Okinawa Arena

*The name has been changed to “Okinawa Suntory Arena” since February 1, 2025. The name as it was when the article was published is used here.

The Ultimate Entertainment Space, Where Passion and Joy Immerse the Audience in Excitement

Okinawa Arena is the largest event hall in Okinawa prefecture, built for watching sports events and other entertainment. It is equipped with a large 510-inch video system on the ceiling and scrolling screens in the auditorium, as well as moving lights and state-of-the-art sound equipment. As a full-scale multi-purpose arena as advanced as overseas arenas, it attracted considerable attention even before its opening in March 2021.

Movable Seating with Clear Views and Easy Use to Suit Any Event

The maximum seating capacity of 10,000 is designed for ease of viewing and use. In addition to a mode that surrounds the center court and center stage, multiple layouts can be created to suit the event style, including an end stage mode that uses the space vertically, a side stage mode that uses the space horizontally, and an exhibition mode that stores all seating on the floor surface.
It is also used as the home arena for the Ryukyu Golden Kings, a B.LEAGUE team. During basketball games, a mortar-shaped seating area surrounds the center court.
The first two levels of seating in the six-story Okinawa Arena are made up of a retractable seating system that can be deployed and retracted. The last row is connected to the second tier of stand seating, which not only allows for smooth flow but also enhances the sense of unity in the spectator seating. Handrails are provided in most aisles, allowing for safe movement within the auditorium, where there are many level changes.
The retractable seating system has a total of 13 blocks. Only the required number of blocks for an event need to be used. The mid-level version, in which only the rear eight of the eleven seating tiers are deployed, can further expand the variety of seating layouts.

Seating Designed for Comfort and Functionality

Various types of seating are available in the arena. The selection process was finalized after stakeholders repeatedly tested the seats at the Kotobuki Seating Showroom.
Many of the seats used in both the retractable seating system and stands are Lux seats, developed as a higher-grade arena seating option than previous models. Many of the seats used in both the retractable seating system and stands are Lux seats, developed as a higher-grade arena seating option than previous models. The most distinctive feature is the high backrest, measuring 870mm from the floor. The ergonomically designed three-dimensional shape, together with the wide seating surface, provides a firm support for the spectator's body and enhances comfort. In addition, the seat features a slow-return gentle seat tip-up mechanism, preventing loud noises or vibrations when standing up during a game or performance.
Theater seats with tables for drinks and food were installed in part of the fourth tier. The AllWe series (VSS-031) selected for this project features a slim design with soft seating comfort through its cushioned backrest and seat.
The BLM-8000 series is installed in the steeply sloping rear six rows, furthest from the arena surface. The seat has a slimmer depth when stored compared to the Lux seating, allowing for a wider aisle.
Other seating options include table seating for groups around a single table and standing seating, depending on the situation.

Special Seating for a Wider Range of Clientele

The third level on the front and bench sides features suites and lounges.
The 30 suites are divided into King, Luxury, and Deluxe categories and can be used for different occasions and group sizes, such as international events or business meetings. Each suite consists of a room with sofas and tables for dining and socializing, along with balcony seating overlooking the arena. Two seating types (CN-55 series and VSS-011) with generous cushioning in both the seat and backrest were used for the balcony seating. The front-to-back spacing of the seats is 800-1100 mm, providing more legroom than standard seating. Each seat is designed with extra width, allowing for a spacious and comfortable viewing experience.
The four lounges along the route to the suites feature a wide range of designs, including interiors inspired by basketball courts and luxurious spaces overlooking the arena. These lounges can be used for various occasions, such as casual gatherings, small meetings, or parties.

Stackable Chairs and Stages for Increased Flexibility

Stacking chairs and an assembled stage open up new uses for the arena.
The FC-303 stacking chairs were selected for their seat comfort, storage efficiency, and ease of setup and dismantling. Once seated, the 3D curved seat gently wraps around and supports the body. Each chair weighs 3.5 kg. It is designed for efficient stacking and easy setup.
The VMP series, designed specifically for arenas, was selected for the assembled stage. The leg frame and top panel are separate parts for easy storage, and the height can be adjusted after assembly for use in a variety of events.

Facility Overview

The Okinawa Arena, which opened in March 2021 at Koza Sports Park in Moromizato, Okinawa City, is the largest multi-purpose arena in Okinawa Prefecture. It has a maximum capacity of 10,000 people. The facility was built to serve as a venue for basketball and other professional sports, live music events by popular artists, and exhibitions. The construction of the new facility was funded by subsidies for realignment promotion projects under the Ministry of Defense's jurisdiction and special project promotion subsidies for Okinawa under the Cabinet Office's jurisdiction.
It was Japan's venue for the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, and in December of the same year, more than one million visitors visited in total.

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