To commemorate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Singapore, Japan Creative Centre (JCC) and the Okinawa Prefectural Government Singapore Office present an exhibition which explores the enduring bonds between the two countries through traditional Okinawan crafts and the story of Shuri Castle.

For two weeks only, JCC brings the world of Okinawa and its iconic Shuri Castle to Singapore. Okinawan crafts were born from a blend of external influences, the nature of the islands and local wisdom. They blend beautifully into modern lifestyles and gently convey Okinawa's history and way of life. Through special exhibits, panels and videos, visitors can discover firsthand the beauty and richness of Okinawa's traditional crafts and the journey of Shuri Castle's restoration.

Commemorate your visit to the exhibition with a star sand packing experience, available only in limited quantities. There will also be an Okinawa photobooth to capture your memories for social media.

Date:

2 - 16 September 2026
Closed on Sunday and Monday

Time:

10am – 6pm

Venue:

Japan Creative Centre (JCC)
Embassy of Japan in Singapore
4 Nassim Road Singapore 258372

Admission:

FREE

Okinawa Prefecture is one of Japan’s 47 prefectures and includes the country's southernmost and westernmost inhabited islands. It is an island region surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and the East China Sea.

Once known as the Ryukyu Kingdom (15th-19th century), Okinawa flourished as a hub of trade and cultural exchange connecting Japan, China, and Southeast Asia. The diverse influences from this history have shaped Okinawa's unique traditions, arts, and craftsmanship

Okinawa Prefecture is one of Japan’s most popular travel destinations, attracting over 10 million visitors each year. Known for its rich natural beauty and cultural heritage, it appeals to travelers from both Japan and abroad.

The Okinawa Prefectural Government Singapore Office was established in 2015 and serves to promote Okinawa's tourism and local products throughout Singapore and the rest of Southeast Asia. As the closest Japanese prefecture to Singapore, they hope that more people will discover Okinawa’s unique charm and come to appreciate all that it has to offer.

For approximately 450 years, Shuri Castle was the center of politics, diplomacy, and culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Shuri Castle is divided into three areas: a ceremonial area where rituals and prayers were conducted; a residential area for the royal family called the Ouchibara, and a central administrative area containing the Seiden main hall. The architecture of the Shuri Castle buildings incorporates both Chinese and Japanese construction techniques.

Shuri Castle has burned down many times in its lengthy history. But it has always persisted and been rebuilt over the centuries. In 2000, the Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu, which includes Shuri Castle, earned UNESCO World Heritage status. Although areas of Shuri Castle continue to be restored and opened to the public, another terrible fire in October 2019 resulted in the complete destruction of the Seiden main hall and other important castle buildings. Restoration work is currently underway and it is slated to complete in November this year.

Is this your first time to Japan Creative Centre? Follow the map below to Japan Creative Centre now.

Getting to Japan Creative Centre
4 Nassim Road Singapore 258372
Tel: +65-6737-0434

By Public Bus:
Bus services: 7, 36, 77, 105, 106, 111, 123, 132, 174, 174E, 502, 502A, 502B (Alight in front of Delfi Orchard)
For latest information on bus routes and fares, please refer to SBS Transit.

By the MRT:
You may also take the MRT to the nearest MRT station, Orchard (NS22).
Train fares, travel times and route maps are available on the SMRT website.

Driving to JCC:
Nearest parking is at Orchard Hotel, Delfi Orchard and Orchard Rendezvous Hotel.