Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Shikina-en Garden, located in Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture, is a garden from the Ryukyu Kingdom era. It is a prime example of a Chinese-style strolling garden, built as a guest house and villa for the Ryukyu royal government. The garden features islands, bridges, teahouses, and rest areas arranged around a pond, and is characterized by a landscape woven with red tile roofs and stonework unique to the Ryukyu Kingdom, as well as subtropical vegetation. After being damaged in World War II, restoration and preservation efforts were underway, and in 2000 it was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the components of the "Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Ryukyu Kingdom." One of its greatest attractions is the fusion of traditional East Asian landscaping techniques with the unique climate of the Ryukyu Kingdom, allowing visitors to enjoy different expressions depending on the season and time of day.
Highlights
- Strolling pond (large pond and surrounding walking path): The islands and streams in the pond, as well as the layout of the buildings seen across the pond, are beautiful. There are many spots that make for great photos.
- Architecture that combines Chinese, Japanese, and Ryukyu elements: Buildings with red tiled roofs and Chinese-style designs give a sense of the diplomatic and cultural background of the Ryukyu Kingdom era.
- Seasonal vegetation: In addition to subtropical evergreen trees, you can enjoy plum blossoms and other flowers from winter to spring. The scenery comes alive in the early morning and evening light.
- Historical explanations and exhibits: There are explanations in the garden and near the entrance, where you can learn about the origins of the garden and how it was used by the royal palace.
- Quiet walking path: You can spend some relaxing time in a quiet space that you wouldn't expect to find in the city.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Public transportation: It is convenient to take a bus or taxi from Shuri Station on the Okinawa Urban Monorail (Yui Rail). There are also Naha City bus routes that have bus stops such as Shikinaen-mae (please check the route and timetable in advance).
- Car/Taxi: It takes about 20-30 minutes by car from Naha Airport (depending on traffic). You can also easily access the area from central Naha by taxi.
- Parking: Parking spaces for tourists are often available, but the number of spaces is limited, so we recommend using public transportation or checking nearby parking information.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
A leisurely stroll through the park takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes. If you plan to take photos and read the explanations, allow about 60 minutes. If you plan to visit the park along with other nearby historical sites (Shuri Castle Park, Tamaudun Mausoleum, etc.), you should plan to spend half a day to a full day.
Nearby spots
- Shuri Castle Park (Shuri Castle): The site of the central castle of the Ryukyu Kingdom. This area is visited by many tourists along with Shikina Garden.
- Tamaudun: The tomb of the Ryukyu royal family, a historic site located in the Shuri area.
- Shuri Kinjocho Stone-paved Road: A historic stone-paved promenade perfect for strolling.
- Naha City Center (Kokusai Street): Naha's main street, lined with gourmet food and souvenir shops. Accessible by car from Shikinaen Garden.
Things to be aware of (crowding, etiquette, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The number of visitors may increase during peak tourist seasons, holidays, and in the afternoon. If you want to enjoy a quieter atmosphere, we recommend visiting early in the day, right after opening.
- Clothing and shoes: The park has cobblestones, unpaved walkways, and uneven areas, so please wear comfortable shoes. In the summer, the sun is strong, and the area is hot and humid, so don't forget to bring a hat and keep hydrated.
- Weather: Okinawa is prone to rain and strong winds during the rainy season and typhoon season (mainly June to October), so be sure to check the weather forecast before planning your trip. The park may be closed or temporarily closed when a typhoon is approaching.
- Manners: Please be considerate of the cultural heritage of the area by not touching plants or structures, not entering restricted areas, taking your trash with you, and observing quietly. Please check in advance whether pets and the use of fire are permitted.
- Barrier-free: There are some steps and narrow passageways in some areas, making it difficult to move around with a wheelchair or stroller. Please contact the facility for details.
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If necessary, we can also create examples of the specified photo materials and a tourist route (a half-day model course from Naha Airport to Shikinaen Garden to Shuri Castle). Please let us know how you plan to use them (blog articles, tourist information pages, etc.).
