Shuri Castle is regarded as the heart and soul of Okinawa, which existed as a separate kingdom for centuries before becoming part of Japan in the 1800s. (Ryan M. Breeden/Stars and Stripes)
More than six years after Shuri Castle burned down, resilient reconstruction efforts are on schedule to allow the main hall to reopen in the fall.
But the park remains open to visitors while restoration of the iconic castle is underway. The exterior of the restored main hall, or Seiden, was completed in July and work goes on inside.
For 400 yen, or approximately $2.65, visitors may walk guided paths on more than 10 acres of the historic property.
The park is on a small hill overlooking the city of Naha, with Shuri Castle the imposing centerpiece.
Sometimes called “Uchinanchu,” or Okinawa’s heart and soul, the castle was rebuilt after World War II and represents the island’s rising from the depths of destruction.
Previously the central hub for politics and government, the castle also served as the royal residence of the Ryukyu king and his family. The Kingdom of Ryukyu existed from 1429 until its abolishment by Japan and establishment of the Okinawa prefecture in 1879.
Work goes on to restore the main hall, or Seiden, at Shuri Castle on Okinawa while the grounds are still open to the public. (Ryan M. Breeden/Stars and Stripes)
Today, the rebuilt main hall stands tall, surrounded by construction barriers. Painted a distinctive red and colorfully detailed, its unique architectural designs were nurtured through Ryukyuan culture and trade with neighboring Southeast Asian countries.
Donations of nearly $40 million from many sources — including an early GoFundMe campaign by a Marine Corps spouse that raised more than $11,000 — helped pay for the reconstruction.
As you meander within the park, you’ll discover several other structures from the time period as well as modern amenities.
The park is a moderate trek with several staircases required to traverse the compound. Automated motion sensors along every staircase trigger recorded warnings to watch your step. Bring comfortable walking shoes and remember to stay hydrated.
The Shuri Castle reconstruction exhibition room displays restoration designs to visitors on Okinawa. (Ryan M. Breeden/Stars and Stripes)
Designs planned for the restored Shuri Castle are on display at the site on Okinawa. (Ryan M. Breeden/Stars and Stripes)
Three facilities offer a place to stop, of which two are climate controlled. One is the Shuri Castle reconstruction exhibition room, and another is the Yohokoriden, or ascension ceremony site.
Both facilities provide more information about the castle’s history and information regarding the current reconstruction.
The fire on Oct. 31, 2019, burned for more than 11 hours and destroyed eight buildings. It marked the fifth time the castle was destroyed. Its most recent reconstruction took place in 1992 to restore its destruction in World War II.
On the QT
Directions: A 30-minute drive or less from most major U.S. bases on Okinawa. Address: 1-2 Kinjo-cho, Shuri, Naha, Okinawa 903-0815.
Times: Open daily, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., through March.
Costs: Entry is 400 yen for adults, 160 yen to 300 yen for students, and free for 6 and younger. The maximum parking fee is 800 yen.
Food: Discover restaurants and shops nearby.
Information: Online: oki-park.jp/shurijo/en
AloJapan.com