Shuri Castle

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!

I visited the castle on a weekend and there were no waits. There are written explanations in both Japanese and English about the various sections of the castle area. Unfortunately in 2019, the main courtyard’s structures had a fire. Between 1429 and 1879, it was the palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Currently you can see the progress in rebuilding this beautiful structure. There’s a 400 yen entry fee. There’s a great view of Okinawa at the top of the observatory. This World UNESCO Heritage sight is expected to have its renovations completed in 2026. Hopefully I can return to see this magnificent structure in its former glory.

Shuri Castle, located in Naha, Okinawa, is a historic UNESCO World Heritage site and the former royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom. It features beautiful traditional Okinawan architecture, vibrant red walls, and stunning views of the city. It’s a must-visit for history lovers and anyone interested in Okinawan culture. When we visited, renovations were underway, which made the experience even more interesting as we could see how attentive and knowledgeable the workers were in preserving this important site.

One of the highlights of my Okinawa trip was visiting Shuri castle and it was a dream come true. It was an elegant experience. While the castle is undergoing reconstruction it was sure worth the trip coming up and seeing it in person. The gates loom large around the castles wall. The reconstruction process of the castle is very interesting too. It can get a bit busy due to tourism but go early, it’s worth it. The view from the observation deck is splendid. You can see all of Naha.

Although the castle is ongoing renovations, it is worth going as there is plenty to walk around and learn about the Ryukyu kingdom. There suis quite a bit of up and down to walk, so be prepared to sweat a bit, particularly if you do this during summer. Plenty of refreshments available as well as a shop for souvenirs.

I recently visited Shuri Castle in Naha, Okinawa, and it was truly an awesome experience! The castle's stunning architecture, rich history, and beautiful grounds made for an unforgettable visit. I was impressed by the castle's unique blend of Japanese and Chinese styles, and the vibrant colors and intricate carvings added to its beauty. Although the main hall was under reconstruction, the castle grounds were still worth exploring, and I appreciated the historical significance and cultural importance of the site. The Shureimon Gate was a highlight, with its intricate designs and vibrant colors making for great photo opportunities. I also enjoyed exploring the surrounding grounds, which offered stunning views of the city. Overall, my experience at Shuri Castle was awesome, and I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Naha. The castle's history, culture, and beauty make it a must-see destination, and I'm so glad I got to experience it.

I stayed at the Hyatt Regency in Okinawa and took the bus over—super convenient and easy to get to! Shuri Castle is definitely worth a visit. The site offers stunning views, peaceful walking paths, and beautifully preserved historic buildings. It’s a great place to take in both the natural scenery and Okinawa’s rich cultural heritage.

Castle is under construction until 2027 so the main building is not ready for viewing. If u drive, the parking is really expensive.. I parked for 40 mins and parking charged was 1000 yen. 500 yen for 30 mins. Entrance fees is reasonable and worth visiting to understand history of this castle.