Naha: 1.5h Shurijo Castle Tour into the Heart of Ryukyu
Explore the rich heritage of the Ryukyu Kingdom at Shurijo Castle, the historical heart of Okinawa. Known for its vibrant vermilion buildings and sacred grounds, this UNESCO site showcases the unique blend of politics, religion, and maritime trade that defined the kingdom. A local expert will guide you through the castle's main areas, allowing you to appreciate its architectural beauty and spiritual significance. An optional early morning plan offers the chance to witness the rare “Opening Gate Ceremony” at sunrise. Experience the peaceful essence of Okinawa’s royal history on this insightful 1.5-hour tour.
- 1.5-hour guided tour led by a local expert
- Opportunity to witness the “Opening Gate Ceremony” at sunrise
- Option to include transportation from Naha Airport to Shurijo Castle.
- Discover the historical and spiritual significance of Shurijo Castle
- Explore other UNESCO-listed sites of the Ryukyu Kingdom nearby
Options
From Naha Airport (G-395)
From Naha Airport (G-395): Meet your guide at Naha Airport Monorail Station and travel together to Shurijo Castle.
What's included in Naha: 1.5h Shurijo Castle Tour into the Heart of Ryukyu
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Shurijo Castle
Shurijo Castle, perched on a hill overlooking Naha, served as the royal court and administrative center of the Ryukyu Kingdom from the 15th to 19th century. Unlike the samurai fortresses of mainland Japan, Shurijo was not a military stronghold, but a symbol of peace, spirituality, and diplomacy. Its vermilion buildings, Chinese-inspired details, and curving limestone walls reflect a fusion of Japanese, Chinese, and Ryukyuan culture. Inside the grounds are sacred Utaki, where rituals were performed, and behind the main hall is a lookout toward Kudaka Island, believed to be the spiritual birthplace of life in Ryukyuan mythology. Although the original Seiden (Main Hall) was lost in a 2019 fire, restoration is underway using traditional methods and records. A visit to Shurijo is more than sightseeing—it’s a step into the soul of a kingdom that ruled not by force, but through faith and diplomacy. Its dignified yet open atmosphere still resonates in Okinawa today.
Inclusions
- 1.5-hour guided walk through Shurijo Castle's main areas
- Optional early morning Opening Gate Ceremony
- Local expert guide
- Option to include transportation from Naha Airport to Shurijo Castle.
- Lunch
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting Points
- If you choose the airport departure option, the meeting point is in front of the ticket gate at Naha Airport Monorail Station. Your guide will be waiting for you holding a yellow sign. Please refer to the map for more details.
- The tour will end in front of the main gate of Shurijo Castle. From here, you can easily access central Naha by monorail, bus, or on foot.
End Points
- The tour will end in front of the main gate of Shurijo Castle. From here, you can easily access central Naha by monorail, bus, or on foot.
