When you first approach the gate you’ll see a framed sign that reads, “Shurei no Kuni.” Roughly translated, these words mean “a country that upholds rules of courtesy,” but it isn’t talking about “politeness.” Rather, it’s referring to the Confucian philosophy of “propriety,” displaying the Ryukyu’s deep respect for China and their culture.
The Ryukyu Kingdom had been in a tributary relationship with China since its foundation. As a vassal state of China, an envoy would visit when appointing a new king. Upon their arrival, these words hung above the gate and served as a reminder that the Kingdom was upholding Chinese teachings. But actually, that sign wasn’t always displayed at first. When the envoys weren’t in Ryukyu, the sign would be removed and replaced with one that read, “Shuri,” the name of the city. Eventually, the people of Ryukyu decided it would be better to keep the sign up to show their pride in “upholding the rules of courtesy and propriety,” and chose to keep the “Shurei no Kuni” sign on at all times.
There are three entrances through Shurei-mon: one in the middle for high authority individuals, and two entrances on the side for everyone else. This design follows the traditional Chinese style.
As you pass through, take a look above you. Do you see the red flower decoration? It looks like a hibiscus, but it's actually a peony flower. Also known as Hyakka, in China it’s said to be the king of flowers. Anyway, by now you should understand that the people of the Ryukyu Kingdom valued their formalities and manners to the highest extent.
