoto can do, and it's its greatest appeal.
I believe that the close proximity between the comedians and the audience is a major factor in making the show enjoyable.

Q. Do you have a message for our upcoming customers?

A. Summer vacation is just around the corner, and the number of visitors will increase, so the comedians will work even harder with renewed enthusiasm!
Everyone, from adults to children, is welcome to come and play!

Thank you so much, Chinen Majimun, for taking the time out of your busy schedule to give us this interview!
Please continue to help make Okinawa Omoro Haunted House a success!

1-3. New Project! "Smart Light Haunted House"

Photo courtesy of Yoshimoto Creative Agency Co., Ltd.

This haunted house will be open for a limited time from July 27th to September 30th this year.
The "Smart Light Haunted House" event, a collaboration with NTT West, has begun!

Using a pulse meter called "PULSENSE" in a haunted house
A unique and unprecedented attempt to reveal just how easily you get scared!

The level of fear, ranging from 1 to 120, is calculated by comprehensively evaluating five aspects: fear, apprehension, calmness, rigidity, and astonishment.
I hear they'll also be releasing videos of people who have experienced it, so it'll be a great way to create lasting memories!

1-4. Facility information for Okinawa Omoro Haunted House

Photo courtesy of Yoshimoto Creative Agency Co., Ltd.

Name:Okinawa Omoro Haunted House
Address:2-2-30 Makishi, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture, "HAPiNAHA" 3rd-6th floors
Hours:
◆Monday to Thursday 11:00-18:00 (Registration starts at 10:30 / Last registration at 17:30)
◆Friday, Saturday, Sunday, public holidays, and the day before holidays: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM (reception opens at 22:30 AM / last reception at 21:30 PM)
◆Special period: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Registration starts at 22:30 AM / Last registration at 21:30 PM)
2016/7/16(土)～8/31(水), 2016/12/23(金)～2017/1/9(月), 3/18(土)～4/9(日), 4/29(土)～5/7(日)
Admission fees:
Advance tickets (open tickets): Adults 1,200 yen / Students 1,000 yen / Elementary school students 700 yen
Same-day tickets (date and time specified): Adults 1,200 yen / Students 1,000 yen / Elementary school students 700 yen
*The "student" ticket is valid for junior high school, high school, university, and vocational school students.
※ preschool children admission not

☆How to purchase tickets☆

1. Purchase online *Only advance tickets (open tickets) are available.
Purchase your tickets through Ticket Yoshimoto WEB (credit card payment, pick up at the theater box office) and receive zero service fees!
For further information, please read here!

2. Purchase by phone *Only advance tickets (open tickets) are available.
Ticket Yoshimoto Reservation Hotline
TEL: 0570-041-356 (10:00-18:00)

3. Purchase at the Yoshimoto theater box office.
Advance tickets (open tickets) and same-day tickets are sold at the theater box office.
*Same-day tickets are only sold at the ticket counter of Okinawa Omoro Haunted House.

4. Purchase at FamilyMart's FamiPort terminal
Tickets can be purchased at "FamiPort" terminals located inside FamilyMart stores nationwide.
Please use the "Ticket Yoshimoto" button on the top screen to proceed.
*In addition to the ticket price, a ticketing fee of 216 yen per ticket will be charged.

2. About Yoshimoto Okinawa Kagetsu

Here's an introduction to "Yoshimoto Okinawa Kagetsu," a place you should definitely visit along with the haunted house!

2-1. What kind of place is Yoshimoto Okinawa Kagetsu?

Photo courtesy of Yoshimoto Creative Agency Co., Ltd.
This theater hosts comedy shows and new comedy performances (weekends and holidays) 365 days a year, allowing you to enjoy comedy up close with Yoshimoto comedians.
Young comedians from Okinawa, as well as famous comedians from Tokyo and Osaka, mainly on weekends, gather here.

2-2. Summer Event Information

Here are some of the highlight events from July to September at Yoshimoto Okinawa Kagetsu, which actively holds comedy shows and new comedy performances every day!

July 16th (Sat), July 17th (Sun), July 23rd (Sat), July 24th (Sun): Okinawa New Comedy Show "Uchinaa Time"

Photo courtesy of Yoshimoto Creative Agency Co., Ltd.
Slim Club is a regular guest on Saturdays, and Garage Sale is a regular guest on Sundays.
A collaboration between Yoshimoto Shinkigeki and the history and culture of Okinawa!
In July, the theme is "Uchinaa Time," which is about the Okinawan way of life.
Led by Chairman Garage Sale Gori, we'll liven up Okinawa!

July 27th: Summer Vacation Special Performance! Orifuji Trendy SP

Photo courtesy of Yoshimoto Creative Agency Co., Ltd.
Trendy Angel, the 2015 M-1 champions, and Fujimori from Oriental Radio are coming to Okinawa!
Don't miss this special one-day-only collaboration!
There are three performances per day (13:00, 15:00, and 17:00). *Each performance begins 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time.
There will also be talk shows at 19:00 PM and 20:30 PM, so please come if you have the time!

☆Ticket Prices☆
Advance tickets: 1,500 yen / Same-day tickets: 2,000 yen (per performance)
Pass ticket: 5,000 yen

Special performances on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays on July 30th and 31st.

Photo courtesy of Yoshimoto Creative Agency Co., Ltd.
The July 30th "Weekend & Holiday Special Performance - Comedy Special" will feature Robert, Jarujaru, Korokoro Chiki Chiki Peppers, and other talented comedians gathering at Okinawa Kagetsu!
On the 31st, Tomochika and Bambino, who are in high demand on TV, will also be performing! Please come and enjoy top-class comedy at the Okinawa Kagetsu theater.
*Events from August onwardshereCheck it out!

