Shurijo Castle & Royal Mausoleum Tour – Ryukyu Kingdom Heritage

3 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Explore the rich heritage of Okinawa on a 3-hour guided tour through the heart of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Visit the UNESCO-listed Shurijo Castle, the royal palace that symbolizes Okinawa's unique history and culture, and stroll through the solemn Tamaudun mausoleum, where Ryukyu's kings and queens rest. Walk along the Kinjo Stone-Paved Road, a pathway that evokes the everyday life of the old capital. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this tour offers insights into Okinawa's peaceful past and vibrant traditions. Choose to witness the rare Opening Gate Ceremony at sunrise or start from Naha Airport for added convenience.

- 3-hour guided walk through Shurijo Castle, Tamaudun, and Kinjo Road
- Learn about the history of the Ryukyu Kingdom from a local expert
- Optional early morning tour to experience the Opening Gate Ceremony
- Convenient pick-up options from Naha Airport available

What's Included

Walk down Kinjo Stone-Paved Road
Visit to Tamaudun
Knowledgeable local guide
Morning visit (optional)
Visit to Shurijo Castle
Transportation to and from Naha Airport (optional)
Lunch

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
You can choose from multiple locations at checkout.
End point

The tour will end in front of the main gate of Shurijo Castle. From here, you can easily access central Naha by monorail, bus, or on foot.

Itinerary

Duration: 3 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    Shurijo Castle was the royal court and spiritual center of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Unlike Japanese castles built for war, Shurijo symbolized diplomacy, faith, and openness. Its vivid vermilion buildings, Chinese-influenced design, and sacred Utaki sites reflect a peaceful philosophy of rule. Though the main hall was lost to fire in 2019, restoration is underway, and visitors can still feel the kingdom’s spirit echoing through its grounds.

    1 hour 30 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 2

    Just a short walk from Shurijo Castle, Tamaudun is the royal mausoleum of the Ryukyu kings. Built in the early 16th century from Ryukyuan limestone, this solemn and beautifully crafted structure reflects the kingdom’s deep respect for ancestors and belief in dynastic continuity. Its proximity to the castle highlights the sacred link between royal authority and spiritual heritage.

    45 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 3

    The Kinjo Stone-Paved Road is a quiet, historic path lined with stone walls and traditional homes. Once used by nobles and officials, this gently sloping walkway offers a glimpse into everyday life in the old capital of Shuri. Walking along the Ryukyuan limestone underfoot, visitors can truly feel the living texture of the Ryukyu Kingdom’s cultural landscape.

    45 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by DeepExperience

Tags

Half-day Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Likely to Sell Out
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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