Okinawa World

Overview

Okinawa World is a theme park in the southern part of the island that combines the spectacular Gyokusendo Cave — one of Japan's largest limestone caverns — with a reconstructed Ryukyuan village, tropical fruit orchard, and traditional craft workshops.

Highlights

• Gyokusendo Cave: A 300,000-year-old stalactite cave stretching 5 km (800 m open to visitors), with dramatic formations illuminated by colored lights.
• Ryukyu Kingdom Village: Relocated and restored traditional red-tiled houses where artisans demonstrate glassblowing, weaving, and pottery.
• Eisa Dance Performance: Live performances of Okinawa's energetic bon-odori drum dance, typically twice daily.

History

Gyokusendo Cave was discovered in 1967 by students from Ehime University. Okinawa World opened around the cave in 1972, coinciding with Okinawa's reversion to Japan. The reconstructed village uses houses relocated from various parts of the island, some dating to the 18th century.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: The cave walkway is slippery — wear shoes with grip. It's also cool inside (21°C year-round).
• Tip 2: Allow 3 hours minimum to see the cave, village, and a performance.
• Duration: 2.5–3 hours.