Shuri Castle Park / Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture: A rare opportunity to see the Main Hall currently under restoration—available only for a limited time

Although it’s a classic Okinawa tourist destination, now is the perfect time to visit “Shuri Castle Park.” This historic park is a restored and preserved site of Shuri Castle, which once served as the political and cultural center of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Following the fire in 2019, this is a rare opportunity to witness firsthand the ongoing reconstruction of the Main Hall. Perched on a hill approximately 120 meters above sea level, it’s also a popular spot offering panoramic views of Naha City and the East China Sea.

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A Special Moment Connecting Shuri Castle’s Past and Future

The appeal of Shuri Castle Park lies in the opportunity to experience the world of the Ryukyu Kingdom while strolling through its restored gates, buildings, and plazas. Even within the free-admission area alone, there are plenty of highlights—such as Shureimon Gate and Zuisenmon Gate—and simply walking around allows you to immerse yourself in the romance of history.

A Restoration Site You Can Only See Now — Behind the Scenes of Shuri Castle’s Reconstruction

In October 2019, the Main Hall of Shuri Castle was destroyed by fire. Reconstruction work is currently progressing steadily toward a 2026 completion date, making this a rare opportunity to witness “history in the making” firsthand.

As you enter the paid admission area, the Main Hall—currently undergoing restoration—comes into view, flanked by massive scaffolding. The exhibit is designed to teach visitors about traditional architectural techniques, such as timber joinery and the lacquer coating process, through informational panels and guide explanations, offering content that captivates both adults and children alike. It was particularly striking to see international visitors intently engrossed in the display.

While it’s wonderful to see the “finished product,” this is the only time you can witness the “process of its creation.” Why not witness the story of Shuri Castle’s restoration with your own eyes?

A space where children can have fun surrounded by history and nature

Although the spacious grounds feature some steps and cobblestone paths, the free areas are designed with routes that allow families with children to stroll at a leisurely pace. With its colorful gates, scenic viewpoints, and a variety of shops and snack stands, the atmosphere is perfect for enjoying the site with your children.

It’s perfect for a historical walking tour where parents and children can learn together, asking questions like, “What was the Ryukyu Kingdom like?”

An enriching sightseeing experience you can enjoy even on rainy days

While the main attractions are in the outdoor areas, the Main Hall area—which is currently undergoing restoration—as well as the exhibition halls, gift shops, and restaurants are covered, so you can enjoy them regardless of the weather.

While the spectacular views on sunny days are certainly a draw, rainy days are less crowded and have a quiet atmosphere, making them the perfect time to really soak in the history. On rainy days, we also recommend checking out the exhibits at “Shuri-Mori Kan” or dining at its restaurant.

It also offers excellent access from downtown Naha

It's about a 15-minute walk from Shuri Station on the Yui Rail. There are also several bus routes from the Naha Bus Terminal, making it easy to get there from downtown Naha.

There is also a parking lot (for a fee), so those renting a car can rest assured. It’s also perfect for when you want to squeeze in a “little bit of intellectual sightseeing” during your trip.

Shuri Castle “Now”—A View You Can Only See Right Now”

I took my time exploring both the free and paid areas, spending about two hours in total. I started at the Shureimon Gate and, as I walked along the cobblestone path, was amazed by the scale of the restoration when I compared it to photos taken before the fire. In the paid area, I was able to see the Main Hall—currently under reconstruction—up close, and I felt that the construction site itself offered a “once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Blue Seal ice cream and the “Shuri Castle Soft-Serve” are also highlights. As you’d expect from ice cream unique to this area, the Shuri Castle Soft-Serve comes in three colors: acerola, mango, and purple sweet potato. The Red Tile Soft-Serve is acerola. It cost 500 yen.

Next time, I'd like to try the Shuri Castle Set Meal at the restaurant "Shuri-mori"!

Nearby Tourist Attractions and Accommodations (within a 15-minute drive)

Kinjō Town's Cobblestone Road... Within walking distance of Shuri Castle Park
Tsuboya Yachimun Street... About a 10-minute drive
Naha Kokusai-dori... About a 15-minute drive

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*This information is current as of the article's last update. Be sure to check in advance before you go!

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