Hello history enthusiasts and culture lovers! 🌟 Are you ready for a time-traveling adventure to a bygone era? If so, mark your calendars for the upcoming Shuri Castle Reconstruction Festival, an event that promises to immerse you in the rich history and vibrant culture of Okinawa’s Ryukyu Dynasty. 📆
Photo Source: Shuri Castle Park
Event Details
When: November 3 (Friday) – November 5 (Sunday)
Where: Shuri Castle Park, 1-2 Shurikinjocho, Naha City, Okinawa [Google Pin]
🎉 A Return After Four Years! 🎉
This year’s festival marks a triumphant return after a four-year hiatus and promises to be a showstopper. The highlight of the event is the enchanting Ryukyu Dynasty Scroll Parade, a modern twist on the traditional welcoming procession of envoys. Picture this: kings, queens, envoys, and traditional performing arts groups bedecked in resplendent costumes, parading through the iconic Kokusai Street. 🎭👑
Photo Source: Shuri Castle Park
🤴 Royal Unveiling 🤴
The Shuri Castle will witness a momentous occasion as the newly elected king and queen make their debut, taking you back to the regal era. This event revives the ancient procession known as Sangakaji Sankei Goko, a tribute to peace and prosperity. And if you want to bask in the glory of Ryukyuan culture, there’ll be captivating cultural performances to transport you back in time.
Photo Source: Shuri Castle Park
🏯 Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Tour! 🏯
Do you want to explore areas currently undergoing restoration work? Don’t miss the opportunity for a “Shuri Castle Reconstruction Special Tour.” You’ll get to witness the partially restored Main Hall, an experience that’s both rare and valuable.
🖍️ Fun for the Whole Family! 🖍️
This festival isn’t just for history buffs; there’s something for everyone. Kids and families can dive into creative activities like crafting their very own paper crowns and saimurai helmets. Or, try your hand at coloring the Main Hall. It’s an event where learning and fun come together.
🙏 Supporting Shuri Castle Reconstruction 🙏
The Shuri Castle Reconstruction Festival is not only a celebration of history and culture but also a heartfelt wish for the castle’s full restoration. Okinawa residents can take advantage of discounted admission, making it the perfect opportunity to show support.
Photo Source: Shuri Castle Park
🎊 Program 🎊
Ancient Procession (Ryukyu Dynasty Festival Shuri)
Date: November 3, 2023 (Friday)
Time: 12:50 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: Hoshinmon Gate – Shureimon Gate – Ryutandan-dori Street
King and Queen’s Appearance
Date: November 4, 2023 (Saturday)
Time: ① 10 AM – ② 11 AM – ③ 12 PM
Location: In front of Hoshinmon Gate
Photo Source: Shuri Castle Park
Ryukyu Dynasty Scroll Parade
Date: November 5, 2023 (Sunday)
Time: 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Location: Kokusai Street, Naha City [Parking Information Near Kokusai St.]
Shuri Castle Reconstruction Special Tour (Advance Reservation Required, in Japanese🥷)
Date: November 4, 2023 (Saturday) and November 5, 2023 (Sunday)
Time: ① 1 PM – ② 3 PM
Location: Timber Warehouse, Inside of the Thatched Roof Areas (Restoration Work Area)
Capacity: 15 participants per session
Reservation: 098-886-2020 (In Japanese 🥷)
Admission fee to Shuri Castle Park is required.
Booking: https://oki-park.jp/sp/shurijo/information/detail/7164
Ryukyuan Cultural Performances
Reviving Shuri Castle Preservation Society Commemorative Performance
Date: November 3, 2023
Time: 10 AM – 12 PM and then 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Location: Shimo-no-oniwa
Contemporary Dance Performance “New Traditional Performing Arts”
Date: November 4, 2023 (Saturday)
Time: ① 1 PM – ② 2 PM – ③ 3 PM – ④ 4 PM
Location: Shimo-no-oniwa
Shuri Castle Reconstruction Commemoration Stage
Date: November 3, 2023 (Friday) to November 5, 2023 (Sunday)
Time: ① 12 PM – ② 1:30 PM – ③ 3 PM – ④ 4:30 PM
Location: Shuri Museum 1st Floor Free Rest Area
On November 3, 2023 (Friday), there will be two additional sessions at 12 PM – and 4 PM.
Main Hall Coloring Activity
Date: November 3, 2023 (Friday) to November 5, 2023 (Sunday)
Time: 10 AM – 4 PM (Registration ends at 3:30 PM)
Location: Keizuza – Yōmotsuza Area
Paper Craft Making Activity
Date: November 3, 2023 (Friday) to November 5, 2023 (Sunday)
Time: 10 AM – 4 PM (Registration ends at 3:30 PM)
Location: Keizuza – Yōmotsuza Area
🎫 Ticket Information (To Enter Shuri Castle Park) 🎫
- Adults: ¥400
- Middle/High School Students: ¥300
- Children (Elementary/Junior High School): ¥160
🚗 Parking 🚗
Please note that from November 3 to November 5, the Shuri Castle Park parking lot won’t be available. We recommend using public transportation or the free shuttle bus provided for your convenience. Traffic restrictions will be in place, so plan accordingly.
Don’t miss this extraordinary journey back in time to the Ryukyu Dynasty. The Shuri Castle Reconstruction Festival is not just an event; it’s a bridge to the past, a celebration of culture, and a testament to Okinawa’s vibrant history. Be there to witness the magic! 🌟
⚠️Disclaimer
Our passion for supporting local businesses drives us to share information about events in the Okinawa area. Please note that Oki Social is not responsible for hosting this event. It’s important to be aware that the event’s host reserves the right to make changes or even cancel the event without prior notice.