■ Shurijo Castle in Okinawa
The Ryukyu Kingdom actively engaged in trade with China, Japan, and Southeast Asian nations, with Shurijo Castle serving as a key hub for these exchanges. However, in 1609, the Satsuma Domain invaded, bringing the kingdom under its control. Despite this, Shurijo Castle remained the royal palace, preserving Ryukyuan traditions and cultural heritage.
After the abolition of the Ryukyu Kingdom in 1879, the castle was repurposed for military and educational use. However, during the Battle of Okinawa in 1945, it was completely destroyed by U.S. bombardment. In the postwar period, the site was used as the campus of the University of the Ryukyus, but by the 1970s, efforts to restore the castle began. The Seiden was reconstructed in 1992, and in 2000, the site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tragically, in 2019, a massive fire once again destroyed the castle’s main structures. Currently, restoration efforts are underway, with the goal of completing full reconstruction by 2030. Despite enduring numerous hardships, Shurijo Castle remains a powerful symbol, connecting Okinawa’s rich history and culture to future generations.
When visiting Shurijo Castle, it is highly recommended to also stop by the Himeyuri Peace Museum, located about a 30-minute drive south. This site offers a valuable opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Okinawa’s history.

Olympus E-5 / Zuiko Digital ED 14-35mm F2,0 SWD / 1/400s / F3.4 / ISO400 / ±0.0

Olympus E-5 / Zuiko Digital ED 14-35mm F2,0 SWD / 1/250s / F3.4 / ISO200 / ±0.0

Olympus E-5 / Zuiko Digital ED 14-35mm F2,0 SWD / 1/1250s / F3.5 / ISO100 / +0.3

Olympus E-5 / Zuiko Digital ED 14-35mm F2,0 SWD / 1/1000s / F3.0 / ISO100 / ±0.0

Olympus E-5 / Zuiko Digital ED 14-35mm F2,0 SWD / 1/1000s / F3.4 / ISO100 / ±0.0

Olympus E-5 / Zuiko Digital ED 14-35mm F2,0 SWD / 1/1600s / F3.5 / ISO100 / +0.3

Olympus E-5 / Zuiko Digital ED 14-35mm F2,0 SWD / 1/320s / F3.5 / ISO100 / ±0.0

Olympus E-5 / Zuiko Digital ED 50-200mm F2.8-3,5 SWD / 1/640s / F3.5 / ISO100 / +0.3

Olympus E-5 / Zuiko Digital ED 14-35mm F2,0 SWD / 1/640s / F3.5 / ISO100 / +0.3

Olympus E-5 / Zuiko Digital ED 14-35mm F2,0 SWD / 1/400s / F3.4 / ISO100 / ±0.0

Olympus E-5 / Zuiko Digital ED 14-35mm F2,0 SWD / 1/8s / F3.5 / ISO800 / +0.3

Olympus E-5 / Zuiko Digital ED 14-35mm F2,0 SWD / 1/3s / F4.5 / ISO400 / +0.7

Olympus E-5 / Zuiko Digital ED 14-35mm F2,0 SWD / 1/8s / F3.5 / ISO800 / ±0.0
■ Taken on 13th Aug 2012 by following equipment.
■ Travel Guide
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