Two detached residences were built for the use of the Ryukyuan kings and the royal family. The Uchaya-udun (also known as the Touen) to the east of Shurijo Castle, and the Shikinaen (also, the Nanen) to the south. Both residences were destroyed in the Battle for Okinawa, but the Shikinaen has been restored to the way it looked in ancient times. Built in 1799, the Shikinaen is an expression of an original Ryukyuan garden that has adopted elements from the Chinese and Japanese styles of gardens. The building was also used to welcome guests of honor, including banquets organized to receive accredited Chinese envoys.
In 2000, “Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu” was registered under UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You are all set!
Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.