If you’re planning to be in Okinawa this November, you’re in for something special! The Shurijo Castle Restoration Festival is happening from November 2 to 4, 2024, and it’s packed with events that take you back to the era of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Think parades, traditional performances, and even a lantern-lit walk through the streets—there’s something for everyone. Let’s break down what’s going on so you don’t miss out on the fun! 🙌
Ryukyu Dynasty Parade 👑🎶
Date: November 2 (Sat)
Time: 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Location: Kokusai Street
On November 2, grab a spot along Kokusai Street for the Ryukyu Dynasty Parade. Imagine kings, queens, and envoys dressed in traditional Ryukyu attire walking down the street, giving you a glimpse into Okinawa’s royal past. It’s like a history lesson, but way cooler (and with fancier outfits)! 👗✨
Traffic will be restricted from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, so plan your parking or walking route ahead of time!
Ancient Procession at Shurijo Castle 🏯
Date: November 3 (Sun)
Time: 12:50 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: From Houshinmon Gate to Shureimon Gate
On November 3, head over to Shurijo Castle for the Ancient Procession. This one reenacts the traditional pilgrimage of the Ryukyu king to nearby temples to pray for peace and a good harvest. It’s a chance to experience some serious history in action while exploring one of Okinawa’s most iconic spots. Plus, there’s a lot of walking involved, so you can justify treating yourself to some extra sushi afterward. 🍣
Just a heads-up, traffic restrictions will be in place from 12:30 PM to 8:00 PM around the area. So, make sure you don’t end up on the wrong side of the road!
King and Queen Procession 👑
Date: November 4 (Mon, substitute holiday)
Times: ① 10:00 AM ② 11:00 AM ③ 12:00 PM
Location: Houshinmon Gate [ Google Pin ]
On the final day, catch the King and Queen Procession at Shurijo Castle. The newly selected king and queen (yes, they hold auditions for this) will be making their grand appearance in front of the Houshinmon Gate. This one’s a quick 10-minute ceremony, so don’t blink! Or, you know, check your phone too long. 📱
Special Tours (Sold Out—Oops!) 🛠️
Date: November 2 (Sat) & November 3 (Sun)
Time: 2:00 PM & 4:00 PM
So, the Shurijo Castle Restoration Special Tour is fully booked (sorry!), but it’s worth mentioning because it’s a behind-the-scenes look at the ongoing restoration. If you managed to snag a reservation, wear long sleeves and pants—no shorts or sandals allowed inside the construction area!
Ryukyu Performing Arts 🎭
Commemorative Performances for Protecting Shurijo Castle 🎶
Date: November 3 (Sun)
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM – 4:15 PM
Location: Shita-no-Uchiba [ Google Pin ]
Traditional arts take center stage with performances that honor Shurijo Castle’s heritage. From folk dances to classical Ryukyu music, it’s all happening at the Shita-no-Uchiba. If you’re into culture or just love a good show, this is where you’ll want to be. 🎤
New Traditional Arts – Directed by Daichi Hirata 🎬
Date: November 4 (Mon, substitute holiday)
Times: 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 4:00 PM
Location: Shita-no-Uchiba [ Google Pin ]
The modern meets the traditional in this series of performances directed by Daichi Hirata. Expect a fusion of classic Okinawan arts with a contemporary twist. It’s short and sweet, with each performance lasting about 30 minutes—perfect for those with a short attention span! 😄
Shurijo Castle Restoration Commemorative Stage 🎤
Dates:
- November 2 (Sat): 12:00 PM, 1:30 PM, 3:00 PM, 4:30 PM
- November 3 (Sun): 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM
- November 4 (Mon): 12:00 PM, 1:30 PM, 3:00 PM, 4:30 PM
Location: Lawn Plaza in front of Shurimori-kan [ Google Pin ]
Get ready for even more performances—traditional Eisa drumming, dancing, and other stage shows will be happening on the Shurijo Castle Restoration Commemorative Stage. It’s lively, colorful, and perfect for families (or anyone who loves a good rhythm). 🥁
Shurijo Castle VR Experience 🎮
Dates: November 3 (Sun) & November 4 (Mon, substitute holiday)
Times: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Restoration Exhibition Room [ Google Pin ]
Cost: 500 yen (separate entrance fee required)
If you’re into tech, check out the Shurijo Castle VR Experience. You can explore the castle in virtual reality! It’s the closest thing to time travel without building a DeLorean. 😎
Essence of Ryukyu Awamori in Senzo 🍶
Dates: November 1 (Fri) – November 3 (Sun)
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Senzo [ Google Pin ]
Awamori fans, this one’s for you! Stop by Zengura to learn all about Ryukyu Awamori and taste some of Okinawa’s finest traditional spirits. Don’t forget to pace yourself—this stuff packs a punch! 🍶
Lantern Walk 🏮✨
Date: November 2 (Sat)
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Course: From Palette Kumoji Square to Shurijo Castle’s Shureimon Gate
Cap off your day with the Lantern Walk. Grab a lantern and join the procession as it winds its way up to Shurijo Castle. It’s the perfect way to experience a magical evening in Okinawa, and you’ll get some great photos out of it, too! 📸
Ticket Info 🎟️
- Adults: 400 yen
- High school students: 320 yen
- Children (elementary and middle school student)s: 160 yen
- Free entry for Okinawan residents aged 70+
So, whether you’re into history, culture, or just want to stroll through Okinawa with a lantern in hand, the Shurijo Castle Restoration Festival has something for you. Bring your friends, your family, or just yourself, and get ready to soak in some Ryukyu Kingdom vibes!
Okinawa Inspired Holiday Gifts Now On Sale
Find the perfect Okinawa-inspired holiday gifts in our online shop and share the island spirit with loved ones!
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.
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