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The following is based on what Sakugawa from Ishimine District told me. As the book Okinawa, 1000 Year History describes, all tribute ships that sailed the treacherous waters between China and the Ryukyu Archipelago during feudal times were equipped with a turret, artillery, and weapons such as arrows, spears, guns, and explosives. Fast and well protected ships were necessary if the habitual attacks by coastal pirates were to be avoided or quelled. The average length of these ships was fifteen tan (159 meters) and they sailed in three vessel convoys. The vessels were constructed of pine and cryptomeria, or evergreen oak. Sails were woven from the leaves of “sweet flags,” which are particularly resistant to wind and rain. There was a record which indicated that in 1626, King Shotei ordered ship carpenters to reinforce the hulls of all ships with this material to protect them against termites and rough seas.

It was the responsibility of the captain and crew to be able to defend their cargo and vessel against attacks during a voyage. Hence, proper training in combative disciplines was essential. Designated the official vessels of the Ryukyu Kingdom, tribute ships carried both valuable cargo and important passengers to China. Tribute was the single most important aspect of the Ryukyus’ social economy, and, therefore, no expense was ever spared when it came to ensuring the safety of cargo, passengers, and crew.