The previous post described the first half of my walk today through Shuri’s Hijigaabira. This next part will focus on the second half where I took the Kinjo-cho ishidatami michi, the more famous of the Shuri stone paths which miraculously survived the Battle of Okinawa. It is quite scenic and reminiscent of the Ryukuan era, with many traditional Okinawan features.
Along the descent, there are some pricey cafe spots in addition to the historical sites. They offer fantastic views should you choose to grab a snack or drink there, though I have never tried any of the food or drinks… I usually just get a vending machine drink from the top of the path before entering.
There are several signs for botanicals, some very large old akagi (acacia) trees estimated to be more than 200 years old, utaki (places of worship), and gaa (water springs/wells). Partway down there will also be a rest house; if you remove your shoes you can enter and sit for awhile. The whole path has preserved characteristics of traditional Ryukuan architecture.
After exiting the stone path, it was time to head back, however we continued to pass some more historic sites along the way. First is the 金城橋 Kanagusuku-bashi (bridge). There are also some shokudo restaurants around this area where you can try local Okinawan food.
Further along we passed 前道(メーミチ) Mehmichi where many gaa (water springs) were abundant in the Ryukyuan era. Apparently there used to be (and still are a few now) tofu shops along here, which made use of the high quality spring water.
Imgur album for Kinjo-cho ishidatami michi, including hijigaabira and the Shuri flower exhibit:
Entrance (on Shuri-jo side) of Kinjo-cho stone pavement, next to a paid parking lot: https://goo.gl/maps/CkK3oS4DfwJ2
Entrance (bottom of slope) of Kinjo-cho stone pavement, next to some restaurants:首里金城町２丁目８４−３ https://goo.gl/maps/yMh9fvmw5742
Old Akagi tree along Kinjo-cho stone pavement: https://goo.gl/maps/dSRFp92PUbx
Gaa and rest house: https://goo.gl/maps/fSDRCLpmGM82
Hanta gaa ハンタガー (spring) in Mehmichi: https://goo.gl/maps/vpif7DcELwu
Shikinaen (garden): https://goo.gl/maps/VmKM69jNEis
I did not pass it on this trip, however there is also a shrine near Shikinaen gardens, called Shikinagu 識名宮: https://goo.gl/maps/YXRRaETMz1Q2
Preview of route:
map route in Google maps: https://goo.gl/maps/RcM2AtCDu3k
