daiku 
“A Massive Stone Tomb Reflecting the History and Culture of Kurima Island – Encounter a Timeless Legacy”
Sumuryaa Myaka, meaning “the stone tomb (Myaka) of the Sumuryaa (Nagama) family” in the Okinawan dialect, is a historically and culturally significant site on Kurima Island. Located approximately 800 meters south of the Kurima village, this grand tomb has been designated as a cultural property by Okinawa Prefecture.
The tomb is an impressive stone structure measuring 6.5 meters in length, 9 meters in width, and 2.3 meters in height. Its sheer scale leaves a lasting impression on visitors. Believed to have been used up until the Taisho era, the tomb tells the story of the long history of the Nagama family. Inside are three stone chambers, which were traditionally used for “fūsō”—a unique Okinawan burial custom where the deceased is placed in a stone chamber and allowed to return to the earth over time through exposure to natural wind. This practice symbolizes the deep respect Okinawan ancestors held for nature and their loved ones.
Sumuryaa Myaka is not only a testament to the legacy of the Nagama family but also a site deeply connected to the spiritual and cultural fabric of all Okinawa. Visiting this site offers a powerful sense of history through the immense scale and silent presence of the tomb. As a designated cultural property, it provides a rare opportunity to experience Kurima Island’s rich heritage and unique customs.
If you’re seeking a journey that blends natural beauty with cultural exploration, Sumuryaa Myaka is a must-visit destination. Stand before this ancient stone monument and take a moment to reflect on the lives of those who came before, feeling the passage of time resonate through the stones.
Location: Kurima, Shimoji, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture