Hyojoju

• Japanese/Okinawan: 評定所　(hyoujousho / hyoujouju)

The hyôjôju was the highest lawmaking organ within the government of the Ryûkyû Kingdom. It consisted of the sessei (chief royal advisor) and the Sanshikan (Council of Three).

The hyôjôju was based in the Hokuden (North Hall) of Shuri castle. On certain matters, it consulted with the Council of Fifteen - the heads of the major branches of the kingdom's government, or provided approval to the Fifteen to take action. Occasionally, the hyôjôju would request approval from the King on certain matters.

References

• "Hyôjôsho." Okinawa Compact Encyclopedia 沖縄コンパクト事典. Ryukyu Shimpo, 1 March 2003.
• Smits, Gregory. Visions of Ryukyu: Identity and Ideology in Early-Modern Thought and Politics. Honolulu: University of Hawai'i Press, 1999. p165.