Okinawa
The Ryukyu Kingdom: A Crossroads of Culture in the East China Sea
April 27, 2024
The Ryukyu Kingdom, a thriving maritime state from the 15th to the 19th century, occupied the Ryukyu Islands, a chain stretching southwest from Kyushu, Japan, to Taiwan. Known for its unique culture, which blends Japanese, Chinese, and Southeast Asian influences, the Ryukyu Kingdom was a hub of trade and diplomacy in East Asia. Its strategic […]
Shuri Castle: A Portal to the Ryukyu Kingdom's Glorious Past
April 27, 2024
Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Naha, Okinawa, stands as a vivid testament to the rich history and unique cultural heritage of the Ryukyu Islands. Originally the palace of the Ryukyu kings, who ruled from the 15th to the 19th century, Shuri Castle is a stunning representation of the architectural and cultural […]