Sefa Utaki

This is the highest sacred site of the Ryukyu Kingdom, located in the mountains of Chinen Kudeken, Nanjo City, in the southern part of Okinawa's main island. As a forest where the gods descend, important rituals and ceremonies were held, including the inauguration ceremony of the kingdom's supreme divinity, Kikoe Ogimi, called "Oaraori”. It was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000, and is a component of the "Gusuku and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu".

The entire forest is considered a sanctuary, and is dotted with places of prayer called uganju (places of worship). In the deepest part of the forest, there are ibis (sanctuaries) of high rank, such as Ufuguui, Sangui, and Yuinchi. The names of the ibis, Ufuguuii and Yuinchi, are the same as those found in Shuri Castle, both of which are set against massive Ryukyu limestone formations. As you quietly sit there, you will feel your mind being washed away by the solemn atmosphere.

When visiting, it is essential to understand that this is a sanctuary where the local people still pray, and to act with civility. It is strictly forbidden to take plants, animals, stones, or other objects out of the sanctuary.