Gusuku Sites & the Kingdom of Ryukyu /Himeji Castle (UNESCO)

Q. Would you please tell us briefly about Shuri castle?

A. During the 14th century, the areas were unified into three counties and the Kingdom of Ryukyu was finally established in 1429. It was at this time when the symbol of the Kingdom—Shuri Castle 

Q. What kind of influence do you feel at Shuri castle? 

A. you will notice a strong influence from various Asian cultures proving that trade with surrounding countries was very active at the time. The pattern of dragons or vermillion lacquer coating shows the influence of China, and the structural form of the roof shows the Japanese influence.

Q. What is Tamaudun Royal Mausoleum like?

A. The massive stone structure is the tomb of the successive royal families of the Kingdom of Ryukyu, and the inside of the tomb is paved with coral reef fragments.

Q. Please tell us about the building of Gusuku.

A. A rise in dictatorships in various areas of Okinawa around the 12th century led to the construction of castle-like buildings called Gusuku. During the 14th century, the areas were unified into three counties and the Kingdom of Ryukyu was finally established in 1429.

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Q. What are the features of Himeji? 

A. It has the thick coating of white plaster on its surface, giving it excellent resistance to fire and bullets, as well as its beautiful appearance.

Q. What is the nickname of the castle? And why?

A. Its name is Shirasagi. The castle's pure white-plastered walls resemble a dancing white heron—known locally as a Shirasagi—with wings outstretched, earning it the nickname Shirasagi-jo Castle.

Q. Who was the castle established?

A. The castle was first established in 1346. Later, the warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1536-1598), who ruled over most of Japan went on to build a full-scale castle wall

Q. How many structures in the premises?

A. Seventy-four structures within the castle site including a tower and gate are designated as Important Cultural Assets of Japan.