“Tamaudun,” located in Shuri, Okinawa, is The Royal Mausoleum where the Kings and Royal Family of the Second Sho Dynasty of the Ryukyu Kingdom are buried.
Built in 1501, this historic mausoleum was registered as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu” in 2000.
It is only about a 5-minute walk from Shurijo Castle, so it is a great place to visit together.
There are many highlights, including its impressive stone architecture and the burial chambers that show the unique burial customs of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
In this article, we will introduce the highlights of Tamaudun, along with basic information such as admission fees and access.
Explore Okinawa with just a tap! Click here to see our sightseeing guide.
Tamaudun: Features and Highlights
- What Is Tamaudun? The Royal Mausoleum of the Ryukyu Kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Highlight 1: The Impressive Stone Mausoleum
- Highlight 2: The Three Burial Chambers
- Highlight 3: Tamaudun Museum (Houenkan)
What Is Tamaudun? The Royal Mausoleum of the Ryukyu Kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
“Tamaudun” was built in 1501 by King Sho Shin for his father, King Sho En. It is The Royal Mausoleum of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
Later, it became the burial place for the kings, queens, and royal family members of the Second Sho Dynasty.
Built with Ryukyu limestone, the impressive structure shows the advanced stone masonry skills of that time.
In 2000, it was registered as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu.”
Today, it is one of Okinawa’s most popular historical attractions.
Since it is within walking distance of Shurijo Castle, it is a great place to visit if you want to learn more about the history of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
Highlight 1: The Impressive Stone Mausoleum
The main highlight of Tamaudun is its Impressive Stone Mausoleum.
As you pass through the stone gate, you will enter a quiet courtyard surrounded by high stone walls. Beyond it stand the majestic burial chambers.
The mausoleum is built with Ryukyu limestone and still looks remarkably beautiful, even after more than 500 years.
The graceful curves of the roof and the finely crafted stonework give it a charm that is different from Shurijo Castle.
The peaceful and sacred atmosphere, together with the beautiful architecture unique to the Ryukyu Kingdom, is one of Tamaudun’s greatest attractions.
For the best photo, stand near the stone gate and capture the entire mausoleum in one shot.
Highlight 2: The Three Burial Chambers
One of Tamaudun’s most unique features is its three burial chambers: the East Chamber, the Central Chamber, and the West Chamber.
The Central Chamber was used to temporarily place the deceased. After the traditional bone-washing ceremony, the remains were moved to the East or West Chamber.
This unique layout shows the burial customs of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
However, the inside of the burial chambers is not open to the public, so it is difficult to understand their structure by looking from the outside.
For this reason, we recommend visiting the museum and viewing the diorama before exploring the mausoleum.
After learning about the layout and purpose of the three chambers, you will enjoy your visit to Tamaudun even more.
Highlight 3: Tamaudun Museum (Houenkan)
The Museum located on Basement Level 1 of the reception building, is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Tamaudun.
The highlight of the museum is “The Diorama Showing the Three Burial Chambers.”
It clearly explains the layout and purpose of each chamber, making it much easier to understand the structure of the Mausoleum, which is not open to the public.
The museum also displays information about the History of Tamaudun, its value as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and replicas of the Zushigame (burial urns) used by the royal family.
We recommend visiting the museum first before exploring the Mausoleum, as it will help you better understand what you see.
Tamaudun: Basic Info, Fees, Parking, and Access
- Basic Information
- Fees
- Parking
- Estimated Time Required
- Access
Basic Information
| Name | Tamaudun - Royal Mausoleum |
| Photo |  |
| Address | 1-3 Shuri Kinjo-cho, Naha City, Okinawa |
| Official Website | Tamaudun - Naha City Official Site |
| Tel | 098-885-2861 Tamulaudian Mausoleum Management Office |
| Hours | 9:00am - 6:00pm |
| Closed | Open year-round |
| Fee | Adults: 300 yen Children: 150 yen |
| Parking | *There is no dedicated parking lot. *Please use a nearby paid parking lot. |
| Access | About a 15-minute walk from Yui Rail Shuri Station. |
| Description | *Royal Mausoleum of the Ryukyu Kings *UNESCO World Heritage Site |
Fees
The admission fees are as follows:
- Adults: 300 yen
- Children: 150 yen (junior high school students and younger)
- Preschool children: Free (before entering elementary school)
Parking
Tamaudun does not have its own parking lot.
If you are visiting by car, please use one of the nearby paid parking lots.
We recommend parking near Shurijo Castle Park and visiting both Shurijo Castle and Tamaudun on the same trip.
Estimated Time Required
The estimated visiting time is about 30 to 45 minutes.
Even if you take your time exploring the Museum, the Courtyard, and the Mausoleum, about one hour is enough to enjoy your visit.
If you also plan to visit nearby attractions such as Shurijo Castle Park and the Shuri Kinjo-cho Stone-Paved Path, allow about half a day for your sightseeing.
- Quick Visit: About 30-45 minites
- Leisurely Visit (including Museum): 1 hour
- Including nearby attractions: About half a day (3-4 hours)
Access
コメント