The Meikari Family Residence, a nationally designated important cultural property that conveys the prestige and beauty of the Ryukyu warrior class
The Mingkari Family Residence, located in Izena Village, is the residence of the Mingkari family, who were uncles of King Sho En, the founder of the second Sho dynasty, and served as landowners for many generations. It was rebuilt in 1906 and is a valuable cultural asset that has been well preserved because it was spared from the damage of the Battle of Okinawa. In 1977, it was designated as the only nationally important cultural property (building) in the village, and the geometric composition of the stone walls and red-tiled roof is a sight to behold. Just by visiting this spot, visitors can feel the breath of history.
Basic Information
Spot Name | Meikari Family Residence |
Location | 902, Izena Village, Izena, Shimajiri-gun, Okinawa 905-0604, Japan |
Access | Approximately 5 to 10 minutes by car from Nakada Port |
Business Hours | 9:00~17:00/open all year round |
Charge | free |
parking lot | Parking spaces available around the site (free of charge) |
Phone number | 0980-45-2318(Izena Village Board of Education) |
equipment | Unattended management (free site visit) |
thing to note | Red-tiled main house, hinpun unique to Ryukyu samurai, roofed gate, stone wall, geometric design of Ryukyu architecture |
Map | View in Google Maps |
Q&A
Can I visit the Meikari Family Residence for free?
Yes, you are free to visit the site free of charge. The grounds are unmanned, so please come during business hours.
What are the characteristics of the Meikari Family residence?
The red-tiled main building, the hinpun (a hipped roof) unique to the Ryukyu warrior clan, the roofed gate, and the prestigious stone walls are all characteristic of Ryukyu architecture.
Are there guides on site?
Currently, it is unmanned and there are no guides. If you need more information, please contact the Izena Village Board of Education (0980-45-2318).
Is there parking available when visiting by car?
Yes, free parking spaces are available around the site, so you can visit by car.