Okinawa | The Largest Gabled Tomb of Ryukyu - A Unique World Heritage Burial Culture

If you visit Shuri Castle, don't miss the nearby World Heritage site, the royal tomb of the Second Sho Dynasty—Tamaudun, also known as the Jade Palace. After purchasing your ticket, it's recommended to first explore the small museum next to the site. This museum provides an introduction to Okinawa's burial culture and features a model of Tamaudun. Although the facilities are somewhat dated, they still offer valuable insights into the cultural heritage. The founder of the Second Sho Dynasty, Kanamaru, was originally a minister of the First Sho Dynasty. After seizing power in 1470, he changed his name to Sho En during the Chenghua era of the Ming Dynasty. The First Sho Dynasty had already introduced Chinese cultural elements to Ryukyu through the migration of the 36 surnames from Fujian. This included the concept of family tombs, which differed from traditional earth burials and bone washing practices, resembling early Taiwanese funeral customs. Tamaudun also adheres to strict ceremonial protocols. In front of Tamaudun stands a weathered stone stele erected by King Sho Shin in the 14th year of the Hongzhi era. It lists the individuals eligible for burial in Tamaudun. For instance, the descendants of King Sho Shin's disinherited eldest son, Prince Urasoe, and his second son, Prince Ozato, are not allowed to be buried there. The eastern chamber of the tomb is reserved for the king and queen, while the western chamber is for other royal family members. Guarding Tamaudun are basalt lion statues, which are unique in that they have stone bases, differing slightly in appearance from the traditional Ryukyu shisa lions. This largest gabled tomb of Ryukyu was damaged during World War II but was later reconstructed and designated as a Japanese National Treasure, as well as a World Heritage site. 📍Address: Japan〒903-0815 Okinawa, Naha, Shurikinjocho, 1 Chome−3 🚗 Accessible by a 20-minute walk from Shuri Station on the monorail.