Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu

Ryukyu Trade in the Gusuku and Early Ryukyu Kingdom Periods

Archaeological evidence from the Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu reveals a sophisticated maritime trade network centered on the Ryukyu Islands during the early kingdom period. This trade involved two primary categories of goods: locally produced items such as sulfur, mother-of-pearl, textiles, and red dye from the akagi tree (Bischoffia javanica), alongside transshipped commodities including Japanese swords, Chinese ceramics, silver, and iron tools. Ceramic artifacts, particularly serving vessels like plates, bowls, and processing tools such as suribachi, dominate the surviving trade-related materials, highlighting both domestic production and regional exchange. The study underscores Ryukyu's role as a critical maritime entrepō, facilitating the movement of goods and provisions across East Asia.