The history of the Ryukyu Kingdom
Time to look around vividly
Shuri Castle became the center of the economy, trade, and politics of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Aren’t you curious what kind of history this place has?
As you walk among the majestic buildings, visit the beautiful Shuri Castle, which will take you back in time! It is a place with a long history, and not only has its old appearance been preserved through reconstruction, but there is also a wealth of things to see, from majestic architecture to various exhibits handed down from the Ryukyu Kingdom.
“Sonohiyan Utaki Ishimon,” a stone gate that the king used to pass through every time he left the castle to pray for a safe journey, and “Kinjocho Ishitami,” a beautiful stone path that passes through a forest said to be over 300 years old. Take a look around “Mitchie”. In addition, take a look at the various facilities of Shuri Castle and experience the history of the Ryukyu Kingdom vividly!
The center of the Ryukyu Kingdom,
Shuri Castle
The beautiful Shuri Castle, designated a World Cultural Heritage site. The charm of this castle is that its red exterior stands out more vividly.
Shuri Castle not only provides a glimpse into the culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom, which has a history of approximately 450 years, but is also a historical site that played an important role in conflicts and strife that lasted for hundreds of years.
As you tour Shuri Castle, you can feel and learn more about Japanese culture through a free audio guide, and since the castle is located on top of a hill, you can enjoy a stunning view of downtown Naha.
Additionally, since the entire castle is illuminated at night, Shuri Castle takes on a more dreamy atmosphere, allowing you to experience a unique charm. Take a look around Shuri Castle, which shines brighter at night, and take the time to learn about the history of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
Shuri Castle reborn
The current Shuri Castle was built in the 13th century, but was restored after being destroyed by fire during the Pacific War in 1945. It is the result of the blood and sweat of craftsmen and artisans from all over Japan to continue the spirit of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
Currently, the North and South Buildings are used as museums, and various exhibits provide a vivid glimpse into the history of the now-vanished Ryukyu Kingdom.
Take a look around Shuri Castle, which has been destroyed and destroyed several times, but has always risen from the ashes, and appreciate the soul of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
Shurijo Castle Main Hall, the largest building in the Ryukyu Kingdom
The Shurijo Castle main shrine, with its vivid red color, is by far the largest building in the Ryukyu Kingdom. It was the king's residence and the center of politics, economy, and culture.
The wide road in the center is called Ukimichi, and it is said that only certain people, such as the king or envoys of the Chinese emperor, are allowed to pass through it.
The main shrine has a Chinese + Japanese architectural style, but the stairs and dragon pillars made in the shape of ハ are a special feature and attractive point of Ryukyu.
In Jeonjeon, which is a paid area, there is a free Japanese guide service 6 times a day, so if you want to hear detailed explanations, I recommend using it!
[Free guide time]:
- 9am
- 10:30 AM
- 1:00 pm
- 14:00
- 3pm
- 5pm
- 6 pm
Learn more about Shuri Castle
Have you ever heard the saying, ‘You only see what you know’? For those of you who are hesitant to take a tour because you don't have basic knowledge about Shuri Castle, I'd like to introduce a friendly, free guide!
You can tour the main areas of Shurijo Castle Park (Moriemon, Zuisenmon, main hall, etc.) while listening to detailed stories through a smartphone guide.
It will be an experience to learn more about Shuri Castle by listening to detailed and interesting explanations that cannot be found through magazines or searches.
In addition to Japanese, English and Chinese are also available, so I highly recommend listening to them when you visit Shuri Castle!
* To use the free guide, please click here .
address :
Shuri Castle
1-2 Shurikinjocho, Naha, Okinawa 903-0815 Japan
Open in Google Maps
operating time :
Every day (excluding public holidays and weekends)
1. Free zone
April - June: 8:00 am - 19:30 pm
July - September: 8:00 am - 20:30 pm
October - November: 8:00 am - 19:30 pm
December - March: 8:00 am - 18:30 pm
※ Target area: Kankaimon/Kobikimon/Kyukaimon
2. Paid area
April - June: 8:30 am - 19:00 pm
July - September: 8:30 am - 20:00 pm
October - November: 8:30 am - 19:00 pm
December - March: 8:00 AM - 18:00 PM
※ Target area: Shurijo Castle main shrine, Houshinmon/South hall/Banso/Shoin/Sasunoma/Kukani Udun/Yuinchi/Kinchu Utsude-sho/Okusho-in/North hall
※ Admission to paid areas closes 30 minutes before closing.
way to come:
20 minutes walk from Shuri Station
Japan 〒101-0035 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Kanda Konyacho, 39 野村ビル (Nomura Building) 201