Guida
The Nakamura Family Residence, located in Nakagusuku Village, Okinawa, is a precious historical site designated as a National Important Cultural Property. This residence preserves the architectural characteristics of high-ranking farmer dwellings from the pre-war era with remarkable precision. In a region where many structures were lost during the intense battles of WWII, this site is an extremely rare example of a residence that remains almost entirely intact, serving as a vital visual record of Ryukyuan history and culture.
The history of the Nakamura family is deeply rooted in the legacy of Gosamaru, a high-ranking official of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Legends tell of an ancestor who accompanied Gosamaru's mentor when moving from Uruma to Nakagusuku Castle. Over time, the family held significant roles in the community, such as the position of 'Jito' (equivalent to a village head) around 1720. The architecture symbolizes the historical transitions of Okinawa; it was designated as a National Important Cultural Property by the Ryukyu Government in 1956 and by the Japanese government upon Okinawa's reversion in 1972, proving that traditional Okinawan lifestyles hold immense cultural value beyond mere housing.
The residence features many traditional Okinawan architectural elements. A key feature is the 'Hinpun' (privacy wall/gate), which serves to block the view from the outside and is a local evolution of the Chinese 'Screen Gate' concept. You will also notice Shisa lions guarding the rooftops, reflecting traditional spiritual beliefs. Other significant structures include the 'Ashagi' (annex), the 'Takakura' (grain storehouse), and the 'Furu' (pigsty), all of which illustrate the daily rhythms and spatial organization of the past. Exploring these sites offers a deep understanding of how people lived and interacted with their environment.
The Nakamura Family Residence reveals different facets of beauty depending on the season. The months of November and December are particularly beautiful, as the paths and surrounding greenery offer a serene atmosphere. For instance, during the season when Camellia flowers bloom near the pond, visitors can enjoy the harmony between the historic architecture and Okinawa's natural splendor. The atmosphere after a light rain is also highly recommended, as the moisture enhances the textures of the historical buildings and the vibrant greenery of the surrounding plants.
Beyond simple sightseeing, visitors can learn about the 'Funshee' (Feng Shui) principles that dictate the layout of the residence. For example, the placement of the Ashagi and the main guest room (Ichiban-za) in the southeast, contrasted with the pigsty in the northwest, provides insight into how ancestors perceived nature and cardinal directions. Walking through the garden paths allows you to encounter native Okinawan flora such as Camellia, Hibiscus, and Kudzu, providing a sensory experience of the integration between architecture and nature.
The area surrounding the Nakamura Family Residence is dotted with other historical sites, most notably the Nakagusuku Castle Ruins. Visiting these sites in conjunction with the residence will deepen your understanding of Okinawan castle towns and the unique lifestyle of the Ryukyu Kingdom. This area is a highly rewarding destination for travelers seeking historical depth.
As this is a site of high historical value, visitors are asked to act with respect. Please be mindful of the surrounding nature and the integrity of the structures. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes suitable for exploring the grounds and adjusting your attire according to the weather to enjoy the outdoor paths.