Shikinaen, located in Naha, Okinawa, is a Beautiful Royal Garden that was once used as a villa by the Royal Family of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
The garden is home to many highlights, including a Pond, the Hexagonal Pavilion, and the Udun (Royal Residence). As you stroll through the grounds, you can enjoy beautiful scenery in every season.
In 2000, Shikinaen was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also a popular place to visit together with Shurijo Castle and Tamaudun.
It’s a great place for anyone who loves history, taking photos, or walking through a beautiful garden.
In this article, we’ll introduce the highlights of Shikinaen and the best ways to enjoy your visit.
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Shikinaen: Features and Highlights
- What Is Shikinaen? A Garden That Welcomed Royal Family Members and Chinese Envoys
- Highlight 1: The Pond and Hexagonal Pavilion – The Most Beautiful View in Shikinaen
- Highlight 2: Udun (Royal Residence) – The Elegant Villa Where the Royal Family Stayed
- Highlight 3: Stone Bridge – A Popular Photo Spot
- Highlight 4: Hilltop Viewpoint – Enjoy a Panoramic View of the Garden!
- Highlight 5: Kankodai – Why Can’t You See the Sea from This Viewpoint?
What Is Shikinaen? A Garden That Welcomed Royal Family Members and Chinese Envoys
Shikinaen was built in the late 18th century as the largest royal villa of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
It was used as a peaceful retreat for the royal family and also as a place to welcome and entertain Sapposhi, the Chinese envoys sent by the emperor.
One of the garden’s unique features is its walking path around the pond. As you stroll through the garden, the scenery changes with every step, so you’ll discover something new along the way.
Another highlight is the garden’s design, which beautifully blends Japanese, Chinese, and Ryukyuan styles.
In 2000, Shikinaen was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the “Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu.”
Today, it is a popular place where visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk while experiencing the history and culture of Okinawa.
Highlight 1: The Pond and Hexagonal Pavilion – The Most Beautiful View in Shikinaen
When you visit Shikinaen, the first place you should see is the Pond and the Hexagonal Pavilion(Rokkakudo) in the center of the garden.
The Hexagonal Pavilion stands on a small island in the pond. It is a Chinese-style building with a beautiful two-layer roof made of black and white tiles.
The pond is called “Shinji Pond” because its shape resembles the Japanese character for “heart” (心).
As you walk around the pond, the scenery changes little by little. Enjoy the beautiful views of the stone bridge, lush trees, and the Hexagonal Pavilion reflected on the water.
Highlight 2: Udun (Royal Residence) – The Elegant Villa Where the Royal Family Stayed
The Udun (Royal Residence) was used by the king, members of the royal family, and Sapposhi, the Chinese envoys.
Its Red-tiled Roof and Traditional Wooden Architecture are excellent examples of Ryukyuan design.
Inside, you’ll find rooms that were used by people of different ranks. These rooms offer a glimpse into the lifestyle and elegance of the Ryukyu royal family.
The building was designed so its guests could relax while enjoying views of the garden. As you look out over the peaceful scenery, it’s easy to imagine how the royal family once spent their time here.
The view from the veranda is especially beautiful and is one of the highlights of Shikinaen.
In this quiet setting, you can experience the calm atmosphere of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
Highlight 3: Stone Bridge – A Popular Photo Spot
The Stone Bridge over the pond is one of the most popular photo spots in Shikinaen. Surrounded by nature, it blends beautifully with the garden and adds to its charm.
From the bridge, you can enjoy wonderful views of the pond, the Hexagonal Pavilion, and the lush green trees. As you walk around the garden, the scenery changes little by little, making every photo unique.
We recommend taking your time as you cross the bridge and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
From different angles, you’ll discover the timeless beauty of this historic garden.
Highlight 4: Hilltop Viewpoint – Enjoy a Panoramic View of the Garden!
As you walk through the garden, you’ll find a path leading to a small hill.
From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Shikinaen, including the pond, the Hexagonal Pavilion, and the beautiful surrounding trees.
From here, you can easily see the shape and layout of the garden. You can also notice how carefully every part of the garden was designed.
It’s one of the best viewpoints in Shikinaen, so be sure to stop by during your visit.
Highlight 5: Kankodai – Why Can’t You See the Sea from This Viewpoint?
At the back of the garden, you’ll find a Viewpoint called Kankodai.
This viewpoint hides an interesting secret from the days of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
In fact, you can’t see the “Sea” from this viewpoint at all. Instead, you can see the wide open landscape of southern Okinawa.
This was done to make Chinese envoys think that the Ryukyu Kingdom was a large country with a lot of land, not a small island surrounded by the sea.
It’s a fascinating place where you can see the wisdom of the Ryukyu people and their strong efforts to build good relationships with China.
Shikinaen: Basic Info, Fees, Parking, and Access
- Basic Information
- Fees
- Parking
- Estimated Time Required
- Access
Basic Information
| Name | Shikinaen |
| Photo |  |
| Address | 421-7 Maji, Naha City, Okinawa |
| Official Website | Shikinaen Garden - Official Site |
| Tel | Tel: 098-855-5936 Shikinaen Administration Office |
| Hours | *April 1 – September 30 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM *October 1 – March 31 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Closed | Wednesdays |
| Fee | Adults: 400 yen Children: 200 yen *Free for preschool children |
| Parking | Free parking available |
| Access | *About 25 minutes by car from Naha Airport *About 10 minutes by car from Shurijo Castle *About 10 minutes by car from Yui Rail Shuri Station |
| Description | *A Garden Welcomed Royal Family and Chinese Envoys *UNESCO World Heritage Site |
Fees
The admission fees are as follows.
- Adults: 400 yen
- Children: 200 yen
*Free for preschool children
Parking
Free parking is available.
You can park for free, making it convenient for visitors traveling by rental car.
Estimated Time Required
If you’re just taking a quick walk around, it takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
If you’d like to enjoy the scenery and take photos, plan to spend about 1 hour.
We also recommend visiting Shurijo Castle and Tamaudun during the same trip.
- Quick Visit: about 30-45 minites
- Leisurely Visit: 1 hour
Access
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