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About Sefa-utaki
Sefa-utaki is the most sacred site of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
What is an utaki?
Utaki is the general name for sacred sites found widely across the Nansei Islands. They have no markers such as shrine buildings or statues; the trees, rocks, land and space itself have been cherished as sanctuaries. Among them, Sefa-utaki is regarded as the most sacred site of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
The origins of Sefa-utaki
Sefa-utaki is said to be one of the utaki created by Amamikiyo, the creator deity of Ryukyu. When it began is not known with certainty. Records show that by the first half of the fifteenth century, kings were already making processions to this utaki.
The connection with Kikoe-Okimi
Sefa-utaki is also the place where the Oaraori, the investiture rite of Kikoe-Okimi, the highest priestess of the Ryukyu Kingdom, was performed. The procession left Shuri and came down to this land of Chinen, where the solemn rite was held. To learn more about Kikoe-Okimi and the Oaraori, see Discover.
Prayers that continue today
Even now that it is widely known as a World Heritage Site, Sefa-utaki remains a sanctuary where people come to pray. When you visit, we ask you to keep in mind that prayers are still offered here today.