Okinawa Island

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.