🗺️ Himeyuri Tower ・ Himeyuri Peace Memorial Museumひめゆりの塔・ひめゆり平和祈念資料館

The Battle of Okinawa during the Pacific War resulted in a large number of civilian casualties. The "Himeyuri Monument" was built in the city of Itoman, at the site where the Battle of Okinawa came to an end, to commemorate the Himeyuri students and teachers who sacrificed their lives during the battle. The "Himeyuri Monument" stands above the cave of the Third Surgical Hospital. This was a hiding place for nearly a hundred people, including Himeyuri students, personnel from the Okinawa Army Hospital, and local residents. The monument bears the names of 227 students and teachers from Himeyuri's affiliated schools (Okinawa Normal School for Girls and Okinawa Prefectural First High School for Girls) who lost their lives in the Battle of Okinawa. The "Himeyuri Peace Memorial Museum," affiliated with the Himeyuri Alumni Association, was established in 1989 (the first year of Heisei). In 2021 (the third year of Reiwa), the exhibition content was partially updated to include illustrations and animations, making it easier for the younger generation, who may not understand the war, to grasp the concept. Various materials, including video interviews with surviving students, photographs from that time, and models of the actual trench dimensions, introduce school life before the Battle of Okinawa and the realities of the battlefield. Through the war experiences of the Himeyuri student corps, it conveys the tragedy of war and the preciousness of peace.

A memorial monument built to commemorate the students and teachers who sacrificed their lives during the Battle of Okinawa. It stands atop a cave where many lost their lives. Every year, many people visit this site, which has become a place for praying for world peace. The attached museum features many exhibits that provide insight into the experiences of the Himeyuri Student Corps during the war.