Learn about, study, and enjoy Okinawa's traditional crafts at Okinawa Craft Forest

Okinawa Craft Forest is a facility where you can enjoy Okinawan crafts in a way that you might not have expected.
This is a place where you can experience Okinawan crafts from three perspectives: "I want to see it, I want to know about it, and I want to try it."

When you think of Okinawa, you probably picture nature and resorts, but in fact, it's a region where crafts are thriving, even by national standards. There are 16 items designated as "traditional crafts" by the government, making it the third highest number in the country.

In this article, we'll introduce you to "Okinawa Craft Forest," a place where you can experience and learn about a wide range of Okinawan crafts, including its exhibits, workshops, and hands-on programs!

<Table of Contents>
1. Okinawa Crafts Forest – Permanent Exhibitions and Workshop Tours –
2. A wide variety of experiential programs are available.
3. Access to Okinawa Crafts Forest

Show all table of contents

1. Okinawa Crafts Forest – Permanent Exhibitions and Workshop Tours –

Okinawa Crafts Museum is a facility in Okinawa Prefecture that opened in April 2022. The building has three floors, and the entire building is themed around "Okinawan crafts." The second floor is especially geared towards general visitors.

The first thing that greets you is the spacious entrance hall. A tablet is set up on a table in the center, where you can learn about Okinawan crafts.

The key feature is that you can search for crafts not only by item type, but also by category such as material and color. You can feel the effort put into piquing the interest of visitors.

Next to the entrance hall is the "Exhibition Room." It features a wide array of Okinawan crafts, and is an area where you can learn about the overview and characteristics of each item.

Depending on the item, they have prepared samples that visitors can "touch" to check the texture, and they have also set up materials, so instead of just displaying finished products, they have features that stimulate curiosity.

Tablets are also playing a vital role here, allowing users to quickly delve deeper into crafts that pique their interest.

When you think of Okinawan crafts, Ryukyu glass and Tsuboya pottery are probably the most well-known, but I was surprised to discover that Okinawa has so many other crafts. This is a valuable area where you can get a glimpse of the entirety of Okinawan crafts.

Furthermore, the true essence of Okinawa Craft Forest lies in what comes next. There are over a dozen individual workshops within the facility, and at some workshops, you can even purchase their products.

(Please note that some workshops do not sell their products!)

"Urushi Works Sanjicha" is a craftsman who works with the theme of "fitting into modern life" using the lacquer techniques used in Ryukyu lacquerware. I was captivated by the many works that exude a sense of elegance.

"atelier47" is an artist who creates pop-style bingata (Okinawan dyed textiles) inspired by Okinawa. Their colorful works exude a charm that "brightens the mood."

"Kamii Jewelry" is a craftsman who creates jewelry using goldsmithing techniques. Their simple yet sophisticated jewelry designs are perfect for everyday wear.

Depending on the timing, you might catch a glimpse of artisans at work and have the opportunity to talk to them directly, which is one of the great pleasures of having a workshop. At Okinawa Craft Forest, you can not only learn about crafts but also interact with the creators themselves.

2. A wide variety of experiential programs are available.

At the time of the interview, Okinawa Craft Forest offered experiential programs at one pottery studio and two indigo dyeing studios.

At "Sango-yaki Kobo," where you can experience pottery making, they offer a variety of options, from Okinawan-style Shisa statues to practical items like cups and plates. A great feature is the careful instruction you receive.

The finished product takes 1 to 2 months to dry and fire. Since the finished product will be mailed to you, it will be a nice surprise to remind you of your Okinawa trip when you've almost forgotten about it.

At the Ryukyu Indigo Research Institute, you can experience Ryukyu indigo dyeing using either the provided items, such as white T-shirts, or your own personal belongings.

Watching the color change depending on how many times you soak the fabric makes you wonder, "What will the final result be?" It's exciting to think about. An indigo dyeing experience sounds like a fun way to create a unique memory of your trip to Okinawa.

〇List of workshops offering hands-on experiences *Please contact each workshop directly for inquiries and reservations.

Sangoyaki Pottery Studio (Ceramics)

HP: https://www.instagram.com/sangoyakikoubou/

Ryukyu Indigo Research Institute (indigo dyeing)

HP: https://www.instagram.com/ryukyu_indigo_labo/

Tamarai Workshop (Indigo Dyeing)

HP: https://ryukyuindigo.shopinfo.jp/

3. Access to Okinawa Crafts Forest

Okinawa Kogeisha is located in Tomigusuku City, which is next to Naha City. It is conveniently located about a 15-minute drive from Naha Airport.

It's recommended to aim for the adjacent "Okinawa Karate Kaikan" (Okinawa Karate Hall). Okinawa Crafts Forest also has a free parking lot, so if you're coming by car, park there.

Due to its historical background, Okinawa has had exchanges with various countries, and many of its crafts reflect these influences. Why not experience the crafts nurtured by the unique culture and environment of Okinawa?

Okinawa Crafts Forest