Yonabaru Town Uenomori Kanachi Hall

Nov. 28,2022
Multipurpose Hall

Project Description

A long-awaited cultural hall for the community

In the spring of 2021, Uenomori Kanachi Hall opened alongside the new Yonabaru Town Office in Okinawa Prefecture. This long-awaited facility, with a seating capacity of 403, was built in response to strong community demand.

The name Kanachi symbolizes the hall’s role in connecting people’s hearts—just as the Kanachi pole links the eastern and western ropes in the traditional Yonabaru Great Tug of War. It also embodies the local spirit of yuimaaru, or mutual support and cooperation.

Beyond the main entrance and down the corridor lies a lounge that also serves as the hall’s foyer, offering a welcoming space before entering the main venue.

Retractable Seating System for flexible use

From the beginning, the hall was envisioned as a multipurpose venue suitable for concerts, theater performances, film screenings, lectures, and live-streamed events. To accommodate this wide range of uses, the hall features an Automatic Retractable Seating System (also known as a Roll-Back Chair Stand) and additional stacking chairs.

At the push of a button, the floor can be quickly transformed from an open, flat space into a fully tiered seating area. In just 3 minutes and 40 seconds, 242 high-quality seats across 11 tiers can be deployed or retracted.

The installed seats are Type S models, featuring soft cushioning on both the backrest and seat. When unoccupied, the seat bottom folds compactly, allowing for increased legroom and smooth movement between rows. The system is designed to minimize vibrations from foot traffic, ensuring a stable and comfortable viewing experience.

Enhanced seating comfort with stacking chairs

Complementing the retractable seats, the hall also uses Axis FC-310 stacking chairs—specifically designed for performance halls. These chairs feature generously cushioned backs and seats made from molded polyurethane, offering a comfortable and supportive seating experience even during long events.

A dual-layer structure of polyurethane foam and a resin-fiber core eliminates discomfort and prevents bottoming out. The upholstery matches that of the retractable seats, creating a cohesive and polished appearance across the entire seating area.

Because the stacking chairs can be used independently, they allow for highly flexible layouts depending on the event's requirements.

Movable acoustic reflector panels for music events

For musical performances such as piano recitals or choir concerts, movable acoustic reflector “Simple Sound Reflector SSR-1001” are used to enhance sound quality.

Mounted on casters, these panels can be easily rolled into position and unfolded vertically for quick setup. As a stacking type, they allow for compact storage when not in use. Their intuitive design makes them easy to operate, even for non-technical users, adding to the hall’s versatility.

A multipurpose hall that also serves the community

In times of disaster, Uenomori Kanachi Hall functions as an evacuation center, supporting the safety and well-being of local residents.

Since its opening, the hall has been actively used for symposiums, community gatherings, theatrical plays, film screenings, concerts, health checkups, and more—earning consistently positive feedback from the community.

Facility Overview

Uenomori Kanachi Hall is part of a larger multi-use complex that also houses the Yonabaru Town Office. By integrating spaces for public administration, cultural activities, and daily community use, the facility serves multiple roles—from hosting events and enhancing disaster preparedness to supporting health and welfare services.
Additional spaces within the complex include a playroom, nutrition consultation room, and Japanese-style rooms, making the facility accessible and convenient for a wide range of everyday activities and formal events alike.
 

Project Summary

Location
Yonabaru Town, Okinawa Map
Client
Yonabaru Town
Design
Azusa/Kuniyoshi Design Joint Venture
Opened
Apr, 2021
Seats
403
*Includes 161 stacking chairs
Special Website
Yonabaru Town Website