Shuri Castle

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Facts & Figures

Shuri Castle (Shuri-jo) is one of the most important buildings to visit in Okinawa. The Ryukyuan castle is located in the city Naha. It was the seat of the Ryukyu kings for more than 450 years. Shuri Castle represented the administrative center and royal court of the Ryukyuan Kingdom. The architecture is an impressive combination of Japanese and Chinese influences. If you are looking for great views over the city of Naha this is the place to be. Since 2004 I have traveled nearly every year to Japan. The rail pass made my life easier to discover all those amazing places in my favorite country.
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• Shuri Castle:
• Opening Hours - 8:30 am to 6:00 pm – (December till March, last entry at 5:30 pm)
• Opening Hours - 8:30 am to 8:00 pm – (July till September, last entry at 7:30 pm)
• Opening Hours - 8:30 am to 7:00 pm – (rest of the year, last entry at 6:30 pm)
• Closed - July (first Wednesday and Thursday)
• Admission Fee - Adults: 800yen, High School Students: 600yen, Junior High School Students: 300yen

My tips for local activities

How about exploring the highlights and hidden gems of the fascinating city Naha (capital of Okinawa prefecture) with a local guide. Check out this page > for more details.

History

Shuri Castle was bulit in the end of the 13th century. The castle was destroyed many times by fire and wars (Battle of Okinawa in 1945). The last reconstruction, modeled after the 18th century facility, took place in 1992. In 2000 the Shurijo Castle was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle was for many centuries the Ryukyu kings residence till the Meiji government ousted the king and established the Okinawa prefecture in 1879.

Sightseeing spots

Top:

Seiden State Hall - largest wooden building on the island and a landmark of Okinawa

Una Plaza - place used for ceremonies

Shureimon - the main gate to the castle

Tamaudun Mauseoleum - close to the Shuri Castle are the royal tombs located

Stone Gate of Sonohyan-utaki - constructed in 1519, designated as an important national cultural property

Hokuden and Nanden - the North and South Hall were administrative buildings of the royal government

Shoin Sasunoma and the Garden - an administration building with the only garden of all known gusuku castles

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

January

New Year's Celebration (1st - 3rd)
It is an reenactment of the traditional ceremony. Court dances and other Ryukyuan dances are performed. Visitors are offered free amazakei (made from fermented rice, a traditional sweet, low- or non-alcohol drink) and tea to celebrate the New Year.

October

Shurijo Castle Festival (25th till Nov. 3rd)
The festival celebrates the traditional culture of the ancient capital Shuri. It is one of the biggest annual events on Okinawa. A grand procession with over 1000 participants is a must-see on your trip to Naha. Traditional dances are performed on a huge stage in the castle park.