首里城
Shuri Castle is classified as a hilltop castle, and is located in Okinawa Prefecture It is associated with the Shō clan. Dates in use: 14C - 1871.
A truly stunning reconstruction using traditional methods. It once served as the Ryukyu King's residence & as the centre of politics for many hundreds of years. It achieved World Heritage listing in 2000 & is a symbol of Okinawa.
Timeline
| 14C/15C | The castle was built, the date of which is unclear. |
| 1453 | A major fire damaged the castle. |
| 1627 | The Southern Palace was built. |
| 1609 | The Shimazu clan of southern Kyūshū invade and seize control. |
| 1660 | A major fire damaged the castle. |
| 1671 | The castle was reconstructed. |
| 1709 | A major fire damaged the castle. |
| 1712 | The castle was reconstructed over the following 3 years. |
| 1879 | The Ryūkyū Kingdom was abolished. |
| 1958 | The Shurei Gate was rebuilt. |
| 1974 | The Kankai Gate was rebuilt. |
| 1992 | The castle was reconstructed to as it looked in 1715. |
| 2000 | Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Okinawa's other significant Gusuku sites. |
Historical recognition
| Site | National Historic Site |
| Site | UNESCO World Heritage Site |