Tamaudun as seen from inside the outer ring of its two courts (Photo: Michael Flemming)

The Tamaudun Royal Mausoleum

16th Century Tomb of the 2nd Sho Dynasty

Michael Flemming Apr 18, 2013 - 1分钟阅读时间

Built in 1501 by King Sho Shin as a new resting place for his late father King Sho En, Tamaudun is the Royal Mausoleum of the Second Sho Dynasty of the Ryukyu Kingdom.

The tomb consists of a center room to wash the bones of the deceased, an east room for the remains of kings and queens, and a west room for all other family members.

Tamaudun was damaged during World War II but has been fully restored. It was designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in December, 2000.

Admission is free for toddlers. 100 yen for older children, and 200 yen for high school-aged children and adults. Tamaudun is open year round from 9:00 ~ 18:00.

Walk to the site from the Monorail Shuri Station or take Bus 1, 8, 17 or 46 from Naha Terminal to the Shurijo Park stop. If driving to Tamaudun access Route 29 from Route 58 in Naha, take a right onto Route 50 and park in the Shuri Castle parking area; parking in the area starts at 500 yen for two hours.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Michael Flemming @michael.flemming

I'm a wanderer in Okinawa turning over every stone I can find. I write, photograph and blog about my favorite finds here in Japan's southernmost prefecture.