Ryukyu Glass is cherished among international tourists as well as American military personnel who visit Okinawa either for work or play. The beautiful, colorful glass is loved by many, which coincidentally is why we decided to build an online store featuring some of our favorite designs that we have become acquainted with while living here.
However, we soon realized that a couple of items added to our online store are not enough information. Thus, this post will discuss the history of Ryukyu Glass in Okinawa, some of the characteristics that make it unique, and some of the techniques involved in perfecting the craft.
History of Ryukyu Glass
The crafting of hand-blown glass is said to have begun during the Meiji Era when glass artisans from Nagasaki and Osaka introduced the products in markets in Naha City, Okinawa. During this time, glass was used to produced various items that were used in daily life. The list includes food preparation and storage containers, lamps, and dishes, etc. Such practices continued until World War II brought all glass manufacturing to a halt. Fortunately, the raths of war didn't keep Ryukyu Glass down for too long. Manufacturing was revived in 1947 when it was relaunched in Yogi District, Naha City.
Getting by With Limited Resources
In the years following World War II, most of Okinawa's resources had been lost or destroyed. Because of this, there was limited to no material left to produce the types of glassware that people were accustomed to. In a pinch, glass artisans began to utilize recycled glass that was once used by the U.S. military. Some examples of the types of glass used are windows from wrecked, junked, or abandoned vehicles.
Other types of recycled glass came from drink containers such as beer, soft drink, or soda bottles. The American-made glass was collected and then broken down into a powder that was used to manufacture unique products. Naturally, much of this recycled glass became popular among the U.S. military personnel and family members who lived and worked in post-war Okinawa. Some specific items that Americans flocked to were punch bowls, wine glasses, flower vases, etc. Thus, military personnel became the primary customers of Ryukyu Glass during that time. This lasted until Okinawa's reversion to Japanese sovereignty in 1972.
40+ Years Since Reversion
From 1972 until now (and well into the future), Ryukyu Glass has remained popular among U.S. military personnel who are stationed in Japan, as well as international tourists who visit Okinawa on a more temporary basis. It is no doubt one of the most sought-after souvenirs for visitors to take home with them upon their return. In fact, Ryukyu Glass is routinely placed among the top five souvenirs from Okinawa.
Modern Ryukyu Glass is colorful and vibrant. Most designs are patterned after the nature that surrounds the islands. Think blue, green, red... These are among the colors that dominate the scene. Some products even have luminescent particles baked into the glass that allow them to glow in the dark! For examples of this type, see the Murubushi Glass, attached below.
Additionally, there is unique glassware such as the black glass known as Ryu-Un, which reminds us of the skin of a snake or dragon.
Ryukyu Glass is used to produce a variety of items such as plates, bowls, wind chimes, etc. With new artisans breaking into the scene, and the growing prevalence of online stores such as our own, there is no doubt that you will be able to locate a beautiful item from Okinawa that will help boost the uniqueness of your kitchen, bar, or display. If not, we've got you covered!
Rest assured that all products that we offer are 100% handmade, right here in Okinawa. Please let us know how we can be of assistance.
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