Let’s talk about Shurijo Castle—the only place where scaffolding somehow became a tourist attraction. And this winter, things get even better with lights, projection mapping, crafts, and a castle that’s still under construction but looking fabulous anyway.
Welcome to the Shurijo Castle Restoration Event 2025–2026, running on weekends from December 6 to 22, plus the final Monday. Perfect timing for anyone who wants culture and a reason to leave the house when the weather dips below… well, Okinawa-cold. 🥶✨
Where and When
Shurijo Castle Park, Naha | Google Pin
Dates vary by program, but all fall between December 6 and December 22, 2025.
Admission
Adults 400 yen
High schoolers 300 yen
Elementary & junior high 160 yen
Under 6 free
Fantasia Night
The evening program is where Shurijo Castle turns into a glowing wonderland. Picture illuminations, special lighting, and projection mapping that makes the castle look like it hired its own VFX studio.
This part is super popular, so book early unless you enjoy disappointment. The whole walk-through takes about an hour and includes the magical Zuisenmon Gate and the lower courtyard lit up like a historical theme park.
Fantasia Night Schedule
December 12–15
December 19–22
18:40–21:00
Daytime Tours & Craft Experiences 🎨🛠️
Six days of hands-on fun where you learn about Shurijo’s restoration without needing a PhD in history. Kids get quizzes; adults get pretend they already knew the answers.
Crafts include:
Plaster Shisa Making
December 6–7
Create a little guardian who will stare at you forever.
Ema Keychain Making
December 13–14
Write wishes, turn it into a keychain, hope it works.
Robot Keychain Making
December 20–21
Because nothing says “ancient castle restoration” like tiny robots.
Time slots run from morning to late afternoon, and everything requires advance booking.
Mokuiku Caravan 🚚🧸
On December 13–14, the traveling wooden toy museum rolls in like Santa with extra lumber. Completely free and perfect for kids who need a break from screens (and parents who need a break from their kids).
Runs 10:00–16:00 at the Shuridomukan Lawn area.
Why Go? 🎯
It’s one of the best chances to see Shurijo Castle in its “in-progress” form before the main hall is completed in fall 2026. Think of it like limited-edition castle content—once it’s done, you can’t un-build it. Add lights, crafts, quizzes, and a night view that makes your phone battery panic, and you’ve got a solid winter outing.
Practical Notes 🚌
Parking exists, but during the night events you’re basically forced to take public transport. There’s a free shuttle from Shuri Station on those days, so at least you get chauffeured like royalty.
Disclaimer
⚠️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. Some photos and videos may come from various sources on the internet, whether official or unofficial. It is possible that some photos and videos may have been taken from the same event in previous occurrences.
Are you navigating the wild world of Social Media?
Fantastic! Glide on over and give us a follow on Facebook and Instagram. It’s like having a little sunshine in your digital life! And for the cherry on top, join our Okinawa Bucket List Facebook group. It’s your go-to spot for all the coolest, must-do activities in Okinawa. It’s like having a front-row seat to the best show in town, all from the comfort of your screen.
