Yambaru Art Festival 2026

• January 11, 2026 at 9:00 am
  Event date:
• February 28, 2026 at 5:00 pm
  Event end:

History

The Yambaru Art Festival (やんばるアートフェスティバル) celebrates the vibrant arts and culture of northern Okinawa. The Yambaru region—comprising Higashi, Kunigami, and Ogimi villages—is known for its lush subtropical rainforests, unique wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.

The festival was created to highlight the region’s traditional and contemporary arts, including pottery, glassware, textiles, dyed fabrics, and woodwork. Over the years, it has grown into a multi-venue event that not only attracts art enthusiasts but also encourages local community participation.

The festival also emphasizes environmental awareness, integrating natural landscapes and cultural spaces into the exhibition, making it a unique blend of art, nature, and local tradition.

Overview

The 2026 edition of the festival is scheduled from mid-January to late February, featuring art exhibitions across multiple venues in the Yambaru area. Visitors can explore works from local and regional artists, participate in workshops, and attend lectures.

The festival also provides online options for those who cannot attend in person, ensuring that the art and cultural programming are accessible to a broader audience. This makes it ideal for both locals and tourists interested in Okinawa’s art scene.

Highlights

• Multi-venue exhibitions across the Yambaru region
• Contemporary art and traditional Okinawan crafts on display
• Workshops, lectures, and online streaming of key events
• Integration of natural landscapes into the exhibition spaces
• Unique opportunity to explore Okinawa’s culture and environment

Why Jasumo Recommends?

• Discover traditional Okinawan crafts alongside contemporary art
• Participate in hands-on workshops and cultural activities
• Explore the beautiful natural landscapes of northern Okinawa
• Family-friendly and educational experience for all ages
• Enjoy a mix of in-person and online art experiences

If you are visiting Japan or already in the country, and need any help—from custom tours and experiences to transportation, booking tickets, and more—contact us using the Contact Us page at Jasumo.

Schedule

Mid-January – Late February 2026

• Festival generally runs for 4–6 weeks
• Check specific venue schedules for workshops and exhibitions

Pricing

• General admission to some main venues may be around ¥500 for adults
• Many satellite venues and activities are free of charge

Location

Various locations in the Yambaru area of Northern Okinawa

• Ogimi Village Former Shioya Elementary School (main venue)
• Okuma Private Beach & Resort
• Hentona Shopping Street
• Oriental Hotel Okinawa Resort & Spa
• Kanucha Resort
• Agu Statue in front of Nago City Hall
• Ogimi Village Office Old Government Building

How to get there:

• Public transport and local taxis connect most venues
• Driving is recommended to access multiple locations easily

Accommodation Options

Northern Okinawa offers guesthouses, resorts, and hotels suitable for different budgets. Staying near Nago or Ogimi makes it easy to explore multiple festival venues in one trip.

Budget accommodations start at around ¥5,000–¥10,000 per night, while mid-range resorts can cost ¥12,000–¥25,000 per night. Early bookings are recommended during festival periods.

FAQs

When is the Yambaru Art Festival held?

The festival runs from mid-January to late February 2026, generally lasting 4–6 weeks.

Is there an entry fee?

Some main venues charge a small fee (around ¥500 for adults), but many satellite venues are free.

What kind of art is displayed?

Visitors can see traditional Okinawan crafts, contemporary art, pottery, glassware, textiles, and woodwork.

Are workshops available?

Yes, the festival offers workshops, lectures, and some events are also streamed online.

How can I visit multiple venues?

Most venues are accessible by car, taxi, or local buses. Planning your route ahead is recommended for a full experience.

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Location