Immerse yourself in the magnificent landscapes of Ryukyuan cultural heritage through a holistic tour of Okinawa’s Shuri Castle.

Serving as the royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom (15th–19th centuries), Shuri Castle was built upon steep ridgelines and oriented around sacred sites known as Utaki. These sites venerated natural formations, the basis of Ryukyuan religion.

Despite being deemed a Japanese structure, Shuri Castle diverges from the architectural traditions of its traditional Japanese counterparts. A close diplomatic relationship with China disseminated decorative techniques that merged with Japanese karahafu gables and Indigenous red tiles to create its unique style. Shuri Castle further deviates from Japanese precedent through the alignment of its main hall with the west. This allows for the simultaneous worship of the emperor and the sun as it rises behind him, a testament to the significance of nature within this culture.

Shuri Castle was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. However, the palace faced destruction in the Battle of Okinawa in 1945 and a widespread fire in 2019. Restored once before, the site’s aesthetic value and cultural significance continue to be preserved through contemporary restorative efforts.

ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE

Guests will partake in a walking tour of the castle grounds led by a gusuku researcher, archaeologist, and Shinto priest who studies Ryukyuan faith. A valuable opportunity to learn about the intersections of religion, diplomacy, and environment, guests can expect to emerge with a newfound appreciation for Okinawan history and heritage.

about the artisan

A graduate of the University of the Ryukyus who majored in Ryukyuan history, he conducts excavation surveys and fieldwork of Japanese historical sites while simultaneously serving as a Shinto priest at Bizen-no-Kuni Sōsha-miya Shrine. His research supports the "Gusuku Ruler Sacred Domain Sovereignty Theory,” which states that rulers established their authority through the construction of castles upon sacred natural sites.

Experience includes:	Guided tour, translator, insurance
Duration:	Approximately 2 hours
Location:	Naha (inquire for further details)
Price:	Please contact us to inquire about pricing
Maximum Capacity:	4 guests