Shuri Castle Reconstruction: Trial Assembly of Dragon Roof Ornament Takes Place
Naha, Okinawa Prefecture – The reconstruction of Shuri Castle in Okinawa Prefecture issteadily progressing, with the latest milestone being the trial assembly of the ceramic dragon roof ornament, known in Japanese as Ryuto Dodori. This iconic element,serving as a guardian deity for the main hall, is undergoing meticulous reconstruction.
The individual components of the dragon ornament have been successfully cast, and on September 19th, a trial assembly was conducted to assess the overall effect of the assembled piece.
The main hall of Shuri Castle will feature three dragon roof ornaments, one on the front and two on the sides. The largest of theseornaments measures approximately 3.40 meters in length. The trial assembly took place at a workshop in Nanjo City, Okinawa, focusing on the closed-mouth dragon ornament destined for the left side of the main hall roof.
Theassembly involved carefully joining approximately 200 individually cast components, including the dragon’s eyebrows, nose, and scales. The result is a lifelike and imposing dragon head, with its blue-green glazed beard adding a striking visual element.
Shinji Hayakawa, the 35-year-old sculptorresponsible for the ornament, expressed his pride in being part of this significant project. The dragon roof ornament is a symbolic element of Shuri Castle, he stated. I feel honored to be involved in its reconstruction. I paid particular attention to ensuring that the dragon’s eyes project a sense of power and majesty when viewed fromthe side.
The dragon roof ornament is a crucial element of Shuri Castle’s architectural heritage. It represents not only a decorative element but also a powerful symbol of protection and good fortune. The meticulous reconstruction process reflects the deep respect and reverence for the historical significance of the castle.
Shuri Castle’sHistory and Significance
Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, served as the seat of the Ryukyu Kingdom for centuries. Its strategic location and cultural significance made it a center of trade and diplomacy in East Asia. The castle was tragically destroyed by fire in 1945 during World War II.
The reconstruction project, which began in 2019, aims to faithfully recreate the castle’s original grandeur while incorporating modern construction techniques and safety standards. The project is expected to be completed in 2026.
The Importance of Traditional Craftsmanship
The reconstruction of Shuri Castle isnot just about rebuilding a structure; it’s also about preserving and revitalizing traditional Okinawan craftsmanship. The creation of the dragon roof ornament, with its intricate details and meticulous assembly, exemplifies the dedication and skill of the artisans involved.
The use of traditional techniques and materials, such as ceramic and glaze, ensures that thereconstructed ornament will be a true testament to the enduring legacy of Okinawan craftsmanship.
Looking Forward
The successful trial assembly of the dragon roof ornament is a significant step forward in the reconstruction of Shuri Castle. It signifies the commitment to preserving the castle’s cultural heritage and bringing its iconic features back to life.As the reconstruction progresses, the world eagerly awaits the unveiling of this majestic symbol of Okinawan history and culture.
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