Peace Memorial Park (Itoman City, Okinawa Prefecture)
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Peace Memorial Park was developed to commemorate the many people who lost their lives in the Battle of Okinawa at the end of World War II and to pray for everlasting peace. Located in the Mabuni Hill area, it is home to a memorial, monuments, and a museum in a quiet environment overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The Cornerstone of Peace, the park's central facility, is inscribed with the names of all those who died in the war, regardless of nationality or gender, quietly conveying the sacrifices of each individual.
There are museums and exhibits where you can learn about the historical background and horrors of war, and it is a place where bereaved families, local residents, and visitors from both Japan and abroad come to think about peace. There are also green spaces and slopes with great views, and the site is characterized by the coexistence of beautiful scenery and a solemn atmosphere.
Highlights
- Cornerstone of Peace: A stone monument with the names of those who died in the war engraved on it. You can get a sense of the scale of the war from the individual names. There are blocks for each nationality, and it is a place that is popular with foreign visitors.
- Peace Memorial Museum (Okinawa Prefectural Museum): There are exhibits that allow you to learn about the history of the Battle of Okinawa, the experiences of the residents, and relics and photographs. You can get a real sense of the war through videos and relics.
- Mabuni Hill sceneryThe park offers a tranquil view of the sea and horizon, interwoven with Okinawa's typical vegetation, creating a calming atmosphere that is perfect as a memorial site.
- Memorial monumentsThere are numerous monuments scattered around, including memorials and sculptures praying for peace, each with its own explanatory board.
- commemorative eventsEvery year on June 23rd, Memorial Day, ceremonies and floral tributes are held, attracting many visitors (the ceremonies are often open to the public).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Railroad: There is no railroad in Itoman City. The nearest railroads are Naha Airport and the Yui Rail in Naha City (Naha City center), but it is difficult to get to the park by rail alone.
- Bus: There are local buses bound for Itoman from Naha City (Naha Bus Terminal and Naha Airport area). After getting off in Itoman City, the most common route is to take a taxi or walk. The route and number of buses vary depending on the time of day, so please check the operating information in advance.
- Car/Rental Car: Approximately 25-40 minutes by car from central Naha (depending on traffic conditions). There is a parking lot within the park, and there is space to accommodate group buses.
- Taxi: Direct access from Naha city. The journey time is about the same as by car, making it convenient for stopping by while sightseeing.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Walking around the park only: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- If you want to take your time to look around the museum (exhibitions): 1-2 hours
- If you want to see the surrounding memorials and viewpoints, it will take about 1.5 to 3 hours.
- If you are attending a ceremony, please make sure to leave plenty of time for your schedule.
Nearby spots
- Himeyuri Tower / Himeyuri Peace Memorial Museum: A facility that tells the story of the tragedy of the female student corps during the Battle of Okinawa. It is a short drive from the park.
- Itoman Fishing Port and Itoman City: There are markets and restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood, making it convenient for eating and shopping.
- War sites around Mabuni Hill: There are also other war sites and memorials scattered around, making it a good base for exploring the history of the southern part of the prefecture.
- Roadside Station Itoman: A spot where you can enjoy local products, souvenirs, and snacks (please check opening hours).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Be aware that this is a solemn occasion: This is a memorial site. Please visit and view the site quietly, avoiding loud conversations, making noise, and climbing on monuments. Photography is generally permitted, but please respect the privacy of bereaved families and visitors.
- It gets crowded during events such as Memorial Day (June 23rd): Many people will be attending the ceremony and offering flowers. Traffic restrictions and crowded parking lots are expected, so please consider using public transportation or arriving early.
- Seasonal and climate precautions: Summer in Okinawa is hot, humid, and has strong sunlight. Please prepare a hat, water, and sunscreen. During typhoon season (mainly summer to autumn), be aware of sudden changes in the weather and check train service information and facility opening times in advance.
- Pedestrian environmentThe grounds are hilly and there are many stairs and slopes in some areas. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Barrier-free accessibility varies depending on the location, so if you use a wheelchair, please inquire in advance.
- Eating, drinking and smoking: Drinking alcohol or smoking outside of designated areas on the premises is considered bad manners. Please be sure to take your trash with you or dispose of it in designated areas.
The Peace Memorial Park is an important place to quietly reflect on the past and reaffirm the value of peace. When visiting, please be considerate of those around you and allow yourself plenty of time to explore.
