“Review of Recent studies on the Relationship between Ryukyu and China,”

Studies in Chinese History (Chugoku Shigaku) 13, 2003.

[Abstract]

The Ryukyu Kingdom is historically delineated from the formation of the Nation in the first half of the 15th century until its annexation by Meiji Japan in 1879. During this time Ryukyu remained an autonomous kingdom and managed to keep close relations with neighboring countries and areas. From 1372 to 1879 she maintained tributary relations with China (Ming/Qing), while also retaining connections with Japan, Korea and Southeast Asian countries. Especially after 1609, when Ryukyu was invaded by Satsuma and came to be dominated through the jurisdiction of the bakuhan system, it’s ties to Japan increased through force.

Because of these complicated historical relations, Ryukyuan historians tend to emphasize international relations. In this paper I will focus on the relationship between Ryukyu and China, introduce recently published studies (mainly from the latter half of 1990’s), and discuss various academic trends. In doing this, I hope to not only focus on Ryukyu-China relations, but also consider Ryukyu in the context of greater Asia. As a result, I hope this paper proves helpful in delineating the fruits of each work and building mutually cooperative relations between scholars.

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