Invitation for World Heritage
The Golden Age of the Ryukyu Kingdom spanned approximately 450 years from the mid-15th century, and was centered on Shurijo Castle in Naha. The “Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu” was registered as a combined UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2000, being recognized for its independent development as an island nation influenced by Asian countries and Japan. The kingdom also developed its own culture and set of beliefs. By observing castle ruins and the distinct architectural style, you can learn about the historical background of the Ryukyu Kingdom and the wisdom of the Ryukyuan people.
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1. Nakijin Jo Site / Nakijin Castle Ruins
Before the Golden Age of the Ryukyu Kingdom there was a civil war period called the Sanzan Period, during which the Ryukyu Kingdom was divided into 3 nations – Hokuzan, Chuzan and ...Read More -
2. Zakimi Jo Site / Zakimi Castle Remains
Zakimi Castle was built by Gosamaru, a great commander who played an important role during the Sanzan Period (civil war era) and worked hard to secure the Ryukyu Kingdom after its ...Read More -
3. Katsuren Jo Site / Katsuren Castle Ruins
The Katsuren Castle Ruins are a Teikaku-shiki style castle that is situated on four flat terrains in a staircase pattern. The castle wall was built utilizing a natural landscape ut...Read More -
4. Nakagusuku Jo Site / Nakagusuku Castle Remains
Nakagusuku Castle was built to defend against attacks from the east by Lord Amawari of Katsuren Castle, and was lived in by the great commander Gosamaru. ...Read More -
5. Shuri Jo Site / Shurijo Castle Park
Shurijo Castle became the kings’ castle after the unification of the Ryukyu Kingdom, and served as the center of politics, diplomacy, and culture during the Ryukyu Kingdom era. ...Read More -
6. Tamaudun (Tamaudun Royal Mausoleum)
The Tamaudun Royal Mausoleum is the mausoleum where the 2nd Sho Dynasty is entombed. It was built in 1501 during the period of King Sho Shin, in the midst of the Golden Age of the ...Read More -
7. Sonohyan-utaki Ishimon (Sonohyan-utaki Stone Gate)
Sonohyan-utaki Stone Gate was built in 1519 and used as a prayer spot for the royal family. They prayed for a safe journey when the king went outside the castle. ...Read More -
8. Shikinaen /Shikinaen Royal Garden
Shikinaen Royal Garden, a second residence for the royal families, was built to entertain envoys of the Chinese Emperors, in 1799. ...Read More -
9. Sēfa-utaki
Utaki are both a sacred place and a place of prayer, and Sefa Utaki was the highest-ranking sacred place in the Ryukyu Kingdom. There is no artificial structure, the thick wood and...Read More