This is the place to learn about Okinawa's history! A collection of sightseeing spots to feel the Ryukyu Kingdom, war, and peace
Table of Contents
- 1 This is the place to learn about Okinawa's history!
- 2 Okinawa's History from Ancient Times Birth and Prosperity of the Ryukyu Kingdom
- 3 The Tragic History of the Battle of Okinawa Lessons Left Behind by the War and a Desire for Peace
- 4 Sightseeing spots in Okinawa where you can experience history Learn about both Ryukyu and war
- 5 Learn with your children Okinawa Historical Spots
- 6 Okinawa's History and Food Culture Island Life as Seen through Traditional Cuisine
- 7 About Okinawa Historical Sightseeing Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 8 summary
This is the place to learn about Okinawa's history!
The southernmost tip of JapanOkinawa, located in the southernmost part of Japan, is a tourist destination known for its beautiful ocean and unique culture, but it also has a deep history that spans more than 600 years.
Ryukyu KingdomFrom the birth of Okinawa, the tragedy of war, and the long road of rebirth to peace, today's Okinawa is "theIsland of Culture and PeaceIt attracts people from all over the world as a
◆Those who want to learn about Okinawa's history and culture in depth.
◆Those who wish to visit historical sites and ruins of the Ryukyu Kingdom period
◆Those who wish to experience peace education with their families and children
◆To visit war and peace-themed sights
This article traces the history of Okinawa from ancient times to the present day, and introduces sights that you can actually visit and learn about...♪ Knowing the history will make you feel more deeply attracted to Okinawa.
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Okinawa's History from Ancient Times
Birth and Prosperity of the Ryukyu Kingdom
Okinawa's history dates back to the ancient "Gusuku Period" (the age of castles)!
Gusuku (castles) built in each village later became the foundation of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Eventually, multiple powers competed for supremacy.Sanzan period (of Japanese history, approx. 1467-1568 CE)visited in 1429.Japanophile(Shohashi) united the three mountains, and "theRyukyu Kingdomwas born.
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The Three Mountains Period and Unification
In the 14th century, Okinawa was divided into the three provinces of Hokuzan, Chuzan, and Nanzan, each of which grew in power through trade with China and Japan.
He was ultimately the king of Nakayama.JapanophileThe Kingdom of Ryukyu began with the unification of the Ryukyu Kingdom and the establishment of the royal capital at Shuri! With this unification, Okinawa becameEast Asian Trade HubsThe city flourished and made great strides culturally as a
Shurijo Castle and Kingdom Culture
Shurijo Castle was built in the Ryukyu Kingdom ofpoliticsinterpoint (interword separation)cultureinterpoint (interword separation)religionIt was the center of Chinese architectural style, but with vermilion walls and curvilinear decorations,Okinawa's Unique Aesthetic Senseis shining☆.
In 2000, as "Gusuku and related heritage sites of the Kingdom of RyukyuWorld Heritage (cultural, natural, etc.)The main building was destroyed by fire in 2019, but is currently being rebuilt and will be completed in 2026.full restorationWe aim to
Developed through trade with China and Japan
Unique Culture and Beliefs
The Ryukyu Kingdom wasChina (Ming and Qing)While establishing a tributary relationship with theJapanand ... andSoutheast AsiaThe country also engaged in trade with the As a result, diverse cultures merged,Sanshinand ... andBingataThe unique traditional performing arts such as Ryukyuan dance were born.
The belief in Utaki, based on nature worship, and the rituals performed by Noro (goddesses) are also essential elements of Ryukyuan culture.
Tragic History Seen in the Battle of Okinawa
The Lessons of War and the Wish for Peace
End of World War IIOkinawa became the front line in the defense of Japan's mainland and was the scene of a fierce ground battle involving the local residents. In the "Battle of Okinawa," about a quarter of the prefecture's residents lost their lives, and many cultural assets and cityscapes were also lost.
To convey the tragedy of war to future generations is considered an important mission in Okinawa today.
What is the Battle of Okinawa?