2-3. Facility Information for Yoshimoto Okinawa Kagetsu

Name:Yoshimoto Okinawa Kazuki
Address:3rd Floor, "HAPiNAHA", 2-2-30 Makishi, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture
Performance time:
♦ Weekday performances
Doors open at 13:45 14:00-15:10
♦ Special performances on weekends and holidays
①12:45 Doors open 13:00-14:15
② Doors open at 14:45 15:00-16:15
③ Doors open at 16:45 17:00-18:15

Admission fees:
<Weekdays>
Advance tickets: Adults 1,000 yen / Children 500 yen
Tickets on the day: Adults 1,500 yen / Children 800 yen

<Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays>
Advance tickets: Adults 2,000 yen / Children 1,000 yen
Tickets on the day: Adults 2,500 yen / Children 1,500 yen
*Child rates apply to children of elementary school age and younger.

3. "Learning about Okinawa through Laughter!" Okinawa New Comedy Tour 2016

Photo courtesy of Yoshimoto Creative Agency Co., Ltd.

The Okinawa New Comedy Show, which is held every Saturday, Sunday, and public holiday at Yoshimoto Okinawa Kagetsu, is going on a nationwide tour!

In Okinawa, the event will be held over three days, mainly on Saturdays and Sundays in September, in various locations throughout the prefecture!

The stage for this event is "The World Yakkemun Tournament." "Yakkemun" is an Okinawan dialect word meaning "troublemaker."

The story revolves around Gorie of the comedy duo Garage Sale, who takes the lead role in a chaotic drama at a hotel welcoming participants (Okinawans) who have gathered for the "World Uchinanchu Festival," an event held once every five years.

Click the URL below for details on the 3rd Okinawa New Comedy Tour!

URL: http://okinawa-shinkigeki.com/

[Okinawa performance]
September 10th (Sat) Urasoe City, Tedako Hall, Main Hall, 15:00~
September 11th (Sun), Okinawa Civic Hall Main Hall, 3:00 PM
September 18th (Sun) Ishigaki City Hall Main Hall 15:00~

4. It's not just "Yoshimoto"! The appeal of "Hapinaha"

The two facilities I've introduced so far are located in "Hapinaha," which is situated on Kokusai Street.
So, let me introduce some of Hapinaha's recommended facilities on the 1st and 2nd floors!

4-1. Recommended facilities on the 2st floor

* Popular Japanese restaurant Ebisu

Apparently, this restaurant offers all-you-can-eat tempura, sushi, and shabu-shabu!
Apparently, there's no time limit for lunch, so you can eat without worrying about the clock.

*Anime Cosme

This is a general store that sells anime-themed cosmetics, including Sailor Moon merchandise, as well as Japanese-style goods and Yoshimoto-related merchandise.
Apparently, half of the customers are foreign tourists!

As you can see, there are also photo opportunities! (The Rose of Versailles)

As I walked around the store, I noticed they also had Okinawan goods.
It might be a good place if you're looking for cute souvenirs!

4-2. Recommended facilities on the 1st floor

*Pokemon Store Okinawa Kokusai Dori Store

© 2016 Pokémon. © 1995-2016 Nintendo / Creatures Inc. / GAME FREAK inc.
Pokémon and Pocket Monsters are registered trademarks of Nintendo, Creatures Inc., and Game Freak Inc.

When you go down to the first floor, Pikachu on vacation will greet you!
There are lots of tourists from abroad shopping here.
Apparently, Pikachu is the most popular.
There were also all sorts of Pokémon merchandise overflowing in the store.

*Happy Gourmet Marche

This corner features a wide selection of souvenirs from Okinawa Main Island and its surrounding islands!
Apparently, there are as many as 680 different types of awamori (Okinawan distilled spirit).
I hear that items in the 2,000 yen range are the best sellers.

*Happy Sweets Street

Enjoy confectionery making experiences and find a wide variety of souvenirs that you can only buy here!
All of these shops are highly recommended, but here are just a few of them!

Tsukiji Gindako also adopts a red-tiled roof, a style unique to Okinawa!
You can enjoy takoyaki that's fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside here too!

At this Bakauke Circus, the rice cracker drawing experience is extremely popular!
You can only buy Bakauke's Soki Soba and Pineapple flavors here!

inspired by Rafute and Taco Rice
This Happy Baby Star★OKINAWA can make instant noodles.
I'm curious about the taste of Okinawan-style octopus noodles...

Here, you can create your own original Hi-Chew!
They have a limited capacity, and reservations are often fully booked on weekends.

We also sell Hapinaha-exclusive items like these!

Next up is Morinaga's soft-serve ice cream shop.
Its cute appearance seems to be popular with a wide range of age groups!

In the souvenir sweets zone, you'll find a wide selection of sweets exclusive to Hapinaha!
Among them, the sweet potato flavor of the "Raw Cookie Polka Dot" pictured is by far the most popular!

4-3. Access and Details to Hapinaha

4-3-1. Access from Naha Airport

[By car] Approximately 25 minutes
[By train] Approximately 16 minutes by Yui Rail ⇒ Get off at Makishi Station, then a 3-minute walk.

4-3-2. Facility Information

Name: HAPiNAHA
Address: 2-2-30 Makishi, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture
Business hours: 10:00-22:00 (open all year round)

5. Conclusion

We mainly introduced the "Okinawa Omoro Haunted House," but what did you think?
I enjoyed the haunted house so much that I completely forgot I was there for an interview!
Please stop by when you're in the Kokusai-dori area!