From Shattered History to Shimmering Art

Jun 27, 2025

「EP.49」琉球ガラス

RYUKYU GLASS
Okinawa Prefecture

「transcript」

After World War II, Okinawa was left in ruins. The island had lost nearly everything, including its factories. But in that devastation, a new craft was born.

Okinawan glass artisans, desperate to rebuild, looked at what they had: broken bottles left behind by the occupying U.S. military. Coca-Cola, beer, soda, these discarded glass bottles became the lifeline. Washed, crushed, and melted down at over 1,300°C, they were reborn as the iconic Ryukyu glass.

At first, the glass came out filled with bubbles and uneven in thickness, what would usually be seen as flaws. But those imperfections created a soft, handmade texture, full of warmth and spontaneity. The American soldiers were captivated, and soon, so were tourists from mainland Japan.

Artisans continue to use recycled bottles or use raw materials mixed with colorants to recreate Okinawa’s tropical palette mirroring the skies, seas, and sunset of Okinawa itself, preserving the spirit of the island.

From vibrant tumblers and wine glasses to modern art objects, Ryukyu Glass continues to reflect Okinawa’s postwar history, creativity, and sustainability.

*The assets featured here are the work of their rightful creators, credited below