Shuri Castle

Shuri Castle - main photo

Photo: Nattee Chalermtiragool / Shutterstock.com

Notice

Shuri Castle was devastated by fire in Oct 2019, but plans to reconstruct the Seiden (main hall) by autumn 2026 are well underway. Although not fully accessible as of late 2025, all exterior work on the main hall has now been completed with its vibrant red roof visible again from many areas of the castle grounds, and tourists are encourage to visit the castle during the remaining reconstruction phase.

Overview

Static map of (26.2170135, 127.7195208)

Address

1 Chome-2 Shurikinjocho, Naha, Okinawa 903-0815
( Map ) ( Directions )

Hours

Closed today Closed now

Opening Hours

  • Monday

    Closed

  • Tuesday

    Closed

  • Wednesday

    Closed

  • Thursday

    Closed

  • Friday

    Closed

  • Saturday

    Closed

  • Sunday

    Closed

  • Holidays

    Closed

Price

Free

Phone

098-886-2020

Website

oki-park.jp

Highlights

Seiden

The Seiden, or “West Hall,” is also called the State Palace. It was located east of the Una and faced west toward China. The Great Dragon pillars were crafted from sandstone and were symbolic of the king. These dragon motifs are replicated throughout the castle.

Seiden

Shureimon Gate

Together with 13 other gates, Shureimon Gate was the second ceremonial gate to the Shuri-jo Castle complex. Following the design concepts of the rest of the majority of the castle complexes, the gate also has a distinct Chinese feel to its structure.

Shureimon Gate

Shrines and Temples

Shuri-jo Castle was also home to several shrines (~utaki) and temples (~ji). Three of which played a role of significant importance to the functions of the castle. Kyo-no-uchi, where prayers by high priestesses were made; Sonohyan-utaki where the king prayed for order and safety; and the Suimi-utaki, which was supposedly created by the gods and is the theme of many songs and prayers in Ryukyu’s oldest music collection.

Sonohyan-Utaki Ishimon

Royal stone gate used by the former King as a placer of prayer and exit of the castle grounds – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sonohyan-Utaki Ishimon

What's unique

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site

Access

Shuri-jo Castle is a 5-minute walk from Shuri Station.

Shuri Castle