Shuri Castle

Shuri Castle, located in Okinawa, Japan, was historically the royal residence of the Ryukyu Kingdom. It served as a political, cultural, and religious center, blending Chinese, Japanese, and local Okinawan influences. The castle features distinctive red walls, traditional architecture, and sprawling grounds, symbolizing Okinawa’s unique heritage and history of international trade. Originally built in the 14th century, it was repeatedly reconstructed after wars and fires. In 2019, a fire severely damaged the main structures. Despite this, Shuri Castle remains a powerful cultural symbol and a UNESCO World Heritage site, representing Okinawa's rich, diverse history.