Ryukyu Kingdom Era New Year’s Celebration praying for peace takes place at Shuri Castle

Ryukyu Kingdom Era New Year’s Celebration praying for peace takes place at Shuri Castle

Reenactment of Ninufanu-unufe, a Ryukyu Kingdom Era ceremony where the king and government officials celebrate the New Year by praying for peace and tranquility.


January 3, 2019 Ryukyu Shimpo

On January 1, the Shurijo Castle Park New Year’s Celebration commenced in Naha City. Many people, such as families and tourists, visited and gave a round of applause to the magnificent ceremony. Fusako Sasaki, 75, visiting from Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture said, “I can feel the unique culture of Okinawa. The sound of Uzagaku was distinctive and very nice.” The ceremony took place during the first three days of the New Year.

During the morning of January 1, a Ryukyu Kingdom Era New Year’s Ceremony, Chohai-Okishiki with a three-part composition was reenacted. The first part, Ninufanu-unufe celebrating the New Year began as the sound of Uzagaku rang throughout. The king, royal family, high government officials of the kingdom, and representatives of common folk bowed at the altar to pray for peace and tranquility in the New Year.

On January 3, the Appearance of the King and Queen took place, wherein Uzagaku was played and the king and queen appeared in the courtyard. There was also a traditional Ryukyuan performance at the Shichauuna courtyard.

(English translation by T&CT and Chelsea Ashimine)

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