2013/04/17

Sonohyan Utaki World Heritage Site

The sacred stone gate of Shuri Kings

Michael Flemmingによって

コミュニティライター

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The Sonohyan Utaki served as a stone gate exclusively used by the king of the Ryukyu Kingdom when leaving Shuri Castle

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sonohyan Utaki is considered to be sacred to include the stone gate itself and the garden of trees and shrubs around it

The stone gate as seen from Shuri Castle

The side of the stone gate that served as entrance back into Shuri Castle

The top of the stone gate appears to be a torrii as seen from a distance

Upon closer inspection the top of the stone gate is not a torrii but is decorated with fish carved into stone

The actual door at the gate is made of wood

注意

Shuri Castle was devastated by fire in Oct 2019, but plans to reconstruct the Seiden (main hall) by autumn 2026 are well underway. Although not fully accessible as of late 2025, all exterior work on the main hall has now been completed with its vibrant red roof visible again from many areas of the castle grounds, and tourists are encourage to visit the castle during the remaining reconstruction phase.

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Resting between Shuri Castle and Tamaudun Royal Mausoleum along Samukawa Dori is another sacred site of the Ryukyu Kingdom.

Sonohyan Utaki was the royal stone gate used by the King as both a place of prayer and as an exit when departing to visit his people. It originally consisted of an expansive grove of shrubs and trees that has since given way to development.

The stone gate was badly damaged during World War II but has since been restored. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. Admission is free.