The events that took place in the last fierce battlefield in Japan
In April 1945, U.S. forces landed on the main island of Okinawa. The Japanese forces fought a thorough war mainly in the southern part of the island, but many civilians were killed in the face of overwhelming superiority in military strength. In particular, the "Battle ofcollective suicideTragedies such as these have been passed down through the generations as symbolic events of the Battle of Okinawa.
Touring the battle sites
A famous place that preserves the memory of the Battle of Okinawa is the "Himeyuri Tower". This is where female students were mobilized as nursing personnel and lost their lives.
."Peace Memorial ParkThe "Cornerstone of Peace," where the names of the war dead are engraved, is located on the site, and a ceremony is held every year on June 23 to commemorate Memorial Day. The "Former Naval Headquarters Dugout" is a preserved dugout from those days, where visitors can experience firsthand the harsh conditions of the war.
Business hours: 9:00-17:25
Admission: 450 yen for adults, 250 yen for high school students, 150 yen for elementary and junior high school students
Parking: None (please use the parking lots of nearby souvenir stores).
Sightseeing spots in Okinawa where you can experience history
Learning from both sides of the Ryukyu Islands and war
Okinawa is home to the Ryukyu Kingdom ofprosperityandThe Tragedy of WarandWish for PeaceThere are numerous sightseeing spots where you can experience the Here are some typical places where you can experience history with all your senses♪
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Shurijo Park
Located in Naha CityShurijo Parkis the political and cultural center of the Ryukyu Kingdom. In addition to the main hall, which is being reconstructed, historical buildings such as Shoreimon and Zuisenmon are open to the public.
Inside the park, visitors can learn about the history of the kingdom through guided tours and video exhibits!
◆Access: Approx. 15 minutes from Naha Airport
Admission: Adults 400 yen/High school students 300 yen/Elementary and junior high school students 160 yen
◆Closed: Open all year round (with maintenance closures)
*Please check the official website.
Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum
At a large complex in Omoromachi, Naha City,archeologyfrom (e.g. time, place, numerical value, etc.)Ryukyu KingdomThe exhibition covers a wide range of topics, from the first half of the 20th century to postwar reconstruction!
In the permanent exhibition, visitors can learn about "maritime culture" and "gusuku culture" through realistic models and videos.
◆Access: 15 min. walk from Naha Airport
Parking: Free parking available
◆Opening hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Ruins of Nakagusuku Castle
Located in the central part of the main island of OkinawaRuins of Nakagusuku Castleis a World Heritage Site ".Gusuku and Related Properties of the Kingdom of RyukyuOne of the "one of the best". The beautiful stone wall and the spectacular view of the sea are the attraction♪
At dusk, the castle walls are tinged with madder red, creating a fantastic atmosphere. This is a popular spot where visitors can experience both history and nature!
◆Access: Approximately 40 minutes by car from Naha Airport
◆Admission fee required
Parking: Free parking available
◆Opening hours: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Ruins of Katsure Castle
Ruins of Katsure Castleis known for the legend of AmawariOldest Gusuku in OkinawaThe high ground offers a magnificent view of the Pacific Ocean and Nakagusuku Bay! From the hilltop, a magnificent view of the Pacific Ocean and Nakagusuku Bay can be seen!
Elaborate stonewalls and other remains remain, showing the glory of the Ryukyu Kingdom.Historical SpotsIt is.
◆Access: 1 hour and 15 minutes from Naha Airport
Parking: Free parking available
◆Opening hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Peace Memorial Park
This park is located on the southern edge of Itoman City,Site of the end of the Battle of OkinawaIt was developed as a
The cornerstone of peace isAll victims regardless of nationalityThe name of the "K" is inscribed, creating a space for quiet prayer.
◆Access: Approximately 30 minutes from Naha Airport
◆Admission fee: Free
◆Closed: Open all year round
Learn with your child
Historical Spots in Okinawa
If you are visiting on a family vacation, even children can have fun.Spots where you can learn about historyis recommended!
There are many facilities where visitors can gain a hands-on understanding of traditional culture and the history of war ☆.
