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The island’s small theater building in an nostalgic ambience.
This small theater was opened roughly between 1950 and 1969. On the 7.48k㎡-wide island, about 6000 people lived in mid 1950s, running 4 movie theaters. The only one still standing is this Hikari Theater.
It had been closed for years, but in 2014, college students and artists came to the island for a workshop and got interested in this theater and it began to be utilized. Although not in operation, 2.movie projectors which were used before closure remain, and you can still sit on the seats which were left in honor of the will of the first owner who thought they may be used for something in the future.
The hand-made new screen shows a 15-min documentary on the island’s highlights and history. A child native of the island, then in 5th grade, is the narrator and introduces interviews by a photographer from Tokyo to the island’s residents and the charms seen by the outsider’s eyes.
After watching the video, you can take a break in the adjacent cafe and contemplate in the easy flow of the island time. To see this theater, make a reservation before you come to the island.
The seats used back then still remain
Movie projector that worked in 1950s
A 15-min video shows the charm of the island
Listen to the ocean waves and whispering trees in the cafe as you spend the time on the island
Explore the guideboard froｍ Showa Period and other retro spots
A guestbook where visitors can leave a comment behind.
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)
At the entrance there is a signboard in English and Japanese that explains this sites status as a Japan Heritage Constituent Cultural Asset.
Q
Is it possible to re-enter the premises?
If on same day within open hours, but there is no official ticket or entry stub to show so you will have to confirm with the attending person at entry.
Q
Is free WiFi available in the facility?
There is no free WiFi available. The closest WiFi spot is in the Kanafuro Port Ferry waiting area
Q
Are coin lockers available?
Not available.
Q
How do you reserve?
The Kitagi West Kokuminkan also serves as the office for the friends of Hikari Theatre. Please call (0865-68-2898) or email (info@kitaginishi-cc.org) to inquire. There is also a Twitter account (@ktgshimacafe )that you can contact directly for details. Please note that open hours depend on the nearby staff members availability so they may not be able to accommodate every request.
Q
Is there a bathroom?
As this is an old building there is not available restroom. Please use the toilets at the Kanafuro Port Ferry waiting room.
Q
Can I use credit card or QR code method?
Cash only is available at this time. Thank you for your cooperation.
