The main building is under restoration as of 2025. Yet, the whole place is worth visiting. The hilltop fortress is beautiful and scenic. It’s definitely a must see for first time visitors.
It is beautiful on sunny days, but the sunset from here is also grand. If you’re parking in their building and seeing the sunset, be very careful about the closing time. They will shut the gates at 18:30, and WILL NOT LET YOU OUT even though there are multiple security officers in their office. I would’ve never imagined that they won’t let visitors out, and I walked around a bit longer. I came back around 18:45, and they told me to come back next morning. My hotel was over 50km away, but the security told me there’s nothing he could do to help. I was abandoned middle of the hill to find a hotel for the night and get to there. It’s my fault after all, but I wished that they had emphasized the concept of not helping visitors once they are closed harder and clearer. There were no signs or announcements whatsoever, so I never thought of being closed in and not able to get out. I have lived and traveled around the world, but never experienced anything like that, at a major sites. A lesson learned, but I really wished it wasn’t here.
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.
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.
Visited on a weekday morning, arriving at about 8.20am before the daily gate opening ceremony at 8.35am. Guards dressed in Ryukyu court clothing were friendly and directed me to the main entrance.
The free access areas were quiet without any crowds, perfect for photo opportunities. The paid area allows access to view the main hall currently being restored and also other areas of the castle grounds. If you hold a Yui rail 1 or 2 day pass, you can get a discount off the admission ticket.
Access from Shuri station is an easy 15 mins walk if you opt for the more scenic approach from the north, rather than from the east. Do try out the on-site restaurant above the tourist information centre as it serves delicious local Okinawan meals at affordable prices.
I will return once Shuri Castle is fully restored in autumn 2026.
Exploring Shuri Castle was something I was really looking forward to, but unfortunately, it is still under reconstruction after the fire. However, you can still visit and enter the Shuri Castle grounds to see some remnants of the fire and the rebuilding process. The entrance fee is ¥400, which I feel isn’t really worth it just to see the reconstruction.
By the way, the Shuri Castle area is very large, and you’ll need to walk quite a lot. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
