Yoneko-yaki Shīsā Farm

Author: Richard Perkins
Photos/Videos Taken: 2025/07/15
Address: Ishigaki-Shi, Okinawa,
Fukai 447-1【907-0451】

Japan is traditionally believed to be home to countless gods and goddesses. One can find a wide variety of them throughout the country. Although they may not be the same kind of beings as other gods and goddesses, Okinawa Prefecture has its own guardian deity: the シーサー (shīsā). The shīsā originates from the Chinese guardian lion known as a 獅子 (shishi). Shīsā are highly regarded as sacred figures and can be found throughout Okinawa Prefecture. Much like the 狸 (tanuki—“raccoon dogs”, symbols of luck and prosperity) often seen outside homes and shops, or the 鯱 (shachihoko—creatures with the head of a dragon, lion, or tiger and the body of a carp, believed to prevent fires) found on the roofs of buildings, the shīsā are a symbol of Okinawa Prefecture itself. Souvenir shops sell a wide variety of shīsā, ranging from small decorative ornaments to large statues suitable for traditional Japanese gardens and other outdoor spaces. The shīsā is deeply rooted in the local culture and remains an important symbol of Okinawa Prefecture today.

On Ishigaki Island in Okinawa Prefecture, there’s a place where one can see what feels like an endless number of shīsā. That place is the Yoneko-yaki Shīsā Farm. Covering 33,000 square meters, the grounds are vast, with countless shīsā statues scattered throughout the area. No matter which direction one looks, shīsā seem to be everywhere. The Yoneko-yaki Factory owns and operates the farm. As of 2026, this factory is more than 30 years old. Here, they specialize in the production, exhibition, and sale of shīsā pottery. However, the shīsā found here are not the typical ones seen elsewhere. Instead, visitors will find many unique and imaginative shīsā that are rarely found outside the farm. The factory itself is located directly across the road from the farm, facing its entrance. Visitors can browse the factory freely, and in the shop, many colorful shīsā are on display and available for purchase.

The towering shīsā statues here blend beautifully with the surrounding natural landscape. Just as people in mainland Japan have long valued nature, those living in the Ryūkyū Kingdom (present-day Okinawa Prefecture) did as well. Because of this, the shīsā statues here create a mystical atmosphere. Furthermore, not all of the statues are small. Many are larger than life, and their sheer scale leaves visitors in awe. Like the shīsā displayed at the factory, the ones found throughout the farm are unlike those seen elsewhere. Each one is unique, with a friendly and welcoming appearance. These imaginative creations challenge conventional ideas of what shīsā look like. Every statue has its own distinct character, making it easy to spend hours wandering the grounds and admiring them all.

In the middle of the Yoneko-yaki Shīsā Farm lies a small lake, surrounded by numerous shīsā statues. The colorful and charming shīsā look as though they’re peacefully enjoying the natural surroundings. Standing in front of the lake is a small Shintō shrine gate. Together with the shīsā and the lush greenery, it creates an atmosphere that feels both sacred and otherworldly. Although the trees here are not particularly large, many have been planted around the perimeter of the farm, creating the feeling of stepping into another world. The atmosphere is reminiscent of the grounds of a quiet Shintō shrine or Buddhist temple, where one can momentarily forget the outside world and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

The shīsā is an important symbol of Okinawa Prefecture, and for those who’d like to have a look at them at a leisurely pace, Yoneko-yaki Shīsā Farm is the place to visit. As mentioned, the grounds are vast and home to what feels like an endless number of shīsā statues. Each one has its own unique expression and appearance, making it easy to spend hours exploring the farm and appreciating them all. For generations, the people of Okinawa Prefecture have revered the shīsā, and a visit here offers a glimpse into just how deeply rooted this guardian figure is in the local culture. One of the farm's greatest attractions is the sheer number of shīsā on display, as there are few places in Okinawa Prefecture where so many can be seen in a single location. The next time one finds themselves on Ishigaki Island, be sure to visit the Yoneko-yaki Shīsā Farm and experience these unique and fascinating shīsā.

NOTE
When MORIKOBOSHI visited the farm, we witnessed several tourists climbing onto one of the shīsā statues. Not only is this dangerous, but a fall could result in serious injury. In addition, such behavior can cause problems for the staff who maintain the farm and its exhibits. When visiting the Yoneko-yaki Shīsā Farm, please refrain from climbing on or sitting on the statues. These shīsā are important works of art and cultural symbols, and they should be treated with respect rather than used as playground equipment. Please be mindful of proper sightseeing etiquette so that everyone can enjoy a safe and pleasant visit.