What other travelers are saying about Shurijo Castle
Beautiful castle. Great user experience with a well guided path through the castle. It also has a stamp experience for kids. The only thing they do not tell you when buying the ticket is the fact that they are still renovating the castle because it was burnt down on the 31st of October 2019. We didnt have this information so you are looking at a brand new castle covered in big fences and machines. You can still explore the castle walls, gardens, viewing point and informational spots. The castle itself is just covered in scaffolding. They are doing a great job on the renovations, very very impressive. Written on 4th of October 2025.
The Castle of Okinawa which contains the history of the Island. It is a pity when we went there, the main building was under major construction and rebuild. It was burnt down few years ago due to an unexpected fire. And it really took us 1 hour or so to complete the whole journey of the Castle boundary. It also provides panoramic views of Okinawa since we near the high elevation of Okinawa.
Secondly, do try to have your meal in Restaurant Suimui whenever you are in the vicinity. This restaurant serves authentic local Okinawa dishes and the taste was fantastic. The staff was friendly and attentive.
Interesting castle complex with interesting sights inside and out. Whilst not a ‘typical’ Japanese castle, definitely worthy of a visit during an Okinawan stay. Is currently being restored, but doesn’t affect the experience too much.
A good stroll for my family. The time we went, the main castle is under renovation August 2025 alltho most parts of the area was still accessible to tourists. Not so crowded which is a good thing as we were ablet o get in swiftly. At the 2nd level was an information center where video of the castle rebuilt progress is shown. This makes up for not being able to go around the main hall. Toilet was accessible. Ticket booth and dispenser was easy while 2 teller was available and helpful. We enjoyed our walk and the view deck was amazing to overlook the clear sky over the city.
Wonderful experience being able to view the castle grounds. I enjoyed the many plant life surrounding the castle and garden areas.
It wasn't too crowded, so it was easy to have space on the paths around, especially near areas that were more tedious. The speaker helped with both messages in English and Japanese to watch your step. The views were amazing to witness and oversee Naha and the ocean view.
The renovation over the temple was interesting to see, but I was disappointed with how little room there was inside the observation building with only a small room in and out to see construction for all 3 floors.
The gift shop was wonderful, and I found a few magnets, charms, scrunchies, and some postcard art to purchase! I do recommend for sight-seeing and history buffs!
The origins of Shurijo Castle date back to the late 14th century. However, it underwent various phases of construction and reconstruction over the centuries, particularly during the reign of the Ryukyu Kingdom between the 15th and 19th centuries.
Yes, Shurijo Castle was designated as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu" in 2000. This designation recognizes the site's cultural significance and historical value.
Visitors to Shurijo Castle can explore its iconic red main hall (Seiden), the gates, walls, and various remaining structures that exhibit the unique architectural style of the Ryukyu Kingdom. The castle also houses exhibitions on Ryukyuan culture, history, and the restoration process.
Shurijo Castle is accessible via public transportation from Naha Airport and other parts of Okinawa. Visitors can take the monorail (Yui Rail) to Shuri Station and then walk or take a bus to the castle.
