Tamagusuku Udun

Overview and Charm

Tamagusuku Udun is a noble lineage of the Second Sho Clan of the Ryukyu Kingdom, which served as the Aji and Jito (local governors) of Tamagusuku (the current Tamagusuku district in Nanjo City) for a long period. Its origins trace back to Kochinda Oji Asaori, the sixth son of King Sho Sei. This family played a vital political and social role in the Ryukyu Kingdom, inheriting the administration of Tamagusuku through successive generations. As a lineage with profound historical roots, Tamagusuku Udun is a significant existence that illustrates the governance structure of the Ryukyu Kingdom and the deep connection between the royalty and local communities.

Historical and Cultural Background

The history of Tamagusuku Udun begins with its founder, Kochinda Oji Asaori. When the 9th generation head, Tamagusuku Aji Asa-naga, became the Aji and Jito of Tamagusuku, the lineage continued to govern this land until the Ryukyu Disposition. This family is marked by many episodes demonstrating their high status within the royalty. For instance, historical records show that Oshima Tsurugane, the daughter of the 8th generation head Asa-i, married King Sho Mu and became a Queen (Sashiki Aji Kanashi). Furthermore, the wife of the 12th generation head, Asa-taka, named Nuima Oshu, was a noblewoman born from the third daughter of King Sho Go. Thus, Tamagusku Udun was not merely a local powerful family but a lineage closely tied to the central royal authority, playing a crucial role in Ryukyuan history. The family genealogy, recorded under the Kosei lineage, allows visitors to trace the historical transitions through many generations.

Main Highlights

The historical value of Tamagusuku Udun lies in its detailed genealogy and its role within the political system of the Ryukyu Kingdom. The lineage of the Aji and Jito, starting from Kochinda Oji Asaori to the 14th generation Tamagusuku Naohide, serves as essential material for understanding the Ryukyu Kingdom's governance structure. In particular, the history of producing queens and the presence of noblewomen highlight the political connections and marriage alliances between royal families. Through documents such as the Kosei family records, one can understand how the lineage was passed down and how it faced the turning point of the Ryukyu Disposition.

Recommended Seasons and Times

Tamagusuku Udun is primarily a historical record and lineage rather than a conventional tourist facility with specific opening hours or seasonal changes. To deepen your understanding of the historical background of the Ryukyu Kingdom, it is recommended to consult historical literature and documents to examine the political climate and the periods of expansion through royal marriages.

Experience and Activities

Information regarding Tamagusuku Udun is primarily accessed through historical documents, genealogies, and historical records. You can explore the history of the Ryukyu Kingdom, specifically the systems of local governance such as 'Aji' and 'Udun,' by studying historical literature and the role of the Second Sho Clan branch through academic or historical research.

Surrounding Area

The Tamagusuku Magari, which was historically under the jurisdiction of Tamagusuku Udun, is located in the current Nanjo City (Tamagusuku district). This area is rich in cultural heritage related to the history of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Exploring the historical background of this entire region is an effective way to understand the administrative systems of that era.

Things to Bring, Clothing, and Etiquette

When studying the historical background of Tamagusuku Udun, please keep the following in mind:

• Payment: When conducting research or visiting related facilities, it is recommended to prepare both cash and credit cards.
• English Support: The availability of English-language materials or signage varies depending on the specific facility or document being viewed.
• Reservations: If you are conducting research involving specific documents, please confirm any necessary prior arrangements.
• Photography: Please follow local rules regarding photography at historical sites or with historical documents.
• Clothing: Please wear appropriate and respectful clothing when visiting historical sites.
• Belongings: Please manage your personal belongings carefully during your research or travels.
• Manners: Please respect the local order and etiquette when visiting historical areas and communities.