Hello, everyone! Are you enjoying your time in Okinawa?
Today, I’d like to introduce Shuri Castle (Shurijo Castle Park), one of the most iconic and popular destinations for any Okinawan trip.
Shuri Castle is a must-visit spot that attracts countless visitors.
Once the flourishing heart of politics and culture for the Ryukyu Kingdom, the castle is famous for its vibrant red architecture, which reflects a strong historical influence from China.
Sadly, in October 2019, a tragic fire destroyed several of its main structures.
However, the castle has since embraced a unique concept called “Showcasing Reconstruction”, allowing visitors to witness the rebuilding process firsthand.
When I visited in August 2025, they had already begun dismantling the “Suyane” (the massive temporary roof structure covering the main hall). We are getting so close to seeing the new Main Hall!
Now, let’s take a closer look at the “Showcasing Reconstruction” of Shuri Castle.
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Shurijo Castle Park: Features and Highlights
- What is Shuri Castle? The former political and cultural heart of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
- Beautiful, curved stone walls! Experience the elegance of the flowing masonry.
- Numerous “Gates” built directly atop the stone walls.
- A panoramic viewpoint offering a stunning bird’s-eye view of Naha City!
- October 2019: The main structures were tragically lost in a fire.
- Witness history in the making: Observe the rebuilding process through “Showcasing Reconstruction”
What is Shuri Castle? The former political and cultural heart of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
Shuri Castle served as the political and cultural heart of the Ryukyu Kingdom for approximately 450 years, beginning in the late 14th century.
Unlike typical Japanese castles, it features a unique architectural style heavily influenced by China, characterized by its vibrant vermilion structures.
In 2000, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the “Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu,” and it remains an essential destination for anyone visiting Okinawa.
The castle grounds captivate visitors with exhibits that explore its rich history and culture, along with stunning observation points offering panoramic views of the surroundings.
Beautiful, curved stone walls! Experience the elegance of the flowing masonry.
One of the greatest charms of Shuri Castle is its beautifully curved stone walls.
Unlike the straight lines found elsewhere, these walls are characterized by their smooth, flowing curves, embodying both elegance and strength.
Beyond their visual beauty, they were also highly functional, designed with superior defensive capabilities to repel potential invaders.
Numerous “Gates” built directly atop the stone walls.
The gates built into the stone walls, such as Zuisenmon and Rokokumon, feature vibrant red turrets (yagura) perched on top.
Their design reflects a strong Chinese influence not seen in mainland Japan, making them a standout highlight of Shuri Castle.
Since there are so many different gates throughout the grounds, it is fascinating to compare their unique structures.
For example, the Zuisenmon Gate shown in the photo features a wooden turret sitting directly atop a gap in the stone wall.
A panoramic viewpoint offering a stunning bird’s-eye view of Naha City!
From “Agari-no-Azana” (the East Lookout) and “Iri-no-Azana” (the West Lookout), you can enjoy a panoramic view of Naha City.
The contrast between the blue Okinawan sky and the majestic stone walls is breathtaking! It’s an incredibly photogenic spot, making it the perfect place for commemorative photos.
During the era of the Ryukyu Kingdom, people likely stood right here to watch the tribute ships arriving from China.
Looking out at such a magnificent view, it’s hard not to feel a sense of excitement and wonder!
October 2019: The main structures were tragically lost in a fire.
In the early hours of October 31, 2019, a massive fire broke out at Shuri Castle, destroying the Seiden (Main Hall), Hokuden (North Hall), Nanden (South Hall), and other key structures.
This event sent shockwaves throughout the people of Okinawa.
The loss was immense, as the destroyed buildings held immeasurable historical and cultural value.
However, almost immediately after the fire, a powerful collective voice rose up, declaring, “We will rebuild”, and the restoration efforts began.
Witness history in the making: Observe the rebuilding process through “Showcasing Reconstruction”
Shuri Castle is currently hosting a unique initiative called “Showcasing Reconstruction”, where the ongoing rebuilding process is open to the public.
You can get an up-close look at master craftspeople processing timber, crafting red roof tiles, and applying traditional lacquer.
These are rare scenes that will no longer be visible once the Seiden (Main Hall) is complete, so it is definitely a must-see!
By August 2025, the dismantling of the “Suyane” (the massive temporary roof structure that served as the observation area) had already begun.
Since April 2025, I have already visited Shuri Castle three times, and each time, the tour route and exhibits have evolved. It’s a true testament to the steady progress of the reconstruction!
I can’t wait for the completion of the Main Hall in the autumn of 2026!
Shuri Castle: Basic Info, Fees, Parking, and Access
- Basic Information
- Fees & Estimated Time Needed
- Access
- Parking
Basic Information
| Name | Shurijo Castle Park |
| Photo |  |
| Address | 1-2 Shuri Kinjo-cho, Naha City, Okinawa |
| Official Website | Shurijo Castle Park (Official) |
| Tel | 098-886-2020 |
| Hours | Free Area: 8:00〜19:30(April-June,October-November) 8:00〜20:30(July-September) 8:00〜18:30(December-March) Paid Area: 8:30〜19:00(April-June,October-November) 8:30〜20:00(v) 8:30〜18:00(December-March) |
| Closed | |
| Fee | Adults: 400 yen High School Students: 300 yen Elementary & Junior High School Students: 160 yen Children under 6: Free |
| Parking | Parking lot P1&P2 Standard Vihicles: First 60 minutes: 400 yen Every 30 minutes thereafter: 200 yen Maximum Daily Rate: 800 yen |
| Access | 1.By Monorail(Yui Rail) Get off at Shuri Station. 15-minute walk to Shureimon Gate. 2.By Car / Rental Car: About 10km from Naha Airport. Travel Time: 40-50 minutes. |
| Description | Shurijo Castle Park is centered around the reconstructed castle and serves as a vital historical heritage site for understanding Okinawa's rich history and culture. |
Fees & Estimated Time Needed
Shuri Castle Park is divided into a “Free Area” and a “Paid Area”.
Admission fees for the Paid Area are as follows:
| Category | Fees |
|---|---|
| Adults | 400 yen |
| High School Students | 300 yen |
| Elementary & Junior High School Students | 160 yen |
| Children under 6 | Free |
Estimated time for the Free Area
The Free Area includes iconic spots such as Shureimon Gate, the path from Kankaimon to Kofukumon Gates, Shitanun-una (the lower courtyard), and Suimuikan (the visitor center featuring a tourist information desk and souvenir shops).
If you are just doing a quick tour while taking photos, 30 minutes is plenty.
However, if you plan to enjoy the panoramic views from the lookouts or take a break at Suimuikan, we recommend allowing about one hour.
Estimated time for Free + Paid Areas
The Paid Area includes the reconstruction site, the Nyokan-zatsu (souvenir shop), Yohokuden (rest area), the Reconstruction Exhibit Room, and Agari-no-Azana (the East Lookout).
If you visit both the Free and Paid Areas, you should allow approximately 1.5 to 2 hours in total.
Note: As of August 2025, the dismantling of the “Suyané” (temporary roof) over the reconstruction site has begun.
Please be aware that the actual construction process of the Main Hall may not be visible at this time.
- Free Area only: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Free + Paid Areas: 1.5 to 2 hours
Access
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