Okinawa World
Experience traditional Ryukyuan crafts and history
Located in Nanjo CityOkinawa Worldis a theme park that recreates the streets of the Ryukyu Kingdom period.
method of dyeing, developed in Okinawa, in which a single stencil is used to produce richly polychromatic designsand ... andSanshin Experience, ,Exploring Gyokusendo CaveYou can enjoy history, culture, and nature all at once, such as
Access: 35 minutes by car from Naha Airport
Parking: Free parking available
◆Opening hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Shuri Ryusome and Ryukyu Glass Village
A manufacturing experience steeped in history
Naha's "Ryukyu IslandsAt "Bingata Dyeing", visitors can experience the ancient art of Bingata dyeing!
Itoman City also has a "Ryukyu Glass VillageIn the "Okinawa's Glass Crafts" section, you can experience recycled glass crafts that symbolize postwar rebirth and feel the creativity of Okinawa♪.
◆Access: 27 minutes by car from Naha Airport
Parking: Free parking available
◆Opening hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Unique to Okinawa♪
Click here for handmade experience ▼
Recommended for peace studies
War sites and museums to visit with the family
Himeyuri Peace Memorial Museumand ... andPeace Memorial Parkis a learning place where children can experience the preciousness of peace. Staff members also provide storytelling guides, and visitors can listen to valuable stories based on real-life experiences.
◆Access: 30 minutes by car from Naha Airport
◆Opening hours: 9:00-17:25
Admission: Adults 450 yen, High school students 250 yen, Elementary and junior high school students 150 yen
Relationship between Okinawa's History and Food Culture
Island Life as Seen through Traditional Cuisine
The history of Okinawa is,food cultureThe company has also had a strong influence on the
Born of trade.Ryukyuan cuisineand changed after the war.American Style Food CultureYou can enjoy a variety of tastes from period to period, such as
Okinawa (prefecture)If you are looking for a popular gourmet restaurant in
▼ ▼Okinawa Gourmet RecommendationsInformation》Please see ▼
Food Culture and Trading Influences in the Ryukyu Kingdom Period
The Ryukyu Kingdom wasChinaand ... andSoutheast AsiaThrough trade with the Chinese, a wide variety of ingredients and cooking methods were introduced.
The court cuisine, "emperor's mealThe concept of medicinal herbs was introduced into the "Meal of the Year" and became the foundation of health and longevity!
Okinawa (prefecture)If you are looking for a popular gourmet restaurant in
▼ ▼Okinawa Gourmet RecommendationsInformation》Please see ▼
Postwar Food Culture
The Taste of Okinawa Changed under U.S. Rule
After the war, ingredients such as Spam and ketchup became popular under U.S. rule, and "taco rice" and "pork and egg rice balls," which are unique to Okinawa, became popular.local foodwere born. These have now become the soul food of the people of the prefecture.
Okinawa (prefecture)As for the taco rice at
▼ ▼Okinawa taco riceInformation》Please see ▼
Okinawa History and Tourism
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Shurijo Park, Tamaurung (Tamau-do), and Nakagusuku Castle Ruins are representative of this area. All of them are registered as World Heritage sites and offer a sense of Ryukyuan architectural styles and the culture of the Kingdom.
The Peace Memorial Park, Himeyuri Tower, and the former naval headquarters bunker are well-known. Visitors can learn about the history of the Battle of Okinawa through exhibits and hands-on programs.
Spring (March-May) and fall (October-November) are the best seasons. The climate is mild and ideal for sightseeing. Summer is hot, but most of the battle sites and museums are indoors and comfortable.
summary
The history of Okinawa is,Prosperity of the Ryukyu KingdomandThe Tragedy of WarThe city is filled with prayers for peace and for the future of the world. By experiencing its history through sightseeing, you will learn more than just travel.
Shuri Castle (in Kyoto)and ... andmuseumEnjoy a journey that connects "the past with the present" as you visit a variety of spots, including battle sites and cultural experiences. Okinawa is a treasure trove of history that will both educate and inspire you.
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