The Movie Village of 24-no-Hitomi is a unique open-air museum located on Shodoshima Island, Kagawa Prefecture. It was originally built as a set for the 1987 remake of the acclaimed 1954 Japanese film "Twenty-Four Eyes" (Nijushi no Hitomi), based on Sakae Tsuboi's novel. The film depicts the bond between a teacher and her twelve pupils in a remote island village during and after World War II. The village preserves and showcases the atmosphere of early Showa-era Japan, making it a significant cultural site for understanding a specific period of Japanese history and cinema.
Visitors consistently praise the village for its nostalgic atmosphere and beautiful seaside location. Many reviewers, even those unfamiliar with the film, find the old-school Japanese setting charming and picturesque, with some noting the resemblance to wooden school buildings common in Japan until the 1970s. The scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea are a recurring highlight, particularly on clear days. Reviewers also appreciate the opportunity to learn about Japanese history and culture through the recreated buildings and exhibits. The staff are often mentioned for their kindness, with some offering free luggage storage and umbrellas on rainy days.
To make the most of your visit, consider downloading a voucher online for a slight discount on the entrance fee. While the village offers souvenir shops and places to eat, some visitors find the merchandise a bit pricey. A free film about the movie runs several times a day, so checking the schedule upon arrival is advisable. Many suggest trying the soft cream available. For those with good stamina, cycling to the village is recommended for the stunning scenery along the way, though a free shuttle bus is available from the nearby Cape Branch School for those who prefer not to walk or cycle the entire distance.
The Movie Village is located at Tanoura, Shodoshima-cho, Kagawa Prefecture. Shodoshima Island is accessible by ferry from various ports, including Takamatsu, Okayama, and Himeji. Once on Shodoshima, public transportation options to the village may be limited, and many visitors arrive as part of a tour. If traveling independently, consider renting a car or using local buses. Some reviewers mention that a free shuttle bus operates from the Cape Branch School (Misaki no Bunko), which is about 800 meters away and also worth a visit. This schoolhouse is considered more authentic by some and can be visited in conjunction with the Movie Village for a combined fee.
A common complaint among visitors unfamiliar with the film is a lack of deeper connection to the site, leading some to feel the entrance fee is a bit high for what is essentially a movie set. To mitigate this, consider watching the film "Twenty-Four Eyes" beforehand, which many reviewers suggest enhances the experience significantly. Alternatively, focus on the historical and architectural aspects, or simply enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery and the nostalgic ambiance of old Japan.