The Attraction of Okinawa

Shurijo Site

While the actual construction date of Shurijo Castle is unknown, it is believed to have been built between the 13th and 14th centuries for the use of King Satto of Urasoe Castle. After the unification of the Ryukyus under King Sho Hashi, Shurijo Castle became the kingdom’s political and ceremonial center, with government officials and artisans residing in the surrounding area. It remained the center of government until 1879, when the Meiji emperor annexed the Ryukyu Kingdom, naming it Okinawa Prefecture. During the Battle of Okinawa the castle was destroyed but was rebuilt in 1992 and became a national park. Visitors can tour the grounds for free except for the main compound and the I amaudun Royal Mausoleum, where many Ryukyu kings were laid to rest. he World I leritage Treasures of the Earth and Mankind ° Ryukyu castles were built between the 14th an.! I HU, centuries at a time when the Ryukyu Kingdom was united and active, hading with Asian countries.

Nakijin Castle

Located in Nago, Nakijin Castle is believed to have been built in the ;l3th century as a place of worship. Recognized as a National Historic Remains Site in 1972, the grounds’ 14 acres feature numerous religious objects such as prayer nooks and I artifacts of past Ryukyuan and Chinese trade.

Nakagusuku Village

Nakagusuku Village Built by the architect and feudal warlord Gosamaru of Chuzan between the years of 1454 and 1460, Nakagusuku Castle escaped damage during the Battle of Okinawa, leaving it the best preserved of all Okinawan citadels. The castle’s vantage point offers a breathtaking view of its surrounding area.

Zakimi Castle Site

Yomitan Village Built in the early 1400s by architect and feudal warlord Gosamaru of Chuzan, this site was used by the Japanese army as a missile base during World War II. Recognized as a National Treasure in 1972, the castle’s double wall and Okinawa’s oldest arch-shaped stone gate still stand today.

Stone Gate of Sonohyan

Naha City Designed by the master craftsman Nishito, who erected the walls of Shurijo Castle, Sonohyan was commissioned by King Shoushin in 1519. The stone gate, known as "utaki,” was built as a portal for the gods and as a symbol of sanctuary for the community and neighboring villages.

Katsuren Castle Site

Uruma City Once ruled by Lord Amawari, Katsuren Castle is believed to be the oldest castle in Okinawa and was prosperous in agriculture and trade throughout Asia between the 14th and 15th centuries. Both Katsuren Castle and its inhabitants were destroyed during the unification of the Ryukyus.

Tamaudun Royal Mausoleum

v Naha City In 1501, King Shoushin had Tamaudun built as the royal family’s mausoleum, moving the remains of his father, King Shoen, and mother from Miagemuiudun. The remains of the king and queen were laid to rest in the East Room, while other family members were interred in the West Room.

Shikinaen Royal Garden ìàì Naha City

Originally built as a summer residence for the Ryukyuan royal family in 1799 and restored in 1995, Shikinaen was used to welcome visiting Chinese envoys during the heyday of trade between the Ryukyu Kingdom and Asia, playing an important role in many of the diplomatic f meetings with foreign envoys. Featuring a Chinese-style hexagonal pavilion and arched bridges, the garden’s trees and plants are arranged in such a way that blosso^P can be enjoyed year round.

The key to the lacquer Is I he urushi tree, which flourishes throughout Okinawa, and the 80% humidity and over 20”C temperatures required to produce it. To add to the hn quei ware’s attractiveness, turban shells powdered into thin sheets and mot In i of-pearl are often set into the lacquer. , Yuntanza-hanaori, Shuri-ori, Ryukyukasuri, Kumejima-tsumugi, Miyakojofu, Yaeyama-jofu, Yaeyama-minsa and Yonaguni-ori.