About Us
YWAM Okinawa began in 1988 through the pioneering work of missionary Toppie Kivimäki. The first DTS launched the following year in 1989.
since then the base has faithfully run school after school, training hundreds of believers and sending them into the nations. Over the decades, more than 370 students have completed DTS, and the legacy of discipleship, missions, and prayer has continued to grow.
Today, after running over 40 DTS schools, YWAM Okinawa stands at a uniquely strategic place — both geographically and spiritually. Okinawa sits as a gateway into Japan and Asia, and the base is stepping into a new season as a training center for the coming harvest. The focus is simple but weighty: train people deeply in the Bible, worship, and prayer so they can carry the gospel with maturity, humility, and power.
YWAM Okinawa Story
From Okinawa to the Nations
With a strong commitment to discipleship, the base continues to run Discipleship Training School Seminars, equipping men and women to walk in obedience and serve with character. This training emphasis is not isolated YWAM Okinawa works closely with the local church, championing and supporting what God is already doing across the island. Together with the Body of Christ in Okinawa, the base seeks to raise up workers who can serve Japan and the nations in this significant moment of spiritual readiness.
Some Cool Facts
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Students Trained
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Second Level Schools Ran
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Okinawa is a historical crossroads of Japan, Asia, and the Pacific. A uniquely strategic gateway for mission and prayer.
Training
Training is at the heart of YWAM Okinawa. We believe every disciple is called to grow deeper in God and be equipped to impact the world. Through Bible-centered teaching, worship, prayer, and hands-on outreach, our training programs shape character, strengthen calling, and prepare believers to serve with humility and courage. Whether you’re taking your first step with DTS or stepping into leadership development, our desire is to see you know God deeply and make Him known in Japan and the nations.
Mercy Ministry
Mercy is the heartbeat of the gospel. At YWAM Okinawa, we express God’s love through practical service, compassion, and presence. From supporting local families and partnering with churches to reaching those in need across the island, our mercy ministries exist to bring hope, dignity, and the kindness of Jesus into real situations. We believe every act of service—big or small—is a doorway for God to touch lives and transform communities in Okinawa and beyond.
Evangelsim
We carry the gospel because Jesus is worth sharing. At YWAM Okinawa, evangelism is a natural overflow of knowing God—whether it’s on the streets, in cafés, through worship, or in everyday conversations. We partner with local churches and ministries across the island to proclaim the good news with humility, boldness, and love. Our heart is to see people encounter Jesus, be restored by His presence, and step into the new life He offers.
National Chairman
Kazuhiko Yoshida is the National Chairman of YWAM Japan. Bringing leadership to the movement of YWAM in nation.
Base Director
Naoko Yoshida is the Base Director of YWAM Okinawa bringing leadership to base locally.