TRUE BLUE / Kouri Island, Okinawa Prefecture: A Hands-On Crafting Experience Using Ocean Plastic

A new hands-on facility called “TRUE BLUE” has opened on Kouri Island, just a short drive from Okinawa’s main island! Here, visitors can have fun learning about environmental issues through craft-making and art activities that use ocean plastic as a material. This special experience—which allows visitors to learn about the realities facing Okinawa’s beautiful oceans and experience firsthand the importance of recycling—is hugely popular with everyone from children to adults. It also provides an opportunity to reflect on the future of our planet while traveling.

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The Appeal of Art Workshops Using Ocean Plastic

At TRUE BLUE, the experience begins with learning about marine debris and environmental issues. In particular, learning that Okinawa has the second-highest amount of marine debris in Japan and understanding its impact naturally raises awareness about environmental protection. Afterward, participants use recycled ocean plastic to create small items such as lampshades, accessories, and beeswax wraps. Since each item is a one-of-a-kind creation featuring your own design, it makes the perfect keepsake or souvenir.

Learning and Fun That Change Children’s Mindsets

Children who participated in the TRUE BLUE program reportedly began taking action—such as picking up trash on the beach—after learning about environmental issues in a fun way. If you visit on a family trip, you’re sure to make new discoveries together and share a special time as a family.

Recommended Activity: Making a Lampshade

In our popular lampshade-making workshop, you'll design the lampshade itself using recycled materials. You can also add a lamp base as an optional extra.
The trial session fees are as follows!

Unit only: 6,000 yen
Main Unit + Lamp Stand: 8,000 yen
Duration: 90–150 minutes (varies depending on the number of participants)

There are also other activities available, such as making accessories, keychains, and beeswax wraps—all short, fun experiences you can enjoy in a short amount of time.

Facilities and Access Information

TRUE BLUE is located just past the Kouri Bridge, where you can enjoy a scenic drive with views of the beautiful ocean. It features a dedicated parking lot, making it easily accessible by car.

The Charm of TRUE BLUE That I Experienced During My Visit

I took part in a lampshade-making workshop! It started with a session on marine debris, and I was surprised to learn that even Okinawa’s beautiful oceans have hidden problems. After that, I finished making a lampshade designed using recycled materials. I was so happy to have created such a stylish and practical item! I heard that some families even come here as part of their kids’ independent research projects. After the workshop, I heard a story about a child who took the initiative to pick up trash on their own—and I almost cried, Son-chan.

Enjoy Okinawa Even More at Nearby Tourist Attractions

Kouri Bridge: About 3 minutes by car
A beautiful bridge approximately 2 km long where you can enjoy a scenic drive overlooking the emerald-green sea.

Kouri Beach: About a 3-minute drive
With its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, this is the perfect beach spot for swimming and relaxing.

Kouri Ocean Tower: About a 5-minute drive
A landmark on Kouri Island where visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck and an exhibition of shells.

Heart Rock: About an 8-minute drive
A natural rock that resembles a heart, popular as a power spot for finding love.

Churaumi Aquarium: About 35 minutes by car
One of Okinawa's top tourist attractions, where you can see whale sharks and a wide variety of marine life in one of the world's largest aquariums.

Check Basic Information and Rates

Jalan Fun Experiences

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