Shurijo Castle, a World Heritage site located in Naha, Okinawa is a magnificent castle and former royal palace to the King of the Ryukyu Kingdom which existed between 1429 and 1879. With heavy Chinese influence when the castle was built in the 14th Century, the design and vibrant colors are a pleasant sight to behold. Unfortunately the vast majority of the castle was destroyed during the Second World War, but the reconstructions together with remains of the original have brought this magnificent castle back to life. Get a taste of the lost Ryukyu culture and ways of life exploring the grounds and buildings of this vast castle and palace during your stay in the tropical Okinawa!

Photograph provided by Shurijo Castle Park and Okinawa Convention＆Visitors Bureau