Shurijo Castle

• Shurijo Castle symbolizes the history and culture of Okinawa.

• Shurijo Castle's history is that of the Ryukyu Kingdom itself.

• One of the UNESCO World Heritage.

Located in Naha, Okinawa, Shurijo Castle was once the site of the capital and palace of the Ryukyuan Kingdom. In those days, the king of Ryukyu was known to handle state affairs, receive envoys, or hold important ceremonies here, and it has now been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. According to historical records, Shurijo Castle was burned down and reconstructed several times, with today's castle a replica of the Chinese Tang dynasty style architecture that remained from the Second World War. The Ryukyu-style castle combines the architectural features of China, Japan and Okinawa. One of the most iconic buildings is the Chinese-style Shureimon Gate, the plaque on which is inscribed with "Nation of Propriety", which was given by the Chinese Emperor when conferring titles to the Ryukyu King.

△ The Shureimon Gate was based on the Chinese roofed “turret” gate style called paifang, with a lower red-tiled roof spanning the full width of the gate surmounted by a higher roof in the center.

△ Kankaimon is the first gate that leads to the inner castle walls of Shurijo, and the name Kankai means “to welcome”.

△ The Seide before it was destroyed by fire