Ryukyu Mura, which translates to Ryukyu Village, is a recreated village from the times of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Old Ryukyuan homes, some nearly as old as 200, were moved from all corners of Okinawa and reassembled here in the hope to share this unique heritage to the world. There is a wide showcase of Ryukyuan culture such as Okinawan architecture, handmade crafts, local cuisine, folklore, music, theatrical performances and even Okinawan costumes which offer a perfect photo shoot opportunity to anyone passionate. On the day of our visit, we were fortunate to watch a lovely live Okinawan musical presentation as we enjoy our lunch over the famous Okinawan soba. As we listened and clapped and cheered along, I came to a realization that music, no matter what language, is a universal expression of the soul. I neither speak nor understand Japanese but I did not go this far to use a mediocre excuse not to appreciate the culture. Be curious and be passionate, everyone and everything has a story to tell. Okinawa has interesting ones.

Ryukyu Mura in Okinawa, Japan.
Ryukyu Mura in Okinawa, Japan.
Ryukyu Mura in Okinawa, Japan.
Ryukyu Mura in Okinawa, Japan.
A traditional Okinawan house famous for its red tiled roof as a protection during typhoon.
A traditional Okinawan house famous for its red tiled roof as a protection during typhoon.
Red tiled roofs are distinctively Okinawan.
Red tiled roofs are distinctively Okinawan.
Ryukyu Mura in Okinawa, Japan.
Ryukyu Mura in Okinawa, Japan.
A display of handmade craft at Ryukyu Mura in Okinawa, Japan.
A display of handmade craft at Ryukyu Mura in Okinawa, Japan.
A display of Shisa and Sake at Ryukyu Mura in Okinawa, Japan.
A display of Shisa and Sake at Ryukyu Mura in Okinawa, Japan.
Kijimura is a mythical creature native to Okinawa.
Kijimura is a mythical creature native to Okinawa.
A display of craft at Ryukyu Mura in Okinawa, Japan.
A display of craft at Ryukyu Mura in Okinawa, Japan.
A female musical artist performing live at Ryukyu Mura in Okinawa, Japan.
A female musical artist performing live at Ryukyu Mura in Okinawa, Japan.
Male musical artists performing live at Ryukyu Mura in Okinawa, Japan.
Male musical artists performing live at Ryukyu Mura in Okinawa, Japan.
Okinawan costumes (kimono) are available for rent for a perfect photo shoot at Ryukyu Mura in Okinawa, Japan.
Okinawan costumes (kimono) are available for rent for a perfect photo shoot at Ryukyu Mura in Okinawa, Japan.

 

Here is a short clip from one of the live musical performances of native Okinawan music to enjoy:

 

 

Check on Google Street View below for an additional information and perspective on Ryukyu Mura Village: