Quick Okinawa Info
World Heritage Sites |
Updated on : March 31, 2005 |
Gusuku and related properties: Ancient relics that speak to the present
Okinawa's many Gusuku are well known as representative of Okinawan history. As the eleventh registration from Japan, five Gusuku (castle ruins) were inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List in 2000. Along with the five, four sites regarded as important related properties were also inscribed.
Here on Okinawa Island, five Gusuku sites joined the World Heritage List. One of these sites is the restored Shurijo Castle, the seat of the Ryukyu Dynasty kings. Also registered were the Nakagusuku Castle ruins for its exceptional construction techniques; the ruins of Katsuren Castle, the residence of chieftain Amawari, who resisted the Ryukyuan king till the end; the Zakimi Castle ruins, with the oldest arched gate in existence in Okinawa; and the ruins of Nakijin Castle, the seat of the chieftains in northern Okinawa Island. Four properties related to these Gusuku sites include Tamaudun, the royal mausoleum where the kings of the second Sho Dynasty and their families rest; the stone gate of Sonohyan-utaki shrine, where Ryukyu kings chanted their prayers for safe journeys; Shikina-En garden, the summer palace of the royal family; and Okinawa's most sacred site, Sefa-utaki, where kings presided at religious ceremonies.
The nine sites collectively are formally called "Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu" and classified among World Heritages as cultural heritage sites that have exceptional universal, cultural, artistic or scientific significance. They show the historical path of those days and emphasize the unique culture created during the Ryukyu Kingdom era. These sites exhibit unique stone masonry techniques blended with influences coming from China and other surrounding countries and are considered important archeologically.
Many Gusuku structures are found throughout the islands of Okinawa. Although it is yet unclear, these structures are theorized to be fortresses of local chieftains. These Gusuku sites are also believed to be sacred places. This belief still lives to this day and people continue to visit these places for spiritual strength and comfort.
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