Shuri Castle Park

On October 31, 2019, a major fire destroyed the Seiden (main hall), Hokuden (north hall), Nanden (south hall), and other connected structures at Shuri Castle. The fire broke out in the early morning hours and consumed most of the reconstructed main palace complex before it could be contained.

Yes, Shuri Castle Park remains partially open, with visitors able to access the surrounding grounds, stone walls, and gates like the Shureimon. Designated viewing areas allow visitors to observe the ongoing reconstruction of the Seiden, which is being rebuilt using traditional Ryukyuan architectural techniques.

Shuri Castle is part of the Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu, a UNESCO World Heritage designation inscribed in 2000. The listing recognizes the unique cultural and architectural heritage of the Ryukyu Kingdom, which ruled Okinawa for centuries before Japanese annexation in 1879.

Reconstruction of the main Seiden hall is targeting completion around 2026, with full restoration of all surrounding structures planned for subsequent years. The Okinawa prefectural government has been coordinating the project using traditional methods and materials faithful to the original Ryukyuan design.