Did you know that one of the creators of Ultraman was from Okinawa?
His name is Tetsuo Kinjo, and he was a central screenwriter involved in the production of the first Ultraman series.
The stories created by Mr. Kaneshiro go beyond simple good versus evil narratives, touching upon the "logic" of the monsters and aliens, as well as the horrors and folly of human society. These are profound works that could be described as "socially conscious science fiction," and he is a well-known figure among tokusatsu fans, the film industry, and the screenwriting community.
The study located in an annex of the Matsukaze-en restaurant, which is the family business of Mr. Kinjo, is open to the public as the "Tetsuo Kinjo Museum" and has become a pilgrimage site for Ultra Series fans.

Entering the Tetsuo Kinjo Museum

To visit the Tetsuo Kinjo Museum, you first need to make a reservation by phone or email. I made my reservation by email a week in advance.
On the day of your visit, go to the main building of Matsukaze-en and inform them that you have a reservation for the museum, and they will guide you to the museum.

The main gate welcomes you with a charming sign that reads "Matsukaze-en" and a magnificent gate. As you proceed along the stone path, you will see a gate with a red tiled roof on your left, and beyond it lies the main building.


I informed them that I had a reservation at the main building, and then I headed to the museum located in a separate building with the caretaker.

Climbing the stairs leading to the annex, we arrived at the entrance to the museum. The vines covering the building and the weathered walls created a unique atmosphere.

A museum that preserves the appearance of that time.

The museum is housed in the study that Tetsuo Kinjo used.

The desks, chairs, and books remain as they were back then, giving the impression that the space is still in everyday use.
On his desk were messages from creators who admired him.

Entering the back room, you'll find an exhibition of works I've created so far.

Besides Ultraman, scripts for Okinawan plays were also on display.



After returning to his hometown, he reportedly worked as a radio personality and was also involved in the planning and direction of the Okinawa Ocean Expo.

The wall is covered with messages from the people who helped create Ultraman.

I was particularly impressed to see the autograph of Satoshi Furuya, the suit actor for the original Ultraman and the actor who played Amagi in Ultraman Seven, displayed alongside a photograph.

The bookshelves and shoe racks are lined with countless Ultraman and monster figures.

A visitor who arrived later was taking pictures, saying, "I'm going to show this to my nephew," which made me realize that Ultraman is loved and cherished across generations.

Certified as a sacred site for anime fans.

The Tetsuo Kinjo Museum was designated as one of the "88 Japanese Anime Holy Sites You Want to Visit" by the Japan Anime Tourism Association in 2018.

Sukagawa City in Fukushima Prefecture, the birthplace of Eiji Tsuburaya, the first president of Tsuburaya Productions, has also been recognized, standing alongside the other creators of Ultraman.

The main building has stamps available, so you can get one as a memento of your visit.

He was a great figure that Okinawa is proud of.

The museum reveals that Tetsuo Kinjo was a great figure that Okinawa is proud of.
As I looked at the exhibits, I could picture him as the leader who brought Ultraman to life, guiding everyone and working tirelessly.

His achievements can be seen in the messages of support from the production staff and fans displayed in the museum.
I feel proud to know that the person who created Ultraman, a character loved all over the world, is also from Okinawa Prefecture, just like me.
I hope not only Ultraman fans, but also the people of Okinawa Prefecture will come and visit.

Access

The Tetsuo Kinjo Museum is located in Haebaru Town in the southern part of Okinawa Island, about a 25-minute drive from Naha Airport. There is a parking lot at the back of the premises, and a back gate that is directly connected to the parking lot.
Since this facility is not open to the public at all times, please make a reservation and inquire beforehand if you wish to visit.

Masuei

A web writer and blogger born and raised in Okinawa. Although she lived in Fukuoka for her studies, she returned to Okinawa because of her love for the place. Having left Okinawa once, she now understands its wonderful qualities and shares them with others. She helps you make the most of your Okinawa trip.
Official blog:"Romgreat," a blog about laptop peripherals.

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