What is Shikinaen?
Shikinaen is a beautiful garden located in Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture, built during the Ryukyu Kingdom era and registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.
This garden was used as a villa for the Ryukyu royal family and as a place to entertain envoys from abroad.
Featuring designs influenced by Japanese and Chinese garden cultures, it offers serene ponds, bridges, and landscapes surrounded by trees, providing visitors with a sense of tranquility and history.
Access and Basic Information
Shikinaen is about 15 minutes from the center of Naha City and can be accessed by public transportation or car.
The garden is a popular spot visited by many tourists throughout the year, where you can enjoy beautiful scenery in every season.
The spacious grounds feature well-maintained ponds and walkways, allowing you to leisurely stroll while enjoying Okinawa's rich nature.
Highlights
Pond and Hexagonal Pavilion
At the center of Shikinaen is a large pond, with the floating Hexagonal Pavilion serving as the garden's symbol.
The stone bridge over the pond and the architecture of the Hexagonal Pavilion feature unique designs influenced by China, highlighting the characteristics of Ryukyu culture.
The reflection of the scenery in the pond is beautiful, offering different landscapes throughout the seasons, ensuring new discoveries with each visit.
Beautiful Ryukyu Architecture
Within Shikinaen, traditional buildings used by the Ryukyu royal family are preserved.
Especially notable is the "Udun," a building characterized by the unique architectural style of the Ryukyu Kingdom, featuring wooden structures and red tiles.
Visitors can tour the interior to experience the lifestyle and history of the royal family, offering a valuable experience.
Diverse Vegetation and Nature Walks
Shikinaen is home to many Okinawan plants, with subtropical flora spread throughout the garden.
In summer, especially, hibiscus and plumeria bloom, creating a colorful landscape.
The garden's walkways are enveloped in a quiet and calm atmosphere, making it an ideal place to spend time leisurely in nature.
Impressive Stone Walls and Gates
Shikinaen features stone walls and gates influenced by Japan and China, showcasing beautiful stone construction techniques.
In particular, the "Main Gate" at the entrance of the garden is famous as a traditional Okinawan stone gate, reflecting the high level of craftsmanship of the time.
It is a place where you can feel the unique beauty of Ryukyu culture, distinct from the atmosphere of Japanese gardens.
Spring and Autumn Scenery
Shikinaen is beautiful year-round, but visiting in spring and autumn is especially recommended.
In spring, the fresh greenery is stunning, while in autumn, the trees turn red, reflecting in the pond and captivating visitors.
The garden offers different expressions each season, ensuring fresh discoveries no matter how many times you visit.
How to Enjoy Shikinaen
Shikinaen is a garden where history and nature harmonize, making a leisurely stroll its main attraction.
Bringing a camera to capture the beautiful scenery and buildings is also recommended.
Surrounded by greenery, the garden provides a relaxing experience where you can feel Okinawa's nature and history, making it an ideal spot to visit amidst a busy sightseeing schedule.
Useful Information for Travelers
- Opening Hours: 9:00–18:00 (last entry at 17:30)
- Access: About 15 minutes by car from Naha City. Accessible by bus as well
- Admission Fee: An entrance fee is required for Shikinaen. Please check the official website for details
- Recommended Season: Spring and autumn are particularly beautiful, but it can be enjoyed year-round
Conclusion
Shikinaen is a beautiful garden where the history of the Ryukyu Kingdom and Okinawa's nature are intertwined, offering a worthwhile visit.
With features like ponds, the Hexagonal Pavilion, and stone gates, the garden is rich with Ryukyu culture, providing visitors with a special time.
It is a perfect place for those wanting to experience both history and nature on an Okinawan trip, so please visit at least once.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to tour Shikinaen?
A tour of Shikinaen takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
If you plan to leisurely take photos and stroll, it could take around 2 hours.
Can I take photos inside Shikinaen?
Yes, you can take photos inside the garden.
However, photography may be restricted in some areas inside the buildings, so please follow the local guidance.
How can I access Shikinaen?
It is accessible by car or bus from Naha City.
There is also a parking area on-site for those visiting by car, which is convenient.
We hope this article serves as a helpful reference when visiting Shikinaen.
Enjoy a special moment in this beautiful Okinawan garden, experiencing the history and culture of Ryukyu.
