When people think of Naha, Okinawa, the majestic Shuri Castle often comes to mind first. However, just a short distance away lies a tranquil hidden gem that was once the ultimate retreat for the Ryukyuan royalty: Shikinaen Garden.
Constructed in the late 18th century, Shikinaen is the largest second residence of the Ryukyu royal family. It served not only as a place for the royals to relax but also as a prestigious “state guest house” to welcome high-ranking diplomats (Sapposhi) from the Chinese Qing Dynasty. In 2000, it was rightfully designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
In this post, I’ll share my experience visiting Shikinaen by local bus and provide some tips for your trip.
How to Get There
Shikinaen is easily accessible from central Naha.
- By Bus: From the Kokusai Dori (International Street) area, take Naha Bus No. 2 or No. 5. It’s about a 15–20 minute ride. Get off at the “Shikinaen-mae” bus stop.
- By Taxi: If you are coming from Shuri Station (Yui Rail), a taxi will get you there in about 10 minutes.
Pro Tip: I highly recommend arriving right when it opens at 9:00 AM. I took the No. 5 bus from Kokusai Dori at 8:35 AM and arrived just before the gates opened. The morning air is crisp, and you can enjoy the serene atmosphere before the crowds arrive around 10:00 AM.
Walking Through History: Highlights of the Garden
The garden is designed in the “Kaiyu-shiki” (strolling) style, a traditional Japanese landscaping method where you walk around a central pond. However, Shikinaen is unique for its blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Ryukyuan influences.
1. The Ryukyu Limestone Paths
As you enter, you’ll notice the paths and walls are made of Ryukyu limestone (fossilized coral). This gives the garden a distinct Okinawan feel. Note: The paths can be uneven, so wear comfortable walking shoes!
2. The Udun (Royal Palace)
The “Udun” is a beautiful wooden villa with 15 rooms. This is where the royal family stayed and hosted Chinese envoys. You can take off your shoes and explore the interior, imagining what it was like to be a royal guest 200 years ago.
3. The Rokkaku-do (Hexagonal Pavilion)
Situated on a small island in the “Shinji-ike” (Heart-shaped pond), this pavilion features distinct Chinese architecture with black tiles. It’s a perfect spot for photography.
4. The Arch Bridges
The stone arch bridges connecting the islands are another highlight. They are crafted from local limestone but follow a Chinese-style design, showcasing the cultural fusion of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
The Secret of the “Sea-less” View
At the southern end of the garden, there is an observation point called Kanko-dai. Interestingly, despite being on an island, you cannot see the ocean from here—only rolling hills and the city of Naha.
Legend has it that Ryukyuan officials intentionally brought Chinese envoys here to say, “Look at our kingdom! It is so vast that you cannot even see the ocean.” It was a clever bit of “diplomatic staging” to make the small island nation appear larger than it was.
Visitor Information
- Admission: 400 JPY for adults (200 JPY for children).
- Hours: * April – Sept: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Oct – March: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed: Wednesdays (If Wednesday is a holiday, it closes the following day).
Final Thoughts
A slow walk through Shikinaen takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Naha and immerse yourself in the elegant history of the Ryukyu Kingdom, this is a must-visit spot.
When you plan your next trip to Okinawa, make sure to add this peaceful World Heritage site to your itinerary!
Visit Multipoints.jp for more Okinawan travel insights.
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