Shuri Castle

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About Shuri Castle

Shuri Castle, Shurijo, was the government seat and residence of the Ryukyu kings from the 15th century until 1879, when the kingdom was annexed by Japan. It stands atop a hill east of downtown Naha, surrounded by limestone walls that follow the land’s curves, a feature of the gusuku fortifications of Okinawa. The buildings blend Chinese and Japanese influences, with red tiled roofs and lacquered red-and-gold decoration.

The complex was destroyed several times by fire and was nearly wiped out in the Battle of Okinawa in 1945. Reconstruction began in the 1990s, based on documents and excavations. In 2019 a fire again destroyed the Seiden, the main hall, and nearby buildings, and reconstruction has continued using traditional techniques. The castle’s original foundations are part of the Sites of the Ryukyu Kingdom inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The visit begins at the Shureimon gate, pictured on one of Japan’s banknotes, and ascends through a sequence of gates to the Una courtyard in front of the Seiden. Parts of the area are open without a ticket, while the central area requires paid entry. Interior visits to the Seiden often have specific rules and may require timed reservations; check before you go. The Iri-no-Azana viewpoint on the west side offers views of Naha and the sea.

Beside the castle, the Sonohyan-utaki stone gate, also a World Heritage site, was where the king prayed before travel. The Tamaudun mausoleum and Kinjo stone lane are a few minutes on foot.