Ryukyu Royals: The Story of a Forgotten Kingdom
James Lau
The Ryukyu Kingdom, established in 1429, united the islands of Okinawa into a robust maritime empire. Renowned for its “golden age” of trade with China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia, the kingdom’s blend of cultural influences has left a lasting influence on Okinawa. Let’s explore how this once-powerful kingdom shaped the traditions, cuisine, and arts that define Okinawan culture today!
What was the Ryukyu Kingdom?
The Ryukyu Kingdom was a monarchy created in 1429 on Okinawa Island, combining the divided kingdoms of Hokuzan, Chuzan, and Nanzan. The kingdom had a great trade with China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. This period is known as the kingdom’s “golden age” and added to its cultural development. The Ryukyu Kingdom’s culture was a blend of its trading influences, evident in its cuisine, performing arts, and traditional crafts.
The Ryukyu Kingdom was ruled by the First and Second Sho Dynasties. The First Sho Dynasty saw the kingdom expand territory and enhance trade networks. The Second Sho Dynasty centralized power and solidified the kingdom’s political and religious structures. The kingdom’s strategic location and trade relationships made it important
Why was it so powerful?
The Ryukyu Kingdom prospered thanks to the Ming Dynasty’s trade policies. The Ming Dynasty only allowed trade with countries that recognized the Chinese emperor’s authority. However, China favored the Ryukyu Kingdom and granted it more frequent access. This favored status allowed Ryukyuan ships to sail to Fuzhou and bring back large volumes of Chinese goods. The Ryukyuans traded these Chinese goods with Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia.
The king managed the kingdom’s maritime role from Shurijo Castle. Officials and skilled Chinese residents who had moved to Ryukyu managed these trade missions using their shipbuilding and sailing skills. The Ryukyu Kingdom’s ability to act as a trade bridge between China and other Asian countries boosted its power and influence. This active trade also introduced cultural elements to Ryukyu, such as awamori (a distilled liquor)and the sanshin (a string instrument).
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What happened to the Ryukyu Kingdom?
The Ryukyu Kingdom’s independence ended in 1609 when the Satsuma clan from Japan invaded. Although the kingdom continued to trade with China, this marked the beginning of Japan’s indirect rule. Despite this, the Ryukyu Kingdom managed to preserve its cultural identity and maintain some degree of independence in ruling until the Meiji Restoration.
In 1879, the Meiji government abolished the Ryukyu Kingdom formally as part of its efforts to modernize and centralize Japan. The kingdom became Okinawa Prefecture. The people initially resisted the transition, but ultimately, the kingdom became a part of Japan.
Following World War II, the U.S. ruled Okinawa until 1972, and Okinawa experienced hardship during this period. Today, people recognize Okinawa for its unique cultural heritage and historical significance.
Where are the descendants today?
The Sho Royal Family now lives ordinary lives in Japan. Prince Tsuguru Sho runs a bar in Tokyo near the Imperial Palace. Although the Ryukyu Kingdom no longer exists, they take great pride in their heritage, keeping their traditions alive through family gatherings. The Sho family continues to honor their history while working in various professions, and some have even held significant positions, like Hiroko Sho, who served as vice governor of Okinawa.
The Ryukyu people, also known as Okinawans, live primarily in Okinawa Prefecture but have spread out across Japan and beyond. They maintain a unique cultural identity, with music, dance, and cuisine traditions that reflect their rich history. Despite challenges. the Ryukyu people have preserved their unique culture. Okinawa is a vibrant part of Japan today, known for its landscapes, historical sites, and strong culture.
Why was the Ryukyu Kingdom Important?
The Ryukyu Kingdom’s importance was in its powerful position as a central hub of Asian trade during the 15th and 16th centuries. Its status with the Ming Dynasty allowed it to act as an essential manager, connecting China with Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. This brought enormous wealth to the kingdom and furthered its culture with diverse influences, such as the Awamori and the Sanshin introduction.
Even after losing its power, the Ryukyu Kingdom’s cultural legacy endures. The Sho Royal Family and the people of Okinawa have preserved their unique traditions, maintaining a unique cultural identity.
Today, Okinawa is celebrated for its historical significance and cultural heritage, drawing visitors from around the globe to experience its beautiful landscapes, historical sites, and rich traditions! Did you know about the Ryukyu Kingdom? Have you ever been to Okinawa? Let us know in the comments below!
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