Such a large-scale wood construction project was a first for me and a first for the country as well. And with source materials on the history of the castle mostly destroyed in the Battle of Okinawa, we really felt like we were starting from zero. Getting the budget, putting together the necessary land parcels (negotiating with the University of the Ryukyus to buy the site), doing the survey excavations, purchasing materials, doing the historical background studies - the most difficult thing of all - taking care of legal procedures, then getting construction underway - there was no end to difficulties and hardships.

I am sure everyone who had anything to do with the project felt the same way. I am sure everyone felt that this was no ordinary undertaking.

I still remember seeing elderly ladies in wheelchairs wiping tears from their eyes on the morning of the Seiden completion ceremony. I had a feeling of deep relief, "Finally it's finished," mixed with deep emotion, "Well, we did a good job."

Now the castle is Okinawa's leading tourist attraction and the symbol of Okinawa. But I believe it is not yet being fully utilized.

I believe we should use Shuri Castle to understand more about the lives and activities of people in the Ryukyu Kingdom era; in a word, the "soft" side, the human side needs more attention. Reviving the festivals and celebrations that were held almost monthly, linking up with other castles - a great many things still remain to be done. In the end, things like this require people's accumulated knowledge and their willing efforts, so I would like to give human development and cooperation important roles.