Shikinaen Garden

Welcome to Shikinaen, a site of profound historical and aesthetic significance located approximately three kilometers from the majestic Shuri Castle. As we stand at the threshold of this expansive 42,000 square meter estate, we…

We now stand before the heart of the garden: the Udun, or royal palace. This single-story structure, encompassing some 643 square meters, is a masterpiece of Ryukyuan timber architecture. …

The focal point of Shikinaen is this expansive, irregular pond, which serves as the anchor for the entire 'circular stroll' experience. In the philosophy of East Asian garden design, water represents the life force and provides a…

Situated on a small island in the center of the pond is perhaps the most iconic structure in Shikinaen: the Hexagonal Pavilion, or Rokkaku-do. This building is the most explicit expression of Chinese architectural influence…

As we ascend the gentle slope toward the southern edge of the garden, we reach the Banju-dai, a high-ground lookout that offers a different perspective on Shikinaen and the surrounding landscape. From this elevated position, the…

In a garden as meticulously planned as Shikinaen, even the water sources are treated as works of art. We are now at one of the freshwater springs that feed the central pond. …

Stepping back from the central pond, we now approach the architectural crown jewel of Shikinaen, the royal villa known as the Udun. This is the largest building on the grounds and served as the actual vacation palace for the…

As we explore the intricate layout of the Udun, we move from the grand reception spaces into the specialized rooms that facilitated the palace's legendary hospitality. Right next to the main front room sits a dedicated tea room. …

Leaving the immediate vicinity of the Udun palace, we find our way back toward the edge of the central pond, where a gentle slope leads directly down into the water. This paved ramp section acted as the royal boat storage and…

Our journey through Shikinaen concludes as we ascend to the observatory, located at the highest elevation within the garden walls. Sitting atop this hill in the Shikina section of Naha, the viewpoint offers sweeping, panoramic…

As our exploration of Shikinaen Garden draws to a close, we find ourselves back near the entrance, having completed the 'circular stroll' that so many royals and dignitaries performed before us. We have moved through a landscape…