Understand! Ryukyu was once a vassal state of China, and Chinese folk culture continues to influence Ryukyu to this day.

The Ryukyu Kingdom accepted the investiture of the Chinese emperor early in the Ming Dynasty, becoming a vassal state of China during the Ming and Qing dynasties. In 1372, the Ming Dynasty sent investiture envoys to Ryukyu, and thereafter, envoys were exchanged frequently. Chinese customs, cuisine, art, tea culture, and various other aspects were introduced to Ryukyu, promoting the development of local social and cultural aspects. The influence continues to this day.