Okinawa Peace Memorial Park

Brilliant park as a whole, worth the drive from Naha. Expect to spend half a day really exploring the grounds, the nearby museum and the beaches. What I loved was the diverse range of memorials dedicated from each prefecture, all unique in design. Be sure to follow the steep yet rewarding hike to the waterfront with crystal clear waters and rocks to climb. The museum itself has permanent exhibits including an interactive WWII area, an observatory and temporary exhibits hosted on the lower floors. Featuring activities for all ages, I would definitely recommend this for families, couples or solo travellers.

A beautiful and deeply moving place to visit. Okinawa Peace Prayer Park offers stunning ocean views alongside powerful memorials that honor history and promote peace. The grounds are well maintained, and the atmosphere is both serene and reflective. A must-see for anyone who wants to better understand Okinawa’s history and spirit.

This was a profound spot my husband and I discovered while driving on the island. Located on the southern end, the museum and surroundings grounds commemorate the over 250,000 casualties that resulted from the Battle of Okinawa, which occurred between March and September 1945. That figure, which included 150,000 Okinawan civilians, was more than the combined total in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Dramatically set on Mabuni Hill next to the Pacific, the area consists of several components starting with the expansive museum itself, which preserves memories of the battle through vivid photographs, artifacts, testimonials, and dioramas. An observation tower provided stunning panoramic views of the grounds and the rugged coastline. The museum was established in 1975. The newest addition, the Cornerstone of Peace, was built in 1995. It was a striking sight, concentric arcs of black granite block screens inscribed with the names of the 250,000 who died. It reminded us of the design of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. There are numerous individual memorials spread out throughout the grounds, but I would think 2-3 hours should suffice to tour the grounds thoughtfully.

Visiting the Okinawa Peace Memorial Park and Museum was a deeply moving experience. Set in a beautiful location near the ocean, the site offers both a sense of tranquility and a powerful reminder of the past. The peaceful surroundings contrast with the heavy history the memorial represents, making it a place for quiet reflection and remembrance. One of the most striking features of the park is the rows of stone slabs engraved with the names of those who lost their lives in the Battle of Okinawa. Walking along these solemn monuments, you can feel the weight of history and the impact of war on countless individuals and families. The memorial honors all who perished, regardless of nationality, emphasizing a message of peace and reconciliation. The museum itself is informative and deeply touching, providing a comprehensive look at the events leading up to, during, and after the battle. Through photographs, personal testimonies, and historical artifacts, it paints a vivid picture of the hardships endured by soldiers and civilians alike. The exhibits are both educational and emotional, leaving a lasting impression. The observation tower offers a stunning panoramic view of the coastline, a reminder of Okinawa’s natural beauty even in a place marked by sorrow. The contrast between the peaceful ocean and the history of the land is striking. Overall, a visit to the Okinawa Peace Memorial is a profound experience. It’s a place of remembrance, learning, and hope for a future without war. I highly recommend visiting.