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The Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu is a cultural UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Ryukyu Islands, Japan. The site consists of nine castles or gusuku, fortresses, and sacred sites that represent the unique culture and history of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
The Ryukyu Kingdom was an independent kingdom that existed from the 15th to the 19th century and was located in the islands between Japan and Taiwan. The gusuku were used as administrative centers, royal residences, and fortifications during the kingdom’s rule.
Some of the notable sites within the Gusuku Sites and Related Properties include the Shuri Castle, which was the political and cultural center of the Ryukyu Kingdom; the Nakijin Castle, which was the northernmost gusuku and is known for its distinctive architecture and defensive features; and the Zakimi Castle, which was built in the 15th century and is the smallest of the three castles.
The site also includes several sacred sites, such as the Tamaudun Mausoleum, which is a royal mausoleum that houses the remains of Ryukyu kings and their families, and the Sefa Utaki, which is a sacred site that was used for worship and spiritual practices.
The Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2000. They are open to the public as tourist attractions and offer visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom.