Sefa-Utaki is considered to be one of the holiest site on Okinawa. Utaki means sacred grove or place of worship. And there are Utakis spread throughout the Okinawa.
The site, located in Chinen Village is defined by the tri angular opening that leads to Sefa-Utaki’s most sacred altar.
Inside, there are several altars and a view of Kudaka Island where Amamikiyo, the god that founded Ryukyu and created the Utaki where said to have lived. Often, you can find small gifts left for the gods and ancestors in a form of food, or money.
To the right of the triangle, hang two stalactites. The water dripping from these falls in to bowls below and it is considered to be holy.
There are several altars around the site and the lush sub-tropical forest and high rock walls surrounding the Utaki add to the mystical feel of the area.
During the Ryukyu era, many of the gods were believed to be female and as a result, women were chosen to be he religious leaders. Men were not allowed in to Sefa-Utaki and high priestesses perform rituals that were believed to bring peace and prosperity to the islands.
Today, everyone regardless of gender are allowed in and you can still find people worshiping the gods of the island. If you stand quietly on this peaceful sanctuary, you might also discover the spiritual inspiration that shaped Okinawan religion for generations.
Only two more destinations, Gyokusendo Caves and the Peace Memorial.
Don’t forget to check out my website, straycompass.com. Thanks for watching. I’m James Knott.
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