Escape Winter’s Chill: ‘Discover Okinawa in Haneda Airport’ Brings Island Paradise to Tokyo
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, music, and flavors of Okinawa at this free, two-day event.
Tokyo’s Haneda Airport Garden is set to transform into a tropical haven on January 10th and 11th, 2026, hosting “Discover Okinawa in Haneda Airport.” This immersive event invites visitors to experience the rich cultural tapestry of Japan’s southernmost islands, offering traditional performing arts, unique local products, and engaging workshops—all with free admission and no prior reservation needed.
Directly connected to Haneda Airport Terminal 3, the Haneda Airport Garden provides a perfect gateway for city dwellers and travelers alike to escape the winter cold and delve into the warmth of Okinawan hospitality. The event promises a diverse program, showcasing everything from the elegant Ryukyu dance to the powerful beats of traditional drumming and the delicate flavors of island-grown produce.
A Symphony of Okinawan Arts
Traditional Stage Performances
The heart of the event lies in its vibrant stage performances, bringing the soul of Okinawa to life. Attendees can witness traditional Ryukyu dance, a classical art form once performed within the majestic Shuri Castle, alongside captivating Sanshin (Okinawan lute) live music. A special highlight will be the “Noribō” performance by the Kadena Town Nozato Kyoshinkai, a rare traditional martial art passed down through generations, making a valuable appearance outside Okinawa as part of the post-war 80th-anniversary commemoration.
The stage schedule includes:
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January 10th (Sat):
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1:00 PM – 1:40 PM: Ryukyu Dance by Takumi and Ayaka
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3:30 PM – 4:10 PM: Sanshin performance by Yuzuki Higa
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January 11th (Sun):
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1:30 PM – 1:40 PM: Traditional Noribō by Kadena Town Nozato Kyoshinkai
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3:00 PM – 3:40 PM: Sanshin performance by Yuzuki Higa
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Performers include the husband-and-wife unit Takumi and Ayaka, who have dedicated their lives to classical Ryukyu performing arts, and Yuzuki Higa, a talented Sanshin player and former 36th Awamori Queen.
Hands-on Cultural Immersion
Beyond observation, the event offers unique opportunities for direct engagement. On January 10th, visitors can participate in workshops to learn the basics of Ryukyu dance or try their hand at playing the Sanshin, experiencing the rhythm and movement of Okinawan culture firsthand.
Echoes of History and Craftsmanship
Shuri Castle Panel Exhibition: “Reviving Shuri Castle – Steps Towards Reconstruction”
A poignant exhibition will showcase the ongoing restoration of Shuri Castle, which is slated for reconstruction in autumn 2026. Panels will detail the recovery process, and visitors can observe samples of restored roof tiles and even parts of the decorative dragons that adorn the castle’s roof. This offers a glimpse into the meticulous efforts to preserve Okinawa’s historical heritage.
Island Delights and Creative Workshops
The event also features a vibrant marketplace and creative zones:
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Okinawa Remote Island Specialty Booths: Discover the unique flavors and crafts from Okinawa’s remote islands. Booths will offer tastings of local foods and a chance to interact with various artisanal products.
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Workshop Experiences: Engage in hands-on activities, such as creating tropical-themed accessories with Artland Resort Jewelry, including a unique “extract-your-own-pearl” experience (starting from 1,980 yen). Additionally, attendees can try “Ryukyu Nail” art, a style incorporating Okinawan colors and energy, overseen by world champion nail artist Chisato Morikubo.
Connecting with Okinawan Communities
Tourism & Regional PR Booths
Two distinct booths will offer deeper insights into specific Okinawan regions:
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Kadena Town Booth: A recreation of their award-winning “Tourism EXPO” booth, highlighting the town’s unique history and culture. Visitors completing a survey will receive original goods.
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Zamami Village Booth: Explore the beauty of Zamami’s coral reefs and clear waters. The booth will feature a workshop led by illustrator pokke104, a Zamami Village Tourism Ambassador, where participants can create original tote bags and receive exclusive can badges.
A Taste of Okinawa’s Craft
Limited Edition Orion The Premium Draft Beer
For a truly authentic Okinawan experience, “Orion The Premium” draft beer, a rare treat even within Okinawa, will be available for a limited time at the Haneda Airport Garden 1F restaurant “Grand Ale” from January 10th to February 28th, 2026. This offers a unique opportunity to savor a premium brew alongside the cultural festivities.
“This event is a fantastic opportunity to bring the vibrant spirit and rich traditions of Okinawa directly to the heart of Tokyo,” one organizer shared. “Attendees are sure to feel the warm, vibrant spirit of Okinawa, a stark contrast to Tokyo’s winter chill, fostering a deeper connection to this unique part of Japan.”
The “Discover Okinawa in Haneda Airport” event provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience the island’s charm without leaving the capital. By showcasing its diverse arts, crafts, and regional appeals, the event aims to not only entertain but also to deepen appreciation for Okinawan culture, perhaps inspiring future journeys to these captivating islands.
Event Details:
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Dates: January 10th (Sat) & 11th (Sun), 2026, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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Location: Haneda Airport Garden 1F Grand Foyer (2-7-1 Haneda Airport, Ota-ku, Tokyo)
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Access: Directly connected to Haneda Airport Terminal 3 (Keikyu Line / Tokyo Monorail “Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station”)
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Admission: Free
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Access Information: https://www.shopping-sumitomo-rd.com/haneda/access/
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Related Event Link: https://www.shopping-sumitomo-rd.com/haneda/event
