About the Center
Yambaru World Heritage Conservation Center—Ufugi Nature Museum is a center for learning about the natural environment of Yambaru, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. The word “ufugi” means “large tree” in the local Okinawan dialect, and this nickname was chosen from public submissions by local residents.
Exhibition Highlights
Entrance Zone
The Entrance Zone welcomes visitors with a warm interior featuring locally sourced Yambaru timber and sculptures of Yambaru's wildlife.
Forest Theater
Experience the forests of the World Heritage site through stunning imagery.
Immerse yourself in the world of Yambaru's forests and wildlife in this spectacular four-screen theater, with images surrounding you on all sides and beneath your feet. (10 min.)
Forest Gallery
Explore a diorama featuring the wildlife of Yambaru's forests and streams while surrounded by the sounds of the forest. Daytime, nighttime, and the changing seasons are vividly recreated through audiovisual effects.
Learn why Yambaru was listed as a World Heritage site and discover its rich biodiversity.
Explore Yambaru's unique natural environment through informative panels featuring specimens and illustrations.
Yambaru's Biodiversity
Learn why Yambaru was inscribed as a World Heritage site and discover its rich biodiversity.
Explore the Wildlife of Yambaru
Discover the unique behaviors and ecology of Yambaru's wildlife through specimens and videos.
Passing on the Rich Forest to Future Generations
Learn about the challenges facing Yambaru—including wildlife roadkill, poaching, and invasive species—and the efforts being made to conserve its forests.
Map and Highlights
Discover places to experience Yambaru and learn the rules and etiquette for enjoying nature responsibly.
Lecture Room
Yuntaku (Discourse) Space
Enjoy a chat over picture books and nature guides. The Lecture Room also hosts special exhibitions, seminars, and other events.
Thank-You Gifts
As a token of our appreciation for your donation to the Yambaru Nature Experience Activities Council, we would like to offer you a thank-you gift, such as our “Stop! Roadkill” magnet or a guidebook on local attractions in Yambaru along with rules and etiquette for enjoying nature here.
“STOP! Roadkill” Magnet
“STOP! Poaching” Magnet
Your donation will support the Yambaru World Natural Heritage Fund (Ufugi Fund), which is managed by the Yambaru Nature Experience Activities Council, and it will help conserve Yambaru's natural environment. For more information, visit the website below.
Group Reservations
To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit for all of our guests, we request that school groups and other organized groups make a reservation at least one week before their planned arrival.
Please note that we may not be able to accommodate your requested date if there are prior group reservations, and you may be asked to reschedule.
Visitor Guidelines
- Please make your reservation at least one week before your planned visit. Reservations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Bus parking is available for up to two large buses.
- Smoking is prohibited throughout the premises.
- Food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum.
- Our parking lot and facilities (including the restrooms) are for our visitors only. They are not open to visitors to the adjoining Okuma River or to any other parties.
- Tents are not allowed on the premises
Reservation Process
To apply, please complete and submit the reservation form below. Our staff will review your request and contact you by email or phone to confirm your reservation.Please note that submitting the reservation form does not guarantee a reservation. Your reservation is confirmed only after you receive confirmation from our staff.