沖縄の美と歴史に触れる旅へ
沖縄の美と歴史に触れる旅へ

A Journey to Experience the Beauty and History of Okinawa

Okinawa Island

The Connection Between Noh and Okinawa Island

Kumiodori: A Dance Form Inspired by Noh Elements

8.6なはーと本公演「伊野波節」

One of Okinawa's traditional performing arts is 'Kumiodori,' which developed during the time of the Ryukyu Kingdom as a means of entertaining Chinese envoys. Kumiodori is regarded as the pinnacle of Ryukyuan culture and was created by a person named Tamagusuku Chokun. He was appointed as the official choreographer for the Ryukyu Kingdom and conceived 'Kumiodori' by blending elements from various performing arts such as Noh, Kabuki, and Bunraku, while also drawing inspiration from Ryukyuan history, stories, and legends. Some of his works, like 'Shushin Kaneiri,' which were influenced by Noh, are still performed today and are renowned for their exceptional quality. You can witness Kumiodori performances at venues like the 'National Theater Okinawa,' which serves as a center for traditional Okinawan arts. Occasionally, Kumiodori and Noh, which share similarities, are even performed together on the same stage.

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Itinerary 1: Discovering Okinawa's Beautiful Spots

The journey starts from the mystical space of 'Gangala Valley,' where a Noh performance took place in a cave in 2022. It then takes you through the beautiful scenic spots in the southern part of Okinawa Island, visiting sacred sites and castle ruins where rituals were held during the Ryukyu Kingdom era.

1

Valley of Gangala

An Ancient Valley Formed from the Collapse of a Limestone Cave Millions of Years Ago

Gangala Valley, a beautiful area rich in natural beauty, was formed from a collapsed ancient limestone cave and is surrounded by a subtropical forest. Excavations commenced following the discovery of ancient human habitation traces dating back about 20,000 years. Remarkably, in 2016, the world's oldest shell-made fishing hook, estimated to be around 23,000 years old, was unearthed here. Open to tourists since 2008, the valley can be visited only through guided tours to protect its environment. These tours, about 1 km long, showcase stunning views. Visitors can see massive banyan trees growing down from cliffs, ancient limestone structures worshipped for symbolizing the start of life, treehouses hidden among the leaves like secret hideouts, and remnants of ancient human dwellings. It's a place full of wonders that connect us to nature and ancient human life. In 2022, a captivating Noh performance took place in a natural cave at the entrance of the valley.

202 Tamagusuku Maekawa, Nanjo-shi, Okinawa
Valley of Gangala
SP_12min by car
12min by car
2

Miibaru Beach

A Natural Long Beach Where Time Flows Slowly

新原ビーチ

Miibaru Beach is a beautiful natural beach with clear water and shallow areas that stretch out. It is next to Hyakuna Beach, and together they offer a long stretch of about 2 km of white sand. The water is calm and shallow, perfect for swimming. When the tide is low, especially during spring tides, you can walk all the way to the reefs offshore. The beach is great for activities like picking up pretty seashells or watching the small tropical fish near the rocks. It is also a favorite spot for glass-bottom boat tours, where you can see various kinds of fish, including clownfish.

1599-6 Tamagusuku Hyakuna, Nanjo-shi, Okinawa
Okinawa Tourism Information Website "Miibaru Beach"
SP_15min by car
15min by car
3

Cape Chinen Park

Breathtaking Views of the Pacific Ocean and Kudaka Island, Known as the Island of the Gods

Cape Chinen Park is located at the end of the Chinen Peninsula, jutting out into the sea like a cape. From here, you can see the entire Pacific Ocean, including Kudaka Island, also known as the Island of the Gods. This is where Amamikyo, the creation deity of the Ryukyu, is said to have descended. The park offers a wide ocean view, almost 250 degrees around.

Close by is Sefa-Utaki, a sacred site of the ancient Ryukyu Kingdom, now a World Heritage site. It is said to have been created by Amamikyo and is located deep in a forest. It is a special place for Ryukyu kings and high priestesses to visit during religious ceremonies. Even today, people still come here to worship. Inside Sefa-Utaki, there are six sacred areas. The most important part, called Sangui, is at the very back. It is a triangular tunnel made of huge rocks and has a very spiritual and solemn feeling.

Chinen Kudakajima, Nanjo-Shi, Okinawa
Okinawa Tourism Information Website "Chinen Cape Park"

 

SP_45min by car
45min by car
4

Nakagusuku Castle Ruins

Scenic World Heritage Site with Beautifully Curved Castle Walls

The Nakagusuku Castle Ruins, a World Heritage site, are located on a hill facing Nakagusuku Bay and were built in the late 14th century by a powerful Ryukyu clan. Gosamaru, a warrior active during the unification of the Ryukyu Kingdom, is said to have lived here and expanded the surrounding walls. The most significant feature of the Nakagusuku Castle Ruins is that they retain more of their original structures than any other castle in Okinawa. The beautifully curved stone walls and intricate arch gates are also well-known. Standing on these accessible stone walls, you can enjoy a splendid view, seeing the East China Sea to the west and the Pacific Ocean to the east.

