Shurijo Castle, Naha

Annual Visitors: 1,753,000 Shuri Castle was the seat of the kings of Ryukyu for more than 400 years. The castle was completely destroyed during the Battle of Okinawa in 1945, and reconstruction work was only completed in the early 1990s. The results include eight Chinese-style gates or entrances, plus gardens, a study and a main hall with red-colored tiles on two layered roofs. The three-story red building houses two throne rooms and the royal family's private apartments. Ponds, bridges and miniature islands make up the royal gardens, added in 1799.

This is a must see when visiting Okinawa. It's a beautiful castle nicely restored. Come here to learn about the history and culture of Ryukyu. Free traditional dance performance at regular intervals.

If you love historical sites, it's great. If you don't, there's no convincing you. Before the annexation, the subsequent decline into dilapidation and the eventual, near total destruction in World War II, it was the beautiful royal court and administrative centre of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Now, it has been reconstructed and has been wonderfully maintained since. There are some wonderful exhibits and artefacts inside; though probably not especially interesting for very young children.

It's a must visiting Shurijo Castle when in Okinawa. Right now Castle painting is passing thru painting restoration, part of its facade is not visible. Impressing view during the night when illuminated.

The front of the main palace is still under construction and not all of the displays have an English translation. Big bummer on that. You have to take your shoes off to walk in the castle so wear socks. The best part is hunting for a stamp for each place you visit. Parking is tricky and bring plenty of Yen.