Museum • Zaisho, Minamidaito, Shimajiri District, Okinawa 901-3805, Japan
The 'Hometown Culture Center' in the center of Oshima village is an important base for conveying the history and culture of the island. Here, visitors can catch a glimpse of the rich island life of Oshima through the exhibits that vividly depict the traditional way of life.
The Hometown Culture Center exhibits various items such as furniture, agricultural tools, and photos that were used in the past. These items tell the story of the lifestyle of the islanders during the self-sufficient era.
For example, visitors can see the Japanese banknotes used on the island and the attire of 'Edo sumo' that was once practiced in this area. Sumo is still preserved as a traditional event in Oshima and symbolizes the island's culture.
Visitors can feel the history and way of life of the island through each exhibit. However, to gain a deeper understanding, it is important to have detailed explanations about the history of Tamaki Shokai's barter trade and the development process of the sugarcane industry. By learning about the history of trade that supported the island's development and the transition of major industries, one can reflect on the roots of Oshima.
The Hometown Culture Center has an old-fashioned appearance, but it is not just a storage place. This is where the soul of the island resides, functioning as a valuable base for inheriting traditional culture. When visiting Oshima, be sure to stop by and reflect on the island's history.