慰霊の日

Today, June 23, known as Irei no Hi (Memorial Day), is one of Okinawa’s most important days of remembrance. It marks the end of the Battle of Okinawa in 1945, one of the deadliest battles of World War II, which claimed more than 240,000 lives, including many local civilians and children.

Each year, a memorial ceremony is held at Okinawa Peace Memorial Park in Itoman. At noon, sirens sound across the prefecture, and people observe a one-minute moment of silence to honor the victims of war and pray for lasting peace.

For Okinawans, Irei no Hi is both a day of mourning and a reminder of the importance of peace for future generations.

The year 2026 is also a historic one for Okinawa. On November 23, Shuri Castle’s restored Seiden (Main Hall) will reopen to the public after being destroyed by fire in 2019. The reopening marks the full return of one of Okinawa’s most treasured symbols of Ryukyu history and culture.