The Gateway to Nations Pavilion

The Gateway to Nations Pavilion

The Gateway to Nations Pavilion is situated atop Cape Bise, embraced by blue skies and clear seas. It is a building that perfectly blends Ryukyuan and Western architectural styles, and it served as the main venue for the G8 Summit held from July 21 to 23, 2000.

When the name for the pavilion was being solicited, someone discovered the term “Gateway to Nations” inscribed on a bell in Shuri Castle, the former capital, dating back to the 15th century. Upon researching, they found that it meant “a bridge to the world,” so they submitted it for the naming contest and it was selected as the top entry. Hence, the main venue was named the Gateway to Nations Pavilion. The pavilion consists of a two-story above-ground and one-story below-ground conference building, a seaside building, and a banquet hall. Adjacent to the conference building, where flags of the G8 participating nations were displayed, are walls made entirely of glass that can be opened or closed.