Shuri Castle, an iconic symbol of Okinawa’s Ryukyu Kingdom heritage, has long captivated the hearts of both locals and visitors. Located in the vibrant city of Naha, Okinawa, the castle’s bright vermilion walls and graceful architecture tell the story of a unique kingdom that flourished independently for centuries.
However, in 2019, tragedy struck when a massive fire destroyed much of the castle’s main buildings. Since then, dedicated restoration efforts have been underway. In 2025, after nearly six years, much of the exterior has been restored, marking a significant milestone in the castle’s long journey back to its former glory.
What happened to Shuri Castle in 2019?
On an October morning in 2019, a devastating fire engulfed the castle’s main hall and several surrounding buildings. This fire destroyed most of the castle. This was a heartbreaking event not only for Okinawa but for all of Japan, as Shuri Castle is a symbol of the Ryukyu Kingdom’s rich history and Okinawa’s unique identity. The blaze was one among several fires the castle had faced over its history, having been destroyed multiple times since its founding centuries ago.
However, this loss felt particularly profound due to the cultural treasures and memories contained within the wooden structures. The fire pushed the local government, residents, and cultural preservationists to commit wholeheartedly to rebuilding. Donations poured in from all over Japan and across the world, including from Okinawan communities abroad. The reconstruction project quickly became a symbol of resilience and hope for the community.
How are people restoring this castle?
Today, much of Shuri Castle’s main hall exterior is bright red again, matching its iconic look. Traditional materials and craftsmanship are used, with modern fireproofing added where possible to the original wooden structure. The vermilion walls, roof tiles, and decorations are being rebuilt using old photographs, plans, and archaeological studies to maintain the design’s accuracy as closely as possible. The restoration focuses on the castle’s role as the political and administrative center of the Ryukyu Kingdom, rather than as a military fortress.
Workers use carefully selected wood from trees blessed in local rituals, a gesture of respect for both nature and tradition. The aim is to preserve the spirit of Shuri Castle while making it safer and more accessible for future generations. Inside, teams are restoring rooms and recreating fine decorative details. When the work finishes, visitors will be able to experience the castle’s historic grandeur again, with full completion planned for autumn 2026.
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What does the castle mean to Okinawa today?
Shuri Castle is much more than a historical monument. It stands as a powerful symbol of Okinawa’s heritage and identity, representing the island’s unique history separate from mainland Japan. After the 2019 fire, Okinawa’s Governor Denny Tamaki spoke passionately about Shuri Castle being “a symbol of the Ryukyu Kingdom, an expression of its history and culture.”
For the people of Okinawa, restoring the castle is a tribute to their ancestors and a message of cultural pride. This is why thousands of locals and visitors eagerly watch the restoration progress. Public engagement in the project is strong, with events like the Shuri Castle Restoration Festival held annually to celebrate the ongoing work.
Were there any events surrounding the restoration?
In November 2025, the Shuri Castle Restoration Festival returns, taking place on the castle grounds and throughout central Naha City. This three-day festival celebrates Okinawan tradition with appearances by the Ryukyu King and Queen, traditional performing arts such as Kumiodori theater, and a reenactment parade that honors the kingdom’s history.
Visitors to the festival can also participate in guided tours of the castle’s main hall restoration and experience virtual reality previews of the completed palace. Workshops on traditional Okinawan crafts and Awamori liquor tasting add to the cultural immersion. The festival highlights both the progress of restoration and pride in Okinawa’s living culture.
What lies ahead for the castle?
With exterior restoration nearly finished, attention is turning to interior decoration, finishing touches, and landscaping. The plan is to open the fully restored castle to the public by late 2026, creating a stunning new cultural hub for Okinawa.
This castle remains a UNESCO World Heritage site and a beloved destination for both educational visits and tourists. The restoration project symbolizes not only recovery from tragedy but also a celebration of Okinawan heritage, craftsmanship, and the enduring spirit of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
As the castle shines brightly again, it invites everyone to explore Okinawa’s past, appreciate its vibrant culture, and look forward to a future that honors its remarkable history. Did you have a chance to visit this castle before the fire, or do you plan to visit it when the restoration is complete? Let us know in the comments below!
