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Shurijo Castle 首里城

Checked October 2026 · next check January 2027 · 1 post since 2012

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Visiting Shurijo Castle today

  • What it is: The hilltop palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Fire destroyed its main hall (Seiden) in 2019; the rebuilt Seiden opens to visitors on 23 November 2026.
  • Getting there: Yui Rail to Shuri Station, then about a 15-minute walk. Buses also stop at Shurijo-mae and Shurijo Koen Iriguchi.
  • Hours: Paid area 8:30–19:00 (April–June and October–November), 8:30–20:00 (July–September), 8:30–18:00 (December–March). Last entry 30 minutes before closing.
  • Admission: From 23 November 2026: ¥1,000 adults (up from ¥400), ¥760 high school, ¥370 junior high and elementary. Seiden interior needs a timed reservation.
  • Tip: Book Seiden time slots online. Slots from 1 January 2027 open two months ahead, and same-day slots are sold until 15 minutes before entry if any remain.
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The Seiden opens on 23 November 2026; cooler months are easiest for the hilly grounds.

Checked against: Okinawa Convention & Visitors Bureau: Shurijo Seiden general release · Travel Watch: Shurijo Seiden opens 23 November with new fees · Funliday: Shurijo Park hours. Check opening times and prices before you go.

Shurijo Castle on Shibuya246

Photos and stories from our visits, as they were written at the time.

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