No.346 Monthly Yaima July 2023 issue

『 Okinawa Red Roof Tiles and the Work of Yaeyama Roof Tiles Craftsmen

Red roofing tiles are a tradition in Okinawa. The red color is a natural color born from the soil unique to Okinawa. Red roofing tiles, which can withstand the strong winds and rain of typhoons, are imbued with the wisdom and skills of our ancestors. There is only one craftsman left in Yaeyama who still makes traditional red roofing tiles. We talk about the work of the craftsman and the role of red roofing tiles.

Article and photos Masumi Sasamoto