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Shurijo Castle Park

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Shurijo Castle Park

A breathtaking castle and symbol of Okinawan history and culture on the path to reconstruction.

4.56 8

Last update :
Supervised by :  Shurijo Castle Park Management Center

Shurijo is a proud Okinawan icon whose brightly-painted vermillion walls also make it the only red castle in Japan.
The castle served as the esteemed seat of politics, trade and culture for the Ryukyu Kingdom that existed during the 450 years between 1429 and 1879.
It sits atop the hill overlooking Naha City, surrounded by curving walls.
The castle was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 for the rich culture and history visible in its unique stone-masonry and construction, which fuses both Chinese and Japanese architectural influences.

Unfortunately, Shurijo was ravaged in a fire in 2019, causing 8 of the castle buildings to burn down. Many people wept at the devastation, but support from Japan and around the world allowed the beginning of restoration and reconstruction efforts that are now underway. Part of the grounds were reopened with admissions rates as of June 2020.

Highlights

  • A strikingly beautiful castle and symbol of Okinawa.
  • Registered UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • While currently under reconstruction, visitor access is still available.
  • Many restaurants and souvenir shops nearby.
  • There is a free audio guide app for phones. (Japanese, English and Chinese available)

Videos

Photos

  • Shurijo Castle prior to the devastating fire.

    Shurijo Castle prior to the devastating fire.

  • Shurijo Castle prior to the devastating fire.

    Shurijo Castle prior to the devastating fire.

  • Shureimon Gate

    Shureimon Gate

  • Kankaimon Gate

    Kankaimon Gate

  • Shurijo Castle after the 2019 fire.

    Shurijo Castle after the 2019 fire.

  • View from Shurijo castle.

    View from Shurijo castle.

Reviews

8

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • 王小鈞
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    The first time I saw Shurijo Castle, I honestly couldn’t stop taking photos! The whole castle is such a vivid red and has so much character. It feels completely different from other castles in Japan, and it looks great from just about any angle.

    Walking along the castle walls and around the grounds, you can enjoy views of Naha while feeling the historic atmosphere left behind by the Ryukyu Kingdom. Even though Shurijo Castle is still under restoration, it’s still well worth seeing in person.

  • BobbyJenny
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    Shurijo Castle brings together the history and culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom, with vivid colors and an impressive presence. Walking through the park gives you a deeper understanding of Okinawan history while letting you enjoy its distinctive architectural style. It’s well worth exploring at a leisurely pace.

  • 小曼
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    We took a 3-day, 2-night cruise trip to Okinawa, and Shurijo Castle is a must-visit for sightseeing.
    Great for exploring and enjoying delicious food too.

  • Ami Lin
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    Even though the main hall was destroyed by fire in 2019, Shurijo Castle is still really impressive while it's being rebuilt.

  • 馮子雯
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    This palace was built during the Ryukyu Kingdom era. It's such a shame it was destroyed by a fire. Really hope they restore it soon.

Details

Name in Japanese
首里城公園
Postal Code
903-0815
Address
1-2 Kinjo-cho, Shuri, Naha City, Okinawa
Tel
098-886-2020
Closed
On the first Wednesday and the following day in July.
Business Hours
[Free Area]April-November 8:00am - 7:30pm
December-March 8:00am - 6:30pm
[Paid Area]April-November 8:30am - 7:00pm (Last Admission 6:30pm)
December-March 8:30am - 6:00pm (Last Admission 5:30pm)
Admission(Paid Area)
Adult 400yen, High School Student 300yen, Elementary/Jr. High School Student 160yen, Aged 6 & Younger Free
Access
(1) Approx. 25 min. drive from Naha Airport
(2) Approx. 15 min. walk from Shuri Station on the Okinawa Urban Monorail (Yui Rail)
Official Website
Official Website (English)
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