From March 27 to April 10, 2025, ESTINATE HOTEL NAHA was transformed into a vibrant creative hub with the return of “Art Expand Vol.2.” This special two-week art event brought together local Okinawa-based artists and hotel guests for a unique travel-meets-art experience. From inspiring artworks to unexpected encounters, the hotel came alive with color, conversation, and creativity. Here’s a look back at the unforgettable moments that made this edition of Art Expand so special.
The Hotel Turns into a Gallery: A Unique Moment with Art
This time, the art on display was by MEGU WAZOUSKI, an artist living in Okinawa. Her colorful works transformed the 1st-floor lounge and the 10th-floor community lounge into vibrant art spaces.
Guests would casually come across her vivid pieces while checking in, or gaze at her drawings while relaxing in the lounge. These small moments during their stay became more special thanks to the art. Many guests shared how the space made them feel relaxed and inspired to take photos.
A Workshop to Create Your Own One-of-a-Kind Bag
On March 30, MEGU hosted a stencil-dyeing bag workshop. The participants included a mother who is a fan of MEGU and her daughters who love to draw.
They quickly signed up after hearing about the workshop, saying how happy they were to find something like this in Naha.
While chatting directly with the artist, each person created a bag filled with personal meaning. The lounge felt cozy and warm during the session, and even those watching felt touched by the atmosphere.
Each finished bag was full of personality and became a one-of-a-kind memory. The mother and daughters smiled the whole time, saying, “It was so fun to make something ourselves,” and “The kids were super happy!”
Art Feels Closer Through a Photo Booth and Pop-Up Shop
An original photo booth inspired by MEGU’s artwork was also set up for the event! Featuring colorful tropical designs and her art as the backdrop, it made the lounge feel even more cheerful.
MEGU herself joined in on the photo fun, and both staff and guests naturally started smiling.
People said things like, “Art feels so much more approachable now,” and the booth even sparked small conversations among guests.
In addition to the displayed art, original goods such as postcards and keychains were also available for purchase. Some guests stopped to check them out, saying, “This would make a nice souvenir.”
It was a chance to “take a piece of the trip home through art”—a special part of this event.
Connecting with the Local Community Through Art—More to Come
Art Expand is a project that deepens the value of travel by connecting hotels with local artists. This time, it was especially well received as “a new way to travel, beyond just staying overnight.”
ESTINATE HOTEL NAHA plans to continue holding events that connect people and the local community through art.
Details about the next Art Expand and upcoming art events will be shared on the official Instagram and website.
If you want to enjoy your Okinawa trip in a deeper, more creative way, be sure to check them out!
About ESTINATE HOTEL NAHA
ESTINATE HOTEL NAHA is a lifestyle hotel featuring a modern Ryukyu-inspired design. Conveniently located with easy access from Naha Airport, it offers a perfect blend of city and resort experiences. The hotel also hosts tour-style workation programs.
Hotel Information
- Name: ESTINATE HOTEL NAHA
- Address: 2-3-11 Matsuyama, Naha, Okinawa 900-0032, Japan
- Access: Located along National Route 58
- 10 minutes by car from Naha Airport
- 5-minute walk from Yui Rail “Miebashi” Station
- 6-minute walk from Tomari Wharf Terminal