Ein einzigartiger Kunstaufenthalt, bei dem Sie die Farbenpracht und Geschichte Okinawas erleben können. Genießen Sie Ihre ganz persönliche Auszeit inmitten einer dekorativen Schönheit, die an die Ryu-Sa-Dynastie erinnert.
In the Ryukyu Kingdom, the phoenix held significant meaning as an auspicious motif, symbolizing the protection of the king and the kingdom, as well as peace. It was especially featured in traditional crafts such as bingata textiles and lacquerware, and also served as a symbol of the Kikoe-ōgimi, the highest-ranking priestess.
The Ryukyu Envoys to Edo (known as “Edo-nobori”) were diplomatic missions sent from the Ryukyu Kingdom to the Edo Shogunate.
After coming under the control of the Satsuma Domain, the Ryukyu Kingdom dispatched envoys to Edo to offer congratulations on the accession of a new shogun, and to express gratitude for the recognition of a new Ryukyuan king.
The envoys traveled from Ryukyu through Satsuma and Nagasaki, then sailed through the Seto Inland Sea, passing through Osaka and Kyoto on their way to Edo. The journey, which took nearly a year round-trip, covered over 2,000 kilometers one way, mostly by ship and on foot. Some members of the delegation even lost their lives along the way due to the hardships of travel.
The floor features white, black, and red materials that extend seamlessly up the walls, creating a visual effect that makes the space feel longer than it actually is—evoking the long, arduous journey of the Ryukyuan envoys.
“Kasekake” (綛掛け) is the name of a traditional Ryukyuan classical dance. It expresses the heartfelt emotions of a woman who wishes to weave fine cloth for her beloved. In the performance, dancers use two props—the kase (a skein winder) and a waku (a frame)—to portray the tender feelings of a young woman in love.
In the Okinawan dialect, it is more accurately pronounced “Kashikaki” rather than “Kasekake.”
Note: Ryukyuan classical dance refers to the court performing arts developed during the Ryukyu Kingdom era. These dances were performed at royal banquets to welcome the king or Chinese envoys.
Ryukyu Bingata is a traditional dyeing technique unique to Okinawa, known for its vivid colors, bold contrasts, and powerful designs often inspired by nature.
The word “bingata” comes from “bin” (which represents color, not just red) and “gata” (meaning pattern). This art form developed during the Ryukyu Kingdom era, influenced by dyeing and weaving techniques from China and Southeast Asia through trade. Over time, it became a cherished textile used in the clothing of royalty and the warrior class.
Bingata patterns varied according to social class and purpose, with distinct styles for royalty, high-ranking officials, samurai-class individuals, and commoners.
Ryukyu Kasuri is a type of silk textile characterized by its diverse patterns—over 600 different designs. These patterns are inspired by familiar everyday objects, plants, and elements from daily life.
At Ryusaikan, the sliding doors (fusuma) feature a floral design that combines traditional kasuri motifs such as birds and the five-circle cloud (itsutsu maru kumo), showcasing the beauty of Ryukyuan craftsmanship.
“Konzen Ittai” is a Japanese expression that means “distinct elements blending seamlessly into one unified whole.”
Okinawa has developed its own unique culture by absorbing influences from various countries, including Indonesia, China, Japan, and the United States. I chose this phrase because it perfectly captures the essence of Okinawan culture.
It also beautifully reflects the spirit of Ryusaikan, a place brought to life through the collaboration of project members from both within and outside the prefecture.
The fusuma (sliding doors) feature a landscape painting of Okinawa. They depict nostalgic scenes such as large fukugi trees surrounding a traditional home, glimpses of the blue sea through rows of red-tiled roofs, and the vivid red blossoms of deigo trees standing out against the clear, refreshing sky. These cherished Okinawan landscapes were captured in an original painting, which was then printed and crafted into the fusuma.
This furoshiki (wrapping cloth) was designed by Okinawan fashion designer YoKang. It features iconic Okinawan motifs such as Shurijo Castle, dragons, phoenixes, deigo flowers, and red-tiled roofs, beautifully woven together in a vibrant and symbolic design.
The royal crown was adorned with seven types of decorative beads made from gold, silver, coral, and other materials to symbolize the king’s authority. After it was presented, a gold hairpin was engraved with a dragon motif, representing royal power—an original Ryukyuan design that showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of the time.
※The crown displayed on the wall at Ryusaikan is a charming reinterpretation, designed to feel more approachable by incorporating buttons of various sizes and styles, creating a playful and friendly impression.
On display is a formal yellow Bingata robe, a prestigious color that was reserved exclusively for the royal family. This vibrant garment, symbolic of the Ryukyu Kingdom, was worn by young royals as part of their official attire.
Inspired by the rich Chinese influence of Shurijo Castle, we created a dining space with a deep crimson pavilion as its focal point. Chinese-style furniture featuring marble tabletops and seats was placed within, enhancing the elegant atmosphere.
A matching crimson canopy was added above, creating a sense of intimacy and comfort—an enclosed space that feels both regal and welcoming.
“Kicho” is a traditional Japanese folding screen, historically used as a room divider, privacy screen, or windbreaker.
This curtain was designed in the style of a kicho. The upper part is connected, allowing it to open and close like a modern curtain. Each panel is accented with Bingata piping, adding a distinctly Okinawan touch. By intentionally varying the width of the red and white fabric panels, the design creates a rhythmic visual flow that sets it apart from conventional red-and-white ceremonial drapes.
This wall decoration features the names of the members and site supervisors involved in the creation of Ryusaikan, born from the Traditional House Restoration Project. Each first and last name has been separated and scattered throughout the design, symbolizing the many hands and hearts that came together to bring this space to life.