Nakagusuku Castle Ruins are recognized as one of the 'Top 100 Castles of Japan' by the Japan Castle Foundation.

In 2023, within the grandeur of Nakagusuku Castle Ruins, a Noh performance was held at night, illuminating the ancient castle.

503 Oshiro, Kitanakagusukuson, Okinawa
Okinawa Tourism Information Website "Nakagusuku Castle Ruins"

Itinerary 2: Exploring the Rich History and Culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom

This journey starts at the "Shikinaen Garden," a stunning World Heritage Site once serving as a retreat for the Ryukyu Royal Family. This historic garden was a stage for traditional Kumi Odori performances, held to welcome envoys from the Chinese Emperor. As you follow this itinerary, you will delve deep into Okinawa's rich history and culture, exploring the ancient royal palaces and the revered tombs of the Ryukyu Kings.

1

Shikinaen Garden

The Ryukyu Royals' Historic Largest Villa: A Stage for Traditional Ryukyu Entertainment

Shikinaen Garden

Shikinaen Garden, constructed in 1799, is the largest villa of the Ryukyu Royal Family. This majestic estate, once a haven for the royal family's relaxation and a prestigious reception spot for Chinese envoys, is famed for hosting traditional Ryukyu dance performances. Meticulously restored over 20 years starting in 1975, Shikinaen was designated a Special Place of Scenic Beauty in 2000 and has since been honored as a World Heritage Site.

As you stroll through the expansive grounds, you'll encounter historic structures where Chinese, Japanese, and Okinawan cultures elegantly converge. The garden's circuit-style design allows you to meander around a charming pond, reveling in the ever-changing vistas that each step brings. This is a journey through time and beauty, a must-visit for those seeking to experience the unique heritage of Okinawa.

421-7 Maaji, Naha-shi, Okinawa
Okinawa Tourism Information Website "Shikinaen Garden"
10 min by car
10min by car
2

Shurijo Castle

The Reconstructed Royal Palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom

Shurijo Castle

Shurijo Castle, the residence of the Ryukyu Kings, is said to have first been established as a royal palace in 1406 by King Sho Hashi. For nearly 500 years, it stood as the flourishing center of the Ryukyu Kingdom. After being destroyed in war, restoration efforts were undertaken, leading to its reopening in 1992 as a park themed around the history and culture of Okinawa.

As you pass through the majestic castle gates, you will come upon the Seiden, the main hall, which captivates with its unique architectural style incorporating features from both Chinese and Japanese designs. Additionally, the Hokuden (North Hall) on the left side of the Seiden was historically used to entertain envoys from China with performances like Kumi Odori. Tragically, the Seiden and Hokuden were destroyed in a fire in 2019, but restoration efforts are currently underway.

1-2 Shurikinjocho, Naha-shi, Okinawa
Okinawa Tourism Information Website "Shuri Castle Park"
5min on foot
5min on foot
3

Tamaudun mausoleum

The Ryukyu Kingdom's Royal Mausoleum

07

Tamaudun Mausoleum is a royal mausoleum from the Second Sho Dynasty of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Constructed in 1501 at the peak of the kingdom's prosperity by King Sho Shin, it was built to reinter the remains of his father. Now restored, it stands as both a national treasure and a World Heritage Site.

Surrounded by stone walls, the mausoleum is divided into three chambers carved into the natural cliff face: the Eastern Chamber, where the king and queen are laid to rest; the Middle Chamber, used for temporarily housing remains before the bone-washing ritual; and the Western Chamber for other royal family members.

Tamaudun is known for having Okinawa's oldest gable-style roof, identifiable by its distinctive triangular end sections. Additionally, three shisa (lion-dog statues), reminiscent of Egypt's Sphinx, are positioned as guardians of the mausoleum, symbolizing a strong protective spirit.

1-3 Shurikinjocho, Naha-shi, Okinawa
Okinawa Tourism Information Website "Tamaudun Mausoleum"

How to Enjoy Okinawa Island

Locally Loved Traditional Foods

Okinawa Soba
食べ物

Okinawan local cuisine "Okinawa Soba" is a noodle dish made from wheat flour noodles, served in a pork bone and bonito flake-based soup. It is topped with sweetly simmered pork and kamaboko, a fish cake. With over 300 specialty shops in the prefecture, you can enjoy a variety of toppings like pork belly and spare ribs. The charm also lies in its regional variations, such as Miyako Soba (medium-thin noodles) and Yaeyama Soba (round noodles). Additionally, steak is deeply loved by the people of Okinawa, to the extent that there's a custom of having steak as the final dish after drinks, highlighting its popularity in the region.

Getting Enchanted by the Charm of Awamori

Getting Enchanted by the Charm of Awamori
お酒

When visiting Okinawa, trying the local spirit Awamori is a must. The island boasts an impressive 47 Awamori distilleries, each crafting its unique version of this traditional liquor. Exploring these distilleries, learning about their history and production methods, is a highlight of the journey. Experiences like hands-on Awamori making and tasting sessions add to the allure of touring Okinawa's distilleries. Stay tuned for more about "The Charm of Awamori Distillery Tours" in our upcoming Noh travel column.

Photo Cooperation / Okinawa Convention & Visitors Bureau

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