Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum

**Overview** Set aside time for the permanent galleries in Mabuni if you want to understand how Okinawan civilians experienced the battle and its aftermath. Begin upstairs and read or listen to the testimony at your own pace. Ask at reception for an audio guide if it would help. The museum sits in Peace Memorial Park, but the indoor exhibition can stand on its own when rain makes the outdoor memorials impractical. This is a place for quiet reflection. Give everyone space to pause before moving to the next room. **Key metrics** - Museum hours: 09:00–17:00 - Last entry to permanent galleries: 16:30 - Adult permanent gallery admission: ¥300 - Student and child permanent gallery admission: ¥150 **Pros** - The permanent galleries are inside one building. - Survivor testimony gives the visit a clear civilian perspective. - The museum lists multilingual audio guides. **Cons** - Some accounts and exhibits may be upsetting. - The approach through the park can be exposed to rain. - The permanent galleries stop admitting visitors before the building closes. **Best for** Adults and older visitors who want time to learn about civilian experiences of the Battle of Okinawa. **Things to watch out for** Check the last-entry time and park access. Allow for the walk from the parking lot or bus stop and decide together whether to visit the more distressing exhibits.