Kitanakagusuku Ruins: Coral Limestone Walls Why are these ruins important? At the top of a ridge overlooking the bay of Nakagusuku city, the Kitanakagusuku Ruins refer to the site of Nakagusuku-jō (which means Nakagusuku Castle). The remains of castles and sacred places called “Gusuku” are part of a larger ensemble listed by UNESCO. Since the […]
The Chief’s House: a key role in village administration The Jitūdē, sometimes translated as “lord of the manor” or “local chief,” was the municipal authority of a village in Okinawa between the 17th and 19th centuries. His role went far beyond that of a simple representative. He managed the distribution of agricultural land, supervised the
Traditional Architecture of Okinawa: The Chief’s House Read More »
Located in the north of Okinawa, on the Motobu Peninsula, the Native Okinawa Village is a peaceful place rich in history. Situated in the heart of the vast Ocean Expo Park, this reconstructed village offers visitors an authentic immersion into the daily life of ancient Okinawa, particularly between the 17th and 19th centuries, during the
Yokai, Mirrors of the Japanese Imagination In Japanese culture, the Yokai (properly written with a macron over the “O” as Yōkai according to academic romanization standards, 妖怪 in Japanese) are beings that defy usual categories.Neither gods nor true ghosts, they embody a sense of strangeness: rarely benevolent, they often provoke unease through their unsettling and
Japanese Yokai of Okinawa: Local Creatures and Legends Read More »
Located in the village of Yomitan, on the west coast of Okinawa, Murasaki Mura is a must-see place for anyone wishing to immerse themselves in the history and culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom. More than just a theme park, it is a true living cultural center where traditional crafts, architectural reconstructions, and spectacular night events
Murasaki Mura in Okinawa: journey to the heart of the Ryukyu Kingdom Read More »
When we hear the name “Okinawa,” many imagine a small Japanese island lined with paradise beaches and bathed in turquoise waters. Yet, behind this postcard image lies a much richer and deeper history: that of the Ryukyu Kingdom. The Ryukyu Kingdom in Okinawa’s Daily Life If you travel to Okinawa, you will quickly notice that
Legends and Spirituality: Hamahigajima, Land of the Gods Hamahigajima, also known as Hamahiga, is a picturesque island located in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. Connected to Okinawa’s main island by the Hamahiga Bridge, it offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and ancient legends. History and Legends Hamahigajima is often referred to as
Hamahigajima: Okinawa’s Sacred Island of Nature, Legends, and Heavenly Beaches Read More »
