Written by Emily Dickson
The Shurijo Castle Revival Festival is one of Naha’s biggest and most important events, celebrating the legacy of the Kingdom of the Ryukyus.
What happens?
On November 1, the Ryukyu king and queen appear at Shurijo Castle Park in brilliant court attire, joined by traditional dance performances at Houshinmon Gate. There are Awamori tastings, VR tours of the castle restoration, and castle wall coloring experiences.
The festival’s centrepiece is the Procession of the Ryukyu Kingdom on November 2, when more than 400 costumed performers take over Kokusai Street.
The procession starts at midday, and people line Kokusai Dori to get a good spot to watch the parade as it passes by. This festival is a great opportunity for visitors to see and experience the full grandeur and elegance of traditional Ryukyu culture.
Following the parade, there’s lots of music, dances, and entertainment, that goes on all afternoon.
On November 3, the focus returns to Shurijo Castle with the Ancient Rite Line, a re-creation of royal temple visits that once prayed for peace and good harvests. It’s a solemn reenactment of the procession of the Ryukyu King to the three temples near Shurijo Castle. The king would go every year to these three temples to pray for peace and prosperity. It is very striking to see the beautiful Ryukyu traditional dress with the backdrop of Shuri Castle.
Background
Before Okinawa became part of Japan in the late 19th century, it was the independent Kingdom of the Ryukyus, a seafaring state that traded with China, Japan, and Southeast Asia. Its capital was Shuri, and the castle there served as the seat of kings for centuries.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.- 451 m from Miebashi Station Yui Rail
- 0.7 km from Prefectural Office Station Yui Rail
- 0.7 km from Makishi Station Yui Rail
