Auri! Kamperai!” Orion Beer, well-known for its “Orion Beer”, was created in 1957. The name “Orion,” named after the constellation Orion, was chosen by the public. It is truly a local beer created by all the people of Okinawa.
The name was chosen because Orion is the star of the south and matches the image of Okinawa, and because the star symbolizes people’s dreams and aspirations. Orion Happy Park, a landmark in the northern part of the main island of Okinawa, is a place where visitors can learn about the history of Orion Beer and tour the Orion Beer Factory to learn about the appeal of Orion Beer’s flavor.
Three highlights of Orion Happy Park!
The entrance lobby contains an objet d’art of the brewing kiln used in the brewery’s early days, and it is exciting to see this objet d’art, which represents more than 65 years of beer-making history.
(2) In Orion Happy Park, there is a town Yagya (meaning “store” in Okinawan) from the 1960s. The stores set up as a scene with Orion Beer is full of retro Showa-era atmosphere. This is a must-see spot for taking pictures!
In the gallery, you can see the historic cans of Orion Beer packages that are no longer in existence. You can feel the history of Orion Beer, which has walked along with the history of Okinawa.
Factory Tour Flow
During the factory tour, you will be guided through the process of raw materials, fermentation, storage, and becoming a product. The explanation of how the beer we usually drink is made is a story that both adults and children will enjoy.
The size of the brewing kiln and sake tanks is truly overwhelming. The sight of the tremendous amount of beer barrels lined up and the large number of canned Orion beer cans flowing down the line is a must-see for beer lovers!
After the factory tour, it is time for tasting! Up to two glasses of “Orion the Draft” are free.
Non-alcoholic beer and soft drinks are also available for free, so those who cannot drink alcohol and children can also enjoy themselves.
How can I visit?
Orion Happy Park can be reserved through the official Orion Beer website.
Several times a day, capacity limited, about 60 minutes including tasting time.
There seems to be a limit on the number of visits per day and the number of visitors due to the new coronavirus control, so please check in advance. When I took my friends from outside of Okinawa, they were very happy to visit this sightseeing spot, so please make sure to adjust your visit time when you go sightseeing in the northern part of the main island of Okinawa!
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