New Ryukyu king and queen selected at Shurijo Castle Park event
September 8, 2014 Ryukyu Shimpo
A selection ceremony for a new “king” and “queen” took place at the event “Mid-Autumn Feast” held in the Una forecourt of Shurijo Castle in Naha on September 7. Twenty-year-old company employee Daichi Teruya was chosen in the role of “king” and 25-year-old nursing teacher Marina Oyama as “queen.” Their first jobs will be to attend a swearing-in ceremony on November 1 in which the Sapposhi or envoy of the Chinese Emperor will bestow the imperial seal on the new King of Ryukyu, followed by a parade in the Una forecourt. The new “king” and “queen” will take part in events hosted by Shurijo Castle Park over the next twelve months. The selection event had 14 applicants for king and 29 for queen.
Wearing a brightly-colored crown, the new “king” Teruya said, smiling, “I am surprised and delighted.” He went on to say, “I want to convey our unique culture and history to people all around the world.”
Dressed in showy costume, Oyama said in tears, “I am so happy.” She continued, “I would like children to know the queen of the time-honored Ryukyu Kingdom. I will do my best to continue this tradition.”
Before the event, the kumiodori play Nidou tekiuchi and other plays were performed. The spectators enjoyed a fantastic evening.
(English translation by T&CT)
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