Photos by Shoji Kudaka ()
If you live on or near Kadena Air Base you may have spotted a series of murals on several buildings of the local Ginten Gai market.
You can spot this art piece consisting of five different murals, each depicting a different era in Koza neighborhood history, starting from the Ryukyu Kingdom (1429-1879) to present-day.
Illustrations and graphics of a castle lord in traditional attire, a local comedian in a goofy pose and even Douglas MacArthur on a bulldozer, are highlights from this set of buildings. It is the mural representing Koza in the 1960s which is the most thought-provoking as it highlights the area’s history as a black town, during which Koza was home to segregated African Americans. This mural features black musicians, clubs and storefronts in vivid colors.
The variety of themes attest to Koza’s diversity and the paintings are a great way to learn about this area’s rich history. Next time you drive, make sure to take a closer look at what the artists expertly portray in these brightly painted murals.
Mural at Koza intersection
GPS Coordinate: N 26.338931, E 127.815391 Coin parking available at: N 26.338470, E 127.815774
