You can try your hand at the sanshin, paranku (a small handheld drum used in Eisa), samba (an Okinawan version of castanets made of three wooden pieces strung together with a string), and kachashi (a classic Okinawan dance that wraps up festive occasions).

Okinawa is often called the "Island of Performing Arts," a place where centuries-old traditions continue to thrive and inspire new generations. At Utwuimuchi Project in Chatan, visitors have the unique opportunity to step beyond sightseeing and become part of Okinawa's vibrant cultural heritage.

Located in a traditional Okinawan home just across from a park near Hilton Okinawa Chatan Resort, Utwuimuchi Project offers hands-on cultural experiences that introduce guests to some of the island's most beloved performing arts. Drawing from Okinawa's rich history of classical music, dance, folk traditions, and the renowned Kumiodori theater that has been performed for more than 300 years, the program provides an engaging and memorable way to connect with local culture.

Participants can try playing the sanshin, Okinawa's iconic three-stringed instrument, or learn to perform with traditional festival instruments such as the paranku, a handheld drum used in Eisa performances, and the sanba, a wooden percussion instrument unique to Okinawa. Visitors can also join in a lively kachashi, the joyful celebratory dance that often concludes Okinawan gatherings and festivals.

To make the experience even more immersive, guests can dress in elegant Ryukyu-style costumes or colorful yukata, with rental and fitting services available on-site. Afterward, many visitors enjoy strolling through nearby American Village in traditional attire, exploring photo spots and creating unforgettable vacation memories.

Whether you're interested in music, dance, history, or simply looking for an authentic cultural experience, Utwuimuchi Project offers a fun and welcoming introduction to Okinawa's living traditions. It's an ideal activity for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a deeper connection to the island's unique spirit.

Place: Mihama 15-15D-12, Chatan, Okinawa
Website: www.utwuimuchi-project.com

Utwuimuchi Project Chatan
うとぅいむちプロジェクト北谷

Experience Menu & Plans

Okinawan Performing Arts Comprehensive Experience

Price: 3,300 yen Duration: Approx. 45 minutes This great-value, all-in-one plan allows you to try all three elements together: the Sanshin (three-stringed instrument), Sanba (wooden castanets), and Kachashi (traditional dance). It is the perfect choice for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the variety of Okinawan performing arts.

Costume Rental & American Village Stroll

This highly popular plan allows you to dress in our exclusively crafted Okinawan Bingata-patterned "Yukata" or the historical "Dujin & Kakan"—a traditional attire passed down from the Ryukyu Kingdom era—and enjoy a 2-hour stroll through the exciting atmosphere of Mihama American Village. Multiple courses are available based on age and hair styling preferences.

Course A: Outfit Selection & Dressing Only (Approx. 120-minute stroll)

Adults (13 years and older): 3,850 yen Children (6 to 12 years old): 2,750 yen Toddlers (5 years and under): Yukata 2,200 yen / Jinbei 1,650 yen

Course B: Outfit Selection, Dressing & Hair Styling Included (Approx. 120-minute stroll)

Adults (13 years and older): 6,600 yen Children (6 to 12 years old): 4,400 yen Toddlers (5 years and under): Yukata 3,850 yen / Jinbei 2,750 yen

Other options are also available, including discounted plans for Okinawa residents (Adults from 2,200 yen) and an upgrade to a 2-day, 1-night rental (plus 550 yen).

Traditional Instruments & Performance Experience

Sanshin Experience

Price: 3,300 yen Duration: Approx. 40 minutes In this hands-on experience, you can try the "Sanshin," Okinawa's iconic traditional three-stringed instrument. Even complete beginners can learn to play its unique, soothing melodies with their own hands.

Sanba Experience

Price: 2,200 yen Duration: Approx. 30 minutes Learn how to play the "Sanba," a traditional percussion instrument made of three wooden plates bound by a cord, often referred to as the Okinawan castanet. It is an essential rhythm instrument for enlivening Okinawan folk music.

Yubibue (Finger Whistling) Experience

Price: 2,200 yen Duration: Approx. 30 minutes Master the art of "Yubibue" (finger whistling), the high-pitched, echoing whistle heard at every Okinawan festival and Eisa performance. Instructors will carefully guide you through the techniques for producing a clear, beautiful high note.

Traditional Dance & Performing Arts Experience

Ryukyu Dance Experience

Price: 3,300 yen Duration: Approx. 40 minutes Experience the elegant steps of Ryukyu Dance, which dates back to the Ryukyu Kingdom era. In this plan, you will learn the dance to "Asadoya Yunta," a famous and welcoming song classified under accessible "creative dance."

Kachashi Experience

Price: 2,200 yen Duration: Approx. 30 minutes Overview: Kachashi is a traditional dance performed by everyone together at the climax of celebrations. Have fun learning this joyful dance, which carries the beautiful meaning of "stirring up happiness and joy to share with everyone."

Eisa Experience

Price: 3,300 yen Duration: Approx. 40 minutes Overview: This is one of Okinawa’s most popular folk performing arts. Using the "Paranku," a lightweight hand drum that is easy for beginners to handle, you can fully immerse yourself in the power of this dynamic dance.