Okinawa Peace Awareness Symposium: Preserving the Spirit of Peace for the Next Generation

The Okinawa Peace Awareness Symposium, titled “Preserving the Spirit of Peace for the Next Generation,” is set to take place on November 24, 2025, at the Kanda Myojin Hall in Tokyo. Organized by Tobu Top Tours Co., Ltd., this event acts as a crucial part of the Okinawa Peace Promotion Project initiated by the Okinawa Prefectural Government. The aim is to carry forward the lessons learned from the Okinawa War and to disseminate the heartfelt desire for peace, or “umui,” to both domestic and international audiences.

As we approach the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in 2025, Okinawa is undertaking 40 different projects to commemorate this significant milestone. The symposium serves as a platform to explore how to pass on the precious ideals of peace to future generations, especially in a world where direct accounts from war survivors will gradually fade away. Through performance arts, dialogue, and music, attendees will engage in discussions about how to effectively communicate the Okinawan spirit of peace.

Philosophical Foundation

The event is guided by a pressing philosophy: to breathe life into the “spirit of peace (umui)” that Okinawa has cherished throughout its history. By preventing the erosion of war experiences and promoting cultural initiatives, the symposium aims to educate future generations about the importance of peace.

Direction of Activities

The symposium seeks to create spaces where individuals can connect the past with the future through performing arts and dialogue. This platform will share peace messages that transcend regional, generational, and cultural boundaries, thereby broadening the circle of empathy among attendees.

Vision for the Future

Rather than merely “passing on” stories of peace, the symposium encourages a culture of “feeling, reflecting, and acting.” It aims for Okinawa to be a continuous beacon of peace, radiating its messages globally through various initiatives.

Event Overview

- Date: November 24, 2025
- Time: 15:00 - 18:00 (Doors open at 14:30)
- Location: Kanda Myojin Hall
- Admission: Free
- Capacity: First 300 attendees (Registration required)

Event Details

Part 1: Shaping Okinawa's Spirit - “YUNTAKU STAGE”

1. Okinawa War and Peace Drama: A dramatic portrayal based on the experiences of Mr. Oshima, who was just 11 at the time of the Okinawa War. Young actors will present stories depicting events that occurred in natural caves in southern Okinawa.
2. Panel Discussion: Entitled “How will you convey your thoughts of peace to the next generation?” featuring notable guests such as:
- Denny Tamaki, Governor of Okinawa Prefecture
- Director Heikichi Hirano
- Producer Kensaku Nagata
- Peace Guide Mitsu Ota
This discussion will encapsulate various ways to express and share Okinawa’s heartfelt desires for peace.

Part 2: Delivering Okinawa's Sentiments - “UMUI STAGE”

A collaboration with Okinawan artist Kiyosaku from MONGOL800, featuring a discussion on the background of the Okinawa Memorial Day Project, alongside a musical performance that echoes the sentiment of peace throughout the hall.

Special Project: Peace Letters to the Future

Participants will draft “PEACE LETTERS” addressed to the future, representing their hopes and thoughts for the centennial of the post-war era. Contributions will be shared on Instagram @PEACELETTER, ensuring that these sentiments endure.

As we prepare for this important event, we invite individuals to register and partake in this unique blend of culture, dialogue, and arts as we collectively envision a peaceful future for generations to come.