The statues were carved in Japan under the guidance of Easter Island restoration experts using traditional techniques.
The project was granted permission to reproduce the Moai after the Japanese team assisted in restoring the statues at Ahu Akivi on Easter Island following damage from a tsunami.
Each of the seven statues represents one of the seven Moai of the Ahu Akivi site on Easter Island.
The statues face directly toward the sea, mirroring the original orientation of the Ahu Akivi site.
The site includes a 'Thinking Moai' statue located at the top of the hill, which differs in design from the main line of seven.
The statues were officially unveiled in 1996 as part of a project to promote international friendship between Japan and Easter Island.
Sun Messe Nichinan is home to seven full-scale stone replicas of the Moai statues found on Easter Island. These are the only statues in the world officially authorized by the Easter Island elders to be reproduced. The site is situated on a steep hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean along the Nichinan Coast. Each of the seven statues is associated with a specific blessing, such as love, health, or career success. The park grounds also feature a swing set, an art gallery, and various sculptures dedicated to world peace. It is a hillside facility that requires navigating inclines, as the main attractions are spread across a sloped landscape.
The path looking back toward the row of seven statues with the Pacific Ocean as the background.
Bring a hat and sunscreen as the hillside is fully exposed to the sun with very little shade.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes to navigate the steep paved paths connecting the various park levels.
Check the local weather forecast specifically for the Nichinan Coast, as the seafront location is subject to rapid wind changes.
Do not attempt to reach the statues by walking along the highway, as there is no pedestrian access from the road.
Closed on the first and third Wednesday of every month, except for holidays.
Do not touch, climb, or lean on the statues.
